Eden's Bio-Anomaly Part 13

It had been a full, what would be, three years since his creation.

Merus was in his own room, laying down on his bed. He had a book in hand which spoke of legends before his time. He read with interest as he flipped the pages.

As Merus continued to read, his door creaked open asHimmsworth would come waking in. “How goes the reading?” he asked.

Merus looked at Himmsworth, folding the book up and putting a reading mark within as he did so. “it’s going well I’d say. I just got up to reading about Rutheradan. So far it’s an interesting book.” he said with a smile, putting the book down in his desk that was next to his bed.

"He's a very intriguing creature indeed. He stays in the skies to watch over his home. He can see all from up there. From ever hero, to ever abomination that crawls around." Himmsworth said as he jumped on the bed.

“Yeah, that’s what the book said, though much lengthier.” Merus chuckled slightly. “Still though, I like the book so far. It’s very insightful.” Merus said as he stared at it.

"Learn anything new and good?" He asked licking his paw

“Nothing I already knew, but I noticed one of these gods…Oden I think it was? What caught my eye is that they trapped Grandma into the Wicked Throne.” Merus said as he continued to stare at the book.

"Yes, due to her own actions, no doubt." Himmsworth said

“Yeah, I read. What is the Wicked Throne anyways?” Merus asked with curiosity in his tone.

"Its a place thats existed for a long time. Your family has a long history with it. Especially starting with your grandmother, the queen of the Cosmos." Himmsworth said

Merus nodded along as his father explained. “I see.” He said as he got out of bed, putting on a yellow scarf with the crest of Eden on it. It was a present given to him by Helia for his 12th birthday. He had it on a lot since.

Merus continued to get dressed, putting on his usual clothing as he then turned to Himmsworth. “Do you know where Prism is? He said soon we’ll start to work on my Conduit training. I don’t know if he meant today or tomorrow so I’m gonna have to pester him about it.”

“Should we talking to your mother. Said it was urgent business. However if you want to go then I'll accompany you. Only seems right.”

“Yeah, sounds good to me.” Merus said with a stretch. He picked up Himmsworth, putting him on his shoulders as he opened the bedroom’s door and walked past. He made his way down the hall, to which he could hear Prism and Edra’s echos of conversation, only getting louder as he approached.

Edra and Prism were arguing with one another. "You will know your place pale rainbow! Otherwise I'll turn you into a fresh picnic next." Edra shouted pointing at him.

"I'm tell you, if the twisted lands are left unchecked it prove disastrous! Your acting just like the Queen of the Cosmos if you look this over!" Prism voiced.

"I WON'T HEAR IT AGAIN! Now be quiet!" Edra scoffed

Merus approached the throne doors, knocking on the door first before opening it. As he did he saw Prism and his mother, who looked less than pleased. “Mutha? Prism? Is everything alright?” He asked

"Your mother is being as frustrating as ever." Prism said. "Oh please." Edra grunted "Nothing like two grown-ups arguing." Himmsworth said

“Well, what are you arguing about?” Merus asked with confusion.

"Abominations are ransacking across the twisted lands, as usual of course. But they have gotten too close to the entrances that could lead to Eden. So I've asked your mother to help, but she won't." He said

"Those people aren't my problem." Edra said. Pism rolled his eyes in annoyance.

“Oh, does that mean we won’t be able to train on my Conduit today?” Merus said with some disappointment.

"No, no we still can. I think it's best. It'll distract me anyway." Prism said floating away Himmsworth looked at Edra and Prism before following Prism.

Merus followed behind Prism. “But what about the Twisted Lands? The abominations would tear all of them apart!” He said with a worried tone

"Do you want to go? I doubt such a sight would be good for you. It'd be better to alert anyone there at the moment. You, me and...the cat. Would be useless there." Prism said

“Hes right Merus, a sight like abominations isn't anything you should be seeing.” Himmsworth agreed.

“I know…but it wasn’t really what I meant. I meant if Prism was sure about not handling the situation there.” Merus said as they continued walking.

"Sounds like he is." Himmsworth said "You'd know that. Wouldn't you cat?" Prism said turning to him. "Yes." Himmsworth said

“…okay.” Merus said as they all then entered the training grounds of the Kingdom of Woa. “So how does conduit training work?” He asked with curiosity

Prism took a breath, his focus still on the conversation from before. He floated there for a moment. His many eyes looking in just one single direction, towards the ground.

Merus stared at Prism. “If we can’t do training today that’s okay! You can handle the problem in the Twisted Lands and I can wait until it’s done!” He suggested.

"Yes, there's no need to force yourself. A focus divided. Is not focus at all." Himmsworth said

Merus nodded in agreement to Himmsworth words. “Yeah, training can wait.”

"I'm fine. You two care too much about how other people feel." Prism said

“But you seem pretty distracted by it, plus you could definitely help out down there!” Merus exclaimed

"Yes, the boy is right. He and I only want to see you know what you want." Himmsworth voiced "Since when have you cared what about what i want?" Prism scoffed as Himmsworth stared at him in silence.

Merus looked towards Prism with some concern. “Which would really take priority, training me or stopping a really dangerous attack by abominations?” He questioned as they walked.

"Mmmm..." Prism pondered "Its okay son, me and Merus can go to Eden. Falklore has been wanting to get some time with Merus anyway." Himmsworth said "...I guess your right." Prism voiced

“Yeah! When you come back we can work on Conduit training then!” Merus said with a smile.

"....Alright." Prism said as he vanished. Himmsworth jumped on top of a trash can, he turned to face Merus and sat down. "So, how do you feel about going to train in Eden? Must be nice knowing that they are finally starting to accept you." Himmsworth said

“It’s a start, definitely! Man I’m so hyped for this!” Merus said, practically bouncing in his spot. “This is gonna be the best thing ever!” He exclaimed

Himmsworth smiled seeing Merus do happy. He then jumped down and walked next to him. "Lets go tell your mother." He said

“Alright!” Merus said excitedly, practically running down the hallway at top speed. He couldn’t contain himself.

They'd eventually reach the throne room where Edra was sitting. She didn't look happy or pleased at all, pissed off even. Yet she turned to Merus anyway. "What?" She asked

“I was wondering if you could take me to Eden? To see Falklore?” He asked, looking at his mother.

"....Seriously?" She asked annoyed

“…is now a bad time?” He asked with some worry.

"Jeeez I'm kidding. Goodness boy, try to grow some spine while you're there. Reach to me when you're ready to come back." She said as she got ready to send them away.

“It’s hard to tell sometimes!” He said. “But I will.”

"Alright then." She then transported them to the main gates of the higher realm of the citadel. There two large eden Knights were guarding it.

"Speak your reason for approaching the gate." Shouted one of the Eden Knights.

Himmsworth then jumped onto Merus's shoulder to which the guards immediately noticed him and knew who he was. "Himmsworth, what do you need?" They asked.

"We'd like to go inside. We have some training to do with Falklore and business with the princess." He said

"Princess Helia is on a trip at the city of Yulieseal. But we can send her a message letting her know your here." Said one of the guards as the other one opend the gate.

"Thank you." Himmsworth said.

Merus smiled as he walked passed them and the gate. “It’s so scary each time.”

"You'll get use to it. Don't worry." Himmsworth said, as they walked Merus couldn't help noticing the Eden Tree and all of the Eden orbs. They jingled like bells. The massive and overwhelming sound of they're tongs and dongs always made it feel like he was entering a church.

As they walked Merus would see a white figure with multiple arms and a geometric head floating by the front gate to the palace and standing next to a guard.

“…weird. What’s that?” He asked as he looked towards the figure.

"That is the prime conduit of Creation. Hes the first ever Conduit." Himmsworth said

Merus started to slow down his walking as soon as he heard. “U-Uhh, I don’t know what to think?” He said, his tone getting ever so nervous.

"Don't worry. Hes a very good gentleman. Why don't you meet him. It's up to you though." He said

“…are you sure?” Merus asked

"That's not for me to answer. That's for you." Himmsworth said

“Of course.” Merus said as he looked towards Creation, he was practically already in the way so Merus just decided why not. Merus approached Creation anxiously.

“H-Hello.” He said with a nervous tone.

Creation looked at him, his body was bulky, but built well. It was hard to get a good read on him. As his body didn't seem to be either solid, liquid or even a gas. His head was constantly changing shape, but still somehow held the same features.

"Greetings there. I assume you must be the Bio-Conduit." Creation said

“Uh, yeah, my name is Merus.” He said.

"Tell me about yourself. How do you feel about being a conduit? How do you...cope, with your own existence?" Creation asked folding his arms.

“I guess I feel…pretty good about it? I’m just sort of new to all of this so I’m not too sure. But uh, that second question, I guess just by living my life?” Merus said, the questions confusing him.

"Huh. Alright then. Well, don't let me waste any of your time. You must be here for a reason I assume yes?" Creation asked

“Yeah! I’m here for Falklore, do you know where he is?” Merus asked

"He'd be in the fields near the church. Likely training." Creation said

“Okay, thank you! It was nice meeting you!” Merus said with a wave as he ran towards where Creation said.

Eventually they would arrive at the fields behind the church. Where they woukd see Falklore, out of his armor. He was sitting down on the grass. Merus couldn't tell if it was meditation or a sort of training.

Merus slowly made his way towards Falklore. He approached him from the front, sitting down in front of Falklore. “Hi Falklore, I’m here!” He said.

"..." Falklore nodded as he stood straight. Himmsworth walked over and laid down on a bench. Falklore stood still and breathed in and out.

Merus watched as Falklore did his thing. “So is this meditation or a form of training?” He asked with curiosity

He put his hand forward, he then put a finger to his lips before placing his arm back on his knee. He then continued to breathe deep and exhale slowly.

Merus looked confused, but he didnt say anything more. He looked at how Falklore positioned himself and did exactly what he did, though he stayed quiet as not to disturb him.

3 hours would pass and Falklore would still be doing the same thing. No sound coming from him. Himmsworth was sleeping.

Merus was holding the same position too, wantingto impress Falklore by the looks of it. Though soon enough the boredom was starting to catch up to him.

Falklore then immediately clapped his hands above his head.

Merus continued to stare at him confused

Falklore then gestured for Merus to stand. Merus stood, doing as he was told or gestured to. Though his look remained unchanged.

Falklore then began to stretch, he did some jumping jacks and push-ups

That’s when it clicked in Merus’s head “oooooh.” He thought as he finally got it. He began doing jumping jacks and push-ups like how Falklore did it.

Falklore continued for another couple of hours. In that time EchoStar would drop in from above and sit atop a tree. Sitting down and meditating.

As he continued doing this with Falklore, Merus had taken notice of Echostar atop the tree.

"Hello there." EchoStar said with a idle wave. Falklore looked to him for a moment before he continued to workout with Merus.

Merus gave a wave with a smile as he went back to doing the workout.

At that moment a eden soldier would arrive, he'd be carrying a letter and then stop behind Falklore. "Sir! Urgent letter for you!" Said the soldier.

Falklore motioned for Merus to stop as he turned around and grabbed the letter. Giving a sign of thanks to the soldier as he left. Merus, Himmsworth, and EchoStar looked over.

EchoStar would jump down from the tree and make his way over. Falklore handed him the letter.

EchoStar read it over and then turned to Falklore. "So the beasts have started to rampage across the Twisted Lands." EchoStar said as he handed the letter back to Falklore.

"I assume you want to go there and take care of the Abel-planet. Likely there is one." He said, Falklore nodded in agreement.

Merus looked towards EchoStar with a confused look. “What’s an Abel-Planet?”

"An Abel-Planet is an abomination, but more importantly they work as commanders to the horde. They are giant planet sized balls of flesh, fur and bone. With a large set of many eyes and arms attached to them. They can speak telepathically to the abominations themselves and even convert others into them via transmitting the disease through their voice alone. They're highly dangerous." EchoStar said with Falklore agreeing with a nod.

“Wait! Prism went there! Is he going to be okay?!” Merus exclaimed in a panicked worry.

"Do not worry, we will be there to help him. Yet we must prepare first if we to go there and bring down these monstrosities." EchoStar to which Falklore yet again nodded to.

“Does that mean I’m staying here?” Merus asked

"Now Merus, I would prefer if you kept yourself out of harms way until you know how to actually scrap a little." Himmsworth said

"He's right, you should train more while we're gone." EchoStar also explained.

“Got it! I won’t let you guys down!” Merus said with a wide smile.

"Glad to hear your dedication." EchoStar said With Falklore giving a small smile and a nod.

Merus smiled. “I hope you guys will stay safe though!” He said as he looked at the two knights.

Falklore gave him a wave as EchoStar followed along with.

"Oh kiddo, if you want to do some more training, then you'll have to go to the main castle. CoI and Grace should be there." EchoStar said

"Oh boy, it begins." Himmsworth chuckled

"Coi? who's that?" Merus asked

Himmsworth jumped down and walked over to his side. "CoI, the prime conduit of Infinity. Also the head or soon to be, of one of the most important families in Eden. The Ucagus. His brother young Yuko. Is also here too. Maybe you can make some good headway." Himmsworth said

"The Ucagus? Don't think I've heard of them yet." Merus said.

"I'm shocked. I thought all conduits knew them by now. Especially with how CoI acts nowadays. Huh Falklore?" EchoStar said looking back to Falklore; he waved away his mention in the conversation and just leaned against the wall.

"I'm glad. With CoI out of your life you've remained stress free. For the most part." Himmsworth said

"Well, I'm not really affiliated with the Conduits though. And i spend my time in Woa or the castle or here anyways." Merus said as a reminder to Echostar.

"Ah I right, my bad. Hehe. Well, do you want us to walk you there?" EchoStar asked Falklore looked over.

"I think it would be for the best yea. He could use the back up." Himmsworth said

Merus looked over to Himmsworth then back to Echostar, "Yeah, that would probably be best." he said.

With them all in agreement, Falklore, Himmsworth, Merus and EchoStar; all walked to the main door of the castle of Eden. It was very large decorated with beings and God's Merus didn't know. Yet the one figure that did stick out was Nunn. His massive wings and golden skull being obvious and above them all.

"Such a sight. To think we dedicate all of our love and joy to such a being. Yet we never meet them once." EchoStar said looking up at the door.

"Yes, its almost like a dream." Himmsworth said Falklore had nothing to say, he just went ahead and pushed the door open. Inside there was the King sitting down on his throne. His body seemed a bit limp, perhaps he was sleeping? A large valet of guards butlers and more.

A woman of pure Gold, naked and floating above everyone could be seen. Yet the moment Merus walked in, it felt like she was watching him.

There were many servants and hundreds of Knights. The hall was decorated with paintings and statues. Of figures many Merus didn't know. Two guards closed the doors behind Merus and the others.

Merus stayed quiet as he walked beside his surrogate father and the two knights of Eden. He stared ahead at the king and made a small glance towards the woman of gold.

"Well, what a suprise. Though I hesitate to say it, cause I knew you'd be here." Said the woman as she floated down

"Grace, let's be friendly now." Himmsworth said.

Yet Grace just scoffed as she looked at Merus. "Disgusting Bio-Conduit. In no world does your existence change a thing." Grace said

"Hey, Himmsworth said act nice. Not act your age." EchoStar said

"You dare?" Grace said in frustration, yet only took Falklore clapping his hand loudly to shut everyone up. The clap was so loud that soon everyone looked his way. The King of Eden's body jolted for a moment before his head then looked up at them.

Merus said nothing as he didn't want to start anything. He looked to Falklore as he clapped then looked back to the rest of the court.

The King groaned as he rose up, all of the servants and knights stood up straight and tall. The King's presence and pressure were intense to say the least.

The level of authority being felt was unimaginable.

"Leave us." The King's said, his voice was imaginable to describe.

Only that it sounded fit to rule a world such as Eden. All of the servants and knights then bowed very low, it was a perfect 90⁰ angle. They all then departed down one massive hallway to the left.

Everyone while they watched the Knights, except for Falklore. Had failed to notice the King had already made his way to them. "Well, isn't this a surprise." Said the King

Merus watched the knights leave but as he heard the King's voice turned to face the king, standing straight up and not saying a word.

Everyone stood up straight. The King looked at each of them. He then looked down and saw Himmsworth. "Ah Himmsworth, you adorable old kook. What brings you here this fine day?"

The King said as a portal opened next to him, it was small, but out through it came a very skinny and almost boney arm. On it were golden jewels with his hand fingers all with rings too. Each giving off they're own story and history. The power felt immense.

His hand reached down and pet Himmsworth. "Heheh, just to help out dear Merus here your majesty." Himmsworth said

"Oh, I reckon this is him." The King said as his hand disappeared and looked at Merus. Grace was ill against it. Falklore watched and so did EchoStar.

Merus bowed respectfully, "It's very nice to meet you, your majesty." Merus said in a formal tone.

"His majesty will let you know when you can speak!" Grace said in frustration to Merus.

The King nodded to Merus and then looked to Grace. "I have known my fair share of ill manners Grace. A fine share.

A simple greeting would never hurt anyone unless they were to blunt to handle it. Anyway, its good to see you Merus. Or at least to finally meet you." The King said.

Grace backed away, putting her hands on her hips.

Falklore gave a small sigh of relief with EchoStar and Himmsworth doing the same.

Merus raised his upper body back, standing up with a heartwarming smile. "I know you know who i am, but I'm Merus, Bio-Conduit of Pre-Eminence and i hope to impress you as I train with the Falklore and the knights!" He said, introducing himself fully to the King.

"Hmm, I hope for your sake and the house you belong to, that you can meet our basic standards. I have faith you won't let yourself down here." The King said.

Grace gave a smirk as Falklore just looked away for a moment.

"I promise to do so." Merus replied. The King nodded his head slowly.

"So what are you hoping to achieve? Any goals?" The King asked

"My goal...? I guess my current goal is to train and get stronger for now. I hope to be like Falklore and the rest of the Eden knights! And most importantly..." He said, looking towards Grace for a moment.

"I want to prove that I'm not the taboo filth people and Conduits deem me out to be." He said as he turned his head back to the King. "That is what i hope to achieve."

"A very fine achievement." Said the King, Grace scoffed while Falklore and Himmsworth looked to him proudly.

"Whats this!?" Shouted a voice, everyone looked back to see a young boy around Merus's age standing in the frame of the large hallway from before. His hair was jet black and his cold crystal eyes staring at him. His hands put against his black and white hoodie.

Merus stared at the boy, his crystal-like eyes meeting the boy's crystal Blue.

"Ah Yuko, I wasn't aware you were still here. I would have thought your brother had driven you out." Said the King

"Drive me out? He'd have a better chance of getting married. Now did I hear the word ..."Bio-Conduit"?" Yuko asked

"Yes." Grace said

"Is there a good reason you're here Yuko?" The King asked

"Just came to see what all the fuss was about, and if what Helia says was true." Yuko said as he took a few more steps towards Merus.

"Hi, I'm Merus." He said with a friendly smile, putting out his hand for a handshake.

"Unlike my brother, Merus, I'm a good chap...when I want to be. ...so it's nice to meet you. I'm Yuko Ucagu." Yuko said as he shook Merus's hand

"It's nice to meet you too." He said as the two parted their hands.

"So, what business brings you here? Formal or intimate?" Yuko asked, Grace looked Yuko, as did Himmsworth too.

"Formal, Echostar and Falklore brought me here because there were abominations running in the Twisted Lands and since they're leaving soon they brought me here because I've got no where else to be at the moment." Merus answered

"Hm, I see. Alright then. Well I guess I have to be on my way. If you want, your welcome to follow me for some real fun." Yuko said, his body partially turned as he was getting ready to walk away.

"Don't get so comfortable, Yuko, nothing is set in stone yet. No need to start acting like your really important all of a sudden." The King said, Yuko didn't a much of a comeback, but he shrugged and gave one. Or his best one.

"Eh, that is how you feel." Yuko said walking away. Everyone watched him leave. Merus didn’t follow but stared at him as he left.

"Spoiled brat." The King said. Merus looked at the King for a moment.

"Agreed." EchoStar said

"Hmp." Falklore grunted

The King then looked back to his throne. "Well, I'm going to rest some more. Do take care of yourself around here. Oh and don't mind CoI." The King said as he walked back to his throne. With Falklore and EchoStar then waving at him.

Merus stared at the king, noticing that the King wasn't at his prime as if something was going on with him too. Though Merus couldn't tell if the King was growing weaker or something else.

"Well, shall we meet up with CoI in the training room?" Himmsworth asked

"You guys go, I have to go start getting ready to go. Enjoy yourself a bit more Ben." EchoStar said as he put his hand out. Falklore thought for a few moments and then grabbed EchoStar's hand passionately. He watched him leave and then turned to Merus and gestured for Merus to follow him.

Merus turned to Falklore, taking one look back at the king before he followed Falklore out of the throne room.

They all walked down the large hall, besides Grace who stayed behind. Falklore and them walked past many paintings, a few of them of large portraits of previous kings, queens and events.

One such painting was a large painting of Vermel bitting off the head of the late Mary. From the skies cried the world and in the heavens and stars above Nunn was there. Ever watching. In the cracks of the world, were born the abominations.

Falklore looked at it and kept walking, walking past Knights, doctors, maids, servants and even giant knights.

Merus looked at the paintings, and people that they walked past Though the paintings took more of his interest than the people. One of the paintings was of large black space like squid, millions of eyes covered its body and down below, was the queenn of Eden, covered in a holy golden cloth while the creature looked down to her.

Its tentacles meeting her. There was a plaque underneath it, some writing below it. It was in a strange text. Merus thought he might be able to read it. Merus took a moment to stop and look at it.

He then was able to use his cosmic essence to get a grasp for this strange yet familiar language. "Look into its eyes, but not beyond four times, otherwise, your fate will become mine." Said the words.

"Creepy." Merus thought as they all continued down the hallway.

They eventually made it to this very open field near the center garden of the house. There was one girl Merus had never seen. She was a little younger than he was, but it only seemed about 2 years. Her hair was a purple lavender, her eyes were dark. It looked like she almost no color in her eyes.

And then he saw him, the conduit of Infinity. CoI Ucagu. His face was covered in these strange purple wrappings, but most of his hair was sticking out.

Falklore walked in with his hands on his hips.

As they walked in, Merus looked towards the girl for a split second before moving his eyes to Ucagu Coi.

"Stop!" CoI shouted, he was floating upside and not paying attention. Falklore and Himmsworth looked at each other.

"Oh no, sorry guys I wasn't talking to thr wall behind you." CoI said, Falklore turned around.

"Oh come man who really talks to a wall, but I'm guessing you do since you looked back. Ha ah! Gotcha big red." CoI laughed Falklore scoffed as he turned back around.

Merus stared blankly at Coi as he made his response. "So that's the Prime Conduit of Infinity?" Merus thought to himself as he stared.

"You mind looking after Merus here? Hes Falklore's new trainee and he wants to make sure he puts in a lot of good work." Himmsworth said

"Ugh, babysitting? You know I hate kids right? Oh but not you Ophellia" CoI said to the little girl below with the lavender hair. She nodded and then went to sit on some grass. Her dress going well with her surroundings.

"It'll just be for a while." Himmsworth said

"In a while I could DIE! Of boredom!" CoI said. Merus continued to stare in silence, confused about what was going on.

"CoI." Himmsworth said

"...Ughhhhhhh, fine, but if he winds up missing. Just know...I never was looking and didn't notice he was gone." CoI said

"...fair enough. Ophellia?" Himmsworth asked

"I can manage." She nodded.

He looked down at Himmsworth, bending to his ear. "are you sure this is a good idea...?" he whispered.

"Yea of course besides, perhaps being a Nightingale may be a better fate? Maybe instead of dining with the light, you can bathe in the dark." Himmsworth chuckled as he and Falklore walked away.

Merus just watched as his surrogate father walked away with Falklore. "...What?" He questioned as Himmsworth continued out of sight.

"So what's your name? I'm **Ophellia Nightingale**." Ophellia said, catching his attention.

Merus turned to Ophellia. "I'm Merus, It's nice to meet you Ophellia." he said.

"Such manners, well, the pleasure is mine too." She said that's when they both would hear CoI groan loudly.

"Hey uhhh, if you don't mind. I'm going to go over there and...die." CoI said as he slowly floated away, Ophellia giggled as she then looked back to Merus.

"Helia has told me some good things about you." She said as she moved some of her hair behind her ear.

Merus smiled as he listened. “I’m happy to hear that. I hope I can get to know you more.” He said.

"Well, would you like to walk around with me?" She asked, putting her hands together.

“Sure, that sounds nice.” Merus said. Ophellia then gestured for Merus to follow and as he did. The two began to walk around the castle. Exploring it and even corner.

"This place is much smaller than my home back in the Night realm." Ophellia said as she closed a door leading into a black void.

"Night Realm? Forgive my lack of knowledge, but whats that?" he asked.

"The night realm is the solar opposite to all of this.

It's not something you'd likely hear about because of Eden not wanting to spread anything. But Eden, as a sister. It's called the **Twilight Tree**. It's like a night wonderland. People also call it the nightmare realm. But it's much more grandiose than what people say." Ophellia said, she looked back at him.

"I would love to show it to you sometime." Ophellia said with a smile.

"I think that'd be a really cool place to see, I'd totally be down to see it one day." Merus said with a friendly smile. The two continued to walk in silence for a moment

"Merus..." Ophellia stuttered, she then got up the courage and turned around to Merus.

"Merus I want you to know how brave you are for doing this! For coming here even though everyone rejects you. I understand how hard that can be." Ophellia said.

Merus stopped for a moment, taking in the compliment. "Thanks, I appreciate it a lot!" he said with a smile. "It'll be a tough road but I'm sure I'll manage." he continued with his smile growing wider.

"When he smiles like that he makes my cold heart burst into firecrackers! Gosh he's adorable! Helia is such a clutz for not seeing how wonderful he is.

She's too invested into her family's political life." Ophellia thought to herself.

"Hey, do you want to see something cool? I heard the royal family here keeps a massive dragon to guard them from danger." Ophellia said

"Really? You sure that's safe for us to go to?" Merus asked

"Don't worry, its heavily guarded. Come on, you want to be knight. Well here's your chance, don't worry I won't let you get burned." Said Ophellia

"I'm not worried about being burned and all, I just wouldn't want us to get into trouble." Merus said

"Alright, the garden then?" She asked

"yeah, that sounds better." Merus said with a nod.

She smiled and grabbed his hand. She walked him to the garden which was beaming with life, alien insects, improbable flowers and even water fountains of a strange geometric shape.

Everything was mind blowing.

"woah." Merus said as he looked around. "It's really pretty. I don't believe I've been here yet." he continued.

"Have you ever seen this one?" She said as she pulled him gently by his hand and showed him a strange crystallized rose with glowing hints of blue and red. She looked at his reaction.

Merus knelt down next to Ophellia, examining the flower "Nope, never seen it before, I do like it though." he said as the glowing shined in his crystal-like eyes. It was as if the blue and red reflected and shifted the color of his eyes to each color.

She smiled at him, she couldn't tell what it was but she was so happy. It wasn't like anything else she had felt around another person.

"Its Vose, they're very precious gems and flowers. They feel like any other kind of flower right now, but when they are cut or get old, they then turn harder. As hard as a crystal." Ophellia said as she looked towards Merus who continued staring at the flower.

"Wow, That's actually really cool. I think I'll have my Mother make some when i go back home." Merus smiled as he touched the flower lightly.

Ophellia then let go of his hand and went to sit on a bench.

"Do you get to come here often?" She asked

"Yeah, as long as i have someone like Himmsworth or one of the Knights with me i can typically come in and out. Sometimes if Helia calls for me too." Merus answered as he walked to the bench and sat next to her.

"That must be sad though, not being able to go anywhere you want. Just because people think you shouldn't have been born.

I'm sorry about that." Ophellia said

“It’s alright, all the more to prove myself. My Mutha taught me it’s a tough world, but Himmsworth taught me that it’s not impossible to get through it.” Merus said with a smile.

“Sometimes taking the hard road isn’t all that bad, ya’know?” He said

"I-" that's when They'd hear someone stop in front of them. To see none other than Princess Helia and Yuko.

“Helia, Yuko, it’s good to see you both again.” Merus said with a soft smile

"Hello Merus!" Helia said as she ran over and gave him a hug. He’d return one as well. She would pat his back and then see Ophellia.

"I see you've been entertaining our guest." She said

"I wouldn't say-"

"Where's your father?" Helia asked

"I don't know. Probably around somewhere." Ophellia said

"Having fun?" Yuko said as he walked over to Merus, while the two girls talked.

"Yeah, it's been good." Merus smiled as he and Yuko somewhat separated themselves from the girls.

"I see you've gotten along with the darker half of Helia. I heard she was a bit of a quiet one. Not much like our queen." Yuko said as he turned around to look back at the two girls.

"she seems pretty talkative to me. She's really nice." Merus said as he looked back at them too.

"Hmp, she's alright I suppose. Though you wouldn't see me going near her." He said

"You seem to have gotten your finger wrapped around his neck." Helia said looking back at Merus, the two of them walking further into the Garden.

"I don't have my finger wrapped on anything. I'm just seeing how he is, you're cruel to string him along like you do." Ophellia said

"My mother and this kingdom demands strength. I need to know if he will ride with me, for me. For all of eden till the end." Helia said

"But what about his heart? Will you not judge that? Or will you wait till it's been used up by this world too." Ophellia said

"Don't pretend that you get me. I am doing what I must for my kingdom and the people. Besides, if Merus cannot work....then his friend will do." Helia said

"Yuko? But he's so...himself." Ophellia said

"Yes, but at least he has experience and wisdom.

Don't mistake me. I want to see Merus be by my side, but he just isn't ready." Helia said

"...Fine. Then while you wait, I will seize an opportunity." Ophellia said

"And if he isn't what you want?" Helia asked

"Then nothing has changed, I will still be happy with the time I've spent." Ophellia said, Helia looked at her and just looked away the next moment.

Back with Merus and Yuko on the other side of the Garden, the two continued to talk. “So Yuko, what’s your family like? The Ucagu’s, I’m curious.” Merus asked as he turned his head back to Yuko.

"My family is frustrating at times. Expectations are something every Ucagu family member is born with besides a brain.

My family isn't really a good subject for conversation.

What about yours?" Yuko asked as he turned his head to Merus.

"My family..It's complicated. I got my Mutha who's the goddess of the Cosmos though being the son of her comes with some drama.

Then i got Himmsworth who's like a Fuda to me and Prism who's like my teacher and stuff." Merus answered

"Sounds much less complicated than my own." Yuko said

"It's mainly just the parts with my Mutha. But, yeah, I guess it would be." Merus chuckled slightly.

Yuko gave a slight smirk to Merus, however that's when-

"You think you know what's best for the world just because your in the spotlight! This light means nothing, you and your family know it!" Ophellia shouted

"It's everything! There's a reason we're up here and you're down there!" Helia shouted

"Your center of gravity must be way off. Cause we live above you!" Ophellia shouted back, Merus and Yuko were in shock at what they were seeing.

"Hey! Whats going on?!" Merus said running over to them. Ophellia and Helia got in each other's faces. Yuko ran over too.

"Hey hey, lets not do anything stupid." He said

"SHUT UP!" both the princesses shouted to Yuko who looked away annoyed. He wasn't sure if he wanted to help them anymore.

The girls looked back at one another with a growl.

"Don't make me have to be un-ladylike." Helia said

"I wish you would, then maybe you'd get a taste of what it means to take what you dish." Ophellia growled

"Cut it out!" Merus said getting in-between the two princess's. "Let's be calm here, there's no need to have a feud." Merus said, trying to deescalate the situation.

"That young man is right, you two shouldn't be fighting at all." Said a familiar voice, everyone looked to see it was none other than CoI. He was floating with a camera in his hand.

"What the hell are you doing?" Yuko asked annoyed

"What? This is children fighting, I can make some good dough letting you imbeciles beat each other to a pulp." CoI chuckled

Merus turned back to the two princess's, "There's no point in fighting anyways, you've got our differences but that shouldn't separate you." Merus said

Helia and Ophellia looked at one another. They're faces sneering at each other until finally calming down. "...women" Yuko said

Merus gave a small smile. "Let's just try to get along." he said as he moved away from the princess's.

Yuko walked over and began chatting with CoI while the two princesses split apart.

Merus sighed in relief as he walked and sat on the bench.

Ophellia walked over and sat next to Merus. "I'm sorry I've put on a bad impression. I'm usually much more composed." Ophellia chuckled nervously.

"You're fine don't worry! Things can get frustrating, and I'm sure you and Helia can be under big amounts of stress as royalty." Merus said with a smile, as always.

"...You know something... For most of my life...I had been stuck in a castle. Never truly knowing the joy of being out on my own. My father is very protective. He sees me as a piece of fine China. Never to be picked up again and if so, only for decoration.

He'd be furious to know that I were gone from where he told me to stay and He'd hang CoI for letting me." Ophellia said

"Ah, I hay politicians ya'know, always so naggy and they have the most stupidest of hair. I mean what gives right?" CoI chuckled as he kept talking to Yuko.

"I hope he won't frighten you away." She said

"Nah, I'm sure he won't. You don't have to worry about that. hehe." Merus chuckled

Ophellia chuckled a bit. "Young love is so toxic to me. I feel like I'm going to hurl." CoI said

"You'll need someone at some point. Otherwise all of mother's suitors will get old on you." Yuko said as he crossed his arms.

"Oh please, no one from there has ever once caught my eye. I'd soon rather soon drown in a opera convention than sit down with a women telling me how many different ways she can suck my dick. BLEGH! Its delirious." CoI said while making improper hand gestures. Yuko rolled his eyes.

Merus looked at Coi and chuckled before he turned back to face some of the flowers in the garden.

"HEY FRIEND!" CoI said, shouting as his hands landed on Merus's shoulders. Spooking both Merus and Ophellia which made Merus jolt in surprise.

“Uh? Hey?” He said

"Hey there sport, mind if I borrow him?" CoI asked Ophellia, she nodded and grave Merus's arm a gentle squeeze before letting him go. CoI gestured for Merus to follow him.

Merus looked to Coi then Ophellia. “I’ll see you later.” He waved as he stood and followed Coi.

CoI walked with Merus through the garden for a moment. Until he stopped and turned around. He then picked one of the Vose roses. It crystallized and became increasingly hard. "Tell me something, what's your favorite color?" CoI asked

“My favorite color? Hm, I’d guess I’d have to go with teal. Cause it’s a mix of Blue and Green.” Merus answered

"Hm, alright then. Tell me something Merus, if you don't like conduits so much, which I can tell, why do you still hold their name in yours?" CoI asked

Merus stopped moving to collect his thoughts. He looked down to his chest area, remembering something from long ago as he thought of a suitable answer.. “They’re a part of me that I cannot deny. I was created to be like them, like a replica. As long as I don’t accept that I could never truly be me.” Merus answered

"Is that right? So you think you are some shining star in their darkness?" CoI asked as he crushed the crystal rose, its shards dropping to the floor and shattering into even more tiny pieces.

“I- what?” Merus said genuinely confused

"It's a simple question, do you believe their star?" CoI asked as he pointed to Merus, him taking a few steps closer to him.

“I…don’t think so?” He said unsure of himself.

"You must be. If you've kept the name then you must wish to do something with it. Otherwise, no one should keep something that gives them nothing, but trouble." CoI said

Merus spoke nothing for a moment, letting the two sit in silence before opening his mouth to speak. “I’m not looking nor do I want to be their star. I’ve never wanted to be. I kept the name of Bio-Conduit, not Conduit, a title to make known for my deeds and not theirs.” He said as he stared at Coi where his eyes would be.

CoI would scratch his chin. "Hmm, alright. I guess maybe you do have your own mind. For now. Though you still look like their water boy if you ask me. Don't let me keep you, you can go back to having your cake. If you know what I mean heheh." CoI chuckled

“Actually, I was thinking, since Falklore and Echostar are out in the Twisted Lands is there a place here where I could train or workout?” Merus asked

"Yea, I can show you. Though training with me is out of your league. In Fact, you'd probably die just by thinking about it. Sooooo, you better not be thinking about now. You'd be better against my little brother, though he can be quite a stiffy hehehe, get it?" CoI laughed

“Just as long as I can get some training in I’d be happy with that.” Merus said. “Do you think you can show me the training area atleast?” He asked

"...Ehhhhh, sure why not. I guess I can. YUKO! Let's go." CoI shouted as he started floating away and down a hall. Yuko walked over and followed him.

Merus followed behind Coi, walking beside Yuko. “Not what I expected in all honesty.” Merus thought as he stared ahead at Coi.

"Tch, yell for me again like that CoI and I'll be sure you actually need those bandages." Yuko said annoyed

"HahahAH! Yea sure pipsqueak, let me know if mom answers when you call her. Hehe." CoI said snickered as he kept floating ahead of them.

He continued looking ahead at them. Though he said nothing he thought that their interactions were funny

Eventually they would arrive at the battlefield. It had many different equipment and even caged beasts in large cages. It was a massive coliseum. Nearer to the back of the castle itself, Ophellia and Helia followed them and went to sit in a private box where they could watch the boys from above.

They also saw the mighty Iris was there, accompanied by the One in Red. He was watching as she exercised. He seemed to be in a sort of meditation like trance, while his eyes followed her.

"Welcome to the Power palace or as I call it, PP. Hehhe." CoI snickered

"I swear I can never tell which of us is older." Yuko said, crossing his arms.

“Wow, this place is really cool.” Merus said as he looked around.

"Oh it's alright. It's a pity they don't have any beast here wearing political masks." CoI said

Merus just looked at him for a moment before stretching.

CoI looked at them, laying down in mid air like it was a hammock. Yuko also stretched a bit too. "You two should try to help one another understand power control and essence focus. But try to be quiet about it. Your existences tend to be loud and cause me to lose focus." CoI said

"And we wouldn't want that huh?" Yuko said sarcastically

"No, you wouldn't." CoI said as he flew off high into the coliseum.

Yuko looked over to see a checklist of people who've visited the coliseum. "Huh, some intriguing faces here." Yuko said as he looked through the list. "There's Falklore, EchoStar, a Mr.Wright?, there's a guy called Jack, another on called Tim and finally Unity." Yuko said reading off most of the list besides the obvious.

“Never heard of those last few.” Merus said as he examined the list too.

"Neither Have. Though I'm familiar with Unity." Yuko said

“Whose Unity?” Merus asked

"The Prime Conduit of Unity? You've never heard?" CoI asked

“Nope, not at all. Probably because I’m not on the section of the Prime Conduits yet in a book I’m reading.” Merus said. Yuko grunted as he then walked into the coliseum with Merus following close behind. As the boys entered the looked around

Yuko looked around and saw all the items and gear, but he just stood on a large blue matt as Merus looked at the items before simply exercising, getting himself into shape before training.

Yuko looked at him while he folded his arms. After a few minutes Merus jumped up and looked at Yuko. “So how we doing this? We gonna spar together or something?”

"It's your call star lord." Yuko said taking off his jacket and revealing his black sweater underneath.

“Let’s just spar then, no weapons or gear, just fists and powers.” Merus said

Helia and Ophellia watched in baited breath. That's when they saw the king himself come over with Ophellia's father. Lord Quidz, he wore a massive dark blue robe. Dark shadowy smoke came from the top with a pair of red eyes looking down at Merus and Yuko.

"F-FATHER! What a lovely surprise." Ophellia said with a stutter

"I wish I could say the same. I tell you stay in one spot and yet here you are instead." Said Lord Quidz.

"But father-"

"Quidz, no need to be such a sour apple. How about we sit for a moment. No need to be so be so political." Said the King of Eden. Quidz looked at the king before his daughter and then down below at Yuko and Merus.

"So it's a spar you want, then let it be." Yuko said

Merus smiled as he got into position, a stance that proved him to be in both an offensive and defensive position that Falklore had taught him not too long ago.

Yuko however was different, he gave no stane, but instead turned his body slightly to the side.

“Ready whenever you are!” Merus said with a smirk

Yuko smirked slightly, that's when a small blue dragon would appear out of thin air on his left shoulder. The small tiny dragon would then flash its blue hypnotic eyes at Merus.

Its hypnotic blue eyes would cause Merus to feel dizzy and cause instant headaches and pain.

Merus held his head from the pain as he did, his hands glowed with the cosmos as he used his cosm’s grasp to surround himself in a barrier made of the Cosmic Essence within the area to protect himself.

Ophellia and Helia watched with baited breath as Lord Quidz and King Eden both watched from behind them too.

Iris turned her head shortly and CoI...well he was snoring above it all. Flying vastly above the problems of society and status.

"I do hope Merus does his best." Ophellia said

"He will, he always does. He knows better that way. He knows that weight." Helia said, Ophellia looked at Helia for a moment.

"You speak of him like a well trained hound. Like you've got him ready and set just for you." Ophellia said as she fixed her dress.

"Please don't try to cross with me. I am not fond of these games Nightingale." Helia said

"...Eden." Ophellia said, both of them looking scorn at one another.

"You impress me greatly, more so on your capability to survive my attacks. But now I go on the offense with you now Bio-Conduit." Yuko said, Just then, another small dragon would spawn next to Yuko

. It was the size of a large hound. It growled, it's scales a redish gold. It then breathed hot arcanic fire at Merus and his shield, the shield cracking and nearly breaking apart from the massive impact.

"The boys sure are mighty. What families are they from?" Asked Lord Quidz

"Oh, that doesn't matter. Let's just see how they do." Said King Eden. Iris watched from afar with the One in Red.

Merus was pushed back from the fire attack, stomping his foot down he regained his stance and moved around Yuko at a moderate speed. Merus then charged up a Cosmic Blast from his fingertips.

The blast began to glow brighter as subconsciously the Bio-Conduit Within improved the ability, firing it into Yuko's side sending him tumbling down. He then stopped moving with a smirk.

Everyone looked in shock at what was happening. Himmsworth showed up at the entrance of the coliseum. Yuko got up dusting himself off. "...Showoff." he mumbled

Yuko used his green dragon to heal himself a bit.

Merus then lunged forward towards Yuko at high speeds, kicking him in the chest which sent him flying back, only for Merus to teleport above where Yuko would be and used another Cosmic blast to drive him into the ground. Merus then landed and moved back for distance.

Everyone looked in astonishment! King Eden even nodded at the show, although Lord Quidz seemed to be able to think of better things to do. Ophellia and Helia looked in shock.

"BRAVO! Well done Merus!" Shouted Himmsworth

Yuko struggled to get up off the ground, he looked up. Tired a bit too. "..." He stared ahead at Merus, trying to anticipate his next moves

"If you want we can stop, you look out of it." Merus said as he looked at Yuko.

Yuko's face looked in shock at him. He clasped his hands together. His expression showed annoyance as he did so.

Yuko would summon a large purple dragon, the large beast was massive in size. A large western looking dragon who snarled and growled at Merus who backed away a few steps.

"RAINING STARS!" Yuko shouted and just like that, the large purple dragon would breath a purple smoke into the air, it would become like a inferno. Soon large meteorites would come crashing down onto the ground.

Merus would dodge a few, but not before he'd get hit by several others, being buried under rubble and debris. Yuko then sacrificed the lives of his last two smaller dragons to give him some strength back.

Yuko could see Merus getting out of the rubble, struggling. "I'm sorry, did that hurt? It looks like it did." Yuko said dusting himself off, but not before finally using his purple dragon again to steal some more strength from Merus.

The entire arena was left speechless at the new results of the match. Helia was at the edge of her seat while Ophellia watched with baited breath.

Merus stood up weakly as he stared down Yuko with a smirk still upon his face. "Good one." he said as he began to walk slowly towards Yuko, putting his hands out as he then absorbed the Cosmic essence in the area using his Cosms grasp.

Not only that, but he also regained his shield using said Cosmic Essence. Merus' smirk went away as he then used the Cosm's grasp to grab the Cosmic Essence one more time to create a star so small that it could barely be seen. Merus then fired the star towards Yuko, in which it then imploded as soon as contact with the target was made.

The audience erupted as Yuko went skidding back. His large purple dragon catching him. "...Now that was a good one." Yuko said.

Yuko then sacrificed some of his dragon's strength and then ciphered some of Merus's. Yuko stood up moderately well as he and Merus looked at each other face to face.

Merus saw as some of the cosmic essence left him and went to Yuko, but it didn't phase him. Merus began walking once more, at a slightly faster pace than before.

Merus then simply flicked his wrist as suddenly the Cosmic essence around Yuko collapsed on him, crushing him slightly to only make him down for the count, but not killing or seriously injuring him.

Ophellia cheered along with everyone else besides Lord Quidz, the One in Red and Iris.

"GREAT JOB MERUS!" Ophellia shouted out

"Will you behave yourself!? This isn't a circus." Lord Quidz said sternly to his daughter who sat back down, but still gave a small smile.

Helia noded and so did the King of Eden.

Yuko struggled to stand before shaking it all off. "...Well done. I must admit, I didn't think you'd be up to such a task. You have proven me wrong." Yuko said

"You did well too Yuko, honestly I didn't see most of those attacks coming." Merus said as he helped Yuko up.

"Now, shall we get serious this time around?" Yuko said with him cracking his knuckles.

“You saying you were holding out on me?” Merus said with a chuckle. “I’m so glad you suggested that.” He agreed.

"Trust me. It's not a suggestion." Yuko said as he backed away getting ready

Merus backed away too with a smirk wiped across his face.

Merus quickly jolted forward, blazing past Yuko, sending a kick to his back which caused Yuko to fly to the ground. Merus then charged up another cosmic blast of which he fired directly into Yuko’s side as he was tumbling

Yuko used his green dragon to catch and heal himself for a moment, and after that he summoned his purple dragon which flung quick rocks at Merus at light speed.

Merus dodged most of the rocks only for one to hit him. He looks at the rock for a moment, feeling the small bruise on his shoulder before looking back at Yuko.

“Well, if you insist that this is serious.” Merus said as he then used his Cosms grasp to create a blackhole behind Yuko which sucked him into it.

Elsewhere, Yuko would emerge from a White hole in a place he wouldn’t have recognized… a voice then called out.

“Who’s there?” Boomed the voice. It was Edra’s Yuko would look in shock as suddenly he was pulled through another black hole only to emerge back into Eden’s world through a white hole conjured by Merus himself.

Yuko laid there in shock of what had just happened, he couldn’t move, he didn’t understand.

“…maybe I went a bit too hard.” Merus said to himself.

CoI lands while clapping his hands. "Bravo kiddo!" CoI clapped as everyone else did too.

Yuko felt DISGRACED. He couldn't face CoI.

"Excellent work!" Shouted the King of Eden, Lord Quidz was not impressed however.

"My guards have shown better to me." Lord Quidz said

"GREAT JOB! WONDERFUL PERFORMANCE!" Ophellia shouted as she summoned a banquet of black roses and threw them to him.

Helia clapped her hands. The One in Red and Iris nodded, Himmsworth ran over and jumped on Merus's shoulder. "You did great, lad." Himmsworth said with a proud tone.

“Thanks!” Merus said as he looked towards Yuko. He walked up to Yuko, extending his hand for him to help up.

“You did well Yuko. I enjoyed sparring with you, and I hope I can fight you in the future just to see how well you do!” He said with a friendly smile.

Yuko looked at him, he swatted Merus's hand away and stood up.

"You really aren't a Conduit. What warrior gives congrats to someone they bested? A fool thats who." Yuko said before he was pushed out of the way by CoI.

"Or, someone with a heart." CoI said looking down at Merus, a smirk being seen behind the wrappings.

“It’s just a sparring match, Yuko. It’s just a friendly game.” Merus said.

Yet Yuko said nothing.

"So, bested my little brother huh? Quite the achievement. Not many can get past his dragon summons. Then again though, you're not many people." CoI said

“Thanks. I thought it was fun.” He said Merus turned to Yuko. “Let’s do this again sometime.” He said with a smile. Yuko just ignored him and turned away.

"Yaknow, how about you and me give it a go huh? How does that sound?" CoI said

That’s when everyone got quiet.

"CoI, that's not even remotely-"

"Shhh, I just want to ask him, if hes down to go a small round. You try to do as much to me as possible and I'll see how you do. How you really do." CoI said

Merus looked at him for a moment in thought. “Hmm. Yeah, sure, that sounds like fun.” He smiled

"Alrighty, I'll let you take the first move or moves. Honestly I'll give you a minute." CoI

“Alright, there’s something I wanted to try out anyways!” Merus said as he gained some distance on Coi.

Merus breathed as he absorbed much of the cosmic essence in the area. His strength began to grow for a short time before it began to leak. Merus grasped the leaking Cosmic essence until there was none left, forming the shapeless source into the shape of an arrow. It swirled with power as at the center of the tip was a blackhole.

From his hands, Merus fired the arrow at Coi. The attack landed on CoI, yet when the smoke cleared CoI was still standing there.

"That was really good. Fantastic actually, you actually dirtied up my fit. Now though. It's my turn." CoI said as he then stomped on the ground, a pebble and shards of rocks went flying up, CoI grabbed one of them and got ready to flick it at Merus.

CoI's flick of the pebble knocked Merus's lights out, it was like blinking. One moment he was up and the next he woke up in a hospital bed with a bandage on his forehead.

Himmsworth was scolding CoI in the hallway, and Ophellia was sitting next to him holding his hand.

And The King of Eden looking over him.

“…ugh…where…am I?” Merus said as he slowly got up. His head was in massive pain, and instinctively he put his hand to his head.

"WHERE IS HE!? LET ME SEE HIM!" shouted a familiar voice, thats when Edra would barge past CoI and Himmsworth and went to Merus.

"MY BOY!" She hugged him and then slapped him.

"HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND!?" She shouted, Ophellia backed away a bit to not be caught in everything.

"This is the Eden hospital son, you've been here for 2 months." Himmsworth said

“2 MONTHS?!” Merus shouted in shock.

CoI walked in with a shrug "Oh come on it wasn't that-'' however before CoI entered the room he would get tackled by Falklore. EchoStar would walk in though. He'd bring flowers.

Merus quickly looked at Falklore and Coi who were now on the floor. “When I agreed I thought you were going to go easy on me!” Merus exclaimed as he looked at Coi.

"Oh come on, its not like I killed you. I knew you'd be safe." CoI smirked before Falklore grabbed him tighter by the collar.

"...If you're going to play the silent threatening type, then I hope you can do more than look scary." CoI said, Falklore then growled as he got close to CoI's ear and whispered something. EchoStar got chills.

"Alright alright, I'm sorry. I'll be more careful next time." CoI said as Falklore let him go and the two separated.

Merus sighed, rubbing his forehead and feeling the bandages. “I’m sorry Mutha, I didn’t know this would happen.” He said.

"Is this what sending you here becomes? Me having to worry if you'll get back safe again?" Edra asked with frustration in her voice.

"With all due respect-" but Edra wouldn't even let the King of Eden get a voice in.

"I'm not asking you." She said, to which the King then just stayed silent.

Merus looked down with disappointment in himself. He put his hands together, rubbing them together almost. “I…I don’t mean to worry you…I made a mistake, and I’m sorry. I won’t do it again.” He said in a somberly tone.

"Mistake?! MISTAKE!? Yo-"

"Calm down Edra. The boy is fine. Trust me, CoI wouldn't have done anything too severe. Now please restrain yourself." Himmsworth said, Edra just threw up her hands and walked out.

Ophellia looked back and forth unsure what to say.

"Let's give the boy some time. Ophellia?" Asked the King

"It's ok. I'll be right here." Ophellia said as she sat next to Merus on his bed.

The King nodded as they all left besides Himmsworth who jumped up and laid on the bed.

Merus stared at the foot of his bed in disbelief and thought. “I can’t believe it was two months…I could have done so much in that time!” He said in a slightly frustrated tone.

"We always believe that the time we lost can or could have been made up. But you don't think about that when you sleep do you? That the 8 hours you waste sleeping could have been spent on something better?

Learn to handle the loss of time, that way you can spend it better when you have it." Himmsworth said licking his paw.

"Himmsworth is right. Don't think about that at all. Just be glad that you have this time now." Ophellia said

“You’re right, it just feels frustrating because I was looking forward to a lot.” Merus said as he laid back with a sigh.

Ophellia squeezed his shoulder a bit before moving forward and petting Himmsworth.

Merus looked at the edge of the bed in thought before remembering something. He looked towards Himmsworth. “Oh, yeah, how did the abomination thing go at the Twisted Lands? Is Prism okay?” He asked.

Himmsworth yawned as he stretched. "The battle was...horrific. We lost many, but the fiends were pushed back thankfully." Himmsworth said

"I can't imagine what thats like. We only have beastlings." Ophellia said.

“Beastlings? How different are they from Abominations?” Merus asked

Ophellia stopped petting Himmsworth and turned to Merus. Her eyes wandered the room for a bit before settling on him.

"Beastlings are more than abominations, they are an infection. A plague. They exist only to spread and spread and then spread some more. Beastlings are wicked and horrid creatures, made up of nightmares attached to flesh and bone. They are a dark embryo from a time long since past. With horns and spiked tails. They attack our people in times of agony and sorrow. They are an intelligent species, never to be underestimated." Ophellia said

“They sound about the same, but worse I guess. When we first met you said the Night realm was the solar opposite, like how opposite are we talking?” He asked

Ophellia put a strain of her behind her ear. "Crazy opposite. We don't possess Cosmic essence or Nexus there. Only two sources exist for us.

The light and dark. And our world doesn't have books like yours do. Instead we have tombs and ancient writting that we have inscribed into people. We then ask them something and they will recite it.

They're called Thralls." Ophellia said

“Wow, that sounds…insane. Guess that means I have more sources to research. Hehe.” Merus chuckled.

"Mmm, but you won't find anything about them here. Our history and yours is only connected via our turmoil. Nothing else gives us a connection. You'd have to come there with us." Ophellia said

“Well, I’m sure Himmsworth could always tell me, right?” Merus asked.

“Not that I wouldn’t want to go, just that I have so much to do at the moment.” he continued.

"...That's alright. It's quite a trip and the gate to get here and there can take a long time to open. Do not worry. I'm sure we will meet again." Ophellia said

"In that time, me and Merus will study all about the Night realm." Himmsworth said

“Yeah! And when you come back to visit I’ll show you just how knowledgeable I will be!” He said with a small smile.

She smiled back at him. She then stopped as her face was blank, she leaned to him and put her hand on Merus's cheek. Himmsworth looked at them.

Being a dense kid, Merus stared at her blankly and confused thinking it was just a friendly gesture.

"Merus...I want you to marry me." Ophellia said, Himmsworth's ears perked up along with his head. Ophellia looked at him, her face waiting for an answer.

Merus stared at her for a moment in shock and confusion. “Why would you want…to Marry me?” He asked

"Something is calling to me to do so. I feel a connection between us, you and I.

You may be the first soul I have ever met that has not judged me for where I come from, or the practices of my people. We needn't not now, but I wish you would promise yourself to me.

Would you?" She asked, grabbing his hands. Her eyes looked into his, joy and wonder filling them.

"Come back with me when you grow older. I can show you the lands, let you meet everyone. You will not be scorned, none will pick on you there.

I don't need your answer now, I just want to know...if you feel the same as I do. That you see me and see the world we could have together and the times of joy we would spend as one." Ophellia said Himmsworth looked at both of them.

“I-I, uh…” Merus said. His brain processing the words that repeated hundreds of times in his head.

“To be honest, I do like you Ophellia, but I think I’d definitely need time to think. After all I did just meet you recently, even if I was knocked out for two months. It’s not a no, but I’d just also want to get to know you more before making a huge decision like that, you know?” He said. Merus stared at her anxiously, wondering if he said the right thing.

Her face grew a smile and nodded. "Of course, I would be glad to get to know more of your Merus." Ophellia said as she tightened her grip on Merus's hand. She then kissed it. She did it subconsciously, as she already had a place for Merus in her world and in her mind. She smiled.

"I won't forget you. I know you may me, but I hope to see you in my latent night dreams. I pray that you think of me too." Ophellia said as she bowed her head and got off the bed.

That's when her father would show up from in the doorway, with Helia there too. "Ophellia, its time." Said Lord Quidz.

Merus stared at the three as Ophellia approached her father. His thoughts kept going in his mind.

Helia walked over to Merus and pat a hand Merus's head. "Goodbye Lady Helia, tell your father that this was...an experience." Lord Quidz said.

"Yes, yes it was." Ophellia said, the two then gave a quick bow and then disappeared around the corner.

"How are you?" Helia asked

“Feeling good now, though a slight headache.” Merus said as he rubbed his head. “How about you? Must have been shocking.” Merus said with a small chuckle.

"Shocking? Yes. But not as bad as when I heard how long you had been put. I came over from my trip once I heard how long.

I'm sorry that CoI is a nuisance. Do you need anything?" Helia asked

“It’s fine, and no, I think I’ll be good to go.” Merus said. “Though I’m hoping Prism isn’t too preoccupied. I think the Conduit training has been long overdue.” He smiled lightly as he moved the sheets off of him.

"You should still rest some. You're too wounded. Just wait. He'll be here. In the meantime, I want to talk to you." Helia said

Merus looked at Helia, putting his covers back slowly. “…Okay. What did you want to talk about?” He asked.

"Merus, you have a very brave heart. Ever since I've known you. You fight against the standards of this world with your very existence.

You have a chance to be a beacon of hope for everyone and me. I hope I can count on you; to remain by my side on the long road history has planned for us." Helia said as she rubbed his back.

“Of course, I’ll always be there for you and Eden.” Merus replied

"I'm glad to hear it." Helia said, she rubbed his arm one last time before she walked away.

"Seems like you're getting popular." Said a voice nearby them. Himmsworth and Merus both collectively looked over towards it.

They both looked to see it was none other than Prism, he was floating above a chair yet acted like he was sitting in it.

-= More coming soon =-