Chapter: "The Fruits of Peace and the Price of Blood"
Made By: Eternal_Jokr
A/N:This fanfic is free for criticisms and opinions, say what you think in the comments section and leave your support.
Thank you.
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The morning sun gilded the tops of Orario's great structures, filtering between the stone buildings and illuminating the crowd that was already bustling through the central market's main thoroughfare.
A cool, constant breeze blew through the alleyways of the Labyrinth-City, causing the wind to gently brush against Dante's silver hair.
The silver-toned strands swayed lightly with every firm, rhythmic step he took upon the ancient stones of the pavement.
Orario was a living, pulsating, noisy creature.
To his left, merchants shouted at the top of their lungs offering exotic fruits brought from the ends of the world. To his right, dwarven blacksmiths displayed newly forged blades that clinked rhythmically as they were laid out.
The air was a dense, vivid mixture of scents: the smell of warm, freshly baked bread, the smoky aroma of herb-seasoned meats, the metallic tang of new armor, and the sweet perfume of alchemical potions.
Humans, elves, beastfolk, and dwarves crossed paths in an uninterrupted stream of colors, laughter and accents.
Dante absorbed it all in contemplative silence.
His purple, magnetic eyes swept over the scene with an observant serenity.
For someone who carried the weight of forgotten battles and invisible scars, that everyday vitality had an almost hypnotic charm.
He felt the cool air against his skin, the pleasant warmth of the sun, and the simple rhythm of civilian life a complete contrast to the darkness and danger of the depths that threatened the city from below.
The mystical tattoos on his neck remained calm beneath his clothes, resting alongside the power he kept strictly under control.
He slowed his pace as he approached the center of the square, allowing himself to stop for a brief moment.
He closed his eyes and simply listened: the laughter of children running between the stalls, the heated bargaining, and the fluttering of pigeon wings taking flight toward the imposing Tower of Babel.
Upon reopening his eyes, the cosmic glow of his irises reflected the image of the colossal stone tower tearing through the clouds at the center of Orario.
A light, imperceptible sigh escaped his lips. He adjusted the cloak over his shoulders, letting the wind guide the trajectory of his next step, and continued his walk through the crowd.
The noise of the market seemed to gradually dissipate amidst the vibrations of the wooden stalls and the rustling of goods, stifled by the constant hustle and bustle of Orario.
However, amidst the ocean of accents and the raised voices of merchants, one sound in particular cut through the air.
"Dante~!" amidst footsteps and breaths, a soft, melodic voice called out for Dante.
The voice was unmistakable. Melodic, warm, and soft like the whisper of the wind through wheat fields at harvest time. It carried a maternal, welcoming sweetness that immediately contrasted with the usual harshness of adventurers.
Dante stopped in his tracks. His sharp senses tracked the source of that call even before his gaze shifted.
As he turned, the crowd seemed to part naturally to make way for a radiant figure.
Walking toward him with a woven straw basket resting on her hip, filled with fresh fruit and artisanal bread of irresistible aroma, was Demeter.
The Goddess of Agriculture exuded an aura of abundance and serenity. Her wavy, orange-blonde hair framed a face with gentle features and a genuine smile that brought instant relief to anyone nearby.
Wearing her flowing, peasant garments that highlighted her maternal figure, she waved cheerfully at the silver-haired young man.
"I knew it was you as soon as I saw that silver hair from afar" Demeter said as she approached, stopping a few steps from Dante. The aroma of sweet apples and freshly harvested wheat accompanied her like a natural perfume. "What a pleasant surprise to find you walking around here so early, Dante."
Dante bowed his head slightly, in a gesture of flawless respect before the deity.
"Lady Demeter" his voice sounded low and calm, its deep tone standing out amidst the surrounding hum. "It is an honor to see you again. How are you?"
Demeter let out a warm chuckle, adjusting the basket in her arms before extending her free hand to affectionately stroke the young man's arm, completely immune to the air of danger or the stoic aura that kept most people away.
"Ah, I'm doing wonderful, my boy! Just ensuring the market receives the best of our harvest for today" she replied, her eyes shining with genuine affection. She looked him up and down with the fond scrutiny of someone who looks after the whole city. "And you? You look as focused as ever... How is little Hestia? Has that girl been eating properly lately?"
Dante held the goddess's gaze with the usual calm of his purple eyes, though the mention of his own Goddess brought a subtle softness to his expression.
"Hestia is well, Lady Demeter. Home is safe and in order."
"I'm so relieved to hear that" Demeter smiled, her expression overflowing with affection.
Without asking permission, she reached inside the basket and pulled out two perfect, shiny red apples of generous size, offering them to him.
"Here. One is for you to recharge your energy on this cool morning, and the other... please do me the favor of giving it to Hestia. Tell her I sent a hug and that I don't want to hear about her skipping meals!"
Dante looked at the fruit in his hands, feeling their light weight and sweet aroma. Demeter's presence was like a living contrast to the darkness he was used to facing; there was a purity in her that reminded him why something was worth protecting.
"I will deliver the message" Dante said, putting one of the apples away while keeping the other in his hand. "Hestia will be very grateful."
Demeter stepped closer, tilting her head with subtle curiosity, her eyes observing the young warrior with that ancient wisdom that only the Gods possessed.
"You know, Dante... Orario is a bustling city and, at times, rather cruel" she said, her voice dropping to a softer, more understanding tone. "But seeing someone like you, so strong and focused, looking after little Hestia gives me great peace at heart. Don't forget to enjoy the sun and the breeze every now and then, alright?"
The morning wind blew once more, causing Dante's silver hair to sway gently. He merely nodded, a simple gesture carrying the silent promise of a guardian.
Demeter stepped forward, closing the remaining space between them. With an affectionate naturalness that seemed to disarm any defensive posture, she wrapped both hands around Dante's arm, gently pulling him close to her.
The movement brought the Goddess's body close to his, pressing her large, soft breasts directly against the young man's arm. The softness and warmth of the contact contrasted immediately with Dante's rigidity and firm musculature.
Demeter, however, seemed completely indifferent to the effect her proximity caused, keeping her face raised with a tender, inviting smile.
"You know, Dante... carrying these baskets alone through the entire market is quite a tiring task for a lonely goddess" she murmured, tilting her head slightly as she leaned her shoulder against his, enjoying the young man's company with genuine affection. "What do you say to keeping me company for a little while longer? Let's stroll through the spice stalls. I'm sure Hestia won't mind if you take a few minutes to walk outside with me"
The sweet aroma of the fruits mingled with the soft perfume she exuded, creating a welcoming atmosphere amidst the deafening noise of the central square.
Dante felt the weight of her body resting on his arm, maintaining the serenity in his purple eyes as he evaluated the unexpected invitation.
Dante looked at the Goddess beside him, feeling the serene calm she radiated, a stark contrast to the feverish bustle of the market and the dangers of the Dungeon. The gentle pressure of her hold on his arm was a tactile reminder of the kindness he had sworn to protect.
With an almost imperceptible sigh, he yielded to the kindness of the moment.
"It would be an honor, Lady Demeter" Dante replied, his deep voice sounding reassuring amidst the hum. "I think I can spare a few minutes to ensure you don't carry this weight alone."
Demeter let out a sound of contentment, a soft, melodic laugh that seemed to illuminate the surroundings around them. The hold on his arm remained firm and affectionate.
"Oh, you are a true gentleman, Dante! Hestia is so lucky to have you around" she said, with a radiant smile that drew the eyes of many in the crowd toward them. "Let's go this way. Today's spices have brought a wonderful aroma, and I need your honest opinion on a new kind of mint tea I was promised"
Dante adjusted his pace to the Goddess's rhythm. As they walked together through the stone alleys, the weight of the wicker basket on his left shoulder felt light, almost nonexistent.
They merged once more into Orario's tide of colors, scents, and sounds, leaving behind the solitude of the morning to lose themselves temporarily in the vibrant symphony of the central market.
The sun continued to rise in Orario's clear sky, bathing the pale stone facades in a warm, golden light.
As they walked side by side through the market's side streets, the city's fast pace seemed to slow down around them, as if the world bowed subtly to the peaceful presence of the Goddess of Agriculture.
Demeter kept her arm linked through Dante's, enjoying the firmness and security the young man conveyed.
The physical proximity was constant the warmth of her body pressed against his arm yet there was a genuine lightness in the air that dispelled any tension.
Dante's mind, usually set on vigilance and the weight of his responsibilities, allowed itself to anchor in the present.
He caught glimpses of the passing stalls: baskets of golden grains, dried medicinal herbs dangling from ropes, and colorful fabrics swaying in the fresh wind.
Smiling softly at the goddess's carefree countenance, Dante adjusted his stride to ensure she remained comfortable, balancing the wicker basket he now carried to relieve her.
Demeter noticed the gesture and raised her face, her eyes shining with pure satisfaction. A soft sound began to escape her lips, a rustic and joyful melody, without defined lyrics, evoking the song of birds at dawn or the swaying of ears of wheat under the field breeze.
La-la-la... na-na-na...
Her voice was so melodious and sweet that a few nearby merchants stopped what they were doing for a moment just to listen.
The melody seemed to spread an aura of calm and abundance wherever they went, giving the chaotic hum of the market a warm and tender soundtrack.
Dante listened to the humming in silence, feeling his chest warm at that simple display of pure joy.
It was a vivid reminder that, no matter how dangerous Orario could be in the depths of the Dungeon, the surface still held moments of pure peace and humanity or, in this case, divinity.
"The melody fits the day" Dante commented in his deep voice, breaking the silence softly as they walked toward the spice section.
Demeter let out a contented chuckle, tilting her head a little closer to his shoulder, thoroughly happy to share that simple morning with the silver-haired guardian.
Demeter's humming gradually faded until it turned into a satisfied sigh. She glanced sideways at Dante, her radiant golden eyes shining with genuine, affectionate curiosity.
"You know, Dante..." she began, her voice dropping to that sweet tone of intimate conversation.
She gave his arm a gentle squeeze to catch his attention, the soft pressure of her breasts still cradling the young man's arm as they walked. "I was thinking... I realized I haven't had the chance to learn more about you. You're relatively new to Orario, aren't you?"
She paused briefly as they bypassed an artisan arranging clay pots, tilting her head slightly to look at Dante's firm profile.
"A warrior with such a striking bearing, silver hair, and an aura that seems to carry the weight of a kingdom... I would certainly remember seeing you in the streets before" Demeter said, a gentle smile unfolding on her lips.
"Tell me, what do you think of our dear Labyrinth-City so far? It can be quite noisy, dangerous, and rather chaotic, but it also holds unique moments. How has your experience here been?"
Dante maintained his measured pace, his purple, magnetic eyes watching the movement of the crowd before turning to the Goddess beside him. The morning wind blew softly, swaying his silver fringe.
"Yes, Lady Demeter. My arrival in Orario is recent" Dante replied, his deep voice resonating with contemplative calm. "It is a living city. Unlike anywhere I have ever set foot"
He paused briefly, allowing his eyes to follow the flight of a flock of birds ascending toward the imposing Tower of Babel in the distance.
"It is a fascinating, dense place. On the surface, one breathes life, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of purpose"
"...."
"Beneath everyone's feet, the Dungeon holds constant danger and mystery. But above all... I have realized that Orario is a city of new beginnings."
Dante looked directly at Demeter, the stoic expression on his face softened by the honesty of his words.
"And having the presence and care of people like you makes this place seem far more welcoming than its reputation suggests."
Demeter offered a radiant smile, her eyes shining with delight. The young man's sincere, mature compliment seemed to melt the Goddess of Agriculture's heart even further, as she snuggled a little closer against his arm while they continued their walk.
"What a beautiful answer, Dante..." she murmured, her maternal tone overflowing with affection. "You have a deep soul. I am immensely happy to know that, amidst all the noise of this city, you and little Hestia are finding your own path."
Dante stopped in his tracks for a brief moment, his purple eyes sweeping over the sea of people in the market children running with sweet breads in hand, adventurers laughing in front of stalls, artisans proud of their creations.
The morning wind blew again, making his silver hair sway, while his normally stoic expression took on a shadow of ancient solemnity.
"Peace is a curious thing, Lady Demeter" Dante said, his voice dropping to a deep, resonant tone, laden with a weight that seemed to transcend the city itself. "It brings indisputable tranquility... but for someone who has lived in the constant shadow of the blade, peace is equally concerning."
He shifted his gaze from the crowd and stared at the horizon, where the immense Tower of Babel rose until it pierced the clouds.
"It is concerning because it is deceptive. Most people look at a sunny day like this and believe that peace is the natural state of the world. But it is not. Peace is an exception, a fragile illusion maintained under a tense balance."
Demeter slowed her pace, the tender smile on her lips giving way to an attentive, respectful silence.
Her hold on his arm grew gentler as she felt the solemn rigidity that had taken hold of the young man's body.
"The weight that peace carries is invisible to those who merely enjoy it" Dante continued, his voice cutting through the air like a sharp blade. "It comes at a high price. For this market to exist in calm, for these laughs not to be drowned in screams... an ocean of blood had to be spilled in the past. And more blood will continue to be exacted in the shadows, where no one sees."
The mystical tattoos on his face and neck pulsed with an almost imperceptible purple glow beneath the sun, reflecting the memory of eras and battles that few could conceive.
"Those who fight know that peace does not come free. It is built upon the bones of those who fell and maintained by the blade of those who remain standing. That is why it is concerning...because the slightest sign of complacency, the briefest moment when one's guard is dropped, and all of this crumbles into ashes."
He turned his eyes back to Demeter, the cosmic glow of his irises meeting the gentle, surprised gaze of the Goddess of Agriculture.
"I protect it and appreciate it" he concluded, tilting his head slightly. "But I never allow myself to forget the price of blood it demands to continue existing."
Demeter remained silent for a long moment. The ocean of market bustle seemed to have turned into a distant noise as she absorbed the gravity of Dante's words.
The Goddess of Agriculture, whose essence was tied to life, nourishment, and the birth of fruits, stared into the young man's purple eyes.
She did not see there the common arrogance of adventurers seeking glory, but rather the soul of a guardian who had already witnessed the worst of the world so that others could see the best.
Without saying a word immediately, Demeter released her hold on his arm. Dante did not move, maintaining his firm posture, until he felt the Goddess's delicate hand rise and rest gently against his cheek.
The palm of her hand was warm, soft, and emanated a comforting, almost healing warmth, exuding the subtle aroma of fertile earth and wild flowers.
"You carry a painful wisdom, Dante..." she murmured, her voice velvety and overflowing with compassion. "It is true. The earth often drinks the blood of the strong before allowing the weak to harvest its fruits. And those on the front lines tend to see only dust, steel, and pain."
She slid her thumb gently across his cheekbone, looking at him with an almost maternal tenderness, completely devoid of fear of the dangerous aura he exuded.
"But it is precisely because they know this price that people like you are the true salvation of this world" Demeter continued, her smile reappearing, deeper and more genuine than before. "You hold the blade so they can hold the bread. But never allow yourself to believe that blood is the only thing left in the end... the fruit born from your sacrifice is proof that every drop was worth it."
Dante held the touch for a second longer than he expected. The Goddess's warmth seemed to dispel the distant coldness he usually kept as armor.
She finally withdrew her hand, linking her arm through his once again with even greater affection, leaning her shoulder against his as they resumed walking.
"Now, my stoic guardian..." she said, shifting her tone with a graceful lightness that dispelled the heavy atmosphere. "Promise me that while you are protecting this dearly bought peace, you will also allow yourself to taste its fruits. Life is not made solely of vigilance."
Ahead of them, the spice section finally revealed itself in an explosion of intense colors and aromas.
Open burlap sacks displayed dried peppers, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and nutmeg. The air there was warm and spicy.
A Dwarf, upon noticing the approach of the Goddess arm-in-arm with a tall, silver-haired man of intimidating posture, widened his eyes and hurried to wipe down the counter with a cloth.
"Goddess Demeter. What an honor!" greeted the merchant, bowing awkwardly and casting a curious look at Dante. "And... ah, I see you brought excellent company today"
Demeter let out a delightful chuckle, squeezing Dante's arm proudly. "I certainly did, Barim! This is Dante. And we came to get that special mint tea you promised me."
Barim, the Dwarf merchant, grinned from ear to ear at the opportunity to impress the Goddess and quickly prepared two small carved wooden mugs.
He poured the steaming infusion, from which rose a cloud of fragrant vapor blending the intense freshness of mint with the soft touch of wild nectar honey.
"Here it is, Goddess Demeter! Mint from the southern hills, harvested at the very first ray of sunlight" said the merchant proudly, handing one mug to her and another to Dante.
Demeter took the mug with both hands, closed her eyes, and blew gently before taking a small sip. Her expression turned into pure admiration.
"Mmm... wonderful! It has a floral touch at the end that whets the appetite" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. Then, she turned to Dante, leaning forward with overwhelming anticipation. "Try it, Dante! Tell me what you think."
Dante held the small wooden mug. The warmth of the drink heated his palms, and he brought the vessel to his lips, taking a measured sip.
The flavor exploded in his mouth: the sharp, clean coolness of mint combined with a velvety sweetness that washed smoothly down his throat, dispelling the feeling of fatigue and calming his mind.
It was a vivid contrast to the dry, bitter tastes he was accustomed to on long combat journeys.
"It is... exceptional" Dante admitted, lowering his mug as his purple eyes took on a gentle clarity. "The refreshing feeling is immediate. It is a drink that invigorates without feeling heavy."
"See?!" Demeter gave an enthusiastic pat to his arm, letting out a melodious laugh. "That is exactly what I'm talking about!"
Without wasting time, she left a few coins on Barim's counter, ignoring the Dwarf's protests that it was on the house, and took Dante's hand firmly, pulling him with contagious energy toward the heart of the spice and delicacy section.
"Come! The morning is just getting started and you need to try the rest" she said, her gaze sparkling with excitement.
Dante found himself being guided through the market as if he were at the center of a hurricane of colors and aromas.
The warrior's stoic and intimidating posture was completely neutralized by the radiant vivacity of the Goddess, who led him from stall to stall with the enthusiasm of a child.
At the next stall, belonging to a human merchant from the coastal regions, Demeter picked up a small piece of candied dried fruit, covered in a reddish powder of exotic spices.
"Open your mouth, Dante. Say Ahhh" she commanded with a mischievous smile, leaving no room for objections.
Dante blinked, surprised by her boldness, but before he could formulate a response, Demeter brought the delicacy to his lips.
He yielded, accepting the small piece. The combination of concentrated natural sugar with the spicy and citrusy touch of sweet pepper caused his pupils to contract slightly.
"Surprising, isn't it?" Demeter laughed, following his reaction. "Sweet at first, with a sting of heat at the end! It's Kaios sweet pepper!"
She didn't stop there. She pulled him toward the dairy stall of a family of farmers loyal to her Familia.
There, she grabbed a small slice of goat cheese cured with fine herbs and offered it to him, watching him chew and taste the creamy texture and the bold, savory flavor of the herbs.
Next, they stopped at a large bread stall, where the scent of yeast and melted butter dominated the air. Demeter took a piece of whole wheat bread fresh out of the oven, still steaming, and spread a bit of wild fig jam before handing it to him.
"Taste it" she insisted, her golden eyes fixed on his with immense affection. "Feel the warmth of the bread, the sweetness of the fruit that took months to ripen under the sun. This, Dante... this is life!"
Dante held the piece of bread, feeling the heat in his fingers and the sweet scent hit his senses.
He took a bite. The crunchiness of the crust combined with the soft crumb and the jam created a sense of simple yet profound comfort.
Around him, the market continued at its chaotic pace, but there, between the jam on his fingertips and Demeter's warm smile, the weight of his worries seemed to lift for a moment.
Demeter leaned lightly against his shoulder while watching him eat, letting out a satisfied sigh.
"Knowing how to fight is important, my dear guardian..." she said, her voice dropping to a sweet, welcoming tone that resonated along with the noise of the vendors.
"But knowing how to savor good food, smell the spices, and laugh at simple things... that is what reminds us why it's worth fighting for. Happiness isn't found only in grand deeds or legendary victories, it lies in these small moments we almost forget to notice."
Dante swallowed the last piece, wiping his lips with the back of his hand. He looked at Demeter, seeing the sun's reflection in the Goddess's golden eyes and the radiant sincerity of her smile.
For the first time that morning, the corners of Dante's lips curved slightly upward an almost imperceptible smile, but an absolutely real one.
"You have a very persuasive way of teaching your lessons, Lady Demeter" he said, his deep voice maintaining its calm, but now devoid of any stiffness. "And I must admit... the jam is impeccable."
Demeter clapped her hands, letting out a pure, victorious laugh that sent small birds fluttering from the plaza's columns.
"I knew it!" she exclaimed, taking his arm again and hugging it affectionately. "Now come, there's still a candied nuts stall that you NEED to check out!"
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Leaving behind the noisy bustle and intense scents of the spice section, their steps naturally led them to one of Orario's higher, quieter avenues.
There, far from the commotion of the vendors, the stone streets were lined with large trees bearing leafy foliage, whose shadows drew dancing mosaics on the ground.
The morning breeze blew more freely and freshly, causing Dante's silver hair and Demeter's golden locks to sway gently beneath the warm sunlight.
Demeter slowed her pace even further, allowing the walk to turn into an almost lazy stroll. She kept her arm linked through his, enjoying the warmth of the sun heating their skin and the peaceful serenity that had settled between them.
"Ah... this is perfect" the Goddess murmured, closing her eyes for a few seconds just to feel the soft wind caress her face. "No rush, no shouting... just the sun, the wind, and a good walk."
Dante matched her calm rhythm, taking a deep breath. The air there was pure, lightly perfumed by the green of the leaves and the scent of damp earth from nearby plazas.
"Indeed... it is a different pace" Dante commented, the deep tone of his voice sounding soft and relaxed. "It is rare to be able to walk without having to watch every shadow or calculate the next move."
Demeter opened her eyes and looked at him, tilting her head with a tender smile as they walked side by side.
"That's because the world wasn't made solely for vigilance, Dante" she said, enjoying the welcoming silence surrounding them.
"The sun rises every morning to remind us that each day is a new beginning. Feeling this wind, the warmth on your skin... these are the small graces that the Gods and the earth gift to us all, asking for nothing in return."
They reached a stone overlook decorated with ancient balustrades, offering a breathtaking view of part of the city.
Below them, the red rooftops and streets of Orario looked like a living painting under the clear blue sky.
In the distance, the Tower of Babel stood sovereign, but there, at that moment, even the immense structure seemed merely a distant part of the landscape.
Dante rested one hand on the stone parapet, gazing at the horizon. The steady wind blew his hair, and for a moment, the rigidity of his features gave way to absolute tranquility.
Demeter stopped beside him, leaning her shoulder against his and taking in the same view with an expression of complete satisfaction.
"You know..." she whispered, her melodious voice accompanying the whisper of the wind through the leaves. "I hope you remember this moment the next time the weight of the world seems too great. Peace can take work to maintain... but days like this show that it is worth every second."
Dante glanced at the Goddess beside him, feeling the warmth of the sun reflected in her eyes. He gave a subtle nod, accepting the truth of those words with silent respect.
"I will remember, Lady Demeter" he said, his voice firm and serene. "I will remember..."
And there they remained for a long time, side by side, in silence, simply appreciating the warmth of the morning, the gentle breeze, and each other's simple, comforting company.
As Dante and Demeter's steps led them toward the central square surrounding the base of the monumental Tower of Babel, the market's calm atmosphere gave way to a different, heavier, and more vibrant bustle.
The gentle sound of the wind through the leaves was gradually replaced by the metallic clanking of thick chains, the creaking of iron wheels against the cobblestones, and muffled thuds against steel walls.
In the shadow of the colossal stone structure, dozens of large wagons covered by reinforced tarps and double cast-iron grates were arranged in rows.
Guild officials, wearing their uniforms and carrying log clipboards, bustled hurriedly alongside armed guards and members of the Ganesha Familia.
From inside the cages, guttural grunts, deep growls, and the scraping of sharp claws against metal resounded, causing a few curious citizens to keep a prudent distance.
Dante's battle instincts reacted even before his rational mind. His purple pupils narrowed subtly and his posture straightened, his hand resting almost imperceptibly on the hilt of his blade.
Through the gaps in the bars of one of the nearest wagons, he could see the ravenous red eyes of a gigantic Kobold, along with the shadowy claws of a War Shadow held by enchanted chains.
Dungeon monsters, creatures of darkness brought straight into the light of the surface.
Noticing the immediate tension in the young man's shoulders and the analytical glint in his eyes, Demeter slid her hand gently along his arm, giving it a reassuring squeeze.
"It's alright, Dante" she said in a sweet, measured voice, her serene gaze contrasting with the threatening presence of the beasts. "Although it might look dangerous seeing these creatures out here, it is for a very specific purpose."
Dante kept his focus fixed on the swaying of one of the cages, which shuddered under the impact of an irritated Orc.
"Bringing the danger of the depths into the midst of civilians... is a high gamble," Dante commented in his deep, measured tone. "A single broken link in those chains, and the market we just crossed would turn into a slaughterground."
Demeter nodded slowly, showing she fully understood the warrior's logic and caution.
"You are entirely right to be concerned. But what you are seeing here are the preparations for Monsterphilia" explained the Goddess of Agriculture, indicating with a graceful wave of her hand the members of the Ganesha Familia who were applying seals and checking locks.
"Monsterphilia?" Dante repeated, turning his face to look at her.
"Yes. It is one of Orario's largest and most anticipated festivals, organized entirely by the God Ganesha and his Familia" Demeter continued, smiling softly at the memory of her fellow deity.
"Ganesha is a Extravagant god he loves to declare 'I am Ganesha!' to anyone who will listen but he takes the city's safety very seriously. His Familia specializes in taming and containing Dungeon monsters, and they are also Orario's police force, responsible for the city's security."
She took a few steps closer to the edge of the square, gently pulling Dante along so they could observe the activity from a higher vantage point.
"The festival is a grand celebration in the central arena. Monsters are presented to the public in training demonstrations, controlled fights, and displays of agility. For the gods and the people, it's a form of entertainment, of course... but for the city as a whole, Monsterphilia holds a deeper meaning."
Dante watched a tamer from the Ganesha Familia soothe a snarling Hellhound using only an enchanted whip and firm vocal commands.
"A deeper meaning?" the young man inquired.
"Yes" Demeter answered, looking into Dante's eyes with a welcoming, wise expression. "The Dungeon is a constant source of fear for those who live here. People know that, down there, there are claws and teeth ready to devour them."
"Monsterphilia serves to show the people of Orario that the beasts can be mastered, that humanity and the gods are in control. It is a way to transform terror into celebration, to give hope to the citizens" (A/N: Monsterphilia or Monster Feria is done for another reason; it is done due to a secret agreement between Ganesha and Ouranos...no spoilers!)
She paused briefly, the morning wind carrying the scent of magical incense used to calm the beasts.
"Of course, to someone like you who knows the true terror of battle, it might seem like an extravagant or even reckless display" added the Goddess, patting his arm.
"But for the little girl selling bread in the market or the baker who has never set foot in the Dungeon, seeing a caged and mastered beast brings a sense of relief. It shows that the city's heroes and guardians are doing their job."
Dante absorbed Demeter's words in silence. His purple eyes turned back to the Guild officials meticulously checking every fastener and restraint on the cages.
He still saw the risk, the latent danger that a wild beast would always represent, but he came to understand the psychology behind the event. It was the construction of a symbol of control in a world surrounded by chaos.
"I hope God Ganesha's tamers are as proficient as you describe" Dante said, finally relaxing his posture and taking his hand off the hilt of his blade. "The illusion of safety only works as long as the bars remain intact."
Demeter let out a warm, melodious laugh, delighted by the young man's pragmatic and protective outlook.
"Trust me, they know what they are doing!" she assured him with a wink. "And if anything gets out of hand... well, I know we'll have attentive guardians like you nearby to ensure the surface's peace remains untouched."
Dante remained silent...
"You know, it's not that I can't understand it, but it's this nature of the gods that annoys me, their arrogance and their pursuit of entertainment above all else " Dante spoke suddenly.
Demeter stopped walking at that very instant.
Dante's sudden, sharp candor cut through the air like a direct blow, without the beating around the bush or the polite deference that most mortals maintained when speaking of the divine.
Around them, the distant snarling of the beasts in their cages and the shouts of the tamers seemed to accentuate the young man's critique.
Indeed, to the Gods who descended from Heaven, the mortal world was frequently treated as a theater stage, a chessboard, or an entertainment arena to stave off the boredom of immortality.
Demeter was not offended. There was no anger or indignation in her features; instead, her golden eyes took on a shadow of deep melancholy and understanding.
She sighed slowly, the morning wind fluttering the ends of her garments, and turned to face him head-on.
"You are entirely right, Dante" she said, her voice sounding soft, yet laden with a disarming honesty.
"And I am not going to commit the hypocrisy of defending our kind."
She took a step closer, looking at the invisible scars that seemed to weigh upon the silver-haired young man's shoulders.
"The raw truth is that the Gods descended to the mortal world out of boredom" Demeter continued, without trying to sugarcoat it.
"In Tenkai, in our original realm, nothing changes. There is no death, no scarcity, no end. And without an end, existence becomes an infinite, empty routine. We came here in search of the 'spark' that only mortals possess the fleeting brilliance of those who live knowing that time is running out."
She turned her gaze back to the iron wagons and to the nobles and citizens laughing in the distance, oblivious to the real danger.
"And in this selfish quest to feel something, many of us become capricious, arrogant, and cruel. They turn suffering into a spectacle and the mortals' struggle for survival into mere entertainment. I see it every day... gods who play with the fate of their Familias like moving pieces in a game of chance."
Demeter extended her hand and, with maternal gentleness, rested it softly upon Dante's chest, right over the steady, calm rhythm of his heart.
"That is why your irritation is justified" she murmured, gazing into the purple, magnetic glow of his eyes. "Because you are the ones who bleed while the audience cries out for more. But... if you would grant a request from a goddess..."
A tired yet infinitely welcoming smile returned to her lips.
"Do not measure us all by the same yardstick, nor let that anger embitter your soul. Hestia herself... do you think she sees you or any of you as 'entertainment'?"
"She spends her days working at bread stalls, begging for favors just to provide a roof and a decent meal for her Familia. There are gods who came to watch... and there are gods who came to love and walk side by side with you in the dust."
Demeter slowly drew back her hand, keeping her eyes locked onto his.
"Monsterphilia, Ganesha's arrogance, or Freya and Loki's whims... all of that is part of Orario's theater. But your blade, your care, and your humanity? That is real. And it is the only thing that truly matters when the show ends and night falls."
Dante remained silent, turning his head to the side where a group of children were playing together. A moment of fun near something dangerous.
"I spent years fighting against the stagnation of humanity, against the interference of gods with humans; I felt firsthand the terror and madness that can be wrought it isn't just about arrogance and ego" Dante said after a moment.
The air between the two seemed to suddenly chill.
The noise of the market, the laughter of passersby, and even the low roar of the monsters in their iron cages became a distant hum, smothered by the suffocating weight of Dante's declaration.
It was not the resentment of an adventurer frustrated with the whims of a minor god.
It was the echo of deep scars, carved into the soul of someone who had witnessed divine will crush human free will, freezing history and transforming existence into a stagnant nightmare.
Demeter froze. The Goddess of Agriculture's golden eyes widened slightly not out of offense, but from the sudden realization that the pain Dante carried wasn't about Orario. It was about something terribly greater.
The mystical tattoos on the young man's face and neck seemed to pulse, reactive to the memory of that madness.
"Stagnation..." Demeter murmured, the word leaving her lips almost like a painful breath.
She shed any trace of lightness in her posture. The Goddess of Abundance faced the silver-haired warrior no longer as a promising youth of Orario, but as a survivor of an era, or a world, where the Gods became monsters worse than those inhabiting the Dungeon.
"Unbound interference..." he continued, her voice dropping to a deep tone, stripped of any divine veneer. "When an immortal being decides it knows what is best for mortals, the result is never salvation. It is a golden cage. A world where time does not move forward, where pain is perpetuated, and humanity is prevented from growing... merely to satisfy the whim or fear of whoever rules."
Demeter took a step toward him. She did not attempt to touch him this time, respecting the invisible barrier of steel and fire that seemed to surround Dante's memory.
"I am so sorry, Dante" she said, with a sincerity so raw it bordered on the solemn. "If you saw that side of our kind... if you felt firsthand the terror of our 'benevolence' turned into madness and control... then you have every right in the world to hate us. There is no justification for the weight they forced you to carry."
She looked toward the colossal Tower of Babel, the stone structure symbolizing the bridge and the barrier between the divine and the earthly.
"Stagnation is the greatest crime a divine being can commit against a mortal" Demeter said, turning her loving, serious gaze back to him. "Because the beauty of human life lies precisely in change, in the capacity to fall, bleed, overcome, and move forward. When a god takes that away from you in the name of 'order' or 'entertainment' they destroy the very essence of life."
A stronger wind blew from the top of the tower, rustling both their hair.
"If you fought against that for years..." the Goddess continued, bowing her head in a genuine gesture of respect that a deity would rarely afford a mortal, "...then you are not merely a warrior, Dante. You are living proof that humanity refuses to be a mere game in the hands of Heaven."
She raised her face, holding the cosmic, magnetic purple glow of his eyes with quiet determination.
"Here in Orario, many of us forget the limit. But as long as you remain standing... you will be the living reminder that the human will cannot be chained."
Dante stared at the Goddess in silence for long seconds. The wind blew his silver hair, but the sharp tension in his posture slowly ebbed away, giving way to a cold serenity, yet far removed from his earlier hostility.
He looked down at Demeter's hand, which moments earlier had touched his chest, and then at her golden eyes.
There was no haughtiness or indifference there like what he had fought so hard against in the past, only raw and genuine empathy.
"That is why..." Dante began, his voice sounding like a deep, deliberate murmur, "...I still remain standing."
He looked away toward the crowd circulating in the Tower of Babel plaza the laughter of children, the adventurers chatting about their expeditions, the hardworking merchants.
"I do not fight for the Gods" he continued, his calm tone carrying an unwavering conviction. "I fight for this. For the people who have no idea of the forces operating above them, yet still wake up every day willing to live, fail, and try again on their own"
"And if there are deities like you...or like Hestia... who respect that flame instead of trying to extinguish it, then it is worth enduring the rest of the show."
Demeter smiled. It was not an expansive smile like before, but a serene, deep glow that illuminated her face.
"I am glad to hear that, Dante" she said, adjusting the strap of her straw basket on her hip. "Orario can be a chaotic place full of divine whims, but the presence of someone who understands the true value of human freedom is the greatest protection this city could ever have."
Time seemed to flow at an entirely different pace there. Minutes passed in a comfortable silence, punctuated only by the distant murmur of the great metropolis and the constant whisper of the leaves in the wind.
Demeter was the first to move. She tilted her head upward, observing the position of the sun, which was now reaching the highest point in the clear sky, bathing the city in intense, golden light.
"Ah... just look at the sun, Dante" she said with a soft, slightly rueful sigh. "Morning is already giving way to noon. Unfortunately, even goddesses must return to their duties... My Familia members are probably going crazy at the central warehouses waiting for my directives regarding the grain."
She turned to face him, gently releasing her hold on his arm only to take Dante's hand in hers, squeezing it with sincere affection.
"Thank you for accompanying me today, my young guardian~" she continued, her golden eyes shining in admiration.
Dante held the Goddess's gaze with his usual serenity, bowing his head with the respect natural to him.
"The honor was mine, Lady Demeter" he answered, his voice deep and calm. "You gave me more than just tea and spices today. You brought clarity."
Demeter smiled radiantly. Without any hesitation, she took a step forward, standing on tip-toe to bridge the height difference between them.
Pressing her soft body against his for a brief second, she placed a soft, lingering kiss on the young man's cheek.
The Goddess's touch exuded a comforting, revitalizing warmth, like the energy of spring sunlight itself, leaving on his skin the unmistakable fragrance of flowers and wheat.
She took a small step back, knowing that moment of mutual understanding marked the end of their walk for that morning.
"Don't forget your apple~" she reminded him, slowly stepping away with a playful wink. "And please do deliver the other to Hestia with my hug. If I hear that you haven't rested a bit today, I will come looking for you personally again!"
Dante gave a subtle, rare curve of a smile on his lips. "The recommendation will be carried out."
With one last affectionate wave, the Goddess of Agriculture spun on her heels and began walking away, her radiant figure gradually blending into the flow of market vendors, citizens, and Ganesha Familia guards.
With the woven basket resting elegantly on her hip, Demeter waved one final time, her orange-blonde hair shimmering beneath the midday light as she began descending the stone staircase of the overlook, returning to the market's hustle and bustle.
Dante remained at the overlook for a few moments more, alone with the landscape of Orario.
The wind continued to blow softly, swaying his silver hair.
He reached into his tunic pocket, feeling the fresh apple Demeter had given him, and pulled out his own. He took a firm bite, feeling the sweet, invigorating juice fill his palate.
Looking at the immense Tower of Babel rising before him, Dante adjusted his posture.
The city remained alive, dangerous, and unpredictable in its depths, but under the surface sun, the world was worth protecting.
Dante remained in the same spot for a few more moments. He adjusted the position of the sword on his back, felt the cool breeze blow against his face once more, and caught the soft scent of spices still wafting through the air.
The scars of his past and the memories of divine tyranny would remain there, etched into his memory and his soul. But for now, beneath the strong midday sun in Orario, he knew exactly what his role was.
With firm, rhythmic steps, Dante turned his back on the bustle of the square and made his way back, ready for whatever fate or the city might place in his path.
---END---
To be continued....
And this chapter was dedicated exclusively to our MILF Goddess Demeter ( ˘ ³˘)♡
I realized I always end up getting lost in the dialogue, diving really deep into it, and making a huge chapter.
This one is over 8,000 words! What did you guys think? (,,¬﹏¬,,)
Another question I have: what do you think of Dante? Is he interesting, mysterious, or what? Let me know your thoughts!
By the way, I've already finished making portrait art of him.
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Someone asked me why his ability is Antitheist and if that wasn't basically the same thing as being an atheist.
Basic explanation: atheism is not believing in the divine, whereas antitheism believes that religion is harmful to society and people.
•Atheism: The absence or lack of belief in gods.
•Antitheism: Actively opposes theism, rejecting belief/faith in gods and considering religion to be harmful.