NOVEL NEXT Chapter 17: The Seven Moon Faces
"I would like to go first," Vellrek suddenly said.
But then, instead of continuing, he suddenly dropped to one knee, lowering his head in solemnity.
He placed a fist over his chest, then knelt on one knee, bowing his head deeply.
"But first..."
"My lord..."
"I must first express my deepest shame. When Lilith shared her exprince of what happened when you were encountered in the forest, I harbored doubts. Such an act is unforgivable, a disgrace upon my lineage and my devotion. I offer myself completely—body, blood, and soul—to whatever punishment you see fit."
His fangs pressed into his lower lip as he clenched his fists. "If it takes an eternity to redeem myself, then so be it."
Rikuya gazed at him carefully. He could sense the sincerity in his words, but this wasn't the time to dwell on personal atonements.
"That can be discussed later," Rikuya said. "For now, proceed with your introduction."
Vellrek lifted his head, his lips curling into a faint smile. "Understood, my lord."
With the elegance befitting nobility, he rose to his feet, his cape swaying slightly. He placed a hand over his heart and spoke with pride.
"From Cult Luminous, representing the Ever-Rising Tower, I am Vellrek Von Ravenblood of the First Quarter Moon—a highborn vampire, sworn to your eternal night."
Rikuya nodded slightly, before shifting his gaze toward the remaining six standing at the forefront.
"Next," he commanded.
Soon heavy footstep echoed through the Lunarium as the next figure stepped forward.
He was a towering Asura, slightly taller than Lilith, with a body built like a fortress.
His red skin gleamed under the moonlight, his four muscular arms with white beads at the wrists.
Short black spiky hair, with tusks protruding slightly from his lower jaw. His pointed ears had piercings with small white beads.
His yellow eyes locked onto Rikuya.
He wore no top, leaving his battle-hardened torso exposed, except for a dark blue side-shoulder cape draped elegantly over his left shoulder.
His lower attire was a robe-like clothing of dark blue, white, and gold.
He then bent one knee and placed a fist over his heart, bowing deeply.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Silver Flame, I am Kal'Thar Crimson of the Last Quarter," his voice rumbled like distant thunder. "An Asura whose blade shall carve through any who dare stand against you, my lord."
His every word was filled with conviction, a warrior's oath spoken with unshakable resolve.
Rikuya observed Kal'Thar as the massive Asura stepped back into formation.
'That guy looks like he could crush boulders with his bare hands,' Rikuya thought. 'And he's got the whole "fierce warrior" presence down perfectly. At least I know I have someone who can tear through enemies like paper if needed.'
As Kal'Thar moved aside, another figure gracefully stepped forward.
She was a dark elf, her smooth silver hair braided elegantly down her back. Pointed ears peeked through strands of her hair, while a pair of yellow-tinted glasses rested delicately on her nose. Glowing blue rune-like tattoos traced patterns across her dusky skin, pulsing faintly.
Her attire was a dark green, dark blue, and gold battle like dress, paired with black leggings and dark green high heels. A golden silk-like scarf draped over her shoulders, swaying gently with her movements, at the back of her neck a Waning Gibbous tattoo.
She reached up and adjusted her glasses, causing the lenses to glint under the silver moonlight.
A soft smile graced her lips as she lowered herself gracefully onto one knee.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Guiding Star, Sylvaine Mireya of the Waning Gibbous. I look forward to an eternity of service by your side, Lord Lunareio."
Then, with a playful glint in her eyes, she bit her lower lip and winked.
Rikuya blinked.
'What was that for?'
Deciding it wasn't worth the mental effort, he let it slide as Sylvaine stepped back into position.
Then, a voice broke the silence.
"I guess it's my turn."
Stepping forward was the human who had led Rikuya and the others into the treasure room earlier. As he bowed, he smirked.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Prosperous Hand. Dazmar Veyron, of the Waxing Gibbous Moon. Whatever you desire, my lord, it is my purpose to ensure you get it. You need only speak, and I shall make it yours."
At the end of his statement, a smug smile graced his lips.
Rikuya found himself smirking slightly.
'I kinda like this guy,' he thought. Dazmar had a smooth way with words, but there was something about his confidence that felt reliable rather than arrogant.
"I look forward to relying on you," Rikuya said.
Dazmar bowed slightly, his smirk deepening. "It would be my pleasure, my lord."
As he stepped away, another voice spoke.
"I doubt you could make the sun belong to our lord, though."
Dazmar turned to the speaker, his expression unbothered. "Depends on what I'm working with."
"Tch. Show-off," the voice muttered.
Stepping forward as Dazmar moved aside was the ice elf from earlier. Now that he was no longer hovering on his cloud, his small stature was more visible—he looked almost childlike.
With nonchalance, he bowed, and as he did, a glowing symbol appeared on his forehead: a Waning Crescent moon. He let out a lazy yawn before speaking.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Shifting Tide, Eirian Frostveil of the Waning Crescent Moon. If you need anything built, my lord, you need only ask me."
Then, with a casual glance at Dazmar, he said, "Dazmar forgets to mention, but I was the one who instructed him on how to properly take care of your spear."
Dazmar chuckled. "Last I remember, it was an exchange. I demanded the knowledge, and you offered to give it to me… if I bought softer pillows for you."
Eirian huffed, crossing his arms. "Doesn't change the fact that I taught you, though. Don't I deserve some credit?"
Dazmar chuckled, leaning in slightly toward the short ice elf. "Knowledge is everywhere, my friend. But credit belongs to those who obtain it and put it to proper use."
From the side, Lilith's voice cut in sharply. "Both of you, watch how you act before our lord."
Immediately, they straightened up, exchanging brief glances before bowing. "Our apologies, my lord."
With that, they stepped aside.
Stepping forward was a woman with wild orange hair and striking amber eyes, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson. A small wine bottle dangled from her hip, swaying with every step she took.
It was Branna.
With a grin, she dropped to one knee, placing a fist over her chest in salute.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Feast of Plenty, Branna Ironmaw of the Full Moon. And also the number one chef within these walls." She smirked. "I'm happy you have returned to us, my lord."
Rikuya couldn't help but smirk at Branna's introduction. "A chef, huh? Guess it's good to know I won't be starving."
Branna grinned, clearly pleased with herself.
"I am glad as well," Rikuya said aloud. But internally, he sighed.
'Lies. I don't know what I'm doing. But let's roll with it.'
As the last echoes of Branna's words faded, the room grew still once more.
Soon, freeing herself from the demon that had helped her up earlier, Lilith stood. With grace she walked forward, her hands gently clasped before her hips.
She then lowered herself to one knee and spoke.
"From Cult Luminous, representing The Burning Heart, Lilith Veyla of the Waxing Crescent Moon. My body… and soul… are always here for you to do with as you please."
Rikuya blushed slightly as he cleared his throat. "Good." He nodded, trying to maintain a look of authority. "Well... I'm glad. I'll keep all of your names close to my heart."
A moment of silence followed. Too long of a silence.
Rikuya's mind raced.
'Damn it. What do I say next? Am I supposed to give a speech? Praise them? Demand loyalty?'
Before his panic could worsen, he exhaled sharply and decided to ask. "So... Lilith. How has the world been in recent years?"
Lilith's expression darkened. "Grim."
A hush fell over the room as she continued. "The other gods neglect their duties. The Realm Eaters run rampant. All sorts of wars have been waged, driving some races dangerously close to extinction."
She clasped her hands tightly together, lowering her head. "Oh, my lord, the world has been in chaos without you here to balance it. And I fear it is slowly descending into ruin. But I have faith, for you are here now. Only you can save this misguided world, Lord Lunareio."
"You need only give us a prophecy, and we shall act upon it!"
Rikuya kept a poker face, but internally he wore a look of confusion, 'They are asking for prophecies now!?'
…
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A/N: Finally I've finished all these cult stuff, felt like it was dragging out a bit too long ᕦ⊙෴⊙ᕤ oh also the last moon phase belongs to Rikuya before someone decides to point that out that the moon has 8 phases not 7. well, see y'all tomorrow with the next chapter. ლ(・﹏・ლ) Remember to send power stones.