Chapter 18: Rest…Countdown
Chico stirred slowly, the weight of sleep still heavy on his limbs, the world around him vague and soft. His eyes fluttered open.
He was in his room.
The familiar ceiling. The faint morning light slipping in through the curtains. The scent of clean sheets and something sweet, floral, comforting.
But he wasn't alone.
Just inches from his face, her eyes watched him with quiet warmth and care.
Demeter.
She lay beside him, her long hair trailing across the pillow, her expression soft, gentle, serene. A hand rested just above the sheets, close enough that it brushed against his arm.
"Good morning, my little Sol," she murmured, voice low and tender. "How are you feeling?"
Chico blinked a few times. He was about to respond when a sudden throb cracked through his skull.
"Ah—!" He groaned and immediately raised a hand to his forehead. "…Okay. Maybe not too great…"
Demeter hummed sympathetically, her hand sliding to rest atop his head. "That headache is likely a mind down…or the result of overusing your ability. You pushed yourself further than your limits would allow."
Chico groaned louder this time, letting his head fall gently into her chest, warm, soft, safe. His voice came out muffled. "Can you kiss the pain away?"
Her chest shook lightly as she giggled. "Fufu…how bold."
She shifted, her arms wrapping around him, bringing him into a full embrace. One hand stroked his hair while the other settled across his back. Her lips pressed to the top of his head, once, twice, each kiss delicate, reverent.
"It's alright now," she whispered. "You can rest."
And he did rest.
For the next hour, they remained just like that, cradled in each other's warmth. Chico barely moved, save for small shifts as he adjusted himself closer, holding onto the moment like it might vanish if he blinked too long. His headache gradually dulled, then faded altogether.
He didn't want to move. But eventually, he lifted his head, reluctantly, and gave a tired smile.
"How long was I out?"
Demeter brushed his bangs away from his face. "You've been asleep since around six last night," she said softly. "It's now noon."
"…Eighteen hours?" Chico blinked, stunned. "Damn. That…really wiped me out."
He fell silent for a moment, digesting the consequences. Overdrive Core had pushed him past his limits. Even with Big Battery increasing his reserves, his body and mind had crashed hard. It was a powerful enhancement…but one he'd need to respect and train more going forward.
Still, it would be worth it.
He sighed, then looked up at her again. "Sorry if I worried you."
Demeter didn't hesitate. "There was worry, yes. But Persephone explained everything. She said this would be a lesson for you."
Chico nodded. "Yeah. A painful, but fair one."
The silence between them grew gentle again, slow and still. Chico's gaze lingered on her—how close she was, how warm, how full of affection.
He raised a hand to her cheek.
His thumb brushed her skin, and then he leaned forward and kissed her.
Once.
Then again.
And then, a third time, deeper, slower. A kiss filled with gratitude, affection, and something even more tender blooming between them.
But before he could continue—
*RRAAAAAUUGHHH*
His stomach let out a monstrous growl, shaking his chest and echoing off the walls.
Chico froze, face slowly turning pink.
Demeter blinked…then burst into laughter.
"Fufu…looks like someone's starving."
Chico gave a sheepish smile and glanced away. "…Yeah. I guess I missed dinner. And breakfast."
"Well," she said, brushing a hand through her hair as she sat up, "I'll make something for you. A proper meal. That's usually a privilege I reserve for special occasions."
His eyes lit up. "You'll cook for me?"
She smiled. "Of course. But only because you're suffering a ravenous beast inside your stomach."
He grinned, gave her one more quick kiss on the cheek, and all but leapt out of bed. He opened his closet, grabbed fresh clothes, and darted toward the bathroom with energy that made her chuckle again.
"I'll be in the kitchen," she called after him. "Don't keep me waiting too long."
From the bathroom, he shouted back, "I won't!"
Demeter shook her head with a soft smile. "Fufufu…so eager."
With that, the goddess of harvest rose from his bed and stepped lightly through the halls toward the Familia kitchen, already thinking of what warm, hearty meal she would prepare just for him.
——————————————————————
Chico stepped out of the shower feeling ten times more alive.
The heat had soothed his sore muscles, washing away the ache left behind by his Overdrive-fueled sparring session. He ran a towel through his damp hair, quickly got dressed in a fresh outfit. Simple, casual, but clean. He made his way downstairs, led by the faint, heavenly scent wafting through the halls.
It smelled divine.
As he turned the corner into the Familia kitchen, he stopped in his tracks.
There she was. Demeter.
Her sleeves rolled up, her long hair loosely tied back, her expression focused and glowing with something equal parts maternal and mischievous. She moved with an effortless grace, flipping something in a cast-iron skillet, then turning to check the oven, before slicing fresh vegetables in a practiced rhythm that made it feel more like a ritual than cooking.
Chico had seen skilled cooks before.
But what he was watching wasn't just cooking…it was art.
"Whoa," he muttered under his breath, stepping fully inside.
Demeter looked over her shoulder and gave him a dazzling smile. "Perfect timing. Take a seat, dear."
He didn't hesitate. He was practically drooling.
Before him, a small feast was laid out on the long table. Sliced, spiced meats seared to perfection. A vibrant salad of crisp greens, glistening cherry-red tomatoes, and soft cheeses drizzled with honeyed oil. A spread of baked fruits, still warm, paired with roasted root vegetables seasoned to earthy excellence. And to top it off, a woven basket of oven-fresh bread that still steamed when he tore a piece free.
One bite. That's all it took.
He froze.
Then groaned.
Then sighed.
"This is…this is the greatest thing I've ever tasted," he said, mouth full, eyes wide. He ate more and more, getting a fill to replace the empty void in his stomach. It wasn't long until he finished his meal. "Demeter, this—this is divinity on a plate."
Demeter giggled as she leaned against the counter, chin resting in her palm, with a healthy blush. "Fufufu… praise me more."
He grinned. "Oh? That hungry for compliments?"
"Always," she said with a teasing wink. "From you, especially."
Chico stood up, stepped behind her—and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her into a warm hug from behind.
"Well then," he whispered near her ear, "let's see…"
He rested his chin gently on her shoulder.
"You're the most caring goddess I've ever met," he began.
She hummed in amusement.
"You're definitely the best cook in all of Genkai."
Her smile widened.
"And," he added with a smirk, "easily the best pillow I've ever had the pleasure of falling asleep with."
That drew a melodic laugh from her throat, soft and bright. "Fufufu…my, my. What a charming boy you are."
He gave her a squeeze. "Just speaking the truth."
The moment lingered, quiet, comfortable, filled with the soft sounds of the kitchen and the contented rhythm of their hearts. For a while, they didn't need to speak. Just being there, wrapped in each other's presence, was enough.
But eventually, Chico stirred.
"Hey," he murmured, voice low. "Do you have any plans coming up? In the next couple of days?"
Demeter tilted her head slightly, thinking. "Hmm… well, I have some of my usual Familia duties. Paperwork, some meetings… checking on the other children of the familia. But most of it wraps up by noon. After that, I'm free."
Chico's eyes lit up.
"In that case," he said, "how would you like to go on a date? The day after tomorrow."
Demeter blinked in surprise, then turned slightly so she could see his expression better.
He continued, smiling nervously but earnestly. "We could go on a little shopping spree, maybe catch a show somewhere, then grab some dinner somewhere nice. After that, we just walk through the city, under the stars."
There was a beat of silence.
Then she squealed.
She spun in his arms, and before he could brace himself, glomped him in a full-bodied hug, nearly toppling him over.
"Yes!" she beamed, radiant with joy. "Absolutely, yes!"
Chico's heart soared.
He returned the hug just as tightly, burying his face into her shoulder and grinning like a fool. "Awesome. I'll make it something to remember."
Demeter pulled back slightly and cupped his cheeks. "You already have," she whispered.
After a few more moments of warmth between them, and a quick kiss, Chico exhaled and stepped away. "Thanks again for the meal," he said. "And for saying yes. I've got some planning to do now."
She watched him walk off, her smile calm and loving.
"Don't stay out too long," she called.
He waved over his shoulder. "No promises!"
And with that, Chico stepped out of the kitchen, ran into his room, grabbed 75,000 valis, and made way into the Orario afternoon. With a spring in his step and a date to prepare for, he would make sure his date with the goddess who made his heart bloom, would be one to remember for all time.
——————————————————————
Orario's afternoon sun hung lazily over the city, but Chico was a man on a mission.
He weaved through the bustling avenues of the Shopping District, visiting store after store, each promising fine fashion for the stylish adventurer or the common citizen alike. Tunics, jackets, coats, belts, cloaks, there was plenty to choose from. But Chico had a specific vision in mind.
A black button-up dress shirt.
A sleek pair of black dress pants.
And stylish, black boots to pull the whole thing together.
The first shop was too casual. The next too rustic. One place had the right shirt, but it was too shiny, almost theatrical. He tried cotton blends, silk-lined collars, breathable weaves, each piece closer than the last, but still not quite right.
His arms were sore from carrying hangers.
After nearly an hour of scouring the district, he looked up in frustration and noticed the looming presence of Babel Tower at the city's center.
It hit him.
Of course. High-end fashion…go high.
He made his way toward Babel and soon found himself standing in front of a posh storefront nestled between two magic-item retailers. Elegant black letters carved into polished stone read:
"Noir Atelier."
Just stepping inside felt like being transported into another world.
Plush rugs softened his footsteps. Chandeliers sparkled above. Gentle music played from crystal-inlaid speakers. Shelves of folded garments lined the walls like treasures on display. And the clientele?
He blinked.
There were gods shopping.
Actual gods. He spotted at least two divine figures browsing accessories. One of them, a tall man in flowing silver robes, turned and gave him a nod of acknowledgment. Chico awkwardly returned it.
'Okay. You're just here for a shirt. And pants. And boots.' And probably your wallet's funeral.
He pushed forward, making his way toward a wide section filled with button-up shirts. There, he found rows upon rows of them, black, gray, deep navy, charcoal. Some were stiff and crisp, others soft and flowing. He picked out a few, feeling the textures between his fingers.
Some were cotton. Others silk. One had embroidery stitched into the cuffs.
He grabbed a range of sizes, just in case, and kept going.
Next came the dress pants. Tailored, pleated, straight cut, tapered. He selected several pairs in blacks and charcoals, holding them up against his frame.
Finally, his arms full, he approached the reception counter. The receptionist, a tall, elegant woman with sharp features and a uniform so clean it practically glowed, smiled as he approached.
"Good afternoon," she said. "Would you like to use a changing room?"
"Yes, please," Chico replied.
She gave a nod and stepped from behind the counter, heels clicking softly as she led him toward a hallway in the back. "Private rooms are available for our guests. Take your time. If you need assistance with sizes or adjustments, just ring the bell inside."
"Thank you."
Chico stepped inside one of the private rooms and set his selections down.
And so began the process.
Try on. Check. Too loose. Off.
Next one. Too tight in the shoulders. Off.
Third one. Too stiff. Pass.
Fourth, hmm. This one's close. Good fit. Almost perfect.
He spent nearly twenty minutes trying combinations, buttoning up, adjusting sleeves, inspecting the silhouette in the tall mirror. By the end of it, his decision was clear: the original plan was the best.
A simple black button dress shirt, slim fit, soft to the touch, but sturdy in feel. And a pair of matching black pants, tapered just right. A bit snug around the thighs, but he preferred that over looking baggy or clumsy.
Confident in his choice, he exited the room and returned to the receptionist.
"I think I'm ready to buy these," he said. "Also…do you sell boots?"
Her smile widened. "We do. Right this way."
She led him toward a sleek display of footwear along the far wall. Dozens of boots were lined in rows, from adventurer-standard leather to formal dress wear with silver buckles and fine stitching.
One pair in particular caught his eye: black leather, high-ankle boots with laced sides, durable but elegant, the kind that would work in both a ballroom and a battlefield.
He tried them on.
They fit perfectly.
With his items selected, he returned to the front counter, where the receptionist tallied the total and neatly folded the clothing into a deep black bag bearing the Noir Atelier emblem.
"Your total comes to 15,000 valis," she said pleasantly.
Chico winced slightly.
That was almost triple what a full adventurer outfit cost in the lower districts. But…he wanted to look his best. And this outfit didn't just look right. It felt right.
He paid without complaint.
With his new attire in hand, Chico stepped out into the warm Orario afternoon again, the sun casting long rays between the tower's shadow.
His date with Demeter was set.
And now he looked the part.
Still smiling to himself, Chico headed off toward the next part of his plan. He had some ideas for how to make the night even more memorable.
He'd look for dinner reservations.
Maybe a reservation at a theater.
And perhaps a gift…a sprout, one of her choice.
——————————————————————
The sun still hovered in the sky, casting long golden beams across the lively streets of Orario. Chico strolled with determined energy, the weight of his earlier purchases slung over his shoulder in a sleek, high-end shopping bag. He had the outfit. He had the intention. But now came the tricky part, what would make the date truly special?
As he wandered deeper into the city's heart, something caught his attention: a man in a large, oversized costume resembling a cheerful theater mask was handing out colorful flyers to passing pedestrians. Most ignored him, but Chico's curiosity sparked. He approached.
"What's the flyer for?" Chico asked.
The man turned eagerly, muffled by his costume. "Ah! You're just in time! We're promoting a one-time-only stage play. It'll be held right at the Colosseum!"
Chico's eyes narrowed in interest. "The Colosseum?"
"Yes! It's a spectacle unlike any other, part theater, part illusion magic, and even a few tamed monsters worked into the act. A grand romantic adventure! We've got a few VIP box tickets left, just 3,000 valis each!"
Chico perked up. "You've got them on hand?"
The man nodded enthusiastically and rummaged into a satchel. "Hot off the press this morning! Only 8 box seats available per show. Comes with priority entry and free drinks."
That sealed it. Chico exchanged 6,000 valis and received two polished tickets embossed with silver trim and an elegant design.
"Thanks," Chico said, slipping them safely into his pocket. "This'll be perfect."
"Thank you for the purchase!" the man called out after him. "You're going to love it!"
——————————————————————
With the show locked in, only one piece remained. Dinner.
There were dozens of restaurants in Orario, but only one truly came to mind: The Hostess of Fertility. He'd known of it since he first arrived in Genkai. A cozy, rustic tavern nestled between busy city shops. A warm tavern where many adventurers would eat at, and the prices seemed to be made for adventurers.
But would it be the best place for a first date?
He wasn't sure. Still, he decided it was worth checking. Even if he didn't go with it, he could at least see if reservations were available.
Chico pushed open the tavern door and was greeted by the inviting warmth of the interior. The floors were well-worn but polished, and thick wooden beams ran across the ceiling. The dining area was lively but not chaotic, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the occasional shout from the kitchen. The smell of freshly baked bread and rich stew made his stomach stir.
He waited patiently by the entrance, not wishing to interrupt the busy staff. A moment later, a woman approached, calm, and poised, with elegant features, short, layered light-brown hair, and warm, almond-brown eyes. She wore a green maid-style uniform with a crisp white apron and moved with a confident grace.
"Welcome to the Hostess of Fertility," she greeted with a practiced smile. "I'm Lunoire. Table for one?"
Chico shook his head. "Not today. I was wondering if you have any dinner reservations available the day after tomorrow, for two?"
Lunoire's expression softened as she nodded. "Well…we do have a larger reservation that evening from the Loki Familia. They tend to book big chunks when they come by."
Chico raised an eyebrow but said nothing.
"Still," she continued, "a party of two shouldn't be an issue. We can fit you in."
"That's perfect," Chico replied with a relieved breath. "Thanks, I really appreciate it."
She noted it down on a parchment ledger behind the counter. "You're all set. Just give me a name for your reservation and once when you arrive."
"My name is Chico Sol. Thanks for your help." he said, offering a small, polite bow before stepping back out into the sunlit street.
As he walked away, he mulled it over. The Loki Familia being there gave him pause, that sounded…familiar. Though if he recalled correctly, the Loki Familia seemed to be avid consumers of the Hostess. So that thought quickly left his mind.
The afternoon had melted into early evening by the time Chico made his way back toward Wheat Manor. Between the clothing hunt, the theater tickets, and dinner plans, he'd spent hours weaving together what he hoped would be a flawless first date.
Stylish outfit. VIP show. A cozy meal. Now all that's left is to get her opinion.
Chico smiled to himself as he passed through the front gates of the manor.
Tomorrow, he'd hit the dungeon pretty early, face the 4th and 5th floors .
The day after that?
A date. One that he'll make sure to never forget.
——————————————————————
By the time Chico returned to Wheat Manor, the sky had deepened into a mix of purple, yellow and red. The grand halls were mostly quiet, the usual bustle of attendants and Familia members now winding down for the night. Chico moved with purpose through the corridors, his thoughts still lingering on the day's errands.
He entered his room and gently shut the door behind him, letting out a breath as he placed his bags on the bed. His new outfit came out first, the sleek black button-up shirt, the fitted black dress pants, and the stylish leather boots. He took care to fold and place them neatly in the wardrobe, ensuring they stayed untouched and ready.
Next, he retrieved the two VIP tickets from his pocket and placed them squarely on his desk, perfectly aligned. Their elegant silver embossing shimmered faintly in the room's lighting.
He then counted the rest of his valis, placing the remaining coins safely inside a small pouch in the drawer of his desk. The damage had been considerable, but for the date? It would be well worth it.
With his errands finally wrapped, Chico's stomach gave a quiet reminder that he hadn't eaten since midday. While the breakfast Demeter made had filled him beyond belief, he figured a small dinner wouldn't hurt. Something light. Just enough to sleep easy.
He slipped out of his room and walked slowly through the halls until he reached the dining hall. As expected, only a few Familia members were finishing their meals or sipping on tea. He grabbed a small plate: a slice of roasted meat, some buttered greens, and a small baked roll. Lite, but satisfying.
As he turned to find a seat, his eyes caught on a familiar figure.
Persephone, sitting alone at a table near the corner. Her honey-blonde hair was tied back casually, and her sharp, calm eyes flicked up to meet his.
They locked eyes.
Chico gave her a small nod.
She returned it.
Without a word, he approached and asked with a look if he could join her. She gestured subtly to the seat across from her, and he sat down.
They ate in companionable silence for a moment, until she spoke, voice low but clear.
"How are you fairing, considering…yesterday?"
Chico paused mid-bite, chewing thoughtfully. "I'm alright. Had a killer headache when I woke up, though."
She gave a small, knowing hum. "Not surprising, considering how much magic you pushed through your body. Even with regenerative abilities, overuse takes its toll."
He nodded, then added, "Yeah, I'll need to train that ability more, and increasing my magic and endurance stat would be a huge plus." He finished while continuing his meal.
Persephone studied him for a moment, then asked, "What do you plan on doing tomorrow?"
"I'm planning to head into the Dungeon tomorrow. Early. I want to explore floors 4 and 5. My goal's to stock up on magic stones and monster drops, get my funds back up." He replied, his meal just about finished.
"That's a sound plan. But before you go…" she set her utensils down gently, her gaze sharpening just slightly, "…you should have your status updated. You pushed yourself hard yesterday. I'd wager your Magic and Endurance both jumped quite a bit."
"Good point," Chico admitted. "I'll ask Lady Demeter before I head out."
He started to stand, but her voice stopped him.
"One more thing."
He paused, eyes meeting hers again.
"I know you and my mother are…together," Persephone said, her tone steady and serious, though not unkind. "Whatever shape that relationship takes, I expect you to protect her. Support her. She gives too much of herself sometimes…and I won't stand by if she gets hurt."
Her words struck with unexpected weight. Chico blinked, a little stunned. Not because she'd said it, but because of how sincerely it came.
But then his resolve settled in his chest.
"I understand," he said. "And I promise. I'll do everything in my power to love and support her. I won't let her down."
Persephone held his gaze for a few more seconds, her expression unreadable.
Then, slowly, the corner of her lips twitched upward—not quite a smile, but close.
"Good," she said simply.
Chico smiled in return, nodded once in gratitude, and stood from the table. "Thanks for the talk," he said quietly.
She didn't reply, just resumed eating, now with a little more ease in her shoulders.
With a lighter step and a focused mind, Chico left the dining hall behind.
It was time to visit Demeter's quarters.
——————————————————————
Francisco 'Chico' Sol
Demeter Familia
Race: Human
Strength: H120→H156
Endurance: H140→H182
Dexterity: H120→H143
Agility: H120→H158
Magic: H115→H176
Skills:
— Habilidad Activa:
-Overdrive Core
-Magic Arrow
Magic:
— Four Arms
— Lightning Spear
— Light Shield
— Weather
— Summon Item
— Conditioning
— Arc
— Desperation
— Ripen
— Holy Flame
— +200 stat points gained from one intense training session.
Chico would think more on his updated status later. Right now, something else held his attention. Or rather, someone.
He lay back on the bed, his arms wrapped loosely around the woman resting atop him — warm, serene, and impossibly close.
His…girlfriend? No, that felt too fragile. Too vague. She was more than that to him.
His woman. Yes. That fit.
He shifted slightly under her, brushing a hand along her back, then quietly asked,
"Would you like to talk about our date?"
Demeter stirred and lifted her head just enough to meet his eyes, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Of course. I'm happy you're being so thoughtful about it."
Chico gave a light grin, a little bashful, and started, "So, for the outfit…I figured I'd go with black. Head to toe…it happens to be my best color when it comes to fashion."
She arched an eyebrow, amused. "You mean your only color? Fufu…you hardly wear any other color."
He chuckled sheepishly. "Yeah…that's fair."
Her quiet laughter warmed the room.
Chico continued, a little more confidently this time. "I also picked up two VIP tickets to a play. It's happening at the coliseum."
That made her perk up, eyes lighting with delight. "Oh! A prelude event? Monster Feria is just around the corner. They always do something special before the festivities begin. I'd be delighted to go."
Seeing her excitement made something in his chest flutter. He nodded, smiling fully now. "I'm glad."
Then, he hesitated a beat before broaching the final part. "As for dinner…I wasn't entirely sure what the best choice would be. But I did manage to get a reservation for two at The Hostess of Fertility."
He glanced at her expression, watching carefully.
"If you'd prefer somewhere else, I really wouldn't mind."
But she chuckled, shaking her head softly. "It's been a while since I've eaten there, actually. It'll be nice to go again — and it'll be a good opportunity for you to meet another member of our Familia."
That piqued his interest, but he let it go for now. "Then it's a plan."
His voice softened with those words, and so did his eyes, watching her as she relaxed against him again, content.
Demeter was already dressed in her flowing nightgown, a peaceful warmth radiating from her presence. Chico had long since cleansed himself and was comfortable in simple sleepwear. The flickering light from the bedside lantern cast soft shadows across the room before eventually dimming.
Silence settled in, gentle and natural, not empty, but full. Full of trust, of quiet affection, of a bond still forming but already precious.
The night ended with no more words needed. Just two people, tangled in each other's warmth, hearts growing closer with each passing breath.
Love, once uncertain, now quietly blooming.
…
0 Days remain…one decision that will truly decide the fate of this world. For better or for worse…
Chapter 18 End