Man On The Moon

Chapter 46: Veldoria Planet

The atmosphere of Veldoria, a verdant and untamed planet known for its exotic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, envelopes the group as they step foot on its terrain. A mixture of awe and caution fills their hearts, their eyes taking in the surroundings that contrast starkly with the cold, industrial facilities they had escaped from moments ago. The lush greenery, vibrant flora, and unfamiliar fauna create an almost otherworldly setting. The air is thick with the scent of exotic plants and fertile soil, while the sounds of unseen creatures echo in the distance. The group's senses are immediately assaulted by the new, yet strangely captivating environment. Vettel, Acheron, Stelle, and Caelus, who had grown used to the sterile, artificial feel of the hunter's facility, struggle to reconcile the stark contrast between their previous surroundings and the raw, untamed beauty of Veldoria. They take a moment to absorb the new sights and sounds, their eyes darting from one captivating feature of the environment to another. The sheer contrast between the sterile, controlled environment of the hunters' facility and this untamed world is almost overwhelming, but the group manages to keep their focus, knowing they're not yet free from the danger that lurks in pursuit. As they continue to make their way across Veldoria's terrain, they cannot help but occasionally glance at the unfamiliar flora and fauna around them in awe. The vibrancy of the colours and the strange forms of the Indigenous life forms make each discovery both intriguing and slightly unnerving, a stark reminder of the vast, uncharted wonders of the galaxy they are currently traversing.

Despite the wonder that Veldoria inspires, however, the group remains vigilant, their senses sharp and their minds focused on the task at hand: evading the Stellaron Hunters. Suddenly, Argenti, a mysterious and regal-looking figure, approaches Acheron, a single rose clutched in his hand. He offers the flower to her with a solemn, almost formal air.

Argenti: "For you, my lady Acheron. An offering, a symbol of the beauty that I see within you."

The sight of Argenti presenting a rose to Acheron causes a mixture of emotions to flicker across Vettel's face. Surprise, disbelief, and a hint of indignation are evident in his expression. Beside him, Stelle and Caelus exchange glances, their expressions mirroring Vettel's disbelief. Vettel, his voice tinged with shock, finally speaks up.

Vettel: "Acheron... who is this guy and why is he giving you a rose?"

Acheron, her composure not betraying any particular sentiment, receives the rose with a hint of curiosity. She looks at the flower in her hand, then turns her attention to Argenti, her eyes studying him carefully.

Acheron: "This is Argenti, a wandering knight of the Order of Beauty. He has a penchant for presenting roses to those he finds worthy or beautiful."

Stelle and Caelus, listening closely to Acheron's explanation, share a glance, their expressions still betraying confusion and scepticism. Vettel, his hands clenched into fists, is visibly frustrated, his protective instincts flaring at the unexpected encounter.

Vettel: "Order of Beauty... that's quite the fancy name for someone who goes around giving roses to random people."

Argenti, seeming unfazed by Vettel's curt tone, responds with a polite smile.

Argenti: "You misunderstand, my young friend. The Order of Beauty is a collective of individuals who believe in nurturing and protecting the beauty of the world. The rose is a symbol of my dedication to preserving and appreciating the beauty in all things, especially in women like your sister."

Vettel, his irritation not abating, retorts.

Vettel: "Appreciating beauty by giving out roses? Sounds more like a charming act rather than a noble cause."

Argenti, remaining composed and unruffled, responds with a calm and even tone.

Argenti: "Perhaps you speak from a place of ignorance, young friend. The rose is not simply a gift, but a token representing the ideals of my order - grace, honour, and appreciation for the finer things in life. It's a small gesture, but one that holds a deeper meaning."

Stelle and Caelus, watching the exchange silently, look on with fascination. The tension between Vettel and Argenti is palpable, and they exchange yet another glance, wondering how this situation will play out. Acheron, noticing the increasing tension, intervenes calmly.