endless path, infinite cosmos

chapter 119

Vahn took a long time before he was able to fall asleep that night. Though he had expected to have a bit of trouble, given the intoxicating smell coming from the bed, the thing keeping him awake was the vision he had. He felt like his emotions were going to explode, and it wasn't until near midnight that he was finally able to rest.

The next morning, Vahn woke up before the sun had even risen. Without about four and a half hours of sleep, he cleaned himself up before preparing to head out. Anubis had awoken when he started making noise, so she was able to catch him before he left. When she saw the fierce determination in his eyes, Anubis became worried so she asked, "Master? Did something happen?"

Vahn looked at her, and his expression didn't change in the slightest as he said in a firm tone. "Take this Valis and buy the kids and yourself some clothing and anything else you may need. I'm not sure if I'll be back today, so don't wait up for me." Vahn handed her a large sack containing more than 100,000 Valis which only made her brows furrow even more.

Shaking his head, Vahn said, "It's nothing dangerous, I just have something I need to do or it would tear me apart. I will be back tomorrow, or the day after at the latest. If you need anything, you can ask Tsubaki and she should be able to help you." Anubis felt relieved when he explained, so she bowed her head low and said, "Then I wish you well in your endeavors, Master." With a curt nod to acknowledge her, Vahn set out through the door and quickly made his way toward the north area of the City; his destination, the Loki Familia.

Though the distance wasn't short, Vahn managed to make the nearly 20km trip in less than ten minutes. The few adventurers and pedestrians that were out at this time of day gave him looks and wondered what important matter he had to attend to. A few even called out to ask if he needed help, but Vahn just shouted to alleviate their concerns as he maintained his fast pace throughout the City.

Vahn stood outside of a gigantic manor, larger than any he had ever seen before. Within the City, it was known as the Twilight Manor and was the home of the most powerful Familia within the City, the Loki Familia. Though Vahn had never met the mischievous Goddess, he knew his presence wouldn't be accepted easily given his budding relationship with Ais. Hardening his resolve, Vahn made his way through the large gates into an area that looked like a reception desk at a large Inn.

There were a few people loitering around the area, including someone that Vahn recognized. Seeing the stout and reliable figure of Gareth, Vahn felt like he would be able to avoid a lot of trouble. He quickly made his way over, and some people tried to stop him before Gareth waved them down. With a smile on his grizzled face, Gareth said, "I'm glad to see you've recovered. After you went down during the fight with the Juggernaut, a lot of people were concerned. You did well to come back from that, kid."

Vahn was gratified to hear his words, and they brought a smile to his face as he bowed low and said, "Thank you very much, Gareth, but I have come here with a purpose in mind. Please, can you inform Tiona that I am here?" Seeing the intensity in Vahn's gaze, Gareth had some suspicions and asked, "What is this about kid, why the urgency?" Even though he had a good opinion of Vahn, he wouldn't expose any of the younger generation to danger if he could prevent it.

Noticing the suspicion in his eyes and the flaring of his aura, Vahn tried to calm himself as he said in a low tone, "Please, tell Tiona I came to make due on my promise. If she is unwilling, I will depart without causing a scene." Gareth's brows raised as he saw the sincerity in Vahn's demeanor. With a gruff sigh, he waved one of the younger members over and had him go to pass Vahn's message to Tiona.

After sending the young man away, Gareth turned toward Vahn and asked in a similarly low tone, "What kind of promise did you make with that hyperactive girl?" Hearing the question, Vahn's mind blanked for a moment and he couldn't prevent a blush from touching his cheeks. Gareth immediately noticed what kind of thoughts were passing through Vahn's mind and he began to laugh loudly while patting Vahn's back. "Hahaha, ain't it good to be young!?"