Chapter 33: Chapter 33: Fusion
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For the first time, Alfia opened her eyes, and Sol saw a fierce determination reflected in her unique, multicolored gaze.
With a steady hand, she grasped the Primal Rune of Recovery, and without needing guidance, pressed the rune to her chest, where it began to meld into her body.
A surge of majestic vitality coursed through Alfia's body, instantly mending the damage wrought by her terminal illness, which had left her on the brink of collapse.
For the first time in what felt like an eternity, she experienced such rejuvenation that she felt she could ascend to LV8 on the spot.
But the feeling of ease was brief—her body quickly reached its limit, unable to contain the wild energy flooding in. The excess magic power began to roil and strain within her, almost as though it might tear her apart. Veins stood out on her once-delicate hands, and her face contorted with pain.
Though Alfia was one of the most skilled magic users in Orario, it was impossible even for her to control such an overwhelming amount of energy all at once.
Finally, her body began to rebel, unleashing a violent wave of magic that knocked her surroundings—sending a startled Gnar sprawling to the ground as he scrambled to avoid the shockwave.
A hoarse scream escaped her, a sound that pained Sol to hear. Yet, he knew this was her trial; if she could withstand it, her future would be limitless.
"Don't resist the rune's energy," Sol reminded her gently. "Try to seal it within your body."
At the same time, he gave Vex, who had been watching, a tap on the head to prompt her into action.
Vex rolled her eyes in mild protest. She had been looking forward to resting but was now reluctantly forced to work overtime. Her minor displeasure showed on her face, but she nevertheless carried out Sol's instructions dutifully.
The black mist of death flowed from her hands, enveloping Alfia in a dark shroud. With no place for her immense magical energy to go, Vex's mist provided a means of absorption, forcing Alfia's magic into constant battle with its decaying effects, while the rune healed her just as quickly.
For the first time, Alfia found herself scoffing at the terminal illness that had haunted her all her life. It felt laughably ineffective against the rune's relentless vitality.
'Come on, illness! At least try to keep up with the destruction,' she thought wryly, even as she found a moment to catch her breath.
Thanks to Vex, Alfia had the opportunity to adjust, focusing her energy on channeling the volatile power to her core.
Minutes turned to hours as the energy stabilized within her. Eventually, even the distant sounds of battle in Orario quieted; the Dark Faction's plans appeared to have been thwarted completely.
Finally, Alfia took in a heavy breath, her face alight with an expression of triumph.
"It worked," she whispered, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Her body was drenched in sweat, and her once-elegant white hair clung damply to her skin. Though she looked exhausted, the fact that she could speak was an achievement in itself. Moments before, she had been in so much pain that words were impossible.
"To live past all odds..."
Exhausted but smiling, she looked up at Sol who could sense her immense relief, a weight lifted from her at last. Her strength drained, she collapsed forward, and Sol, anticipating this, caught her before she could fall.
Alfia leaned against him, instinctively reaching out to place a hand against his chest. Her weak push held none of the power of an LV7 adventurer; it felt more like the gentlest of protests.
Soon, even that faint strength faded, and her drowsy head sought rest. She nestled closer, as if drawn to a comforting warmth she couldn't resist.
"Alright, let's get you back," Sol murmured, securing her easily in a gentle, almost protective embrace.
Alfia's body was lighter than he expected, and her fair skin now glowed with a soft, healthy flush. Supporting her by the crook of her legs, Sol lifted her effortlessly in a princess carry. He hadn't imagined he'd ever get the chance to hold her like this.
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In no time, Sol returned to his Familia's residence with Vex, Poppy and Gnar in tow. Their recent feats were impressive enough; taking down an LV4 like Vito was enough for them to shine.
The residence was empty, as the other members had yet to return, which allowed Sol to carry out his plan quietly. He didn't want all of Orario to know he had recruited Alfia so soon. He preferred to keep his most prized treasures, be they artifacts or Familia members, hidden away.
After laying Alfia on a bed in the lounge, he noticed her restlessness as she unconsciously searched for the warmth she'd left behind. Sol took her hand, gently stroking her cheek, and she immediately settled down.
For the first time, Sol had a chance to fully take in the person he had worked so hard to bring into his Familia. He held her hand a little longer, a satisfied smile on his face.
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