Capítulo 39: Welcome to Shadow Guard
Later that day, Aether looked at Issei, there eyes meet as Issei spoke.
Aether looked at him. "What is your dream"
Issei looked at him. "I want a harem"
Aether just looked at him with a dead pan face. ".... Really"
Issei just looked at him. "Yeah"
Aether then laughed. "Looks like we have something in common, but for me it is more of a promise I made to my family"
Issei grinned widely, clearly unphased by Aether's deadpan response. "A promise, huh? That sounds serious. But come on, what's life without a little fun? Imagine having a bunch of strong, beautiful women by your side, all supporting you! It'd be epic!"
Aether chuckled again, shaking his head. "I get what you're saying, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Relationships require work, understanding, and sometimes, a lot of patience." He paused, remembering the bonds he had formed with the women in his life. "Each of them has their own dreams and aspirations. It's a balancing act, really."
Issei nodded thoughtfully. "I get that. But that's what makes it exciting! Every relationship has its own challenges. It's like being a knight—fighting for your people, facing challenges head-on. Plus, who wouldn't want to be surrounded by strong women who can hold their own in battle?"
"True," Aether conceded, a smile creeping onto his face. "Having strong allies is essential. Just make sure you treat them right. They deserve respect, not just because they're strong, but because they're individuals with their own feelings."
"Yeah, yeah, I know!" Issei waved a hand dismissively. "I'm not going to be that guy who treats women like trophies. I may want a harem, but I also want to be their partner. I want to support them just as much as they support me."
"Good mindset," Aether said, nodding appreciatively. "If you treat them well, you might just get what you want. Just remember, it takes time and genuine effort."
Issei beamed, confidence radiating off him. "I'm ready for it! Just wait and see. The Red Dragon Emperor will have his harem before long! Besides, if I have your guidance, how can I go wrong?"
Aether raised an eyebrow. "Guidance? You think I'm an expert on harems?"
"More like an expert on women," Issei said cheekily, winking. "You've got Eula and Amber, and you seem pretty close to Lisa and Noelle. Just call it a hunch!"
Aether felt a slight blush creep up his cheeks at the mention of the women in his life. "It's not quite that simple. But sure, if you want advice, I can share what I've learned along the way."
"Awesome! I'm all ears!" Issei said, bouncing on his feet. "So, what's the first step? How do you make a woman interested in you?"
"Honestly?" Aether began, his tone shifting to something more serious. "Be yourself. Be genuine. Show interest in what they care about. Don't just swoop in like you're on some grand adventure. Listen to them, support their dreams, and let them know you see them as equals, not just potential partners."
Issei nodded, absorbing every word. "Got it. Be genuine, show interest. Anything else?"
Aether considered for a moment. "Patience is key. Relationships, romantic or not, take time to build. Don't rush things or force connections. Let things develop naturally."
"Sounds simple enough!" Issei said, pumping his fist. "I can do that!"
Just then, Paimon flitted in, hovering nearby. "What are you two talking about?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Just discussing the intricacies of relationships," Aether replied with a grin.
Paimon's eyes sparkled. "Are we talking about Aether's harem?!"
Issei's eyes widened. "Aether has a harem?!"
Aether quickly interjected, "Not quite. It's more complicated than that."
Paimon rolled her eyes. "Whatever you say! Just know that if you want to have a harem, it's going to be a lot of work. Right, Aether?"
"Exactly. It's not just about quantity; it's about quality," Aether emphasized.
Issei nodded vigorously, a newfound determination in his gaze. "Quality it is! Alright then, Aether, let's make a pact! You help me navigate this harem business, and I'll make sure I bring a little excitement to Mondstadt!"
"Deal," Aether said, extending a hand for a shake. Issei grasped it firmly, both of them grinning.
As they released their handshake, Issei looked at Aether with newfound respect. "Thanks for the advice. I'm excited to get started! Who knows, maybe we'll be the ultimate power couple—or, in my case, power harem!"
Aether laughed, the camaraderie between them strengthening. "Let's just focus on becoming great knights first. Everything else will come in time."
With a sense of purpose, the two set their sights on the next chapter of their adventures, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead—be it in the field of battle or matters of the heart.
Then Aether, Issei and Amber went to place a wall, as Noelle was wondering why Aether presses a button. As the wall opened in half as they walked into a room, it was well degined and well made as they saw many people with mask and black hood with a white mask each with there own degine
Aether looked at them. "Welcome to Shadow Guard, and yeah we don't always look like this"
Each them took of there mask, as Noelle was shocked to see one of them, it was Sara
Sara looked at her. "What shocked too see me Noelle, supirse to see owner of Good hunter is actually a Knight"
Aether looked at her. "Supirse, look at the others as well, you will find a lot of normal people are actually part of Shadow guard".
Another voice spoke. "Are done playing with them Aether"
Issee saw the girl and god she was hot in his opinion, She has ghostly pale gray skin, pale magenta eyes with narrow white pupils, and choppy wine-colored hair cut short in the back with a shoulder-length fringe and some strands of her bangs colored a darker red.
As she is always seen with her coif on, which is dark red on the inner surface, the soft contrast with her hair color can lead the player at first glance to assume that her hair is much longer at the back than it actually is.
The girl looked Issei and Noelle. "My name is Rosaria founder and laser of shadow guard"
Noelle just looked at her. "B-both I thought you were just a Nun"
Rosaria crossed her arms, a smirk playing at the corners of her lips. "Many think that, but appearances can be deceiving. The Shadow Guard operates in the shadows for a reason. We gather intel and deal with threats that most knights wouldn't dare to face head-on."
Issei's eyes widened as he took in her intimidating presence. "So you're saying you've been working alongside Aether this whole time? That's… pretty cool!"
Aether nodded, trying to keep the mood light. "Yes, Rosaria is not just a nun; she's one of our most skilled operatives. She's helped us with more than a few dangerous situations."
Rosaria turned her gaze to Aether, her expression softening for just a moment before returning to her usual stoicism. "But we also have our own rules. If you want to be part of the Shadow Guard, you'll need to prove yourself."
Noelle glanced around the room, seeing various members of the Shadow Guard in their unique masks. "What exactly do you do here?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Sara chimed in, "We gather intel on threats to Mondstadt and ensure the safety of the city in ways that the Knights of Favonius can't always manage. We operate in the shadows to prevent danger before it arises."
Paimon looked intrigued. "So you're like the knights' secret weapon?" she said, enthusiasm bubbling in her voice.
"More like the safety net," Rosaria replied, her voice low and serious. "The knights are brave, but they can't be everywhere at once. That's where we come in."
Issei, still trying to impress, stepped forward. "So, what kind of tests do we have to pass to join? I'm ready for anything!"
Rosaria raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by his eagerness. "First, you'll need to prove your strength and resolve. Shadow Guard isn't for the faint of heart. We take on missions that require stealth, strategy, and the ability to think on your feet."
Noelle, her earlier shock wearing off, asked, "What kind of missions?"
"A variety," Aether explained. "From gathering information on enemy movements to rescuing citizens from danger. Sometimes it involves infiltration, sometimes it's direct combat. You have to be adaptable."
Issei nodded, determination in his eyes. "I can do that! I've fought monsters before; this will be a piece of cake!"
Rosaria chuckled softly, her demeanor thawing slightly. "Let's see if you can back that up. We have a training exercise scheduled. It'll test your agility, strength, and ability to work as a team."
Paimon clapped her hands together excitedly. "This is going to be fun! I can't wait to see how we all perform!"
"Just remember," Rosaria said, her tone turning serious again. "This isn't a game. If you're serious about joining, you need to be ready to face real threats. Lives may depend on it."
Aether glanced at Noelle, who seemed to be contemplating the implications of joining such a group. "Are you ready for this, Noelle? It's a big commitment."
Noelle squared her shoulders, her determination shining through. "If it means helping Mondstadt and proving my worth, then yes. I'm ready!"
Issei grinned, pumping his fist in the air. "That's the spirit! Let's show them what we're made of!"
Rosaria nodded approvingly. "Good. Follow me, and I'll show you the training area. Prepare yourselves; it'll be intense."
As they followed Rosaria deeper into the Shadow Guard's base, Aether felt a swell of pride for his companions. They were all ready to take the next step in their journeys—each one willing to fight for their home, to protect what they cared about.
As they entered the training room, they were greeted by a large open space with various obstacles and training dummies set up. Aether noticed some familiar faces among the Shadow Guard members, each one watching them with a mix of curiosity and encouragement.
"Alright, let's start with some warm-ups," Rosaria instructed. "And remember, teamwork is key. If you want to succeed, you have to trust one another."
As the group began their training, Aether felt a surge of excitement. This was just the beginning of a new chapter for all of them—one filled with challenges, growth, and perhaps even a bit of fun. He couldn't wait to see how his friends would rise to the occasion.
Issei then looked at Aether. "Before we do start our training who is the leader"
Rosaria looked at him dum founded. "What part of Founder don't you get"
As then from Issei Vision Ddrake spoke. "Oh so your the leader, so a Wo- yeah no I realise I shouldn't finish that sentence"
Issei chuckled nervously at Ddrake's comment, sensing the tension in the air. "Right, I mean, it's not every day you meet a founder and leader who's also a nun. It's kind of cool!"
Rosaria rolled her eyes but couldn't help the faint smirk that tugged at her lips. "I'll take that as a compliment. Just remember, respect goes both ways. You might be excited now, but in this training, you'll need to earn it."
Aether stepped in, sensing Issei's discomfort. "Rosaria's leadership is what keeps the Shadow Guard effective. Her experience is invaluable to us, especially in the field."
Issei nodded, trying to regain his composure. "Got it! Respect, understood. But, uh, any chance you could go easy on us during training? Just for today?" He flashed a sheepish grin, hoping to lighten the mood.
"Not a chance," Rosaria replied, crossing her arms. "If you want to join the Shadow Guard, you need to understand the stakes. Easy isn't in our vocabulary."
Amber chimed in, trying to be supportive. "Don't worry, Issei! We've trained hard before, and we can do it again! Plus, we have each other, right?"
"Right!" Noelle agreed, her determination shining through. "Together, we'll make it through anything!"
Ddrake's voice echoed in Issei's mind. "They seem pretty solid. Just keep your head in the game, and don't let your guard down."
As the group lined up for their warm-ups, Aether took a moment to observe the camaraderie that was developing among them. Each person was different, yet they were all united by a shared goal—to protect Mondstadt and grow stronger together.
Rosaria clapped her hands to grab their attention. "Alright, enough chatter! Let's start with some basic drills. First, we'll run through agility exercises to get your bodies warmed up. Follow my lead."
As she demonstrated a series of agility drills, Issei watched closely, taking mental notes. "Okay, I can do this!" he muttered to himself, focusing on matching her movements.
The group followed Rosaria's instructions, running through the exercises. Luminis, who had tagged along, watched from the sidelines, his eyes wide with admiration as he saw his father and the others push themselves.
After a few rounds of drills, Rosaria turned to the group. "Now, let's see how well you work as a team. I'm going to set up a series of challenges, and you'll need to navigate through them together."
The group nodded, their competitive spirits ignited. Aether could see the determination in Issei's eyes, and he felt a sense of pride in the group's willingness to push their limits.
"First challenge: you'll have to cross a series of obstacles while blindfolded. Your teammates will guide you. Trust each other; communication is key," Rosaria explained, her tone serious.
Issei raised his hand. "Uh, are you sure about the blindfolds? I mean, I just got here, and—"
"No excuses," Rosaria interrupted. "You can't rely solely on your eyesight. Trust your instincts and your teammates."
Aether stepped forward. "I'll go first to show you how it's done. Just listen to my voice, and I'll guide you through."
Rosaria nodded, allowing Aether to demonstrate. He donned the blindfold, and with the group's help, navigated through the obstacles with surprising agility.
Once Aether completed the course, he removed the blindfold, a triumphant grin on his face. "See? It's all about trust."
Issei pumped his fist. "Alright, I'm ready! Let's do this!"
As each member of the group took their turn, they learned to communicate effectively and rely on one another, their bonds growing stronger with each challenge.
Rosaria watched with a keen eye, noticing the progress being made. "Good work. Remember, you'll need this trust out in the field."
After several rounds of challenges, the training session came to an end. The group was breathless but exhilarated, each one pushing their limits and supporting one another.
"Alright, you all did well today," Rosaria announced, a hint of approval in her voice. "Keep this momentum going, and you might just prove yourselves worthy of the Shadow Guard."
Aether turned to the group, pride swelling in his chest. "I'm impressed, everyone. Let's keep this up, and we'll be ready for whatever comes our way."
As they gathered their things and prepared to leave, Issei caught Aether's eye. "Hey, thanks for being a cool leader. I can see why you're a captain."
Aether chuckled, grateful for the compliment. "It's a team effort. We all have our strengths, and together, we'll protect Mondstadt."
With newfound determination, the group left the training area, ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead in their journey as new members of the Shadow Guard.
To be continued
Hope people like this Ch and give me power stones
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