Eclipse of the Damned || Original Story ||

Chapter 7

Alea was clearly an enigma wrapped in toughness, but it was clear to Cherry that there was a kindness beneath that surface.

As soon as she met her, Cherry's heart swelled with excitement, her small frame practically vibrating with energy. She was ready to explode with enthusiasm, ready to meet more of these fascinating people who were now part of her world.

She turned to Blossom, who stood beside her like a steady anchor in this new and intimidating environment. Blossom's demeanor was calm, collected, though Cherry could sense the weight of the situation resting on her sister's shoulders. Despite her calm, Blossom's eyes sparkled with a hint of curiosity and perhaps a small dose of anxiety about what was to come. She tilted her head and subtly squinted.

"Do you think we can meet the others too? I want to know everyone already!" Cherry's voice was filled with her childlike eagerness, her eyes wide as she looked up at her sister, smiling from ear to ear. It honestly surprised Blossom how cheerful and enthusiastic Cherry had gotten throughout this whole journey, though she couldn't blame her. She was too young to truly understand what this all meant.

Blossom, deep in thought, weighed the wisdom of getting to know their new comrades. The exorcist order was no place for recklessness. . . these were seasoned warriors, each with their own burdens, secrets, and scars. But it was true—they needed to fit in, to understand who these people were, and what roles they played in this complex web of alliances and rivalries.

"It's probably for the best." Blossom agreed after a moment of consideration. Her voice was soft, yet there was a determination there, a sense of duty. "We need to get to know the people we'll be living with. . . It'll definitely help us fit in faster." Her words trailed off as she caught sight of Ace watching them from the corner of the room, his expression amused.

Ace, ever the opportunist, caught the tail end of their conversation. His grin widened as he sauntered over, exuding his usual brand of over-the-top enthusiasm. He was like a bright, bouncing ball of energy—too much for some, but Cherry found his antics delightful.

"So, you want to meet the whole crew, huh?" Ace asked, his arms waving animatedly as he spoke. Cherry giggled at his exaggerated movements, her nervousness melting away in the face of his infectious energy.

Blossom and Alea exchanged a look—a shared moment of bewilderment at the sight of Ace and Cherry's rapidly growing camaraderie. It was almost absurd to watch—a grown man behaving like a child, and an actual child behaving like she had just found her new best friend.

Alea, ever the pragmatist, simply sighed, deciding to resign herself to the chaos.

"Yeah alright. . . I already met you two so. . . I'm out."

A loud door slam was heard.

. . .

They all stayed silent for a good minute or two.

Ace broke the silence.

"So?......"

"Yes!" Cherry blurted out excitedly and LOUDLY before catching herself. Realizing she had spoken out of turn, she clasped her hands over her mouth, shooting an apologetic glance at Blossom. Her sister gently nudged her, a silent reminder to mind her manners.

"Yes, please." Cherry corrected herself, bowing slightly. It was adorable in its awkwardness, and Ace couldn't help but chuckle.

"Luckily for you, little lady, that can easily be arranged." Ace declared with a theatrical flourish, surveying the grand hall with a discerning eye. He scratched his chin thoughtfully, the ever-present smirk never leaving his face.