A/N: I refuse to drop this story. lol

Her proclamation evoked a multitude of emotions in the group, but the predominant one was astonishment; none of them had expected to meet her,

or at least,

not so soon.

It was an indescribable feeling being in the presence of a goddess… Her aura offered little doubt of her providence.

Adol observed her features calmly, taking in the effervescent air that accompanied her person.

"You've ventured far, young ones. Tell me, why have you come to this place?" Maia continued, maintaining a steady hover above the ground.

The question seemed obvious, as if asking rhetorically.

"We've come to stop the Lacrimosa." The gunman said plainly.

His avowal was a bit of a shock to the others, he candidly declared to end the very cycle she created. His bluntness only implied either his courage or impudence.

"Young child, the Lacrimosa has spurred continuous advancement since time immemorial."

Her words rang devoid of any sympathy, the swordsman stipulated that she already knew the reason to their arrival before she even asked. After all, there seemed no greater reason for coming than the impending global cataclysm that she inspired.

"It kills entire species; how can you say something that causes so much destruction and harm, has changed the world for the better?" The gunman retorted, narrowing his gaze ever so slightly.

"The Lacrimosa is a necessity; a necessity that springs forth new life and thus, new beginnings. A dream that intertwines boundless imagination with reality, forming new possibilities from endless potential."

The swordsman noticed her demeanor shift… or was it her energy? He detected something at the very least but wasn't exactly sure what it was.

"Dana's people blamed and chastised her, imputing her for a disaster that you brought. She did everything for them, but even until the end they condemned her." The noble said, with a certain hint of venom in her words.

"Many civilizations have preceded you, just as many will come after you. The circle of life is inclusive of all things, you are not the exception."

There it is again the redhead thought as he sensed the more distinct change this time. Maia's energy was building; as to what purpose, he wasn't sure. He looked over at Dana wondering why she had remained quiet during the ordeal.

The maiden had entered a trance-like state, bereft of any consciousness or cognizance.

"Human life is precious, you can't jus-"

"All life is precious, child. Your life is no more important than that of a fish migrating to warmer waters, or a bird finding food for their young."

Laxia bit her lip involuntarily out of anger; she could, however, understand Maia's perspective. As a goddess, lives she deems to be lesser than hers appear insignificant. So insignificant, in fact, that they might as well be weighed the same equally.

"It is the nature of all living things to maintain self-preservation; no one is willing to die without a valid reason. But, understand that the Lacrimosa is for the betterment of all living things. Just as you must prune a vine to produce more grapes, you must cleanse the earth to yield further advancement."

"… Evolution."

Everyone shifted their gaze to the maiden, who had finally broken free of her mental binds. The swordsman was the first to notice the quiet fire behind the bluette's eyes. It was a relief, really, that she had come back on her own this time.

"Why not allow evolution to take the Lacrimosa's place?"

"Species seek higher evolution as a part of their natural instinct; the very will of a civilization is to pursue higher fruition, and as a culture grows, so to does their rate of growth. They become more advanced at a quicker rate. Do you believe that is fair to creatures with a slower evolution rate than yourselves?"

Dana looked down for a moment, gathering her thoughts while maintaining her stature.

"My people evolved from the dragon species, benefitting from their strong bodies and agile reflexes. We retained those characteristics, and with them, we grew produce and developed technology that helped the fauna within our area. It is the responsibility of the superior species to help our lesser neighbors, so that we may live in harmony." The maiden spoke with certainty.

"Humans have done the same. We've devised similar technology that benefits both us and our environment, forming a symbiotic relationship." The noble followed, inciting a scoff from the goddess.

"… Yet, you wage wars on one another, damaging more of the Earth than yourselves. You believe that your technology is purely beneficial? You're mistaken. Humans have filthened the oceans with waste and 'treasures', they've hunted and preyed on lesser creatures for their own consumption, while wearing some of them as trophies. Many species before you have done more for the Earth in less amount of time than Mankind has done in their own... It is only natural for you to be replaced."

Maia's presence became increasingly malevolent over the course of her statement, her aura produced a palpable tension that filled the room as she uttered those last words, leaving the group speechless.

Laxia's heart sank, clutching her chest as she tried to maintain her composure. She looked over at the maiden who bore a similar look as her, a look of fear and failure.

Is this what made the protectors lose their spirit? Was Maia the one who broke them? Doomed to observe species after species suffer the same fate they once did? Or was it that Maia instilled a deep terror that ripped apart their soul day by day?

Her presence alone clearly outlined the disparity of power that laid between them, it was useless to challenge a being whose simple action dictated their reality.

The maiden felt tears welling in her eyes, feeling the same sense of hopelessness as she did so long ago.

She turned to view the rest of the group, yet the sight of them only deepened her despair. They were left with no more words, no more arguments to pit against the deity.

Within the silent tension, the swordsman unsheathed his blade.

"We're not letting you do this."

Instantly, the group turned in disbelief. They looked at Adol with wide eyes, but then, they noticed it.

The redhead's resolve behind his glare. It held power, the same power that he displayed day after day.

They turned to see Maia, who, to their surprise, was smiling.

"It is human arrogance to believe they can challenge a goddess."

"A goddess wouldn't see the destruction of entire civilizations as a blessing."

She dropped her shallow smile, beginning to charge her power.

"Adol Christin, Child of Prophecy. You would've had more time had you just waited for the Lacrimosa." The temple began shaking, causing various pieces of the ceiling to crumble on impact.

Maia became surrounded by a dark aura, filling the space around her as it continuously grew.

"You will be the first." The goddess said as she emerged from her dark cocoon. Her attire had shifted to darker tones, black and red trimmings now colored her outfit.

The group drew their weapons, readying themselves for any attack she could muster. Tufts of darkness began wafting around the goddess' form, gradually increasing in concentration.

Dana sensed it was energy, but tainted with something much darker than she had ever felt before; maintaining her composure became increasingly difficult the longer she stayed within Maia's presence.

Before the group could perceive her attack however, reality crumbled before them.

"What…?"

The noble muttered in disbelief. Seemingly transported to another realm, everything was washed away in darkness.

Nothingness overtook each one of the castaways, leaving them with a perpetual feeling of loss. The noble looked around, searching for anyone, anything that would hint at her location or status.

It wasn't long before Laxia realized she was completely alone; no temple, no Maia, no team. "Adol! Dana! Hummel!" She shouted, but her calls were answered by silence.

"You shall spend eternity here. The dimension between universes, where time ceases to exist." An ominous voice rang out.

Dana searched her surroundings while instinctively utilizing her Essence to boost her perception, but it was to no avail. The applications of her ability were limited in these circumstances, she painfully understood that.

The maiden quickly shifted her focus to locating the others, faintly picking up traces but nothing substantial.

Was coming here a mistake…? The thought crossed her mind, closing her eyes to focus on locating them one more time.

She failed once more, only to steel her resolve. Over and over, the connection with them grew weaker and weaker, slowly the strength that once filled her began to dissipate. She gritted her teeth as she forced herself to generate more Essence, only to falter from reaching her limit.

Her knees gave weigh as she collapsed, raising her hand to her chest to measure her breathing.

I'm sorry… this was my fault. If only I had become a protector, they wouldn't have to suffer this fate.

This was one of the maiden's worst fears after all, seeking help in overturning her fate would only ensnare those who would offer.

A slight tinge of regret imprinted on her heart, if she had only accepted the hand fate dealt her. She knew she'd meet Adol eventually, but accepting his assistance wasn't something she considered.

This was where their help led them, a dimensionless abyss where perception of anything outside of self was forbidden. Could they age here? Die? Hunger? Sleep? All of those seemed so distant now.

Dana bit down on her lip as she was coming to grips with her new reality… their new reality. Tears began streaming down her face, rolling down her cheek and falling into the endless void.

If I had just agreed… if I had just…

Echoing into the abyss, her cries were met with her own reverb. The resonance only confirmed that she was truly alone, causing the maiden to slowly recompose herself.

No. I won't let this end here.

A fleeting thought of resolve passed through her. She closed her eyes, ultimately deciding to act on that emotion.

The maiden felt her power begin to surge, channeling Essence throughout her whole body. She knew it would kill her, but she had to try, nonetheless.

It was a last effort to free them, sacrificing herself was but a small penance.

I'm sorry I caused this everyone, I'm… so grateful for everything you've done for me… Laxia, Hummel, Sahad, Ricotta… Adol. I wish we had more time togeth-

Rippling through the darkness, a sudden pillar of light flashed in the distance, drawing her attention.

"I understand why Maia didn't want us to attain higher evolution now."

A quiet voice spoke; the maiden felt her breath hitch at the sudden interruption. She couldn't immediately discern the appearance but recognized his speech, her legs beckoning to approach the figure.

As she steadily edged toward him, her eyes widened at his form; his hair had grown longer, while his overall build boasted a stronger frame. His eyes burst with resolve and power that decidedly evaporated all trepidation the bluette had felt priorly.

The aura emanating from him reacted with Dana's own energy, erupting it to unfathomable levels. She resonated with his power, prompting her to draw even closer to the redhead. It felt surreal, so surreal that the bluette absent-mindedly moved her hand to Adol's cheek, if only to confirm this was real.

The redhead only smiled at her action, moving his own hand to hers.

"…Adol." She smiled. Tears again began to well in her eyes once more, as he nodded at her confirmation.

"You're with me, right?" He asked, causing her to blankly stare at him before registering his question. She beamed at his request.

"Of course, anywhere."

He gave a humble nod as he slowly backed away from the bluette, discharging more Essence than Dana had ever witnessed.

The pillar of light began to dissipate as Adol unsheathed his sword, consolidating the immense power into his steel.

As he lifted his blade overhead, he tightened his grip and swung across his body. The shockwave that had developed instantly cut through the darkness, forcing a tear to the previous dimension.

The maiden silently watched in awe; her mind occupied with nothing but the spectacle that laid before her.

As she stood in quiet amazement, she realized her and Adol were back in the Temple.

"What…?" Was all she could mutter before being met with the sight of revitalizing color.

Looking around, the other members had rejoined the team as well, imitating the same look of confusion as the maiden. They all began evaluating their conditions, checking their body as well as clothes, before inspecting the other members of the group.

"…We've returned…" Laxia blankly stated, peering over at the gunman who placed his hands in his pockets.

"Seems obvious who we owe that to." He stated, inciting the noble to turn her attention at the redhead before her. She rubbed her eyes to ensure their clarity, before conceding to her initial thoughts.

"…Adol Christin? Is that you?"

He turned towards her with a smirk on his face,

"Forget about me already?"

She turned her nose up at the reply,

"As if I could forget someone like you!"

The gunman tilted his head at the reply, causing the noble to blush at her wording.

"Wait, that's not what I mea-"

"Give it up." Hummel stated shaking his head.

The group laughed at Laxia's expense as she rejected any insinuations of her statement, seemingly forgetting, for just a moment, the precarious situation they were still in.

"… I don't understand how you were able to return."

A voice disrupted the team's conversation as the deity began to descend onto the floor once again. She bore a look of confusion and anger, dark tufts of power still emanating from her form.

Her gaze fell upon the redhead specifically, noticing the apparent transformation that afflicted him in the void. She narrowed her eyes.

"Adol Christin."

The avowal of his name seemed more to sate her curiosity rather than to address him directly. He returned her stare with equal force, causing the goddess to smile.

"You believe your newfound power is enough?"

"Not just mine." He stated, turning to the bluette who had slightly jolted at the acknowledgement. She hadn't noticed that her aura was just as volatile as the redhead's, causing her to inspect her own form.

Like a thundering storm, her aura exponentially grew along Adol's, she could barely come to grips with the power she now wielded.

The deity scoffed at that reply, dismissing it as human arrogance. Time and time again, races that populated the Earth believed their power to rival that of gods, until the time where they must prove that power.

Maia had grown used to such power struggles, as to her they were not struggles at all, merely human conceit that persisted throughout the generations. This wasn't the first time the Lacrimosa has been challenged, and it wouldn't be the last.

The redhead rested his hand on Dana's shoulder as he took a step towards the deity, his eyes flickered with confidence while his aura spiked at the touch of the maiden.

Dana could only watch in awe as his form radiated furiously with hers, inciting her expression to match his own. She readied her lunar blades at Maia while Adol prepared his blade.

The noble and the gunman stayed behind the couple, knowing this battle was beyond their scope of strength, but still poised to offer support.

The goddess only closed her eyes and let out a sigh, hovering above the ground while gathering energy once again.

Immediately, she began morphing into a creature that the team could only classify as intimidating. Her arms and legs bulged in rippling muscle while her face began to shift to that of a dragon species. Dark scales covered her form as she grew six times… no… ten times bigger in size.

The group watched with differing reactions as the goddess altered her appearance, causing a fleeting sense of anxiety among them all except two individuals.

Adol and Dana maintained their composure as their auras dissipated from visibility, concentrating their essence into their cores. The maiden wasn't sure what spurred Adol's evolution towards Essence.

He had prior experience with magic before, so maybe his body became accustomed to housing such supernatural ability? Not that the redhead was lacking in that before.

She softly smiled at the presence before her, reflecting Adol's past adventures briefly. She used those memories to motivate her, boosting her confidence to levels she didn't think possible.

"I won't allow you to continue the Lacrimosa any longer!" She exclaimed, emanating a pressure palpable enough for the rest of the team to sense.

The redhead smiled at the reminder; he had briefly forgotten, for a moment, just how powerful the maiden truly was.

The indomitable creature completed its transformation, now peering over the couple enigmatically. It was the first time Maia had revealed her true form, a black dragon adorned in such inexplicable darkness that it seemed to be endless.

Adol primed his blade, a faint glow coating the steel, while the maiden's crescents shimmered with the same radiance.

Instantly, both their forms disappeared before the gunman and the noble, blinking confoundedly at their sudden depart. The only signal that hinted at their new locations was the sound of metal on metal.

The dragon had begun swiping at their fleeting silhouettes, afterimages of blue and red permeated the proximity of the cryptid. Clash after clash, the dragon's eyes darted back and forth, struggling to maintain visual of the couple.

It wasn't until a critical wound was made upon her neck that they rematerialized. She roared in pain as the couple poured their Essence into their weapons, consolidating it into their respective cores.

Power coursed through their bodies, fueled by their resolve. Essence truly was a godsend, perhaps Maia isn't very well-liked in the celestial realm.

Their figures carefully observed the creature as it struggled in pain, only to watch the wound begin to heal.

They began to approach the dragon once more, until said creature opened its mouth towards them. A black mass began to accumulate within its jaw, discharging into a dark flame. Before Dana and Adol could react however, they were engulfed completely.

Laxia blankly stared at the event, watching the flames course, and rebound along the ground. The embers dispersed after a short while, leaving nothing but the smoldering marks of where the couple once stood.

Smoke arose in plumes as the gunman gritted his teeth, pointing his weapon at the dragon. His anger flared as he began proceeding towards the goddess, until feeling a tug on his coat.

It wasn't until a wing clipped off in front of him that he realized why Laxia had stopped him. Appearing several feet in front of him, the bluette reset her blades in front of her, holding them horizontally around her waist.

The dragon writhed in pain, bellowing at the sight of her own left wing detached from her body. It was a pathetic sight, two individuals of no divine lineage, effectively crippling one regarded as a god. The couple approached the dragon until they saw distortions rippling around her.

Adol was halted by Dana at the sight, she involuntarily bit her lip as a vision assailed her once more. The redhead anticipated her faint as he coiled his arm around her waist, stabilizing her.

"…Thanks, Adol." She recovered rather quickly, only to grit her teeth at what she just witnessed.

"What'd you see?"

"I… don't see another way of stopping this." She muttered bleakly, turning to look at the redhead.

"Your struggle is pointless, the Lacrimosa cannot be stopped." The dragon confessed as she got up, once again peering at the couple with trepidation.

The maiden closed her eyes at the avowal, deep down she knew she was right. The Lacrimosa wasn't something that could be stopped.

Civilizations crumbled as these cataclysms ravaged their societies, plagued their nations, and annihilated their empires. The redhead instinctively knew they weren't the first to challenge this calamity, but failure had marked every preceding race's history.

He closed his eyes in thought, the dragon seemed to allot the time he needed. Whether it was out of fear or prudence, Maia refused to move.

"…You wouldn't have protectors if there was nothing to protect." He stated, fiercely gazing at the dark goddess.

She widened her eyes at his revelation, slowly backing away as she realized the shift in their circumstances.

Adol reached the same conclusion, taking a step forward to maintain the same distance.

"…Tell us the secret." Dana followed his statement. It was reasonable enough, to suspect this. After all, why place guards in a place of no value or worth? It seemed obvious now that they had rationalized it, and the couple was sure they weren't the first to think of it.

However, the opportunity to ask the one responsible seemed uniquely fortunate. Even better, the one responsible held an extreme disadvantage against the over-powered couple.

The secret of the Lacrimosa will now come to fruition.