Chapter 875: First Circle, Limbo (Final Part)
Chapter 875: First Circle, Limbo (Final Part)
The group studied the figures in front of them, each one representing an aspect of love and compassion.
The mother with a child in her arms emanated an aura of protection and sacrifice; the man embracing the flag of a nation represented patriotic love and dedication to the greater good; the woman on her knees, embraced by a demonic figure, conveyed tragic love, full of pain and redemption.
Kaizen, with his attentive gaze, was the first to speak.
"The mother with her child in her arms... This is pure, unconditional love. The sacrifice a mother is willing to make for her child is one of the most sincere forms of love there is."
Jayaa agreed, her eyes fixed on the scene. "I agree. A mother's love is universal. It's instinctive, protective. She deserves our compassion and respect."
Andrew, who always remained serene and observant, directed his gaze to the figure of the kneeling woman. "This woman... She's in deep anguish, but the demon embracing her... doesn't seem to be hurting her. There's something else there, something we can't see at first glance."
Bloody Lily, with her soft voice, added. "Love and compassion aren't always obvious. Sometimes they manifest themselves in the darkest and most desperate moments. The woman seems to be in pain, but perhaps there is a redemption, a greater purpose in this demonic embrace."
Xisrith looked at the two scenes thoughtfully. "If these two scenes are the right ones, it means that love can manifest itself in both purity and darkness. Perhaps we should choose those two."
The soft, gentle voice echoed again, this time closer, almost like a whisper in each of their ears. "You understand the true nature of love. It is not limited to the obvious or what is easily understood. True love manifests itself in sacrifice, redemption and compassion, even in the darkest situations."
With this confirmation, the gate of love slowly began to open, revealing a soft, welcoming glow on the other side. The group prepared to go through, but before proceeding, Kaizen turned to his companions. "We're almost there. Remember, no matter what we find on the other side, we will face it together, with the same spirit of unity that brought us here."
Og'tharoz nodded, his face serene but determined. "Right. Let's continue together and support each other, as we have done so far."
As they passed through the gate of love, they were enveloped in a soft, warm light, as if they were entering a sacred place. The feeling of serenity was almost palpable, and they felt a deep peace in their hearts.
The path ahead was now clear, leading them to their final destination through an alabaster corridor.
The surrounding landscape began to change again, but this time, instead of desolation and challenge, they found themselves in a verdant, flourishing valley. Majestic trees stood all around, their leaves glistening in the soft light. Flowers of every color adorned the path, exuding sweet fragrances that filled the air.
"This place... it's so beautiful," murmured Bloody Lily, her eyes shining with admiration.
"It's like paradise," agreed Andrew, inhaling deeply of the fragrant air.
The soft, gentle voice echoed again, now clearly emanating from an approaching figure. It was an ethereal-looking woman, dressed in a white and gold cloak, her long hair flowing like silk in the wind. Her eyes were a deep blue, full of wisdom and compassion.
"Welcome," she said, her voice as melodious as a song. "You have passed through all the trials and demonstrated the virtues we seek. This is the Valley of Virtue, the place where those who demonstrate true love, faith, hope and temperance can find rest and renewal."
Og'tharoz, ever the cautious leader, stepped forward. "Who are you? And why have we been brought here?"
The woman smiled, a smile that radiated warmth and peace. "I am the Guardian of Virtues. I have been entrusted with protecting this valley and guiding those who are worthy. You have been brought here to find the true essence of your souls, to purify and strengthen yourselves for the challenges that are yet to come."
Kaizen, ever the pragmatist, asked another question. "And what are these challenges?"
The Guardian of Virtues looked at him with a mixture of seriousness and tenderness. "Your path is still long and full of dangers, isn't it? There are dark forces that will try to divert you from the path of light. But with the virtues you have shown, you have the inner strength to overcome any obstacle."
Xisrith, always curious, asked. "And what should we do now?"
The Guardian of Virtues raised a hand, and a soft light emanated from it, forming a luminous path before them. "You can choose to stay or follow this path of light that will lead you to the Second Circle of Hell. The choice is yours."
Og'tharoz put one hand on his chin and said:
"The Second Circle of Hell is Lust. We will be placed in the middle of a maelstrom of souls and we will have to cross it."
"That shouldn't be a problem for you, who have already faced several trials here in Limbo," said the Guardian of Virtues.
Bloody Lily looked around, taking in the beauty of the Valley of Virtue. The soft glow of the light, the rustling of the leaves in the wind, and the sweet scent of the flowers created an almost ethereal atmosphere. She exchanged a glance with Kaizen, who was standing next to her, feeling the tension in her shoulders gradually ease.
"Come on, then," said Kaizen, his voice firm but with a gentle tone. "We have a way to go."
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Og'tharoz led the group, advancing along the path of light that stretched out before them. Each step seemed to be absorbed into the ground, as if they were walking on clouds. The Guardian of Virtues watched them go with a serene smile on her lips.
"Kaizen," called out Bloody Lily, breaking the silence. "Do you think we're ready for what comes next?"
"Yes, I believe we are. No matter what we face, we have each other. And that's what really matters."