Shadow Slave Fanfic: Peaceful Dreams...well...kinda. [New]

The mattress lay soaked, a chaotic symphony of blankets and pillows strewn across the room like fallen leaves in a tempest. Cassie, a whirlwind of disheveled hair and heavy breaths, sprawled in her bed, her gaze glazed over with a mix of confusion and regret. Her chest rose and fell in a frantic rhythm as she attempted to steady her racing heart. With trembling hands, she shielded her face and whispered to the shadows around her.

"I can't believe I did this. There's no way I can ever confess. The shame is suffocating."

Cassie had crossed a line she had vowed never to breach, yet the allure of the moment had proven too intoxicating to resist.

A few hours earlier...

She had merely intended to check in on her friends, curious if they had arrived at the cave she and Kai had meticulously prepared. But fate had other plans, thrusting her into a scene she was never meant to witness. Time had slipped away from her, and she found herself peering through Neph's eyes as Sunny carried her to the bed.

'Time to sever this connection before I stumble upon something I shouldn't,' she thought, but when Sunny tossed Neph onto the bed, an unexpected thrill coursed through her veins, igniting a spark of intrigue.

"They won't mind if I stay for a bit… just until things get serious," she mused, her heart racing as she lay in her own bed, watching the unfolding drama. The sight stirred something within her, a flicker of desire igniting her senses.

"Forget it! They'll never know. I'm perpetually swamped with work, and dating is a luxury I can't afford. This will have to do," she resolved, deepening the connection with Neph, allowing herself to not only see and hear but to feel everything Neph experienced.

Before long, she was lost in a whirlwind of trembling ecstasy, moans escaping her lips as the world around her faded into oblivion.

Now, back in Sunny's Café...

Morning light streamed through the windows as Rain descended the stairs, eager to discover what Sunny and Neph were up to. However, upon entering the café, she was met with an unexpected sight.

At a table, Effie and Jet were engaged in a spirited game of Uno, indulging in cake and sipping alcohol pilfered from Sunny's cabinet.

"Sa... Saint... Saint Athena and Saint Soulreaper Jet?" Rain stammered, her mind reeling. She had not anticipated the presence of two of the Government's most illustrious Saints in her brother's café.

The Saints turned, their smiles warm and inviting.

"You must be Rain! It's a pleasure to meet you. You're quite the sight without all that blood. You really resemble a younger version of Sunny," Jet remarked, grinning.

"Indeed! She's practically his twin, just a tad younger. I suppose we now have two of them running around," Effie chimed in with a chuckle.

Rain stood there, bewildered, struggling to comprehend the bizarre turn of events.

"I... I... yes, I'm Sunny's younger sister. But what are you two doing here? Am I in trouble?"

Their laughter rang out, and Jet finally clarified, "No, no trouble at all. We're here to keep an eye on you while your brother and Neph are off on a date. And please, call me Jet. You can refer to the gluttonous lady beside me as Effie."

"Right... you really don't have to use those titles. You're Sunny's sister, so you're practically family," Effie added, taking another bite of cake.

"Ahh... thanks, I guess. It's just a lot to take in, seeing two renowned Saints in my brother's café."

"Most people have a bit of a shock at first, but you'll get used to it. Just think of us as your older sisters," Jet assured her.

Heat crept into Rain's cheeks as she gathered her thoughts. "Alright then... can I ask you something?"

The two Saints exchanged glances before Jet replied, "Sure, go ahead."

"Can I have a drink? I feel like something would help ease my mind."

Effie giggled, pouring Rain a concoction of whiskey and Coke. "Of course! Sit down, let's have a sisterly chat."

Rain settled into a chair, taking a sip and grimacing at the strength of the drink. "Wow, that's potent, even with the mixer."

Jet chuckled, "Haven't you ever had alcohol before?"

Rain blushed slightly, shaking her head. "Not really. Sunny always said it was pointless and that I was too young, despite being 21."

Effie scoffed. "Older brothers can be a bit overprotective of their little sisters."

Rain shrugged. "Not really. He had no problem sending me off to slay an Awakened Devil as a Mundane."

Effie nearly choked on her drink, while Jet's jaw dropped in disbelief. After a moment, Jet muttered, "I knew he was crazy, but that's next-level."

Rain, puzzled, asked, "What do you mean? It was just an Awakened Devil. Sunny was with me the whole time. He would've helped if I'd needed it. I even fought a Fallen Tyrant just before I awakened a few days ago."

Effie and Jet exchanged wide-eyed glances, their shock palpable. Rain simply shrugged, taking another sip of her drink. After a beat, Effie broke the silence.

"They're definitely siblings."

Rain chuckled. "Well, he taught me everything I know and shared tales of his adventures from his days as a sleeper to becoming a Saint. I always thought he was exaggerating until I learned about his flaw."

"Yeah, we were pretty shocked ourselves. What's even more surprising is that we've all lost our memories of him. That whole incident with him losing his fate really scrambled our brains for a while," Effie sighed.

Jet smiled at them both, shrugging. "But it doesn't matter, right? We'll help him regain it, and everything will be fine."

Rain sighed, a thought tugging at her. "I've been thinking... could you help me with my Aspect?"

Jet and Effie exchanged confused looks. "What do you mean? Do you want to train with it or something?"

"No, I need help discovering it."

Effie and Jet were momentarily speechless before Effie finally spoke. "Discovering? You mean you don't know how to look at your runes?"

"No, it's not that. I can't see my runes because I don't really have any, or maybe I just can't see them yet. I guess Sunny didn't explain it to you, but I awakened a few days ago, naturally, without the spell."

Jet's eyes widened in surprise. "That guy really pulled it off."

Effie remained speechless, turning to Jet with a puzzled expression as Jet began to explain. "Think about it. Neph mentioned it. She learned how it works from someone she met in our third nightmare, and Sunny was with her when that happened. So I guess he taught Rain."

"I see, that makes sense, but still, that's unheard of nowadays."

Rain sighed, elaborating, "Sunny insisted I awaken without the spell. He taught me how to do it, and after some effort, I finally managed it a few days ago. But I still don't have an Aspect or a flaw. He said I need to discover it first, but since it's different for everyone, I'm at a loss."

Jet regarded her thoughtfully. "Well, we could ask Cassie for help. She can see into people's runes, so maybe she can see yours."

Rain's eyes brightened. "Really? That would be amazing! Can we go to her now?"

Jet chuckled. "No need for that. She can do it remotely, as long as she has a mental connection with the person. It's part of her Transcendent Ability."

Rain's excitement bubbled over. "Okay, cool! What do I need to do?"

"Nothing. Just stay put while I reach out to her."

Jet focused on Cassie, sending her a message.

'Hey Cassie, do you have a moment?'

[Wha... what? Sorry, what's going on?]

'You sound a bit dazed. But that's not important. We're with Rain, and she needs help discovering her Aspect since she awakened naturally. Can you take a look at her runes?'

[Unfortunately, I can't see them. When I look at her, there are no runes.]

'Oh really? That's disappointing. Thanks for trying, though. Goodbye.'

[Goodbye, Jet. By the way, Sunny and Neph won't be back until morning; they're currently sleeping.]

'Oh, I see. I guess they had a steamy night.'

[Ahhhhh... You have no idea.]

'But you do? Wait... don't tell me... no, you haven't? Did you?'

[Ehhh, I have to go... bye.]

Jet sighed, a laugh escaping her.

Rain looked at her, puzzled, then turned to Effie, who merely shrugged.

"What's going on? What did Cassie say? Is my Aspect something amusing?"

Jet let out a long sigh, turning to Rain. "No, that's not it. She couldn't see your runes. They might be inactive since you haven't discovered your Aspect yet, or you might not have any at all."

Rain's gaze dropped to her glass, her voice tinged with sadness. "Oh, okay... but what made you laugh then?"

Jet chuckled. "Let's just say it's something Cassie would prefer to keep private. She sounded a bit flustered."

Effie smirked. "What? Did she perhaps catch a glimpse of Sunny and Neph and is now embarrassed?"

Jet sighed, locking eyes with Effie. "No, from her tone, it sounded like more than just a glimpse. But we probably shouldn't discuss it in front of Sunny's little sister."

Effie chuckled lightly. "You're right. It's probably best to ask Cassie ourselves later, with Kai present, of course."

Rain's expression froze, realization dawning on her. Nervously, she asked, "W... wait, Kai? As in Saint Kai? The former lead singer of Night&Gale?"

Jet and Effie turned to Rain, exasperation evident in their sighs.

"It's hopeless; I don't think there's a single girl out there who isn't a fan," Jet remarked.

"Yeah, even Neph was a bit starstruck when she first met him back in the Dark City," Effie added with a chuckle.

"Ah, that's just Kai for you! Every time we wander into a new Citadel, it's like a magnet for admirers. The moment we step foot anywhere, the girls flock to him, clamoring for autographs. It's only intensified now that he's a saint, and his looks have become downright mesmerizing."

Rain felt a warm flush creep up her cheeks as she listened, then mustered the courage to ask, "Is he here? Like, in Bastion?"

Effie shot her a playful grin. "Oh, he sure is! But I think you might be a tad too young for him."

Rain's face turned crimson, and she waved her hands frantically. "No, that's not what I meant! He's the one who taught me most of my bow skills, and they recently saved my life. I just want to thank him!"

Effie chuckled, "No worries! We can swing by the Ivory Tower if you'd like?"

"That would be great! I doubt he remembers me, though. I mean, I didn't even realize he was the one who taught me until Sunny reminded me. I only knew him through Sunny."

Effie took a sip of her drink, a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, Rain, do you have a boyfriend?"

Rain blinked in surprise, her cheeks heating up further. "No, I've never been interested in relationships. My only goal has been to become stronger."

Effie sighed, feigning disappointment. "What a shame! You're adorable, and I figured you'd have some experience. Guess you're a bit like Cassie in that way."

Rain furrowed her brow. "Cassie? You mean Saint Song of the Fallen?"

"Exactly! Though she prefers to go by Cassie."

"Got it! But I thought Cassie had a partner. People always rave about her beauty."

Effie scoffed lightly. "Sure, she's a sight to behold, but she carries a heavy burden with those she loves. That's probably why she keeps her distance."

"Because she's a seer, right?"

"Spot on! Her true name hints at her fate—she's cursed to witness the deaths of those dear to her, including her own. It's no wonder she shies away from her true name."

Rain's expression turned somber. "That must be so hard for her, knowing how everyone she loves will meet their end."

Jet sighed, her tone heavy. "It is. Being a seer is tougher than most realize. Sometimes, the choices she makes to protect her loved ones hurt them in the short term, and people often jump to conclusions about her."

Effie offered a comforting pat on Rain's shoulder. "But Cassie is strong, and she knows we're here for her. She's come a long way. There was a time when she wouldn't speak to anyone, especially after we returned from the Forgotten Shore. It had something to do with her and him."

"Yeah, I know. The important thing is they worked things out. So, all's well that ends well."

Rain sighed, taking another sip of her drink, when suddenly the doorbell chimed.

"What's happening here? Effie? And, Soulreaper? And who's this girl?"

Aiko burst in, fresh from her vacation that Sunny had sent her on while he was in Godgrave.

Effie waved her over. "Come on, Aiko! We'll fill you in."

Aiko sighed, closing the door behind her, and settled next to Rain, who was eyeing her with curiosity.

"Hi! I'm Rain, Sunny's sister. I'll be staying for a bit."

Aiko looked a bit perplexed and extended her hand. "H...hi, I'm Aiko, Sunny's assistant. Nice to meet you."

"So, you work here?" Rain asked.

"Yes! I was on vacation, and Sunny never mentioned he had a sister."

Effie shrugged, "Neither did we, until today. We were just as shocked when he appeared in the doorway with her unconscious body, both of them covered in blood."

Aiko's jaw dropped, and Effie burst into laughter. "Oh, now I see why Sunny pulls these stunts all the time!"

Jet gave Aiko a reassuring pat. "You might need some context. Here, have a drink first."

Jet poured her a drink and began recounting the recent events, Aiko growing paler with each revelation.

She turned to Rain and enveloped her in a hug. "I'm so sorry that happened to you. I'm relieved you're safe."

"Thanks! It's honestly okay now. Sunny saved me before anything serious could happen, so I'll get over it soon."

"Boss is incredible! Taking down five masters so swiftly is no small feat, even for a saint."

Jet chuckled, pointing at Effie. "Honestly, I'm not surprised he dispatched them so quickly. He wiped the floor with us in a sparring match just days ago."

Aiko's curiosity piqued. "Wait, a sparring match? Against both of you?"

Effie scoffed. "We were four—me, Jet, Kai, and Cassie. In the end, we lost, and he was holding back to avoid hurting us too badly."

"What? How is that even possible? I thought you went to Godgrave to meet the Lord of Shadows. I assumed Sunny just tagged along with Neph to expedite her sword crafting."

Laughter erupted around the table as Aiko's confusion deepened. Jet finally clarified, "Right, we did go to Godgrave to negotiate, only to discover that Sunny is the Lord of Shadows. He kept up the charade with Neph and Cassie, revealing the truth only after the fight."

Aiko stared at her drink, then downed it in one gulp. "That guy... I knew he had multiple bodies, but to have one in Godgrave, playing the role of an immensely powerful and sinister saint? That's just absurd."

Effie sighed, "Yeah, it was a shock. I even fainted when he revealed his true face, and that's saying something—I'm usually unflappable."

Aiko smirked. "I can only imagine! I wish he'd caught that on camera, but alas, that's not in the cards."

Effie crossed her arms, pouting, while Rain turned to Jet. "What was it like? Fighting my brother, I mean. I've never seen him in action. There was that one time when three vessels of the skinwalker attacked, but he shielded me in a dome of shadows, so I missed it."

Jet sighed, her expression darkening. "It was terrifying. His transcendent battle art is ruthless. He couldn't even see through the blinding light from my spear, yet he deflected every strike and countered most with his own. His ability to morph into different nightmare creatures is downright chilling. He commands multiple shadows, each unique in its own right. We're currently sitting in one, as a matter of fact."

Rain listened, captivated. She had never witnessed him fight properly and yearned to see it for herself. "Wow, I really wish I could have seen that."

Effie sighed, shaking her head. "Trust me, you're better off not having seen it. We got our butts handed to us. We totally underestimated him. We didn't even know he had multiple bodies, so it took us all by surprise—especially me. I thought I had him when I feigned surrender to create an opening, but he just laughed at me with a second avatar. That's when I realized we were at a disadvantage the entire time. Honestly, I doubt there's another saint out there who could best him in combat, except for Neph."

Everyone listened intently to Effie's account. Aiko was taken aback by the gluttonous woman's praise for her boss, while Jet nodded in agreement, and Rain's expression was one of awe.

"I knew he was powerful since he dispatched those three vessels of the skinwalker with ease, but to defeat four formidable saints while still holding back? I never imagined anyone could do that."

Jet patted Rain on the shoulder, a sigh escaping him. "He truly is remarkable, but let's shift the focus back to you. How do you plan to discover your aspect?"

Rain pondered for a moment before responding. "Sunny mentioned that discovering one's aspect varies for everyone. Some meditate in caves, while others find it in battle. There's no sure way to know what will work for me, but I think I'll lean towards the combat approach. It'll be tough, but it's essential for becoming a saint, so I suppose there's no other option."

Jet laughed. "Aiming high, I see! I like it."

Rain chuckled back. "Well, I want to be as strong as Sunny someday, so reaching for the stars seems like the only path."

They continued their conversation, laughter filling the air as time slipped away. Eventually, the doorbell chimed once more, and in walked Sunny, cradling Neph.

"Hey, everyone! Hope all is well," Sunny greeted, setting Neph down in a chair.

Rain was the first to speak up. "Everything's fine, but what happened to Neph? Did she twist her ankle or something?"

Neph blushed fiercely, while Sunny stammered, "N-no, she didn't hurt her ankle. She just feels a bit weak in the legs right now, that's all."

Rain looked between them, puzzled, as Effie, Jet, and Aiko burst into laughter. "What's going on? Why are they laughing?"