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

Nestled in the embrace of soft sheets, Sunny and Nephis found themselves in a delightful haze of exhaustion. It was a rare state for two saints, but the whirlwind of the past few hours had been nothing short of electrifying. They had uncovered a treasure trove of joy that had eluded them for far too long, and now, they were determined to reclaim that lost fun in the weeks ahead.

"What just happened?" Nephis mused, still untangling the threads of their recent escapade.

"Well, we were sharing a moment at the café, and you suggested we take it upstairs. I whisked you into the shadows, and before we knew it, we were in my bedroom. Clothes flew off, and we dove into what felt right. I'd say we did pretty well for our first time having se..." Sunny began, but his words were cut short by a kiss from Nephis that lingered like a sweet melody.

With a playful chuckle, Nephis replied, "I wasn't asking for an analysis, Sunny, but you're spot on. I've never felt so alive, and judging by how you treated me, I think you felt it too."

Sunny's cheeks flushed as he retorted, "Don't play innocent; you were the one who wanted me to manifest that second Avatar after round six!"

Nephis turned crimson, her mind racing with thoughts of what could have transpired in Godgrave, where Sunny had more than one shadow at his command.

"Yeah, well, having you here is fantastic, but having you here twice? That's double the fun!" Sunny laughed at Nephis conclusion, dismissing the second avatar who had just served them tea and cookies.

Nephis took a bite of a cookie, savoring the delightful taste. "I wish we could just stay here forever, Sunny."

"I'd love that too, but life isn't that simple for us," he replied with a sigh.

"I know," Nephis groaned in agreement.

"Is there anything you'd like to do?" He asked.

"How about a sparring match?"

"I think we've had enough physical activity for today," Sunny chuckled, and Nephis nodded in agreement.

"I have an idea! I could show you my progress on your sword," he proposed.

"Sure! It's in the basement, right?" Nephis asked exited.

"Bingo! It's hidden in a secret room that you can only access by either breaking down a wall or giving the Mimic a command that only I can issue."

"Alright then, shall we get dressed and venture into your secret underground lair?" Nephis teased.

"Do you really think I keep anything perverted down there?" Sunny shot back.

"Do you?" She countered with a grin.

"Not at all! Just the remains of nightmare creatures, soul shards, and my tools," he replied nonchalant.

"Is it weird that I'm a bit disappointed?" Nephis laughed as he got up from the bed.

"Not really, but I'd be lying if I said either of us was normal, so I expected as much from you," Sunny said with a smirk.

"True enough. But before I can get dressed, I need some new clothes. You weren't exactly gentle when you took mine off. My underwear survived, but the rest? Gone," she admitted.

"You can borrow one of my shirts, and I think I still have some shorts lying around in a drawer," Sunny offered.

"Sounds perfect! Let's go!" Nephis exclaimed.

Dressed and ready, they descended the stairs into the expansive basement, a labyrinthine space that dwarfed Nephis's childhood home.

"Is that a great demon?" Nephis gasped, eyeing a massive figure.

"Yep! The poor bastard tried to tunnel through the nameless temple but got intercepted by a fiend who melted him from the inside out. I saved the metal from his shell, though—it's perfect for tools and, in my case, silverware," Sunny explained.

Nephis stared at him, wide-eyed. "You didn't!"

"Oh, I did. The fork you used for that cake this morning? Demon metal," he grinned.

"Unbelievable!" she exclaimed.

"What? The cafeteria furniture at the Academy is made from a titan took down here in Bastion. Why shouldn't I make something useful out of another creature's remains?" Sunny shrugged.

"Fair point. Why am I even surprised?" Nephis chuckled.

"Doesn't matter; we're here now." Sunny commanded the Mimic, and a hidden wall slid open, revealing a room encased in ice.

"What in the world are you keeping in here?" Nephis asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Take a wild guess. You've seen me kill this creature before," Sunny replied.

"You mean the winter beast? The corrupted titan from Antarctica?" she asked incredulously.

"Sort of. These are the most precious parts. The whole thing wouldn't fit in the Mimic, and I could only salvage what hadn't melted in the magma after it died," he explained.

"So, this is what you're using to forge my sword? You wanted a material that could withstand my flames?" Nephis pieced together.

"Exactly! I know how often you need a new sword because the last one couldn't handle your full power. This material? It won't even flinch against magma, making it the perfect base for your sword," Sunny confirmed.

"But where is it?" Nephis asked, scanning the room.

"Oh, the sword? It's right there," Sunny pointed to a icy boulder.

"I'm sorry, but that looks like a rock, not a sword," Nephis replied, puzzled.

"You can't see what's inside it yet. I've been weaving enchantments for months, using supreme soul shards as a foundation. Weaving takes time, and some of the enchantments I plan to include don't even exist yet or are incredibly hard to replicate. The soul-bound enchantment, for example, is tricky because I'm doing it from memory, but it's almost done. The rest will be easier, and I expect to finish the sword in about six months," Sunny explained.

"That's incredible! I wish I could repay you for such a precious weapon. No amount of money could ever match its worth," Nephis said, her eyes shining.

Sunny shrugged, amusement dancing in his voice. "You think I'd do this for anyone else? No, Neph, this sword will help me feel better when we face the Sovereign because your survival means everything to me."

Nephis wrapped her arms around him and kissed him softly. "What have I done to deserve someone like you?"

"I could list all the times you saved my ass if you want," Sunny teased.

Nephis laughed heartily and kissed him again. "As much as I'd love that, I have to return to the Ivory Tower to make some preparations. Effie, Jet, and Kai want to meet you—the Lord of Shadows—in Godgrave next week. They've been sent to offer you a government position."

Sunny burst into laughter. "They want to do what? Why waste their time?"

"It's an order they have to follow, but they know you'll decline. They'll head to Godgrave, meet the Lord of Shadows, wait a few days, and then return," Nephis explained.

"Ah, I see. If Wake of Ruin wants to waste the time of three powerful saints on a vacation in Godgrave, that's not my problem," Sunny replied.

"Actually, make that five saints. Cassie and I are going along to help them navigate to your citadel and assist with the 'negotiations.' We'll meet in Godgrave again," Nephis clarified.

"Make it six. I'm coming with you," Sunny declared.

"How are we going to explain your presence in a death zone?" Nephis asked, raising an eyebrow.

"In the eyes of Clan Valor, there are two reasons why it won't look suspicious," Sunny said with a smirk.

"You mean because we have an official contract with you?" she guessed.

"Exactly! And because there's probably no safer place than on a flying ship guarded by the most formidable cohort in existence—five incredibly powerful saints," Sunny affirmed.

"Alright then, the plan stands," Nephis agreed.

With that, Sunny pulled them into the shadows, and they reappeared at the entrance of the underground maze.

"That's quite the handy ability! What's the range?" Nephis asked, impressed.

"About 30 kilometers with each jump," Sunny replied.

"I wish I had such a skill," she sighed.

"Yeah, Cassie said the same," he chuckled.

As they ascended the stairs, they encountered an unexpected sight: Jet and Kai stood there, bewildered by what they were witnessing.

"Is Nephis wearing Master Sunless's shirt, or am I imagining things?" Kai asked, squinting.

"Aren't you the one with the incredible eyes that can see through illusions?" Jet teased.

"Yes, but I still can't quite believe it, especially since they're coming from the basement," Kai replied, glancing between them.

After a final appraisal of Kai, Jet turned to Sunny. "Oh, pardon our manners! I'm Saint Soulreaper Jet, and this is Saint Nightingale."

Sunny chuckled. "Nice to meet you! I'm Master Sunless, and I'm well aware of who you are, two of the most renowned saints of the government are quite popular here in Bastion."

"Ah, we should have anticipated that much," Jet replied.

"No problem! I haven't seen you in Bastion before. What brings you here, not just to Bastion but to my café?" Sunny inquired, genuinely curious.

Jet and Kai exchanged knowing smirks, their eyes flitting back to the couple standing before them.

"Effie mentioned that Nephis was off visiting her boyfriend at his café, so we thought we'd swing by and meet you. It's hard to wrap our heads around Nephis being in a relationship," Jet said, disbelief lacing her tone.

"Surprise! Here I am, as real as the cake on the table. Care for a slice or perhaps a cup of tea?" Sunny offered, his smile bright.

"We'd love to, but we have to head back to the Ivory Tower," Jet replied, a hint of reluctance in her voice.

Sunny nodded, turning to Nephis. "Alright, I'll fetch your things... oh wait, there's nothing left, is there?"

Jet and Kai exchanged flat looks at Sunny's words.

"Nope, what I'm wearing is all I have, but I promise to return your shirt and shorts soon," Nephis reassured.

"Keep them, you might need them someday," Sunny insisted.

"Thanks, Sunny. I'll be on my way now."

"Take care, and have a lovely evening. See you soon!"

Jet lingered for a moment, wanting to chat with Master Sunless.

"It was a pleasure meeting you, Master Sunless. Effie has shared quite a bit about you, and I must say, she didn't exaggerate."

"I hope it was all good," Sunny replied with a twinkle in his eye.

"Not a single bad word," Jet confirmed.

"I'm glad to hear that. Effie visits often to enjoy my cooking, so I must be doing something right."

"You certainly are. Nephis seems incredibly happy. Mind sharing what you two did all day?"

"Do I mind? Not at all. We enjoyed some quality time together, as couples do," Sunless said with a knowing smile.

"I see. Well, I'll be off then. Bye, Master Sunless."

With that, the three Saints departed, two of them brimming with questions about what they had just witnessed.

Back at the Ivory Tower, Nephis changed into fresh clothes and tucked Sunny's gift into her wardrobe before heading to Cassie's office to meet her friends.

"I swear to the dead gods, Effie, she was wearing his shirt! They definitely had sex!" Jet exclaimed.

"No way! She told me they hadn't even kissed yet, and now she's back in Sunny's shirt?" Effie chimed in.

Nephis felt her cheeks heat up at their gossip but was relieved they didn't have to hide their relationship anymore.

'This evening is going to be exhausting, especially with Effie here,' she thought, opening the door to Cassie's office, which had just been repaired that day. Inside, her four closest friends sat in silence until Effie broke it.

"Neph, explain how you went from 'not even a kiss' to hours of sex in half a day."

"What's there to explain? Sunny and I talked, things escalated, and before we knew it, we were both exhausted in his bed," Nephis said, a hint of pride in her voice.

Everyone turned to Kai, who gulped before confirming, "She's telling the truth."

The room erupted in excitement.

"Finally!"

"How was it?"

"I swear I didn't see anything!" Cassie said, sitting nervously beside the grinning Effie.

"I hope so, because I really don't think it's anyone's business," Nephis added, trying to maintain some privacy.

"Honestly, I checked on you guys every hour, but I didn't see a thing!" Cassie insisted, nodding along.

"Alright, that's good. But I won't discuss it further; I want to respect Sunny's privacy," Nephis declared.

"Oh, don't be like that! At least tell us how it was," Effie pressed, not ready to back down.

"I know better than to argue with you, so I'll just say it was amazing."

"Ahhhhh! She said it! I can't believe my little princess is growing up so fast!" Effie squealed.

"Are we done now?" Nephis asked, exasperated.

"Yes, I'm satisfied with that answer, though I wish I could hear more. But let's switch topics," Effie relented.

Nephis took a seat, and they began planning their upcoming departure in six days, discussing their plans upon arrival in Godgrave.

"You mentioned wanting to spar with the Lord of Shadows once we arrive. Do you really think that's necessary?" Cassie asked.

"Absolutely! He might have impressed you, but I want to see his skills for myself. It's been ages since I fought anyone other than you guys, and I need to blow off some steam," Effie replied, her excitement palpable.

"I feel the same way. Plus, we'll be fighting alongside each other in the future, so sparring will help us build combat efficiency," Jet added.

Kai shot Jet a deadpan look but couldn't help but agree. "Me too. I may not be the best fighter, but I want to see what he can do."

"I expected that from Effie, but you, Kai? When did you become so eager to fight?" Cassie teased.

"I don't know; he made quite an impression on me at the gate. I want to see what he's capable of," Kai admitted.

"Alright, it's settled then! When we arrive in Godgrave, we'll all spar against the Lord of Shadows," Cassie declared.

Everyone turned to the Blind Seer, and for a moment, silence filled the room.

"You too, Cass?" Nephis asked, surprised by Cassie's suggestion.

"Yes, of course! But I think it would be best if we made it a team fight," Cassie proposed.

"What do you mean?" Nephis asked, intrigued.

"I mean we should all team up against the Lord of Shadows," Cassie clarified.

Jet looked taken aback. "You mean all of us against just him? I know you said he's powerful, but isn't that a bit much?"

Cassie began to protest, but Nephis cut in. "Actually, I won't participate. I've already sparred with the Lord of Shadows and seen his style in the Hollows, so I'm familiar with his techniques."

"Okay, but still, one against four? That doesn't sound fair," Jet replied earnestly.

"I wouldn't underestimate him if I were you. He's quite special, but I won't spoil the surprise. Just know you'll need to give it your all to have a chance against him," Nephis warned.

"Are you telling me he's that much of a monster?" Jet asked, wide-eyed.

"Yes," Nephis confirmed.

"Alright, it's settled then. Me, Kai, Effie, and Cassie will fight together against the Lord of Shadows," Jet concluded.

"Good. Now let's change the subject. I plan on bringing Master Sunless with us on this trip," Nephis said.

Silence fell again, but Effie was quick to break it. "Oh, so you want to take your boyfriend along to ensure you get some physical exercise while we're sparring against the Lord of Shadows?"

Nephis felt her cheeks flush again, realizing she had walked into another trap. "No, that's not why! He's our contracted Memory specialist and needs to finish that sword for me, which means he needs to see me fight for real."

"Sure, whatever you say, Neph. I wouldn't hold it against you if you were just being honest. You are in a relationship, after all," Effie teased.

"Right, but if I admit it, you'll just tease me endlessly," Nephis sighed.

"I'll tease you no matter what! You should know that by now," Effie grinned.

With a resigned nod, Nephis accepted her fate, and Effie's smile widened. "Good! That settles it then. We'll depart in six days, and Master Sunless is coming with us. I'm actually excited because that means delicious food for the whole trip!"

"Do you always think about food?" Jet asked, amused.

"Food, family, and friends. Those are the three F's—the most important things in the world," Effie replied with a grin.

They chatted about various topics for hours before parting ways.

Eight days later, atop the Chain Breaker, everyone gathered around the dinner table, savoring a meal prepared by Sunny.

"I have to admit, Master Sunless, your cooking skills are impressive! How did you get so good?" Jet asked, struggling to contain her delight.

"Just years of travel, picking up a few tricks along the way," Sunny replied modestly.

"I always thought the food I had as the lead singer of Night&Gale was good, but no chef could match your talent," Kai complimented.

"Thank you, Saint Kai. I love cooking for others; it brings me joy to see people enjoy my food. That's why I opened my café," Sunny explained.

"Please, just call me Kai. We're no strangers now," Kai insisted.

"Yeah, you really don't need to use our titles. It feels wrong," Jet added.

"Then you should call me Sunny. It's the nickname people use more often," He suggested.

Both Jet and Kai glanced up from their plates and agreed in unison, "Deal!"

After a few moments, Nephis interjected, "We're almost there. We'll reach the border of Godgrave in about 20 minutes."

"Good! The Lord of Shadows agreed to meet us at the border. He instructed us to land on a plateau on the north side of the Hand that juts into the Sword Domain. He cleared the area, so we should be fine," Cassie explained.

"By the way, we still need to discuss how we want to approach our sparring match against him," Effie said, her excitement bubbling over.

"No need! I already asked him, and he agreed to the match," Cassie replied, placing her silverware down with a satisfied smile.

"I never anticipated anything different from that fellow; his self-assurance in his abilities is quite evident. Nephis hinted at it, but his willingness to engage in a sparring match against four other saints speaks volumes."

Nephis dabbed her mouth with a napkin, her tone steady as she replied, "As I mentioned, he's not just a formidable fighter; he's a strategic genius. His swordplay is a work of art, and he knows how to leverage every advantage to emerge victorious."

Effie cast a glance at Nephis before shifting her gaze to Sunny, who was savoring his coffee.

"Prince, don't you think it's a tad disrespectful to discuss the Lord of Shadows like that in front of your partner?"

Nephis felt a slight flush creep up her cheeks just as Sunny interjected.

"It's fine; I'm not envious or anything. In fact, I feel a sense of relief knowing that Neph will have another capable ally in the upcoming war, which eases my worries a bit."

"I'm glad to hear that, Sunny. And just because the Lord of Shadows is a superior fighter doesn't diminish your worth in any way. I should know; my cabin is right next to yours and Neph's. Just a friendly reminder to use protection—last thing we need is another pregnant woman in the midst of a battlefield."

Sunny merely shrugged, maintaining his calm demeanor. "Trust me, I've got that covered."

Meanwhile, Nephis buried her face in her hands, silently wishing Effie would finally cease her chatter.