Chapter 38: Chapter 38 - Loyalty of Eclipse
"It seems you've had quite an adventure, I'd be delighted to hear more about your experiences. Why don't we delve into them further within the Twilight Sanctum? But before that, let's unite our efforts and conquer this Dungeon together." Bong addressed Eclipse, his words laced with curiosity and genuine interest.
"Shall we embrace this shared journey through the shadows? Together, we shall navigate the challenges that lie ahead, emerging triumphant in our wake, " Bong extended his finger toward the Dungeon's entrance, his eyes holding a glint of anticipation.
"Master, please forgive my intrusion, but if I may seek clarification: when you mention clearing it, are you implying a joint effort on our part, working together?" Eclipse respectfully inquired, a flicker of anticipation danced in his eyes, awaiting his master's guidance.
"Eh? Yes, who else is besides you here?" Bong's voice carried a playful yet rhetorical tone, as if highlighting the obviousness of the situation.
"Master, there's no need for concern. I stand as the pinnacle of power on this land. I've trained relentlessly in the past week, surpassing any challenge that dared to cross my path. None can rival me now. Even Seraphina pales in comparison to my newfound strength," Eclipse proclaimed with a touch of arrogance, his confidence brimming and his voice tinged with overbearing self-assurance.
"Yes. This is my opportunity, Seraphina has been the focus of attention throughout the journey, narrating her experiences with Master. Now, it's my turn - my precious moment to connect with Master." Eclipse's inner thoughts whispered, a mix of excitement and sentimentality.
In the depths of his thoughts, Eclipse pondered the words Seraphina had once spoken. While she had been the first to meet the master, Eclipse recognized that his own position held unique power. As the master of the shadow army, he felt a surge of confidence. While Seraphina attended to the villagers and maintained her facade, he saw an opportunity to solidify his position and assert his influence.
"Someone must be talking about me behind my back," Seraphina remarked with a playful tone, punctuating her statement with a sneeze.
As they ventured deeper into the heart of the Dungeon, Bong initiated a conversation with Eclipse.
"You're aware that this Dungeon marks the very spot where our paths first crossed, where I had the chance to save you. And now, here you stand, transformed into a Vampire. Eclipse, I must ask: Do you hold any resentment towards me for this?" Bong's question was directed at Eclipse, his words a mix of earnest curiosity and consideration.
"Master, you're right. This dungeon is where we first met, where you saved me. Before that, my life felt empty. I tried to fit in with my family, but they rejected me. You changed that. You saw something in me no one else did. You gave me purpose, made me who I am. I don't resent you for it. This world's cursed by human pride, power, and nobility. We'll break their pride, just like you said. It's even more satisfying than breaking bones." Eclipse's words were filled with sincerity and determination, a testament to his loyalty to his master's cause.
The weight of his emotions hung in the air, a testament to his commitment to their shared cause and his unbreakable bond with his Master.
Bong turned his head, a warm smile gracing his lips as he gazed at Eclipse, a sense of contentment filling him.
"Eclipse, I'm truly proud and genuinely happy. It's an honor to have found such a worthy companion in you. We're united by a common purpose, and together, we'll strive to achieve it," Bong expressed, his voice reflecting a deep sense of satisfaction and camaraderie.
As they ventured deeper into the Dungeon, their conversation flowed smoothly, sharing their thoughts and feelings. Unbeknownst to Eclipse, Bong skillfully used his powers to defeat the monsters. With a simple gesture, he commanded shadows summon to eliminate the threats before Eclipse even realized.
With the proficiency that came from mastery, Bong's command over his skills had evolved. No longer needing to physically bite the monsters, he channeled his power to draw their blood, compelling it to flow into his mouth as effortlessly as a river obeying its course. The once-challenging act had become an elegant display of control, a testament to his growth and understanding of his abilities.
As Eclipse witnessed the intricate dance of blood, he came to a realization that his master had been single-handedly dispatching all the monsters in the vicinity while they conversed. He felt a deep sense of shame and embarrassment for not contributing to the effort, for being oblivious to his master's actions.
In response to his newfound understanding, Eclipse halted in his tracks during their journey alongside Bong. His voice trembled with remorse and humility as he addressed his master.
"Master, I am utterly ashamed and at a loss for words. I deserve punishment for my negligence. While we spoke, you were skillfully defeating every monster without my awareness. I failed to contribute, failing you and our mission," Eclipse spoke with genuine contrition, his words laden with a sense of humility and regret as he knelt before Bong.
Bong's sudden teleportation placed him right in front of Eclipse, his touch lifting Eclipse's chin gently, guiding his gaze to meet his own. A faint smile graced Bong's lips as he spoke, his tone reassuring.
"If you recognize your own weakness, then use it as motivation to become stronger. Spare me the sight of such a pitiful expression and excuses next time. I won't tolerate seeing you travel without a care while your master handles all the effort," Bong's words continued, his tone taking on an eerie edge, a subtle reminder of his expectations and the consequences of negligence.
Eclipse lowered his gaze, his demeanor a mix of determination and humility. He understood the weight of his master's words and the expectations placed upon him.
Eclipse recognized Bong's actions as a test, a trial to assess his own power. It was a lesson in not succumbing to overconfidence, a reminder that the army he had assembled and the power he wielded were granted by his master. A sudden memory surfaced, Seraphina's words echoing in his mind. She had cautioned him against hubris, reminding him that his power was bestowed by Master, and its continuation depended on his worthiness.
"Master, I come before you seeking your forgiveness this once. I now grasp the concealed intention behind your actions. I had momentarily forgotten your role as my master," Eclipse humbly admitted, his voice carrying a tone of contrition and respect.
"I shall not tolerate a repetition of this lapse, Eclipse. Despite your unwavering loyalty as my companion, I have no room for such incompetence within my command," Bong stated firmly, his tone unyielding and resolute, making his expectations abundantly clear.
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