Me and Rythmeus continued to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the tub for a few more minutes. Despite Rythmeus’s playful flirtation and teasing, it didn’t bother me at all. In fact, it added to the lightheartedness of the moment. Rythmeus was an extraordinary god to be around, and I appreciated his presence.
Rythmeus: So, how do you feel now?
Me: I feel really good. This bath was exactly what I needed.
Rythmeus: Of course, you deserved it. After facing the Black King and coming so close to death, you definitely needed some relaxation.
Would you like a massage or anything else before we finish?
Me: I think I’m fine. We’ve spent a good amount of time in the tub. Let’s get going.
Rythmeus swiftly grabbed me with “his” tentacles, effortlessly lifting me out of the tub and gently placing me on the floor. I hadn’t expected Rythmeus to act so swiftly, but it didn’t bother me in the slightest. It was an intriguing experience to be effortlessly lifted and placed down as if I weighed nothing.
After a few moments, Rythmeus also exited the tub and stood next to me.
Several minutes passed, and now I was fully dried and dressed. I felt refreshed and invigorated.
Rythmeus: Alright, let’s leave the bathroom for now. We’ll meet up with Liran later.
Follow me.
Rythmeus proceeded towards the door, opening it and stepping out into the hallway. I followed suit, leaving the bathroom behind. We now found ourselves standing in the hallway of Rythmeus’s palace.
Rythmeus: Alright.
Rythmeus closed the door to the bathroom and turned towards me.
Rythmeus: So, you’re looking for powerful gloves? I can create something quite remarkable for you.
Me: Really? Show me.
Rythmeus snapped “his” fingers, and suddenly, a brilliant flash of light engulfed the area. As the light dissipated, I saw two gloves hovering in the air. They slowly descended towards me, and I eagerly reached out to take hold of them. The gloves had a striking black color, which intrigued me.
Me: What do these gloves do?
Rythmeus: These gloves are designed to empower you in dealing with more formidable gods. As one of the more powerful gods who managed to reach the palace of the Black King, I have the ability to create exceedingly potent weapons that can easily overcome lesser deities. However, use them wisely and tactfully.
Me: I see. Thank you, Rythmeus.
Rythmeus: You’re welcome. Shall we go and find Liran now?
Me: Absolutely, let’s do that.
LIRAN’S POV:
I finished my bath and took the time to dry myself off with a towel before getting dressed. Once I was ready, I left the bathroom and closed the door behind me. As I stood in the hallway, I
noticed Rythmeus and Derek approaching me. To my surprise, Derek was holding two black gloves in his hands.
Me: My, my, it seems you managed to find those gloves, hm?
Derek: Yes, Rythmeus created them for me. I’m grateful to have them.
Me: Good. Now, let’s go somewhere.
Rythmeus: Perhaps you’d like to go to the kitchen? I can prepare something for you to eat.
Me: I’m okay, Rythmeus. You can cook something for Derek if you’d like.
But regardless, Derek now has a weapon to protect himself with. Actually, let’s head to the kitchen.
Rythmeus: Heh, alright. Follow me.
Rythmeus led the way as we made our way towards the kitchen. After a few minutes, we arrived, greeted by the sight of a large dining table nearby.
Rythmeus: Do me a favor and have a seat in those chairs by the dining table, okay?
Me: Alright.
Derek and I approached the chairs near the table and took a seat as instructed.
We were seated adjacent to the table, which happened to be quite sizable. It was amusing to contemplate that one could conceivably slumber upon it if so inclined. Truly, such a notion struck me as rather comical.
Derek: Considering the fact that I possess these gloves…
Now, what course of action shall we pursue?
Me: Hm… We ought to return to the aforementioned base and confront these deities once more. We must ascertain the true nature of their activities and the harm they inflict upon these innocent individuals.
Derek: I comprehend. You previously informed me that they sacrifice these people as a means to contend with other formidable entities, correct?
Me: Indeed, you are correct.
Derek: Actually, what if we were to offer our assistance to this organization instead? Rather than allowing them to continue sacrificing more and more individuals, we could lend them a helping hand instead.
Me: Hm… I have contemplated this possibility, and it does appear to be a rather commendable idea. Let us first visit the location and evaluate the situation. What are your thoughts on this?
Derek: Certainly, I am amenable to that proposal.
After a brief interval, Rythmeus approached us, carrying plates in his hands.
Rythmeus: I have brought sustenance for your enjoyment. Please partake.
Rythmeus then placed the plates on the table. The food presented was remarkably delectable and emitted a delightful aroma.
I observed several plates containing steak, fries, mashed potatoes, and other delectable items.
Derek: Wow…
Rythmeus: Please, do indulge yourself by sampling that succulent steak~
Derek gingerly moved the plate with the steak closer to himself. As he took a bite, his eyes widened in astonishment, savoring the flavors as he continued to chew.
Derek: !...
Rythmeus: So, how does it taste?
After Derek finished chewing and swallowing the portion of the steak he had bitten into a few seconds ago, he responded:
Derek: This is extraordinary… astonishing…
Rythmeus: I am delighted that you found it enjoyable. Please continue eating.
Me (thoughts): Hmm… I should savor a bite of that steak as well.
I brought the plate with the steak closer to me and, after picking up a slice and taking a bite, I was taken aback. It was the most exquisite steak I had ever tasted. The cooking was executed flawlessly, resulting in a succulent and juicy piece of meat. The flavors gracefully melted on my palate.
I continued to indulge in the meal, and the steak’s delectable qualities only served to intensify my hunger. As I chewed and savored each morsel, I eventually finished consuming it.
Me: Wow…
Rythmeus: Heh, I had a feeling you would appreciate it… It is delightful, isn’t it?
Me: Indeed, you are a remarkable chef… I thoroughly enjoy it.
Rythmeus: Well then, savor the food for now. Afterward, we can discuss the matters you wish to address. Is that agreeable?
Me: Yes.
We proceeded to relish our meal, engrossed in the flavors and aromas.
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