Carmine Medusa

1

As the sun began to set over the glistening canals of St. Louis, a small boat glided through the calm waters. On board, an Indian man named Rishabhan Gupta sat casually, his Midnight Blue eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. Dressed in a traditional kurta and dhoti, he exuded an air of mystery and elegance. Beside him, an old Italian granny named Giada sat, her silver hair pulled back into a neat bun, and her attire reminiscent of mid-90s grandma fashion featuring a colorful floral blazer. She held an onyx camel brand cigarette between her fingers, the smoke curling lazily into the evening air.

As the boat meandered through the canals, Rishabhan and Giada marveled at the sights around them. The grand basin of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair came into view, its magnificent architecture standing tall and proud. Towers and domes adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors rose against the backdrop of the setting sun. The fairgrounds were a bustling hive of activity, with millions of people from all walks of life eagerly exploring the wonders that lay within.

Rishabhan, his attention momentarily diverted from the architectural marvels, took a bite of his pretzel hot dog. The warm, savory flavors mingled on his tongue, satisfying his hunger. Giada, her eyes twinkling with mischief, turned to him and asked in her distinct Long Island New York accent, "So, you excited to meet our ward?"

Rishabhan paused, his expression thoughtful. With a hint of skepticism in his voice, he replied in his distinct Indian accent, "Giada, my dear, I must admit I have my doubts about the Sunflower Legion and Fountain Inc.'s efforts to create 'The Ultimate Splice' and a supposed 'Crown Jewel Soldier.' No matter how many babies they design or how much they play with genetics, no species they create will ever be perfect, For there is no such thing.

Giada chuckled, her laughter a raspy melody. "Oh have some faith my man, I believe it'll be everything it was advertised to be, you'll see this ward of ours is going gonna be somethin divine. Rishabhan nodded with a sigh, his eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and reservation. He understood Giada’s enthusiasm, but thousands of years’ worth of experiences had taught him to approach such fanciful endeavors with caution.

As the boat continued its journey towards the grand basin, the lights of the fairgrounds began to activate twinkling like stars, beckoning them closer. The boat sailed on through the canals, carrying Rishabhan and Giada towards the educational pavilion, their hearts filled with anticipation and a thirst for the miraculous.

2

INT. EDUCATIONAL PAVILION

Scientists from the Fountain Inc., dressed in white lab coats, stand and carry out their work before a mesmerized crowd of spectators. The educational pavilion was adorned with intricate displays and artifacts from around the world, showcasing the myriad of scientific advancements. At the center of attention was a large incubator, housing a grape purple colored egg with baby blue and yellow speckles roughly 5 times the size of an ostriches. The scientists carefully monitored the vital signs and prepared for the imminent hatch.

DR. Sunlo, An Ecliptix of the magmellian sinkhole and now lead scientist of team Chariot 25 years and counting, steps forward, his voice filled with excitement and pride.

DR. SUNLO

Ladies and gentlemen, Boys and Girls, esteemed colleagues old and New, welcome to this momentous occasion! Today, within this magnificent vessel lies the potential for groundbreaking discovery. Back home in a world unknowable to you fine folks Fountain incorporated has always been at the forefront of scientific exploration and Genetic design, and now with us you'll welcome our greatest creation to your earth!

The crowd stirs with anticipation, their eyes locked on the egg. Suddenly, cracks start forming on the surface, revealing a pulsating purple glow. The scientists exchange glances of amazement.

DR. SUNLO (CONT'D)

Prepare yourselves for this divine marvel. The unveiling of this Panther Parasite who will grace your world for a period of ten fruitful years shall grow into a new world Hercules! A Royal of the stars! The 10th Wonder of your world!

As the cracks widen, the eggshell starts to break apart, revealing a humanoid baby alien bathed in the incandescent purple light. The crowd gasps collectively.

The baby alien's appearance was awe-inspiring, Frightening, and mysterious. Its dazzling carmine red skin glimmering under the ambient lighting, contrasting against the eggshell remnants. Three delicate head tentacles gracefully flow down its back, mesmerizing the observers. Eyes of Neon yellow and dragons blood red fixate on the world with a mix of curiosity and innocence. Two small, black horns adorn its forehead, a testament to its otherworldly nature. Its reptilian skin glistens, reflecting an astonishing range of rainbow iridescent colors similar to that of a Brazilian rainbow boa.

DR. SUNLO (CONT'D)

Behold! This Masterwork of Science! The first panther parasite to embrace both male and female aspects of existence! This child brings forth the convergence of 6 supreme species, The Gorgon of Vunutis, the Soul Starian dwarf, The Dampir of Goldilocks, Draconian of Thuban, fire Djinn of Tartarus, and Faerie of Avalon! The future has manifested in the flesh my friends!

As the hatchling stretched its arms as if reaching out to the crowd, its tentacles swayed, its presence emanates a sense of enchanting wonder, As the scientists continued their observations, the baby began to cry the sounds of its demonic and bone chilling due to its slowed and horrifically deep tonality.

The crowd stood frozen, their faces a mix of alarm, fascination, and fear.

Sensing the growing unease, the scientists stepped forward, their white lab coats contrasting against the vibrant colors of the fair. With calm reassuring voices, they addressed the crowd, assuring them that there was nothing to fear. They explained that the child, in its newborn state, was incapable of causing any harm. The hatchling was merely expressing its needs and emotions in a way unfamiliar to human ears.

3

In a matter of hours Word had spread like wildfire through the fairgrounds that a group of esteemed scientists had successfully hatched an extraordinary creature. Curiosity mingled with trepidation as spectators gathered around a large enclosure, their eyes fixed on the extraordinary sight before them.

Relieved yet still captivated, the spectators continued to observe the hatchling, their eyes locked on its every movement as members of the press snapped their pictures and asked their ceaseless questions. The following day, the scientists were scheduled to hold a lavish press conference and baby shower for the extraordinary child. The event was a grand affair, attended by wealthy guests, high-born nobility, foreign royalty, and even people of middle-class economic standing.

The grand hall was adorned with opulent decorations, reflecting the elegance of the early 1900s. The baby, now dressed in delicate clothing befitting the Edwardian period specially tailored for its unique physique, lay in an Atlantean Red orichalcum crib, surrounded by an array of gifts. Toys, donations of thousands of American dollars, ornate Weapons, Books, marvelous jewelry, furs, pets, precious Gems, sheep, goats, cows, Arabian and Gypsy horses, gold, silver, bottles, diapers, blankets, and homemade canned baby food were presented to the child, each item befitting the era's charm and sophistication.

As the panel of chariot scientists took their places on a raised platform, the audience eagerly awaited their explanations. The air was thick with anticipation as questions poured in from all directions. The scientists, with their vast knowledge and expertise, answered each query with meticulous detail, shedding light on the hatchlings' genetic Blueprint, physiology, and they also conducted group speculation on the possible powers and abilities of the child could manifest in the future.

Throughout the day, the hatchling was lovingly cared for by a small unit of elven nannies and wet nurses. These dedicated individuals, chosen for their nurturing nature and unwavering commitment, attended to the child's every need. They cradled the hatchling, soothing its haunting cries with gentle whispers and tender touches. Meanwhile the press conference continued on as champagne bottles were popped, cake was sliced, fine cigars were passed out, and a banquet of decadent tea sandwiches, wines, coffees, teas, succulent meats, doughnuts, breads, pies, fish, ice creams, burgers, and candies were served to all attendees.

4

As the press conference and baby shower drew to a close, the scientists expressed their gratitude to the spectators for their unwavering support and curiosity. The child, now calm and content, gazed at the crowd with its enigmatic eyes, seemingly aware of the attention it had garnered.

The spectators left the grand hall that day, their minds filled with wonder and awe. Another week would pass and the child would be named “Feza Rosario” in a morning naming event and as was the legion mandate they were also christened for further publicity and societal acceptance points. By the end of that week Feza had become the darling and Fascination of the St. Louis expo but alas team chariots victory lap came to a close and with the goal of creating a budding celebrity profile from scratch accomplished it was high time for Feza to be passed onto her wards Giada and Rishabhan.

The departure period was more difficult than team chariot had anticipated, after all they had spent 7 years back on the egg of Nicole Nestworld locked in fierce competition with other teams who were grossly over funded and had the finest equipment, permits, and connections that Dobra and Blue Blood could purchase and conjure. Dr. Sunlo and his team were underdogs in their battle for scientific prestige and their Longshot victory, although viciously acquired, became the stuff of fairytales.

Feza was passed around and held by all members of the team who designed her and in those quiet tender moments there was an unspoken gratitude for what they had exchanged. Feza went from existing as a perplexing military concept on a lengthy Blueprint proposal to actually becoming a living being with long life and a wealth of guaranteed opportunities ahead. Meanwhile The fortunes, reputations, and academic superstardom of team chariot was ironclad and secured for the rest of their lives and no matter how Feza’s life unfolded their legacy was ensured and would live on age after age until the egg of Nicole at long last flatlined and ceased to be.

5

Sometime after exchanging hands Giada and Rishabhan used the fairy spell glamor to cloak her natural appearance to that of a human infant and took the hatchling aboard a luxurious ocean liner by the name of RMS Scepter and it was on that ship that Feza became more acquainted with the two guardians who'd care for her over the course of the next ten years. Although still a baby, Feza had ample intelligence and was able to communicate with her Guardians through visions and dreams and both guardians would communicate back in that same manner. During the voyage Feza would begin to be taught English, Italian, and Hindi by Giada and Rishabhan along with nest world and legion history. The speed at which Feza was able to learn and comprehend was astounding leaving both of her Guardians in awe.

After three weeks at sea the RMS Scepter arrived in Bombay India and were instantly greeted by British military officers and Sunflower Agents. The greeting from both parties were warm and enthusiastic however the energy of India at that time was superbly sorrowful and in a state of perpetual gloom despite all of the splendor and opulence enjoyed by the British and the Legion. Traveling by Imported Gypsy caravan drawn by a team of Peacock Appaloosa unicorns (Aka Plague Pony's) Feza and her Guardians were given a tour of the city on their way to Dwarka and during this time Rishabhan and Giada couldn't help but be sickened by the things they were witnessing. Bombay was a city of extreme Famine fly covered corpses littered the streets Rotting in the Sun some of which were even being devoured by feral dogs and vultures. The putrid stench of death overwhelmed and overpowered the senses causing Giada to vomit on the caravan floor when Le Rishabhan shed silent tears for the starving civilians reduced to mere skeletons that wandered aimlessly through the city desperate for food.

This iteration of India and this version of earth was not Rishabhan’s. It was darker and far more sinister than the one he knew and loved and in the case of Giada most if not all of her legion career had been spent behind a desk, this was her first official field quest and already the old woman was utterly sick to her stomach and swore to herself that she'd file for early retirement come the end of “Operation Steward”.

6

The journey to the ancient city of Dwarka was long and arduous, spanning several days of harsh traversal. However, when the guardians arrived, they were greeted by a city that was nothing short of breathtaking. The city was a utopia of opulence, serenity, and beauty, where the sounds of birds and bees swelled in lush pleasure gardens and parks enriching the spirits of all those who visited, creating a symphony that enriched the spirit.

The city's 900 royal palaces all inhabited by Dwarkan royalty and a mixed medley of VSC, SL, and specially selected British personnel were crafted from the finest silver and crystal, bedecked with emeralds that sparkled in the light of the sun. The gardens surrounding the palaces were a riot of colors, bursting with blooming lotuses, swans, and cranes. Everywhere they looked, they saw the most beautiful sights they had ever laid eyes on.

Their new home ended up being within one of the royal palaces, where they were greeted with plush surroundings, a lavish decor, and golden bejeweled furniture that was fit for lord Krishna himself. A young British governess by the name of Constance Opris who was ready and waiting to tend to Feza’s every need, and a stockpile of modern supplies were at their disposal for the first year. In the whirlwind of the ensuing weeks, Rishabhan and Giada had their hands full with the newest addition to their patchwork unit. They quickly established a well-planned routine for the young hatchling, which included language classes in Hindi, English, and Italian in the mornings, followed by a much-needed nap for Feza which left Giada and Rishabhan time for relaxation and rejuvenation. When Feza awoke, it was time for lessons on galactic, Nestworld, and legion history, as well as self-maintenance and emotional governance.

Come the afternoons, the trio would venture out to explore the lush parks and gardens of Dwarka, taking in the sights, sounds, and splendorosity of nature. As the sun set the final round of lessons would begin, seeing them delve into the fascinating worlds of art, literature, self-expression, foraging, wilderness survival, and herbalism. But the most magical part of the day was reserved for bedtime, when Rishabhan would serenade Feza and Giada with his soulful melodies on the Bamboo flute, lulling them into a peaceful slumber. Overall, those early days were a busy, yet rewarding time for the unit, as they nurtured Feza’s rapidly developing mind and body.

7

As the years flew by Feza Would see astonishing growth standing 5'9” by the age of 4 and in addition to height they also began manifesting specific gifts, among chameleon’s camouflage, night vision, the ability to breathe fairy dust as a dragon would fire, Superior reflexes, supreme flexibility, the strength of 80 men, and petrification. The unit kept regular correspondence with team chariot and the legions mothership and while there was great satisfaction with Feza’s development they felt more had to be done outside of the educational realm.

Because of this perceived need for a level up Rishabhan and Giada were instructed to provide Feza with baseline physical training, swordsmanship, and horsemanship. Feza's mentors, Rishabhan and Giada were in complete agreement with their superiors and took on the challenging task of preparing her for the future that'd come. They’d work together to formulate an initial training schematic which would provide a proficient baseline for physical training as well as a skill set for swordsmanship and horsemanship. While Rishabhan was an expert in such areas, granny Giada had a very limited knowledge but was determined to help cultivate Feza's warrior spirit, imagination, ambition, machismo, and chivalry instead.

Giada's methods were eccentric, including morning movie marathons, where Feza was treated to an impressive but often assorted lineup of classic films. These included action-packed hits like Bloodsport, Taxi Driver, Buffalo 66, The Kickboxer trilogy, Terminator, John Wick, and Rambo, as well as epic tales like Braveheart, Gladiator, master and commander, and Spartacus. The line-up also featured critically acclaimed movies like The Godfather, The Departed, and Raging Bull, and at times even some lesser-known gems like Pleasantville and Lionheart.

Despite her lack of expertise Giada's unconventional approach proved to be effective in teaching Feza important lessons on what it meant to be a warrior. Feza learned honor, courage, resilience, free thinking, and the importance of pushing oneself beyond perceived limits. All the while as young Feza savored every bite of her butter chicken and Medu Vada, they were positively spellbound by the captivating stories unfolding on Giada's C. L. I. (also known as Chain Link Interface). Without really realizing it, Feza soaked up the valuable lessons, ideals, and confident attitudes portrayed in those films, much to Giada's delight.

Rishabhan on the other hand was busy imparting his own knowledge skills to their ward, teaching them to ride horseback without stirrups or a saddle, horseback archery, fencing, Indian pole wrestling, spiked Gada swinging, Kushti wrestling, Burmese boxing, and also how to wield, repair, and maintain weapons such as the Iberian falcata, sword spear, revolvers, and the Winchester rifle.

8

By the age of eight Feza stood at a towering 6'6”, developed clawed hands, Vampiric fangs, pyrokinesis, and what team chariot would call the “Regalis Sanctum” which was a network of rose golden bones later found to be tougher than the finest Enochian steel and Dwarven Bronze that protected all vital organs and served as a form of internal armor. Development of the Regalis Sanctum was quite a Frightening time for granny Giada, Constance, and Rishabhan who'd witness Feza become plastered to her bed, scream out in agony, vomit continuously, and burn with hellacious fever.

During this time Constance, a meek but kind hearted young woman never left Feza’s bedside and would be right there holding their hands and trying desperately to treat their sickness with a medley of Herbal remedies and Magic potions. However, on one particularly miserable day Feza’s pain was at its absolute worst Constance's presence brought solace as it always had become a big sister figure for Feza in the absence of any biological siblings. As the hours passed, Feza's fever intensified, causing to become delirious and their control over her powers to wane. Rishabhan had always been warned about the dangers of losing control, but in that weakened state, it became increasingly difficult to suppress the abilities. The room temperature would fluctuate between warm and hot leaving Constance sweating profusely and feeling as though she were baking within a sauna.

"Please, I implore you! Run! Flee from me!" Feza managed to cry out, their voice filled with anguish. Tears streamed down their face and they hastily tried to stumble out of bed, their legs weak and unsteady. Constance, alarmed, confused, and consumed by worry and fear, would cling to the giant of a child and try to lay Feza back down, stressing to her that they needed to rest and conserve their strength. Feza frantically trying to break free broke out in uncontrollable sobs as Constance's gaze met hers for what must've been for no more than a second or two when Feza’s mind went blank and their eyes turned a bright glowing emerald green.

Constance's eyes widened in shock as her body began to stiffen, her skin turning a brilliant mix of burnt orange and cinnabar red then suddenly ice cold. Feza's heart pounded in their chest as they watched in sheer horror, unable to comprehend what had just happened. reaching out to touch Constance, hoped for some scrap of a miracle, but their hand was met only by the cold, unyielding surface of stone which reeked of rotting meat, urine, lavender perfume, and sweat with strong undertones of rotting fruit.

Feza's body trembled as they melted to her knees, their monstrous crying and sobbing echoing throughout the room and palace. The weight of guilt and trauma settled upon Feza's young shoulders, crushing the spirit. Up until that point Feza had never witnessed death up close before, and the sight of the beloved governess turned to stone was a haunting image that would be forever tattooed on her memory.

9

Days turned into weeks, and Feza remained confined to her room, haunted by the tragedy she had unintentionally caused. The palace and all of Dwarka became a somber place for Feza, as the palace staff whispered in hushed tones about the “Raakshas” (Hindi word for devil, demon, and giant) dwelling on the upper floors. Feza's guardians, still present but scrambled to smooth with things over with the legion, and collaboratively devising a plan to dispose of the governess’s putrid statue before alliances with the British and people of Dwarka could be negatively impacted and disrupted had little time to attend to and repair the devastation that had befallen Feza. Instead that daunting task was one Feza had to face alone.

Feza's guilt was all-engulfing, and they'd withdraw further into self isolation. refusing to eat, train, bathe, study, or even venture out of their bedroom. Feza's once vibrant spirit dimmed with each passing day. The palace's halls would echo with their cries, as they mourned the loss of Constance and the innocence lost.

10

Rishabhan, Feza, and Giada were facing dark and uncertain times until the arrival of Sunflower agents one stormy afternoon, these agents were clad in dark gray bespoke suits and bowler hats with demeanors that oozed authority and efficiency. Giada and Rishabhan were appreciative of the glimmer of hope that entered their lives that day and found a tremendous sense of relief from the certainty of their unfavorable circumstances finally being resolved. Mr. Clive, a tall and slender Deranged Rainbow Child (species responsible for establishing the VSC and Sunflower legion), introduced himself and offered serenity and a reprieve from the unit's troubles with a gentle touch and a warm smile. He empathized with the pain etched on Feza's face and the stress drowning her stewards pledging to assist in erasing all the negatives compliments of the almighty sunflower.

Clive demonstrated remarkable patience, empathy, and understanding as he guided Feza and her Guardians through the sensitive process of emergency extraction and the removal of the governess from the wine cellar where she had been sealed up. In between sips of milk tea, Clive calmly explained the plan to Feza and Giada, and how they would work together to clear Constance's room while the other agents packed all personal belongings into boxes until the room was empty. Meanwhile, Clive and Rishabhan would handle the delicate task of breaking Constance into as many chunks as they could manage and discreetly disposing of the governess, ensuring that her remains were scattered far and wide across the country, deep within the jungles and into the sea.

Politely and professionally, Clive informed Feza and her Guardians that they would need to pack up their belongings and prepare for immediate extraction the following morning. He explained that Feza's final foundational years would be spent in Rio, Brazil and as a courtesy, the legion had placed an order for a deep arcane purification of their penthouse. Clive assured them all with a cheerful tone that the putrid odors would be eliminated, and the bedroom Constance had been sealed away within would be left completely Sterilized.

Granny Giada, still feeling profound concern for the young girl, politely inquired of Clive how he and his posse intended to handle the matter of informing Constance's family and the British government. With poise, Clive in between sips of hot masala chai responded that Constance Opris was a young woman of 25, and that the land of India beyond the haven city of Dwarka was unraveling at the seams, with civil unrest and rapid societal corrosion on the rise. Clive Encouraged Giada to connect the dots along with him as he conjured up a strategic lie.

Poor young Constance hails from the small quiet town of Grimsby one of 8 daughters in an impoverished working-class family, she finally completed her training and got her invitation to the big dance and thinks that she'd finally won the lottery only to gradually discover that the life of a governess was not quite all she'd dreamed it'd be once upon a time. Unable to handle the stress and rigors of service abruptly fled sometime in the night as her employers slept. Mayhap she got lost out in the unruly wilds of India, possibly even strangled by some colossal Rock Python, eaten by Dwarkan blue Tigers or one of those fearsome Solarisis lions. At the end of the day, it’d be dealer's choice and left all up to her family's imaginative speculation. All they'd really have to go off of would be a collection of fraudulent paperwork and dairy along with a fraction of the girl’s belongings. Clive was very doubtful that the Opris family possessed the time, connections, or resources to formulate a search party and go gallivanting All over India to find just one of several daughters. Even if by some holy miracle they managed to procure all three of those prerequisites either way they'd still be unable to prove or disprove anything, so there was truly no cause for concern or worry.

This lie didn't exactly bode well with Giada nor did it ease her mind but she and Rishabhan both agreed that it'd be better for the Opris family to never know the truth of what actually happened to Constance and they'd agree that this awol narrative would be the best protective measure for shielding the legions interests and safeguarding their alliances and by extension their own ongoing careers. Clive would then turn his attention to Feza and would gently tell the child that accidents happen and that overtime healing and self-forgiveness were a possibility. Clive would beseech Feza to embrace the powers and gifts that they'd been developing, to work on bettering control, and to use them to enrich themselves, preserve Nestworld, and to bring further glory to the legion.

11

Sometime after extraction, yet another ocean liner would carry the unit across the globe towards what any travel brochure would deem paradise regrettably Feza wouldn't come to see it that way. Thanks to the glamour spell Feza spent the whole voyage wearing the flesh of a small eight-year-old Indian boy however on the inside they carried a guilt, regret, and sorrow so heavy and sickening most adults could never shoulder. Giada and Rishabhan did their best to Re-motivate Feza and convince them that they were all going to Rio for a fresh start and that the past was long behind them now, but Feza still distraught and in some ways still numb just couldn't mentally or emotionally compute the concept of new beginnings or Constance's petrification being all in the rearview after a mere few weeks.

As the grand ocean liner slowly approached the bustling port of Rio, Giada, Rishabhan, and Feza stood at the ship's railing dressed to the nines in gouache Edwardian fashions, eagerly awaited their arrival. As the ship docked, the rhythmic beats of samba music filled their ears, making it nearly impossible to resist the urge to sway to the infectious rhythm and bask in the vibrant atmosphere. As The passengers began to disembark Giada, Rishabhan, and Feza merged with the crowd, a thousand varied thoughts racing through their minds as they stepped onto Brazilian soil for the first time.

Rio de Janeiro in 1913 was a splendorous sight to behold. The streets were alive with a colorful mix of people from all walks of life. The architecture showcased a blend of European influences, with grand buildings adorned with intricate details. The cobblestone streets were lined with bustling markets, where vendors sold exotic fruits, vibrant textiles, and various baubles. As Giada, Rishabhan, and Feza waded through the crowded streets, they couldn't help but be captivated by the potent energy and virility of the city.

12

Amidst the bustling crowd, they finally arrived at their destination, Boitata, a charming hotel and Cigar lounge nestled in the heart of Rio. The Boitata, with its whitewashed walls and vibrant turquoise accents, exuded a welcoming charm. The heavenly scent of cigar smoke wafted through the air, enticing the weary travelers. Inside the hotel was adorned with traditional Brazilian artwork, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the country. The walls were adorned with gorgeous paintings depicting scenes of nature, while the furniture made from Brazilian olive wood boasted intricate carvings and plush upholstery.

As Giada, Rishabhan, and Feza checked in and settled into their presidential suite. The magic of Rio de Janeiro had already begun to weave its magic around them bringing forth feelings of stability and general relief. Over the following months the Regalis Sanctum had fully developed and Feza’s illness would finally dissipate, because of that joyous revelation the trio was able to fully immerse themselves in the Brazilian culture. They eased up on Feza's training and Studies a bit and slowly acclimated the child to the country by exploring iconic landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, they'd marvel at the breathtaking views from Sugarloaf Mountain, and each weekend visited a different restaurant and indulged in the flavors of traditional Brazilian cuisines.

Each evening, as they returned to Boitata, the sound of traditional Brazilian music filled the air once again. The inn's courtyard transformed into a lively gathering place, where locals and travelers alike danced and celebrated the simple joys of life and community. Giada, Rishabhan, and at times socialized and Feza joined in the festivities and it was during those times that Feza became infatuated with the scent of a particular brand of cigar, the cream white Dwarven import known as Apep Nebula and it's pastel yellow sibling Apep Talisman. Nebula with its vanilla wafer / mandarin orange fragrance and Talisman with its intoxicating Spiced Maple and Chocolate fragrances. The scents of these cigars were so soothing and cozy that the child would beg and throw tantrums day in and day out until her guardians purchased boxes for them to enjoy. Had Feza been human pit stopping in a more modern earthly time period Giada and Rishabhan would not have never allowed nor condoned such an act but due to what Feza was and the era they were in neither guardian saw much of an issue with letting the child smoke as it was a common occurrence.

Feza from the time she took her first smoke was hooked and from that point on spent the beginning and end of each day leisurely smoking down 7-inch Apep nebula Lanceros and Apep Panatela Cigars. The Apeps brought Feza so much pleasure and the act of smoking them down made them feel so good that gradually their mood and mental health drastically improved. Due to the improvements Feza’s Guardians observed they felt more comfortable with resuming studies and training and when they were sure that the fragile phase of recovery was past them, they'd even introduce Portuguese and BJJ to the curriculum.

13

By 1914 Feza's time in Rio was up; they had reached the ripe old age of ten and Operation Steward had been logged as a success. By the time of Feza’s birthday all the world was at war (WW1) and although Brazil still maintained its neutrality nobody really knew how long peace would be upheld there and with that uncertainty living rent free in everyone's minds Rio quickly became blanketed with an aura of unease.

Feza's birthday turned out to be a highly anticipated local event due to the legions promotional campaign which sold Feza as Vipul Choudhary 13th nephew of the 77th Dwarkan Sultan Kabir Choudhary. Legion organizers had left no stone unturned in ensuring that every detail was perfect. The invitations were sent out in advance to chosen legion and VSC personnel stationed in the city and open invitations were also extended to the 220 guests residing at The Boitata.

As the guests arrived, they were greeted with a festive atmosphere, filled with the sounds of samba / traditional Indian music, laughter, and lively conversation, everyone seemingly lost in the joy of the moment. On this day Feza looked nothing less than a maharaja wearing an ancient rose golden Indian crown, a coral pink Jodhpuri Suit, Suede loafers, and was absolutely dripping in colorful Cartier jewelry, Melo Pearls, and Nagamani king cobra pearls. Friends Feza had made during the stay and close colleagues of her Guardians surrounded them, toasting their health and happiness. The food was delicious, with a range of Brazilian and Indian delicacies to suit every palate.

The hotel's courtyard was adorned with colorful balloons, streamers, and legion banners with a gorgeous array of Brazilian flowers on display (Victoria Amazonicas, Plume Flowers, Rock Roses, and Passion flowers.) their sweet fragrances filling the air. The decor was tastefully done, reflecting elegance and charm. All around faces beamed with happiness. Tables were adorned with delicate lace tablecloths, and Feza enjoyed refill after refill of refreshing Brazilian lemonade.

The centerpiece of the celebration was a magnificent coffee cheesecake, adorned with cappuccino frosting. The cake was a true masterwork, enticing the guests with its exotic aromas and flavor.

Amidst the festivities, Feza's Guardians presented her with a series of extraordinary gifts. First, a luxurious cigar humidor made from Brazilian ebony, five long boxes of Feza's favorite cigars, a playful giant schnauzer puppy, whose mischievous eyes mirrored Feza's own spirit. A bamboo flute handmade by Rishabhan, a gift that would allow Feza to explore and nurture musical talent as they grew. Three unisex Edwardian suits presented by Giada, each paired with dress boots made of gator skin, rock python skin, and anaconda skin. From the legions high roller Society A rose gold Francois Leer Watch, with a chocolate brown dial adorned with champagne diamonds. Feza's eyes widened in awe as she delicately held the timepiece,f eeling a sense of wonder.

But the surprises didn't end there. Feza's Guardians presented her with a remarkably ornate Iberian Grand falcata, a sword with a size befitting a giant of 7-8 feet, named "Malum”. Many of the civilian guests were more than a bit confused by such a gift but all suspicion and awkward questioning was waved away by explaining that the sword would be brought home by Vipul and was merely an eccentric addition to Sultan Kabir's Collection back in Dwarka.

Lastly, Feza was secretly given the deeds for two special war mounts, a soul Starian unicorn and a Diablocerotops both fine steeds bred for strength, endurance, and high adventure. The gifts were a testament to the Guardians' belief in Feza's destiny.

14

As the sun began to set, guests gave thanks and departed, as a warm golden glow befell the courtyard, Feza and her Guardians took a moment to relax. The wind gently blew, swaying the tablecloths, creating a serene ambiance. Feza, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about the next chapter of life, turned to her Guardians.

"What will you do now? Where will the both of you go?" she asked, Feza's voice filled with uncertainty.

Rishabhan, always honest, replied, "I don't know, my dear. I plan to stay in Rio for at least another half year until I can figure that out or until I'm commanded to journey elsewhere."

Granny Giada, her eyes soft and kind, chimed in, "As for me toots, I think I'm ready to cash in my chips and find myself someplace warm and boring to retire. Before Operation Steward a colleague of mine convinced me to give field work a try at least once and when I applied my bosses swore up and down that this would be an easy little field exercise…turned out to be everything but. Now that we're at the curtain call, I realize that old broads like me are better off riding into the sunset while the going's good."

Feza's heart sank, fearing the unknown that lay ahead. But Granny Giada, hugging the child and taking their hands in hers, reassured her, "Darling, you have so much to look forward to, so much to be excited for. The whole universe will be expanding for you soon."

Rishabhan, moved by Feza's vulnerability, also embraced the child tightly. "No matter how fate may twist, my dear, be Brave, resilient, self-assured, efficient, sensible, resourceful, and savvy. If you can do all those things, everything else will surely take care of itself."

15

As the evening breeze whispered through the courtyard, Feza felt a sense of comfort, the world was vast and full of possibilities, and they were ready to embark on the journey, armed with a strong foundation, a strong grasp of the fundamentals, and all the tools provided by her Guardians who'd Feza would always hold in the highest esteem.

As the sun painted the sky with golden orange hues and the rose moon took its place in the night sky, by that time Feza’s Guardians were busy getting their dear ward ready for bed as the child smoked on a fresh nebula, ivory ashtray situated in their lap as Rishabhan tucked them in. Dressed in a pair of bubblegum pink lotus silk pajamas, Feza listened intently as Granny Giada regaled them with the timeless tales from Brothers Grimm. Eventually the end of the story-time would reach an end and Rishabhan then ashed Feza's cigar and took over and serenading the groggy child to sleep with his enchanted Bamboo flute. As the guardians settled in for the night, a sudden bright light shone through Feza's open window, and in a flash, they disappeared, leaving behind an empty nest and a bittersweet conclusion for Rishabhan and Giada to ponder on come the dawn.

TO BE CONTINUED….

THE END

E-mail: Moon Pie

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