Arriving at the capital late at night had a surprising impact on Marysville. It reminded her of the cityscapes from her previous world—filled with towering buildings and radiant lights. But here, the capital's architecture was a blend of grandeur and elegance: tall structures resembling palaces, restaurants that looked exclusive yet welcomed commoners, and the glowing charm of a world both foreign and familiar.
From the backseat of the car, Marysville couldn't help but stare in awe. The LED screens played commercials and music videos, flashing brilliant colors across the streets. It felt like stars had descended to Earth, shimmering in neon hues. The entire city seemed alive.
"Marysville," Luis's voice pulled her from her daze.
She turned to him, and followed the direction of his finger as he pointed outside the car window.
Her eyes widened.
In the sky above, six massive spherical stages floated midair, connected by spiral staircases bathed in white and purple light. The edges of the stages pulsed with shifting symbols and glowing words, blooming open and closed like mechanical flowers. It was dazzling—mesmerizing.
It's even more beautiful in real life than it was in the game. Amazed Marysville.
Luis, watching her expression, chuckled quietly to himself. He leaned against the car window, hiding the smile tugging at his lips.
So even she can look like that.
Beside him, Martinez noticed and gave a soft laugh. "Hehe..."
After a while, the car left the glowing skyline behind, replaced by the calm serenity of a forest road. Marysville glanced back through the rear window, watching the gates of the city close behind them.
Suddenly, light flooded in from the front.
A garden unfolded before her eyes—filled with vibrant flowers and towering trees surrounding a round marble table. The car turned, and just ahead stood a grand mansion, glittering under the soft glow of night lights. It looked as though the stars themselves were wrapped around it.
Marysville's eyes lit up again, and she leaned closer to the window. It'sbeautiful…
Reo stepped out first and opened her door, offering a hand. She took it without hesitation, stepping out with wonder still in her eyes.
Luis raised an eyebrow and sighed. "Okay, I know the mountain house wasn't this big, but seriously—you look like a totally different person right now. This is lowkey scary."
Marysville didn't respond. She was too busy admiring the view to hear him at all.
The mansion doors opened, revealing rows of maids lined up on both sides. They bowed in perfect unison.
"Welcome home, young masters, and young lady."
Just then, a young man approached her. His resemblance to Martinez was uncanny.
He stopped in front of her, gently taking her hand and placing a polite kiss on it. "Welcome to the Grace residence, my dearest little sister," he said with a charming smile.
Marysville blinked. Wait… who is this again?
He looked just like Martinez… but different. A mole on the left side of his lips. Oh no—what was his name?
Thankfully, Luis saved her.
"Lucio… It's been a while. How's training at the World Government's main base?"
Lucio. Right. Marysville's eyes flickered with recognition.
According to the game lore, Lucio had been scouted during his coming-of-age ceremony. He followed the path of Zilch, god of creation, and was the only Grace sibling chosen by the World Government. Later, he even became a playable character.
"Things have been going well," Lucio replied with a warm smile. "Perhaps you should visit sometime, elder brother."
Luis gave a half-laugh. "Drop the formal tone when it's just us. It's weird."
Marysville, quietly listening, glanced at Luis, a small hope blooming in her chest.
Iwant to go too…
Lucio noticed her expression and smiled kindly.
"Of course, Marysville is invited as well," he said gently, brushing her hair with a light touch. "I'll speak to my commander tomorrow—request an extra day off so I can attend your birthday celebration. Maybe you'll come with me then?"
How gentle… Marysville returned his smile, playing the role of the sweet younger sister.
After that, Lucio guided her through the mansion, finally stopping at her new room.
"We've arrived." He opened the door, revealing a spacious, elegantly designed room glowing with soft golden lights.
Marysville's eyes widened once more. Finally… rest.
"Thank you for leading me, brother."
"There's no need for thanks," Lucio replied with a smile. "This is your home now. Rest well, little sister." He gave her a small wave and walked away.
Marysville stood quietly for a moment, watching his back as he disappeared down the hall.
Then she turned, threw herself onto the bed, and melted into the covers with a content sigh. The fatigue of travel finally caught up to her. Too tired to change clothes, she closed her eyes and let sleep take her.
---
In the stillness of midnight, a figure slipped silently into her room.
A man.
His silhouette stretched across the floor, tall and quiet. He approached the sleeping girl, her breaths soft and steady.
He reached out, his long, veined fingers gently brushing against the faint bruise on her cheek. His touch was almost reverent.
Then, with a slow motion, he covered her eyes and whispered:
"Welcome back, my deity. Your return is a most profound honor. We are grateful for your presence once more."