Chapter 3: Ramiris Labyrinth
Beerus entered Ramiris' labyrinth with a calm demeanor, already prepared to get the eccentric Queen of the Fairies on his side. Raphael had helped him recreate cookies from his memories on Earth, knowing they would serve as the perfect bribe. The plan was simple: befriend Ramiris, earn her trust, and stay in the labyrinth long enough to learn as much magic as possible while forming a contract with a high-level spirit.
As he stepped deeper into the labyrinth, a booming voice echoed through the walls:"Who dares enter my labyrinth? You shall meet your demise unless you can subdue my subordinate!"
Before Beerus could respond, a massive golem appeared, towering over him and radiating an impressive magical presence. Without even flinching, Beerus flicked his wrist, sending a shockwave that shattered the golem into countless pieces.
Seconds later, Ramiris herself flew into view, her tiny frame trembling with anger. "Why did you destroy my golem?! Do you have any idea how long it took to make that?! Now I'll have to start all over!"Beerus stared at her, utterly dumbfounded. "You told me to subdue it. How was I supposed to know you didn't mean destroy it? But don't worry—I'll make it up to you."
Before she could throw another tantrum, Beerus pulled out the cookies he'd prepared. The sweet aroma filled the air, and Ramiris' mood instantly shifted. Her eyes lit up, and she snatched the cookies from his hand. "Ooooh, what are these?!" she squealed, taking a bite. Her expression melted into pure bliss. "Delicious! I guess I can forgive you… this time."
With the situation defused, Beerus followed Ramiris deeper into the labyrinth. As they walked, she asked, "So, what's your deal? Why are you here?"Beerus had already prepared a convincing story. "My village was attacked, and… well, I lost everything. I don't have anyone left. But I heard about the great Ramiris and how powerful and wise you are. I thought maybe you could help me."
Ramiris puffed out her chest, her tiny form brimming with pride. "Hehe! Of course! You came to the right place! Recognizing my greatness is the first smart thing you've done."
He smirked inwardly but kept his tone humble. "I'd like to learn magic, form a contract with a spirit, and stay here for a while. But please, don't tell anyone about me. I'm afraid they might come after me."Ramiris squinted at him, a little suspicious of his request, but eventually shrugged. "Fine, fine. You seem harmless enough, and you gave me cookies. But no funny business!"
She led him to a chamber filled with swirling lights and elemental energy. "This is where you can call upon the spirits," she said. "Just walk up to the altar and pray—or ask them nicely—to help you."
Beerus nodded and stepped forward. He and Raphael had already made a plan: they would attempt to capture as many spirits as possible and analyze their abilities. He placed his hands together and began his "prayer," though it was more of a performance than anything heartfelt.Moments later, the entire chamber began to shake. The swirling lights dimmed, and a suffocating pressure filled the air. Ramiris' playful demeanor vanished, replaced by fear. "What… what's happening?!"
A massive spirit materialized before them, its form cloaked in a dark, swirling aura that radiated destruction, death, fear, and domination. The other spirits scattered in terror, fleeing the room as quickly as they had appeared. Even Ramiris backed away, trembling. "I've never seen a spirit like this before!" she whispered.Beerus, however, remained unfazed. He stared at the entity with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Well, this is unexpected," he said, his voice calm despite the oppressive aura.
Raphael chimed in:
Beerus smirked. "A spirit of destruction, huh? This must be fate. Let's see what it's made of."Without hesitation, he extended his hand toward the spirit, ready to claim it as his own.The spirit's overwhelming aura filled the chamber, shaking the very foundation of the labyrinth. Ramiris clutched her head, screaming, unable to comprehend the sheer pressure of its presence. Meanwhile, Beerus stood his ground, his gaze unwavering. Despite feeling the faint effects of the oppressive energy, he refused to flinch.He extended his arm, speaking with a calm yet commanding tone. "You who embody Death, Destruction, Fear, End, and Nothingness—join me. Become one with me. Let me elevate your power to heights you've never dreamed of. Together, your existence will gain meaning beyond its limits. I will take you to realms you cannot fathom."
The spirit paused, its dark form swirling with flickers of light, as though contemplating his offer. Then, with a low growl that turned into a reverent whisper, it grinned and approached him. It knelt before Beerus, lowering its massive head.
"My lord, it would be an honor to serve you," it said, its voice resonating with primal power.Beerus smirked, his golden eyes gleaming. "Good choice."
The spirit transformed into particles of light, surging toward Beerus and merging with his body. The moment the spirit's energy fused with him, a wave of incredible power coursed through his body. His aura flared uncontrollably, shaking the labyrinth and sending shockwaves throughout the area.
"Master!" Raphael's voice echoed urgently in his mind.
As the energy settled, notifications flooded Beerus' mind:
The process lasted only a minute, but in that short time, Beerus felt his very essence evolve. He stood taller, his aura more refined yet dense with authority. His power had reached a new peak, though he knew this was only the beginning.Raphael's voice came again, this time with a measured tone.
Beerus grinned. "Good. Let him keep his little safeguards. I'll get them all eventually."
Before Beerus could revel further in his new power, Ramiris ran toward him, her face pale with shock. "WHAT WAS THAT?! WHO ARE YOU?! Are you trying to destroy the world?!"Beerus placed a hand on her tiny shoulder, silencing her with a calm yet firm tone. "Relax. I'll explain everything later. For now, just know that I'm not your enemy."
Though still shaken, Ramiris nodded reluctantly.Beerus stayed with Ramiris for several weeks, learning everything he could about magic and spirits. During this time, he also began strategizing his future plans to conquer the forest and rise as a Demon Lord. However, one day, the calm was shattered by a sudden surge of energy in the distance, followed by a notification from the Voice of the World:
At the same moment, Ramiris received a communication from Guy Crimson, informing her of Milim's transformation. Without saying a word, she vanished in a panic, leaving Beerus alone.Raphael, as always, provided an explanation.
Beerus stroked his chin thoughtfully. "So, a fight between a Demon Lord and an ascended one? Interesting. I might be able to learn a thing or two from them—and maybe 'borrow' some of their skills while I'm at it."
Raphael responded promptly: Beerus grinned, his excitement palpable. "Perfect. Let's see what these so-called Demon Lords are capable of."