ã€ŠAn Isekai&#x27;s Repudiation &amp; Salvationã€‹


 Caesar Dreams

    ¡°Hosanna, Caesar, hosanna¡­¡±

    A woman with scars, like a jagged series of rivers running down the right side of her face, gazed into Caesar. Prismatic armor gleaming a dissonant rainbow of color in its shattered refractions adorned her body. Floating above the palm of her left hand was a violet orb that appeared to contain endlessly twisting and rotating rings ¡ª as though they were each trying to stretch out into a whole sphere.

    ¡°A man will appear before you. He is both savior and destroyer. You must help him, Caesar. There will be so much more pain if you do not. Please, for the sake of a better future, help him become the hero he is meant to be.¡±

    Caesar awoke. He immediately conjured the Colorless Prism of Life above his left hand. An unseen wind swept across the room, simultaneously touching everything and yet leaving every object in the room undisturbed. His bed chamber became apparently illuminated ¡ª abstract paintings adorning the marble walls danced with an array of color and movement. The room was engulfed in mana.

    Caesar concentrated, and the cube seemed to draw into itself on one end while bulging out in the other, as though there were multiple cubes stacked into each other and struggling to emerge.

    Had that woman really held the lost Purple Prism?

    Caesar thought back to the dream. The damaged armor she wore definitely resembled the standardized armor of the Prismatic Knights. Perhaps it had been a special order? But the Empress hadn¡¯t commissioned or trained anyone like that. And the Emperor certainly hadn¡¯t¡­ had he?

    The Colorless Prism suddenly disappeared. With only starlight that came from the open balcony, the room was nearly pitch black once more, but that had no bearing on Caesar¡¯s certain movement. As he left his bedchamber, a gentle, small flame appeared in front of him. Giving the sprite a curt nod, Caesar walked down the hall, his eyes fixed upon the doors at the end. The small sprite chirped lightly as it followed overhead, matching his speed, and casting everything in a dim light of gray scale.

    At Caesar¡¯s approach, unseen wards and barriers rippled into sight before settling into invisibility once more, and the hallway itself seemed to slowly alight as ambient mana became more and more dense.

    He knocked on the door.

    After a moment, a tired looking woman in a long robe opened the door. Her lavender eyes, a perfect match to his own, became suddenly alert, ¡°Caesar? What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?"

    ¡°I had a strange dream,¡± he answered simply.

    She ushered him inside before closing the door. The room was bathed in color and beauty, from the paintings and wall scrolls to the patterned rugs and carpets to the pillows and curtains to the statuettes and furniture¡ª the entire room was decorated with art. The colors were nearly luminescent, brimming with life, as ambient mana suffused absolutely everything in sight.

    ¡°This room is always warded,¡± she reminded him. ¡°You¡¯re safe.¡±

    ¡°Mom,¡± concern leaked into his voice, causing her to instinctively step closer to him, ¡°has anyone found the Purple Prism?¡±

    She shook her head, ¡°It¡¯s still missing¡­ Did it appear to you?¡±

    ¡°Yes, and with a message,¡± Caesar answered.

    ¡°Come, sit,¡± she suggested, ¡°and don¡¯t crane your neck like that. You¡¯ll end up with a stoop like an old man.¡±

    Caesar snorted lightly, but moved over to the lounge chairs to sit. With a wave of her hand, mom had a pitcher of water instantly filled and pouring two cups of water on its own.

    After the both of them settled in, he described to her the message and messenger of the dream, ¡°What does ''hosanna'' mean?"

    ¡°Maybe it''s just a unique greeting?¡± she posited, ¡°Otherwise, I really couldn''t say.¡±

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    ¡°Is there anyone like that you¡¯ve met before?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± she answered with certainty. ¡°That woman doesn¡¯t exist. At least, not yet. If it really was the Chosen of the Purple Prism, then she¡¯s from the future.¡±

    ¡°But why reveal this to me?¡± Caesar questioned, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it make more sense to tell you or pops?¡±

    ¡°She will appear before me when she needs my help, and before your father when she needs his.¡± Mom pointed at him, ¡°It¡¯s your responsibility to take care of this task, not ours, Caesar.¡±

    Thinking this over for a moment, Caesar gave mom a look of curiosity, ¡°How are you so certain she¡¯s from the future?¡±

    Smiling sweetly, as she loved to do whenever she had the opportunity to gossip, mom said, ¡°Now that you¡¯ve been Chosen, I can tell you what each Prism really is.¡±

    ¡°I thought I was already ¡®Chosen,¡¯¡± he postulated.

    ¡°Your father and I knew you would be,¡± mom quickly stated, waving her hand back and forth, ¡°which is why we gave you the first Prism. Anyway, do you remember the five ways in which we employ magic?¡±

    Sighing lightly, as he knew she wouldn¡¯t answer any of his questions until he answered hers, Caesar mechanically replied, ¡°We perceive, alter, protect, disintegrate, and create.¡±

    ¡°Very good,¡± she repeated as though he were still a child, ¡°But that¡¯s only how we make mana manifest our will. Each of the Prisms is a divine artifact, a connection to the force that enables it, and the way in which mana interacts with the world. Your Prism encompasses the power of Birth and Death, given to us by Senescence. The Purple Prism is given by Gea, and encompasses the power of¡­ Time, I think.¡±

    Arching an eyebrow, Caesar asked, ¡°You mean you don¡¯t know?¡±

    ¡°It deals with things that mostly have to do with time, or maybe the chronological progression of time,¡± mom commented, before squinting her eyes at him. ¡°You didn¡¯t even know any of this a few seconds ago, so don¡¯t go pretending that you¡¯re suddenly so wise, young man.¡±

    ¡°I know, I know. ¡®A fool thinks himself wise¡­¡¯¡± he quickly interjected before she could speak. ¡°How did you know I would be ¡®Chosen¡¯?¡±

    ¡°The first champion of the Purple Prism told me,¡± she said.

    ¡°What happened to them?¡±

    She smiled, but her eyes held a wistfulness that he couldn¡¯t describe, ¡°He died.¡±

    Sensing that he should probably not ask about that right now, Caesar changed the subject, ¡°What about the other Prisms? What aspects do they encompass?¡±

    After finishing another sip of water, mom replied, ¡°Well, I was hoping you¡¯d want to try figuring that out for yourself, Caesar.¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± he realized, ¡°another lesson, then.¡±

    Smiling brightly, she began to refill her cup by hand, ¡°So¡­ what did you think of her?¡±

    Confused only for a moment, Caesar answered, ¡°The woman in my dream?¡±

    ¡°Was she beautiful?¡± Mom eyed him as she took another drink of water.

    ¡°I¡­ I guess I would describe her as beautiful,¡± Caesar squinted at mom suspiciously, ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Just curious,¡± she shrugged. ¡°She¡¯s another Chosen. I only hope that you two can get along well.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully we do,¡± he stated mechanically. ¡°Is there something you wanted to tell me, mom?¡±

    ¡°Another Chosen will appear tomorrow,¡± she grinned. ¡°The Brown Prism can finally be claimed.¡±

    At Caesar¡¯s look of incredulity, mom continued, ¡°It was a small spoiler from the Purple Prism¡¯s first champion. After your dream tonight, she was destined to appear. Young, though, and requiring guidance. A responsibility you¡¯ll have to share with the other champions.¡±

    ¡°Is there anything else about my future you wanted to share with me, maybe?¡±

    ¡°I did ask him when you¡¯d finally give me grandkids, and do you know what he said?¡± her eyes dared him to ask.

    Getting up from his seat, Caesar made his way toward the door, ¡°Goodnight, mom.¡±

    ¡°You wanna know, I know you wanna know!¡± his mother teased. ¡°He didn¡¯t actually tell me, but he hinted, Caesar. He hinted!¡±

    Before closing the door, he gave his mother one final goodnight and briskly stepped down the hall. Without his mother around, color and light faded to darkness, and the small, white sprite appeared once more to brighten the hallway with its presence.

    The door opened a crack, color and life echoing down the hallway and illuminating Caesar.

    ¡°Soon,¡± his mother cooed, ¡°I know it¡¯ll be soon¡­¡±

    He went straight back to his bedchamber, never turning back.

 Dinah of the Doldrums

    The halls in the House of Vrata were tall and wide. Statues of various historical figures were impossible to ignore as whoever designed the place seemed to think that every entrance and exit needed one ¡ª even the bathrooms. Honestly, if not for them, the hallways would seem sparse and empty. Even so, maybe the walls could be decorated with some landscape paintings or something. Was that so hard to do?

    Dinah was stalling, and she knew it. Another meeting between the Champions and the Councilors, Ministers, and Senators was scheduled today. Every year. And even if it wasn¡¯t for this meeting, she still had a hundred other meetings to dread regarding ¡°where she could contribute the most to the defense of our world,¡± and various ¡°creative enterprises that could revolutionize economic growth.¡±

    She was doomed to face these committees for the rest of her life.

    And even after those meetings, she¡¯d have to go and speak with impatient men who would feel like she was too stupid to do what they ask, or jealous women who thought she had somehow slept her way into becoming a Champion, or diplomats who tried to outwit her or taunt her in negotiations, or lawmen who would only continue asking for her to keep working until the sun came up and down again, or soldiers who needed more wards and more barriers and more seals and more and more and more¡­

    Finding herself in front of yet another statue, she read the plaque:

    Dedicated to the strongest battlemage, Zacariah Nova, for his heroic sacrifice that lead to the defeat of the powerful Lich, Qual¡¯as Merneptah.

    Dinah snorted, startling a passing pair of nobles. She stared at them until they hurried their pace and pretended to ignore her. They were wearing strange clothes, though. Maybe they had been diplomats? Dinah shrugged at no one in particular, and continued ambling down the hall.

    Color splashed along the marble walls and floor as sunlight washed through the stained glass skylights above. Dinah looked up to see the image of a red haired man wielding a heron-marked sword dueling a demon wielding a quarterstaff. Unable to help herself, Dinah snorted again.

    ¡°Something funny, Lady Ukusika?¡± a soft tenor voice murmured behind her.

    Lazily turning her head, Dinah met Caesar¡¯s eyes, ¡°Do these artists know how often they make dedications to you?¡±

    With a shrug, Caesar replied, ¡°Maybe some suspect it, but no one can confirm it.¡±

    ¡°I hope your next body is better looking than this one,¡± she said before shuffling forward once more.

    Immediately matching her pace, Caesar said, ¡°I hope our next annual meet is better than the last one.¡±

    ¡°Probably not,¡± Dinah mused before stopping in front of another statue.

    There was a fierce woman, with her back clearly exposed and revealing a large glyph, wielding a winding sword. The plaque itself read:

    Seeking vengeance for the death of her brother, Shae single-handedly destroyed a secret order, whose name she has erased from history, dedicated to summoning the powerful demon, Drakul.

    ¡°You¡¯ve never been a woman, right?¡± Dinah reached out and touched the cold bronze metal.

    ¡°You know I actually am just myself every time, right?¡± Caesar insisted, ¡°I use alteration magic to change how I look, that¡¯s all.¡±

    Dinah looked up at him and raised her eyebrows.

    ¡°It¡¯s reincarnation, deedee,¡± he explained. ¡°It¡¯s always just me.¡±

    She reached up and grabbed his chin, turning his face side to side.

    He smiled but said nothing.

    Caesar¡¯s thin, black beard made a stark contrast with his pale skin. His hair was unkempt, and clearly brushed back with just his fingers. Even so, he had a strong jaw and cheekbones, so he didn¡¯t look too boyish. His lavender eyes reflected only her face, as his gaze never left her.

    She released him and scoffed, ¡°You¡¯ve looked better.¡±

    ¡°And you¡¯re as beautiful as ever,¡± he smiled at her. ¡°You went with gold studs today? I think the silver is just as striking on you.¡±

    ¡°Why are you bothering me again?¡± Dinah moseyed forward once again.

    Instead of answering, he just offered her his hand. Giving him a look of suspicion, Dinah took it anyway. His grip was gentle, but firm, and he shortened his stride to match her leisurely pace.

    As they walked, some more nobles and statesmen passed them by, always greeting them with a small bow of the head. Some called them Champion and Chosen; some said Lady Ukusika and Lord Constance; some thanked them for their service and saving lives.

    Dinah felt most uncomfortable with that last group of people. She hated her duties. If she¡¯d had known how much of her time¡ª her life¡ª would be dedicated to only serving others, then she probably would have just stayed on Nucifera.

    Once again reminded of her home island, Dinah¡¯s mood immediately sank.

    ¡°We¡¯re almost there, deedee,¡± Caesar whispered as they walked through another antechamber crowded with dignitaries and diplomats. ¡°Just be patient a little longer.¡±

    Taking stock of the room, Dinah could tell everyone was paying attention to them. Oh, their heads were turned, and maybe some were facing away, but these people were clearly excitedly gossiping about them. Dinah could hear giggling, and tried to spot the source, but some men came up to them to thank them for their service, and blocked her view.

    She scowled at them, prompting apologies from the men before they hastily withdrew.

    ¡°They¡¯re only being polite, deedee,¡± Caesar said, slightly exasperated.

    ¡°I¡¯m just an exotic treat to them. Some wilder from the jungle that¡¯s pretending she¡¯s civilized.¡± she growled. ¡°No one here knows me or cares to know me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here,¡± he whispered.

    Dinah suddenly felt her heart sink again, ¡°I know¡­ it¡¯s just¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± he squeezed her hand in reassurance. ¡°Just remember that, like me, some people here are truly grateful to see you. I know most of these people can be¡­¡±

    ¡°Dishonest,¡± she said. ¡°Disingenuous. Deceitful. Duplicitous. Disgusting. Deplorable. Distasteful. Despic-¡±

    ¡°Tiring,¡± he stressed. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean what you¡¯re doing for them is any less meaningful.¡±

    Dinah harrumphed, ¡°Doesn¡¯t change the fact that a bunch of them hate me.¡±

    ¡°Some of them, yeah, probably. I won¡¯t argue that,¡± Caesar conceded. ¡°But you¡¯re also a Champion, deedee. You¡¯re a hero. You have an enormous responsibility and they can see that. You¡¯re holding up their world on your shoulders. They¡¯re in awe of you. When you¡¯re already capable of¡ª and doing¡ª things that are completely impossible for them, or anyone they¡¯ve ever met, then¡­ yeah, they¡¯re going to pay attention to you. They¡¯re going to watch you and judge you and talk about you.

    ¡°That¡¯s what it means to be a Champion, unfortunately. You¡¯re gonna carry that weight.¡±

    Dinah thought about this for a moment. Caesar continued to lead them through the crowded room. Just as they approached an egress, Dinah overheard the tail end of a conversation.

    ¡°¡­barbaric tribe. Imagine getting piercings like those savages.¡±

    Dinah immediately turned to the source, spotting a tall man with a long red jacket, tailored with golden embroidery. He was speaking to two women, at most half his age, that  clearly could only be enamored with his status. His jacket could do nothing to hide his receding hairline and fat stomach.

    His eyes immediately locked onto hers, and he took a long drink from his chalice, tilting it all the way back. Then, as if only just noticing Dinah, he gave a curt bow and sauntered over.

    Caesar immediately stepped forward, ¡°Senator Abdul, so nice to see you¡¯re able to join us this year.¡±

    Frowning, the fat man said, ¡°I was under the impression you were still in recovery, my Lord Constance.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve brushed past death so many times that he gives me high fives when we pass,¡± Caesar laughed, and the people within earshot laughed with him.

    Waiting a moment for relative quiet, Abdul raised an eyebrow, ¡°My people are quite acquainted with death as well. They deliver it swiftly to all of our enemies. A shame they¡¯ve had to learn such a thing, but I suppose that¡¯s the way of the world when Champions can¡¯t find time to serve their people.¡±

    Dinah could feel the crowd watching the entire exchange. And she was right in the middle of it.

    ¡°Perhaps you should request our aid, then, Senator,¡± Caesar replied cheerfully. ¡°If the troops you¡¯ve requested from the capital are not enough to hold the waves beyond the Sluice Gate, then perhaps they are in need of more experienced leadership.¡±

    Gesturing with his chalice, Abdul smirked, ¡°The good people of Bahr are more than satisfied with my leadership, Lord Constance. What they find most peculiar is the exact contributions the Champions even lend to the Empire. Would you care to remind us of your duties?¡±

    Dinah hated the pompousness with which Abdul asked the question. She squeezed Caesar¡¯s hand twice prompting a glance. Abdul was so obviously trying to goad Caesar, but her love just smiled at her and nodded.

    ¡°We maintain peace among the Empire,¡± Caesar explained, ¡°and hold back the extraplanar threats that exist beyond Amuun, just like the Prismatic Knights and armies that we train and fight alongside.¡±

    His smile never touching his eyes, the fat man spoke up again, ¡°Is that really necessary? There hasn¡¯t been a Breach in close to a hundred years, and our armies only grow stronger as time passes on. The Alliance has been pulling their troops out of Dimu Skanda; enchanters have been producing inventions that improve the quality of life for men and women everywhere, while making the Empire rich in the process; stability frames for the Sluices are only getting more refined¡­ I¡¯d say you Champions have worked yourselves out of a job.¡±

    A few chuckles from unseen persons echoed from around the crowd. Dinah squeezed Caesar¡¯s hand again.

    ¡°I¡¯d happily retire if it meant every citizen could live their lives without the fear of going hungry, as you so clearly have, Senator,¡± Caesar pointedly looked at Abdul¡¯s stomach, prompting laughter from nearby onlookers.

    Turning red in the face, Abdul immediately retorted, ¡°If our citizens could die without fearing death, like you do, Caesar, then maybe we wouldn¡¯t need to allow foreign dirt on our soil.¡±

    With his eyebrows drawn down, Caesar curtly asked, ¡°Do you have a problem with our immigration policies, Senator?¡±

    ¡°Not as long as they willingly give their lives to the Empire.¡± Looking directly at Dinah, Abdul continued, ¡°But we all know that some of them are perfectly willing to drag their feet through the mud pits they came from, even if it means people die because of their procrastination. Such careless people don¡¯t value life, and don¡¯t deserve it¡ª least of all, migrant squatters.¡±

    Immediately stepping toward the man, Dinah hissed, ¡°When a worm like you dies, no one mourns the loss.¡±

    The room grew quiet, a few murmurs reverberating among the crowd.

    ¡°Is that a threat?¡± the fat man sneered, ¡°I suppose that black dress matches the color of your heart, dirty witch. How a savage like you even qualifies to become a Champion will forever be a mystery.¡±

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    Gasps resounded around them, and Caesar once more stepped forward, between Dinah and Abdul, ¡°Your comments are unacceptable, Abdul. I suggest you apologize and save what little honor you have left.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not alone in this,¡± the fat man raved. ¡°I know dozens of people in this room who feel the very same. We wouldn¡¯t have barbarians like this soiling the capital¡¯s halls if your mother hadn¡¯t gone over the judgment of the council! She¡¯s unfit to rule! She should never-¡±

    In an instant, Caesar was upon him, towering over Abdul, staring directly into his eyes. Sweat rolled off the fat man¡¯s balding head as he slowly shrank back, averting Caesar¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Are you preaching sedition at the seat of the capital, Abdul?¡± Caesar¡¯s voice was as calm and cold as a frozen lake.

    The fat man stammered out a series of denials.

    Caesar spoke again, his voice carrying throughout the stillness of the room, ¡°You will address the Empress as ¡®Her Eminence¡¯ or ¡®Her Grace.¡¯ Or do you forget yourself, Senator?¡±

    Once more stammering out a series of apologies, the fat man shriveled before Caesar.

    ¡°It appears to me that you are not feeling well today, Senator.¡± Caesar¡¯s gaze swept through the crowd, ¡°Does the Senator appear under the weather to anyone else?¡±

    Almost everyone began nodding, and some in the back even yelled in affirmation.

    ¡°Well, Senator,¡± Caesar¡¯s eyes locked onto Abdul¡¯s once more, ¡°as you have been judged by a jury of your peers, it seems you are unfit to fulfill your duties today. We¡¯ll find someone else to better represent the city and territory of Bahr for the annual meet. Do you recognize this decision?¡±

    Swallowing back whatever he had wanted to say, Abdul simply nodded in assent.

    ¡°Do you have the faculty of mind to find your chambers? Or should I have the guards drag you?¡± Caesar breathed.

    With Abdul nodding his head furiously, Caesar simply gestured with one arm, and off the fat man went, scurrying faster than anyone would have thought he could move.

    The room was dead quiet, as the tension still hung overhead.

    Caesar clapped his hands, ¡°A single clarification. The Empress did make a decree¡ª but only after the Council had reached a tie in the decision due to one Councilor abstaining¡ª as it is Her Grace¡¯s right since the Empire¡¯s founding. Since that decision, production and harvesting of lumber, iron, marble, and copper have risen sharply; the production and distribution of rice and wheat has also significantly increased.

    ¡°The most important resource that makes our Empire strong is not the magical inventions of the enchanters, nor the coffers full of gold, nor the fleets of our navy, nor our great works of art, nor even the power of us Champions¡ª it is the people. It is you. Without the people, there would be no inventions to improve the quality of our lives. There would be no money to spend on such inventions or works of art. There would be no armies to keep us safe. There would be no purpose for us Champions.

    ¡°It is the people of this Empire that make it great. It is the people that bring forth every work of art and magic and miracle of life that enrich us all. The Empress knows this, as she has visited the other nations and found their lands wanting¡ª and their people starving for opportunity. They come here, willingly, because they wish to become one of us. To work as we do. To love as we do. To die as we do to preserve our way of life.¡±

    ¡°I propose a toast,¡± a nearby glass on a servant¡¯s platter flew into Caesar¡¯s outstretched hand, ¡°to the people of the Empire!¡±

    A raucous series of cheers echoed throughout the crowd, and everyone drank.

    The mood had completely reversed and people were once again speaking with one another, rubbing shoulders, and laughing. Caesar had to excuse himself from several dignitaries who rushed to speak with him.

    After a moment, he was finally standing in front of her again.

    She looked up at him, his lavender eyes shined with good cheer.

    ¡°How did I do?¡± he smiled.

    Dinah snorted, ¡°Good enough, I guess. Very patriotic. Befitting for Caesar the Capable.¡±

    ¡°Capable, huh?¡± Caesar offered his hand, and Dinah took it.

    ¡°Just a bit of alliteration,¡± she commented. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to your head.¡±

    ¡°Hearing a compliment from Dinah of the Doldrums is a more rare and precious thing than even diamonds, so I hear,¡± he joked.

    She rolled her eyes but couldn¡¯t help smiling, ¡°Whatever.¡±

    ¡°Ah, but a smile from Lady Dinah,¡± Caesar met her eyes. ¡°Well, that¡¯s the rarest and most beautiful gem of them all.¡±

    She just shook her head. The two of them left the antechamber, and continued down the hall. Dinah was able to relax a bit, and enjoy the relative quiet now that they were alone. She leaned her head against his shoulder. When she¡¯d first become a Champion three years ago, Caesar was just about the only person she could stand. Well, he had been the only one patient enough to let her open up to him. Lady Sita was pretty welcoming, but her personality was a little much for Dinah. And the rest of the Champions were poor friends. Azazel might as well have had no ears and three mouths on him; ka¡¯Kia was so mousey and quiet that she might as well not have existed; and then Sermon and Ciarlare were complete, unrepentant assholes.

    Without Caesar to offset the stress of it all, Dinah would likely have¡­

    ¡°Okay, we¡¯re here,¡± Caesar said. ¡°We have some good news for you, I think.¡±

    They stood in front of a mahogany door, indistinguishable from any other that lead to a guest room in the House of Vrata. As usual, there were two statues flanking the entryway, and the marble walls glistened with color that rained down through a stained glass skylight overhead. As often as Dinah had been forced to come into the House of Vrata, she didn¡¯t recognize this area whatsoever.

    ¡°The building has some wards and sluices that make walking through the hallways actually a maze for most people,¡± Caesar explained. ¡°As long as you¡¯re with someone that the spells aren¡¯t supposed to target, then you can go wherever you please.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± Dinah didn¡¯t care much since she could probably teleport out anyway, ¡°what¡¯s the good news then?¡±

    ¡°I think she¡¯d prefer telling you herself,¡± he said.

    As Caesar opened the door for her, the color that rained from above suddenly became like liquid light and saturated the entire hallway with its vibrancy. There was a swaying motion all around her, as though she were swimming in the ocean. Dinah could feel mana suffusing her entire being, soaking into her. It felt harmonious, like she was floating. It was enrapturing and dizzying and glorious and confusing and muddling and nauseating. She felt a strange feeling in the pit of her stomach.

    Caesar was there, holding her hand as she fought to keep steady.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m so sorry, dear,¡± a dark haired woman in an ornate dress rushed to her side, and held a hand to Dinah¡¯s face.

    Everything became clear again.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Dinah asked.

    The woman¡ª it was the Empress, how could Dinah have not realized that?¡ª smiled warmly at her, ¡°It¡¯s the blessing from a goddess. Whenever I¡¯m around most people, I have to try and hold it in, but I thought that you¡¯d be fine with it. Are you alright now?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Dinah felt a little embarrassed, ¡°I just wasn¡¯t used to it. I¡¯m okay.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Caesar asked, worry written on his face.

    Eager to change the subject, Dinah just asked, ¡°So, Caesar said Her Eminence had good news for me?¡±

    ¡°Oh, just call me Miriam, Dinah,¡± Miriam waved her hands as though to push away the proper form of address. ¡°Without my husband around, my name¡¯s just been collecting rust at this point, you might as well use it.¡±

    Smiling back, Dinah replied, ¡°I¡¯d be happy to, Miriam.¡±

    Shuffling everyone inside, Miriam then poured them all some tea. The guest room had a table in the corner for them to sit, and they made themselves comfortable. Miriam listened as they regaled her with Abdul¡¯s foolishness.

    ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t understand how some of these Senators even get voted in. On paper, it seems like things are going swimmingly in every Silver City¡ª but then the attitude some of them display, and some of the things I see when I¡¯m there¡­ it calls into question not just their character, but the integrity of the elections,¡± Miriam huffed. She gently pulled one of Dinah¡¯s hands into her own, and said, ¡°You know that you¡¯re always welcome here, and can come speak with me anytime you please, dear.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Dinah said.

    ¡°Thank you, who?¡± Miriam tilted her head.

    Laughing softly, Dinah answered, ¡°Thank you, Miriam.¡±

    Contentedly sighing, Miriam looked over at Caesar, ¡°It¡¯s so nice to hear my name after so long.¡±

    Caesar shrugged, ¡°Well, you¡¯ll always be ¡®mom¡¯ to me.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± withdrawing her hands to grab her cup of tea, Miriam continued, ¡°there¡¯s good news to be shared. And it has to do with your duties as Champion, Dinah.¡±

    Dinah sat upright, now suddenly alert, ¡°What about my duties?¡±

    ¡°We know that you don¡¯t particularly enjoy having to run around everywhere, setting up wards and barriers for people, or resupplying enchantments with mana,¡± Miriam explained.

    Immediately, her mind raced, a thousand thoughts exploding in her mind. Was this really it? Her way out? Dinah¡¯s heart was thumping in her chest. She glanced at Caesar, and he smiled one of his warm smiles at her. She pressed her lips together, uncertain if they were really going to ask what she hoped they would. That¡¯d be crazy, right?

    It had been three years. It was only three years, but they were so miserable some days. Especially early on. She had to learn to control the Prism and cast every spell and learn how different bureaucracies worked. The looks of disgust and annoyance she would get from the people she was supposed to be helping. The homesickness. Day after day after day.

    ¡°So,¡± Miriam continued, ¡°instead, you¡¯ll be staying in the Imperial Estuary just to reinforce the main Sluice Gates.¡±

    All her thoughts crashed into confusion before Dinah muttered, ¡°I thought Caesar did that.¡±

    ¡°Honestly, it only takes about ten, maybe twelve, hours a week,¡± Caesar added. ¡°That¡¯s how I have so much time for my alter egos.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Miriam side-eyed Caesar, ¡°we won¡¯t get any more legendary figures like the ¡®Night Angel¡¯ skulking around and killing would-be god-kings; army commanders like the ¡®Gambler¡¯ with his ravens and foxes; powerful wizards like the ¡®Great Sage¡¯ that serve to protect the boundaries between worlds.¡±

    ¡°I was going to be a shapeshifting Weaver at one point,¡± Caesar shyly admitted, ¡°but I couldn¡¯t figure out how to shoot web in my human form. I figure they must just use illusions instead of shifting between spider and man.¡±

    Dinah was still reeling from the offer, ¡°Wait, so you¡¯ve had all this time to play hero for literal lifetimes because you¡¯re actually not doing any real work?¡±

    Miriam and Caesar suddenly grew silent.

    ¡°Sorry,¡± Dinah was torn between feeling angry and ashamed, ¡°I don¡¯t mean to sound ungrateful or anything, but.. What the fuck, Caesar? Since you¡¯ve known me, I¡¯ve always voiced my doubts about being a Champion. I¡¯ve constantly confided how stressed out I get having so many people place their expectations on me, and how people treat me so differently¡ª not just because I¡¯m a Champion, by the way¡ª but because I¡¯m a literal foreigner. And then how some men look at me, and I can¡¯t just tell them to fuck off because it would insult them and they¡¯re always some kind of diplomat or dignitary or a senator or¡­ I mean, just¡­ Why now? I just¡­ I¡­¡±

    Her frustration immediately poured out, ¡°All that time I would be traipsing around the Empire, trying to improve relations with whatever local populace, you¡¯d be out playing hero? While I was protecting troops that fought in the Sluices ¡ª you¡¯re working only, what, twelve hours a week trying to perfect your newest alter ego?  Widows and families that lost their sons and daughters in these battles look at me as if I alone should have prevented it if I just tried harder ¡ª meanwhile, you were diving headfirst into hell, treating it all like some vacation because death and you are good friends, right?¡±

    Guilt was plainly writ on Caesar¡¯s face. Miriam, however, looked substantially less so.

    ¡°All those times Caesar gave his life were necessary, Dinah,¡± Miriam spoke softly. ¡°Only the Prismatic Knights and the troops stationed in the Imperial Estuary know how bad those battles were. He makes light of it to put himself and others at ease, but my son has learned the burden of leadership and loss. The truth that the people know, and the truth of what happened aren¡¯t always the same thing. If we had put you there before things were made to settle down, it may have been you who died instead.¡±

    Swallowing a lump in her throat, Dinah asked, ¡°But couldn¡¯t he just resurrect me?¡±

    Caesar slowly shook his head, ¡°Not at the Hadal Level. I¡¯d have to get my hands on your body, and keep your soul from departing this world. While in Amuun, the souls are easy to retrieve because of the gods that exist here¡ª the forces of magic. Out there, though, in the Hollow Expanse, the souls who are lost there go somewhere¡­ else.¡±

    Eyes downcast, Caesar whispered, ¡°I can¡¯t save everyone¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why it takes him so much longer to recover,¡± Miriam went on. ¡°Magic doesn¡¯t work there for anyone except for the Champions. So, when he dies, the soldiers must retrieve the Prism and retreat. Even being as careful as we¡¯ve been, it still resulted in his death multiple times, but the waves have been thinned out. Things are finally beginning to become stable, Dinah.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if we¡¯ve hurt you,¡± Caesar said, ¡°We would never wish to hurt you. We should¡¯ve thought about how you¡¯d take this more carefully. Worded what we had to say more thoughtfully. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    Still stunned, and trying to wrap her head around everything they just said and everything she was feeling, Dinah just sat and thought.

    It made sense. And it was basically as close as she¡¯d ever get to finally going back to a normal life. And if she had more time, then she could visit home, and maybe even spend more time with-

    ¡°Caesar,¡± Dinah called, and he looked at her expectantly, his face still apologetic, ¡°if you¡¯re not going to be doing this, and I¡¯m going to suddenly have all this free time, then what will you be doing anyway?¡±

    He looked over at Miriam, and she glanced back at him before gesturing with a hand.

    ¡°Um, yeah, actually,¡± Caesar stuttered, ¡°I¡¯m going to be training the new Chosen of the Brown Prism.¡±

    Dinah''s eyes widened in shock.

    ¡°She was discovered only last night,¡± Miriam clarified, ¡°it was something of a prophecy, but we were only recently able to confirm it. That is going to be announced today at the meet.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± Dinah was dumbfounded. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ good news.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s a natural, deedee,¡± Caesar quickly stated. ¡°She¡¯s picking everything up instantly. I mean, the kid¡¯s a prodigy. She¡¯s able to learn and command magic faster than anyone I¡¯ve ever met.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because she¡¯s Chosen,¡± Miriam smugly remarked. ¡°Just like my wonderful son.¡±

    ¡°I know, mom, but still,¡± Caesar kept going, clearly excited, ¡°she can do magic that even I didn¡¯t know how to do that early on. I know you and pops taught me everything you could, but this girl is just on another level. She¡¯s going to do great things. I can already tell.¡±

    Something clicked in Dinah¡¯s head, and she heard herself say, ¡°What does it mean to be ¡®Chosen?¡¯ The other Champions have always thought that it was just a title given to Caesar because he was your son. But it obviously means something more, doesn¡¯t it?¡±

    Miriam nodded, solemnly, ¡°The Champions are all very special people, and each of you deserve all of the respect and opportunities you¡¯ve earned for yourselves. But you are not the true wielders of the Prisms. Those are the Chosen.¡±

    Dinah looked at Miriam dumbfounded, ¡°You mean I won¡¯t always have to be a Champion?¡±

    Miriam laughed, ¡°Don¡¯t get too excited, dear. We would need to find someone else we could trust with the Golden Prism. But¡­ Yes, you are correct. You won¡¯t be the Champion of the Golden Prism forever, if you don¡¯t want to be.¡±

    Dinah¡¯s eyes lit up, and Caesar leaned toward her, ¡°That¡¯s why we were telling you this. You¡¯ll just have to do this for a few more years, at most, maybe not even that much with how fast Silva is learning. And then, when she¡¯s ready, Silva will be able to defend the Imperial Estuary, and we can focus our time on finding another Champion for the Golden Prism.¡±

    Was it real? She would be free? No more bullshit functions and committees and leery men and stupid gossip?

    She looked at Caesar, and he smiled at her and took her hand again.

    ¡°I told you it was good news,¡± he reassured her.

    She just stared at him for a few seconds, before she heard herself say, ¡°Marry me.¡±

    Caesar''s look of total surprise made Miriam roar with laughter.

 Acquaintances, Associates, and Friends

    Normally Dinah would make an effort to keep her back straight, remain expressionless, and exhibit the kind of decorum that would make it impossible for anyone to think her unworthy of the title of Champion. She would be wearing open toed gold shoes, and a golden necklace glittering with rubies to aid in teleportation; copper-rimmed malachite rings embedded with emeralds to use telekinesis with ease; a golden circlet, rich with jade stones, for telepathy and scrying. She would carry herself with all the grace and authority she could muster.

    Instead, she smiled. With only a black dress and flat shoes, and her hair in a loose bun, she didn''t feel the need to impress anyone. In fact, she felt like it was no effort whatsoever to sit upright. Her mood was already in the clouds, and it lifted her body as naturally as the sweet aroma of baked pastries rose from an oven. Even Azazel, as self-centered as he was, had asked after the reason for her good cheer. He looked genuinely interested when she said that she would tell him later. Lady Sita was only too happy to share the energy, and the two chatted amicably about how the food of the Empire compared with the dishes from their respective homelands. It was¡­ nice. She would have to share more conversations with Lady Sita.

    ka''Kia silently nodded along, occasionally offering a few syllables here and there, as the ladies spoke. However, once Azazel decided to join in, the conversation quickly became another squabbling match. Lady Sita and Azazel could be confused for lifelong siblings with the way they bickered. Dinah observed the scene with amusement before noticing ka''Kia shrinking back from the rest of the table.

    ¡°Your hair is so lovely, ka''Kia,¡± Dinah offered a warm smile, ¡°I''d love to braid it.¡±

    ¡°Oh, nonono,¡± ka''Kia rushed her words, waving away Dinah''s offer, ¡°don''t waste your time doing something like that. I like leaving it down anyway. You don''t have to do that.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia smoothed her lavender dress as she averted Dinah¡¯s eyes. The girl really was too shy.

    Dinah undid her loose bun, letting her hair cascade down to the small of her back, ¡°I can''t say I prefer it, considering the kind of work I usually do, but maybe it would be nice just to let it all hang loose for today. What do you think?¡±

    ka''Kia, as always, seemed at a loss for words when asked anything that wasn''t a yes-or-no question.

    Dinah leaned toward ka''Kia conspiratorially and whispered, ¡°I was actually hoping you''d be willing to braid mine, like you sometimes do for Lady Sita.¡±

    ¡°Oh, sure!¡± ka''Kia visibly relaxed once offered the opportunity, ¡°Did you want something loose, like a fishtail, then?¡±

    After nodding her assent, Dinah sat with her back to ka''Kia, and facing away from the two bickering Champions. Her eyes caught sight of Caesar just entering the Bethel Lyceum down below. His face was impassive ¡ª steadfast ¡ª which meant that there was probably bad news. He surveyed the room with an atypical austerity before finally glancing up at the Champions¡¯ Den. When she finally caught his eyes, he gave her a small smile and a wink. She just squinted her eyes at him, and he nodded slightly before turning his gaze to the platform below.

    The Bethel Lyceum was an enormous chamber. Marble walls and pillars stretched up to the heavens showcasing a glass ceiling that seemed to drink and reflect enough light to rival the sun. Hanging from the wall directly below the Champions¡¯ Den was the long silver banner of the Holy Prismatic Empire, the eight pointed star¡¯s insides segmented by the eight colors of the Prisms, with the points colored an alternating black and white. Though they were inside, the banners rippled as though a gentle breeze was breathing life into them.

    The ground floor was filled with seats and tables that resembled a cross between an amphitheater and a receiving room. Half the representatives on the floor didn''t even use the chairs during the Meet, instead opting to mingle with one another the entire time, and only sparing an ear for the speakers when interested. The other half of the representatives formed cliques, their hushed tones laced with innuendo, cementing alliances and deals that surely fulfilled their desires more than their constituents'' needs.

    Dinah snorted, giving ka''Kia a start.

    ¡°Sorry, dear,¡± Dinah said.

    ¡°Oh,¡± ka''Kia chuckled nervously, ¡°it''s fine. I didn''t mean to disturb you.¡±

    ¡°You''re not disturbing me, ka''Kia,¡± Dinah looked down her nose at the politicians below, ¡°they do.¡±

    ¡°Oh, sorry¡­ sorry to hear that¡­¡± ka''Kia muttered. Honestly, the girl was just too mousey.

    Clearing her throat, Dinah asked, ¡°What do you normally do to relax, ka''Kia?¡±

    ¡°Oh!¡± ka''Kia played with a bit of Dinah''s hair as she thought. ¡°Well, I like to listen to the waves¡­ of the, of the ocean¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you like the scent of salt water?¡± Dinah offered.

    ka''Kia hummed an assent.

    ¡°And the call of the birds wandering the shore?¡±

    ka''Kia hummed again.

    ¡°Do you like glazed pork?¡±

    ¡°Oh, absolutely!¡± ka''Kia enthusiastically answered.

    Dinah turned around and looked right into ka''Kia''s blue eyes, ¡°You must come to Nucifera with me. You will love it there.¡±

    ¡°Oh,¡± ka''Kia seemed genuinely surprised, ¡°um, sure! I mean¡­ when?¡±

    ¡°Anytime,¡± Dinah smiled. ¡°I will be having much more free time after today. My duties have been preventing me from getting the chance to get to know you all, and I aim to fix that.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia nodded with a demure smile on her face.

    Dinah looked over ka¡¯Kia, noting how small she looked with her shoulders hunched forward, and her black hair pulled straight down to nearly cover her face. Dinah reached a hand out, causing ka¡¯Kia to pull back in sudden alarm.

    Dinah flinched, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia shook her head, ¡°No, sorry, that¡¯s my fault. I just didn¡¯t notice your hand there, haha¡­ I wasn¡¯t paying attention and then it was just there. Sorry¡­¡±

    This girl really needed a backbone. But she was so jumpy. How could Dinah get her to open up a bit?

    Hesitating for a moment, Dinah finally said, ¡°When I first became a Champion, I was terribly excited and hopeful.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia looked up at Dinah with interest.

    Dinah laughed softly, a bit of sadness and scorn leaving the sound staccato and hollow in her ears, ¡°What a foolish, silly girl I was...¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that about yourself,¡± ka¡¯Kia whispered.

    Shaking her head, Dinah continued, ¡°I know, I know. It was just a small comment ¡ª something I only noticed now that I¡¯m no longer that way. Rest assured, ka¡¯Kia, I¡¯m doing much better now.¡±

    With a stern nod of her head, ka¡¯Kia said, ¡°Good.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t help herself, Dinah laughed, ¡°You¡¯re so kind and encouraging, did you know that? I should have spoken with you more often instead of hiding away these past three years.¡±

    ¡°Oh!¡± ka¡¯Kia fanned her hands, as though to quickly brush aside the compliment, ¡°no, I just speak without thinking sometimes. I don¡¯t ¡ª I¡¯m not trying to tell you what to do or anything.¡±

    Gently grasping one of her hands, Dinah reassured ka¡¯Kia, ¡°Well, if I did have someone like you telling me what to do when I was only wallowing in self-misery, then I¡¯d probably be a lot better off. I was pretty overwhelmed at the start, and have thought about how stress-free and easygoing my life would¡¯ve been had I not accepted becoming a Champion.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± ka¡¯Kia spoke softly with her eyes downcast, but her words carried a familiar emotion, ¡°I¡¯ve¡­ I thought about those things before, too.¡±

    The tone of ka¡¯Kia¡¯s voice echoed Dinah¡¯s recent past. It was the feeling of loneliness. Isolation.

    Dinah held ka¡¯Kia¡¯s hand more firmly, causing the girl to look into her eyes, ¡°You¡¯re stronger than you think you are, ka¡¯Kia. Even now you¡¯ve managed to lift my spirits with just a few words.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia immediately looked away again, a small blush coloring her pale skin pink.

    ¡°Anyway,¡± Dinah didn¡¯t want the girl to feel too embarrassed. Dinah knew she hated whenever anyone focused too much attention on her, ¡°we¡¯ll have more time to talk and enjoy the wonders of the world in the future. For now, let¡¯s just try to tolerate this whole Meet together.¡±

    Humming in assent again, the young woman continued braiding Dinah¡¯s hair. As that was happening, two familiar men entered the Champions¡¯ Den.

    With high cheekbones and a towering figure, Sermon¡¯s face could¡¯ve been considered pleasant if it wasn¡¯t always drawn tight into a frown. His blond hair was pulled into a high top, and his hazel eyes scoured the room like a hawk. As usual, he wore his ceremonial prismatic armor, glowing faintly with the pulsating green light that was indicative of his Prism. Standing a head shorter than him was Ciarlare ¡ª a contrast in every way ¡ª with dark skin, dark hair, dark eyes, and a small, all-knowing smile. He was dressed in a dashiki suit woven with a myriad of blues like ocean waves. The kofia atop his head was embroidered with the shape of his Prism: a tetrahedral pyramid. Dinah had learned the hard way that he loved to use it as a conversation starter to show off just how smart he was.

    After taking stock of the still bickering Azazel and Lady Sita, the two men sat on the furthest end of the table, still within conversational distance of Dinah. Though Ciarlare seemed to engross himself overlooking the rest of the Bethel Lyceum, Sermon looked down at Dinah with open disdain.

    She simply smiled back, ¡°Good afternoon, fellow Champions.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you even deigned to show up, Ukusika.¡± Sermon looked down at the assembly, ¡°You complain enough about your duties to rival some of these worms.¡±

    Dinah heard ka¡¯Kia¡¯s breath catch behind her. Normally, such a comment from Sermon would earn a good verbal thrashing, but Dinah was in good spirits today. And no one was going to ruin that.

    ¡°I¡¯m actually going to have even more duties after today¡¯s announcement,¡± she examined her nails as she spoke. ¡°After all, someone has to prevent the collateral damage an inexperienced user can cause with the Prism of Destruction.¡±

    Ciarlare immediately leaned into the conversation, but was cut off as Sermon remarked, ¡°There¡¯s a new Champion?¡±

    Covering her mouth with a hand, Dinah laughed lightly, staring Sermon in the eyes, ¡°You mean you didn¡¯t know?¡±

    Gritting his teeth, Sermon pounded a fist on the table, ¡°Out with it, then! Don¡¯t play these stupid games with me.¡±

    ¡°Why are you fighting already?¡± Lady Sita interrupted, her gaze locked onto Sermon. ¡°Can¡¯t you at least pretend we all get along for the Meet?¡±

    Sighing loudly, Sermon leaned back in his chair while rolling his eyes, muttering something under his breath.

    ¡°I agree with Soteria,¡± Azazel, in his sunset colored chang kben, stepped over to stand between the two groups, ¡°we must make an appearance of civility and exhibit proper decorum lest the masses confuse us for common rabble. Once the Meet is underway, everyone in the Empire will be able to watch the proceedings, and we need to represent the strength and integrity of the Empire.¡±

    ¡°A new Champion, Dinah?¡± Ciarlare cut in, ¡°From where?¡±

    Everyone leaned closer, even ka¡¯Kia.

    Finding herself in control of everyone¡¯s attention, Dinah grinned, ¡°About three leagues, and sixteen hours ago, the Duchess Tamarin was cutting across the Tethys Sea, near a long abandoned fosse.¡±

    Dinah gestured toward a glass and pitcher of water in the center of the table, and Azazel quickly warped a full glass into her hand.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    ¡°The gully it overlooked hadn¡¯t manifested for years ¡ª decades, even,¡± Dinah took a sip, savoring the suspense. ¡°A hail of fireballs erupted from one of the dilapidated turrets in the middle of the night. The sailors aboard the Duchess were experienced yet, and managed to protect their ship from the brunt of the assault. But they didn¡¯t notice that some demons were swimming under the ship itself.¡±

    Walking her fingers up the glass, deliberately clinking her nails with each certain step, Dinah slowly clasped the entire cup in her hands, ¡°They surrounded the ship on all sides, and the crew were forced below deck.¡±

    Everyone was listening with rapt attention ¡ª Azazel with a grin; Lady Sita and ka¡¯Kia with their mouths slightly agape; Sermon and Ciarlare with a stern look of concentration.

    Suddenly, a ball of lightning bounced around the glass, gliding along the surface of the water.

    ¡°A stowaway revealed herself,¡± Dinah began peeling her fingers off the glass of water as the lightning started bouncing between her fingertips, ¡°and with a degree of control known only to mages who have practiced magic for half a century¡­¡±

    With her fingers all removed, only the floating glass of water remained, with the ball of lightning hovering above, ¡°¡­she destroyed every demon aboard the ship, with not a single person harmed.¡±

    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Azazel shook his head, sharing a broad smile with Lady Sita.

    ¡°You could have skipped the theatrics,¡± Sermon griped, ¡°and you didn¡¯t even say where she¡¯s from.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Dinah would not be goaded. With a smirk on her face, she added, ¡°She is an elf.¡±

    ¡°Ohhh,¡± Azazel elbowed Sermon playfully, ¡°maybe someone you¡¯ve met before?¡±

    Somehow scowling more deeply than normal, Sermon swatted away the other Champion¡¯s arm, ¡°We don¡¯t all know each other, Azazel.¡±

    ¡°I should hope not,¡± Dinah said, ¡°she¡¯s just a child.¡±

    Glaring daggers at her, Sermon leaned forward but was then cut off by Lady Sita, ¡°Who taught her magic? Is she living in the capital now? Is she native from Tyr Vicente, or is she from elsewhere? I heard many elves live in the forests in Shu Veles. Oh! Is she one of those water elves ¡ª what are they called ¡ª tamashi? Sermon, how many kinds of elves are there?¡±

    Scoffing, Sermon answered, ¡°There are as many elves as there are humans. We¡¯re not a monolith.¡±

    ¡°Oh, please,¡± Lady Sita adjusted the red shawl that had fallen partway down her head, ¡°you know what I mean. Aren¡¯t your people divided into the four elements? You know, like how orcs are divided by their whole philosophy thing or whatever.¡±

    Drawing himself up even more, Sermon scoffed again, ¡°Don¡¯t ever compare elves to orcs. Don¡¯t even use those words in the same sentence.¡±

    The conversation quickly became a rapid series of disputes about race and politics ¡ª two things Dinah wished she didn¡¯t have to deal with on a day to day basis.

    However, soon enough, a series of chimes and bells rang out, indicating the Meet was about to begin. Quickly tabling the discussion for later, all the Champions stood up from their table to stand at the balcony of the Champions¡¯ Den. Taking her place beside Azazel and Sermon, Dinah wore a polite smile on her face and mentally prepared herself for a marathon.

    As the assembly went to their respective areas to stand at attention, the room magically brightened so that no corner held a shadow, and the topaz scrying stones alighted themselves above the congregation, ready to move toward any and every speaker during the proceedings.

    An unseen concert of strings played softly, layering the room in a blanket of calm, as color seemed to come alive. The Empress ¡ª Miriam Constance ¡ª entered from the far end of the hall. Dressed in mourning black, as she would be until the Emperor completed his latest resurrection, Miriam was impossible not to distinguish amongst the white marble floors and multicolored apparel of the assembly. As she passed row upon row of ambassadors and senators, they each bowed their head with the respect her personage and station deserved. Finally at the front, the ministers and consulars each gave a nod, and intoned, ¡°Empress Miriam, may you live forever.¡±

    Standing between the two thrones, one with a burgundy cover draped over it, was Caesar. He stood up straight, with a polite smile on his face, and the colorless Prism of Life hanging overhead. The Prism appeared to be an infinite series of cubes somehow folding into one another, as though being endlessly devoured and born again and again.

    Once seated upon her throne, Miriam gestured for the assembly to sit, and so they did. However, the Champions remained standing. If there was anything worse than hearing a bunch of politicians speak at length, it was having to do so while standing the entire time. But, of course, they had to appear strong ¡ª as if their Prisms and heroic actions weren¡¯t already enough ¡ª so standing for hours without rest was required. Although, it wasn¡¯t like they couldn¡¯t just cast a few spells to make the whole ordeal less onerous. She¡¯d done as much during her second Meet, much to the chagrin of Sermon and Azazel. They¡¯d expressed their disappointment for weeks after. Why the men could be so proud of emulating a statue was beyond her.

    She could hear the soft whispers of Lady Sita and ka¡¯Kia from the other side of the gigantic Azazel. She¡¯d learned early on that for all the talk he was capable of, he was surprisingly serious and attentive whenever it came to matters of State. She side-eyed Sermon, who stood with his hands clasped behind his back, his smile more a sneer as he looked over the congregation. She wouldn¡¯t be talking to him.

    Sighing inwardly, she started to mentally check out, letting everything slowly fade into droning noise in the back of her mind.

    But then she heard a soft giggle from Lady Sita.

    There was no way she would suffer another Meet bored out of her skull.

    She stepped away from the railing, earning an immediate look of reproach from Sermon and one of confusion from Azazel, before she stepped around the burly man and gently pushed him to fill her recently vacated spot. At first, Azazel didn¡¯t move, giving her a look of mild disappointment, but then stepped aside with a sigh.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mind him,¡± Lady Sita whispered. ¡°Welcome to the fun side, Dinah.¡±

    Smiling in earnest, the shorter woman took one of Dinah¡¯s hands and pulled her closer.

    The many bracelets and bangles on Lady Sita¡¯s arms chimed softly as she moved. A gold chain of rubies adorned her forehead, glowing softly as they caught the light, but not so bright as the cheer in her brown eyes. An alternating diamond pattern of red and gold flowed from the top to the bottom of her sari.

    ¡°I should have come around sooner,¡± Dinah said.

    ¡°Everything is better done sooner,¡± Lady Sita then leaned closer. ¡°What else can you tell us about the young Champion?¡±

    The first hour of every annual Meet would typically entail an immediate overview of the fosses, the Sluice Gates, their relevant threat levels, the types of demons they faced ¡ª to Dinah¡¯s ears, it was the same reports year after year, with requests for more troops and funding.

    Instead, she talked with Lady Sita and ka¡¯Kia about the prodigal, young elf, Silva Shyanna. The girl seemed not yet a teen, but that meant she could be anywhere from a dozen to a hundred years old! Unlike the hybrid races, the orcs and elves mostly kept to their own ¡ª well, except for the Coeval Orcs, but they only lived in the Alliance ¡ª as consequence, few knew much about their cultures except former natives and scholars. They exchanged a few words about that before quickly moving back on topic.

    As Miriam said, they had only recovered Silva that morning, and the poor girl was half-starved. After giving her food and water, she just knocked out on the dinner table. Lady Sita recounted her childhood days in Gondwana, learning proper court etiquette and politics when she was Silva¡¯s age, and often wound up eating in bed while studying until she fell asleep.

    They¡¯d roused her from her sleep, and gotten a few mages to look over her, but Silva seemed to have a clean bill of health. She wasn¡¯t terribly talkative, however, and seemed to be impassive but wary. Miriam thought that the girl was probably abandoned at an early age and was forced to survive on her own.

    ¡°We won¡¯t abandon her,¡± ka¡¯Kia pressed. ¡°She¡¯s one of us now, and we¡¯re going to make her feel that way.¡±

    Nodding along, Lady Sita added, ¡°Caesar is certainly a good man, but he won¡¯t be able to teach her how to be a Lady.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯ll be lucky to have you two,¡± Dinah said. ¡°Just as I am.¡±

    Lady Sita beamed at the compliment, while ka¡¯Kia blushed and turned away.

    As the conversation came to a natural pause, they all observed the discussion going on below.

    ¡°¡­forgetting, Minister Daud, is that the Alliance outnumber us, and the Primeval Orcs side with them more often than not.¡± A woman, with a sharp, military garb, proclaimed, ¡°It is, if anything, unconscionable to deny my request!¡±

    Before the minister could answer, the Empress¡¯s voice rang out, ¡°The Primeval Orcs never venture outside their territory. As long as we maintain our borders, I see no reason to allocate additional troops to Yarmi. The matter is settled, Senator Jara.¡±

    Gritting her teeth, Senator Jara saluted, ¡°Thank you for your consideration, regardless, Empress.¡±

    The scrying crystal that had been hovering over her floated back up in formation with the others above the congregation.

    Another scrying crystal chimed softly, and the minister standing directly below it, called out, ¡°We recognize Senator Lorcan, speaking on behalf of the people of Shujae. Senator has also requisitioned additional troops in a bid to finally push the Alliance out of Dimu Skanda. Senator, you have the floor.¡±

    Another man stood, wearing a simple gray vest that left his heavily tattooed arms exposed, and a scrying crystal darted toward him before stopping at arm¡¯s length over his head.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have to tell you just how many rare earth metals are in Dimu Skanda,¡± his voice rumbled in a deep bass, ¡°because you already know. Just as you know that we have just stabilized the Sluice Gates all across the Empire ¡ª and those brave men and women deserve a break. But, if we just focus our efforts on one last push, we can secure peace and prosperity for the Empire for the next century.

    ¡°I only ask that you reposition the troops from the Imperial Estuary to Dimu Skanda,¡± he said. Groans and protests permeated throughout the assembly, ¡°These are our strongest, smartest, and most talented soldiers. If I had them for just one day, your Eminence, I promise you that I will give you the entirety of Dimu Skanda.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Dinah whispered to Lady Sita, ¡°why are they groaning?¡±

    ¡°The Alliance is too entrenched in Dimu Skanda,¡± the shorter woman replied. ¡°It isn¡¯t a numbers game up there ¡ª it¡¯s the geography. The mountains and caverns have too many places to hide. Even if we swept all across the surface, there¡¯s no telling what traps or sluices or ambushes could be in those mountains. The war up there was always going to be long and expensive ¡ª there¡¯s no reason to believe that the Alliance wouldn¡¯t do everything in their power to push back just as hard against us if we rushed in like that.¡±

    ¡°I wish there was no war,¡± ka¡¯Kia despondently added.

    ¡°It¡¯s stupid,¡± Lady Sita agreed. ¡°The Alliance has most of the subcontinent anyway. We can hold at the Kerlaugar river, and just negotiate from there. I don¡¯t understand the need for more of that land when we already have enough.¡±

    Dinah had been in a few battles as a Champion, but had never been on any particular war front. She¡¯d helped the Prismatic Knights fight demons plenty of times, and was happy to protect people from an obvious evil, but the few times she¡¯d helped protect the army from artillery were somewhat unnerving. After all, these were people with hopes and dreams, just like her, and the fights were over territory and resources.

    ¡°Why can¡¯t we just end the war and become trading partners?¡± Dinah asked. ¡°If the black market can do it, then why don¡¯t we?¡±

    ¡°Because not everyone wants what¡¯s best for everyone,¡± Lady Sita crossed her arms. ¡°They just want to make a name for themselves.¡±

    As the assembly continued, Dinah looked over at Caesar. Of course, there he stood, hands behind his back, right beside the throne with his mother. He glanced at her for a moment, gave one of his small smiles, then went back to watching the hearings.

    He always took his responsibilities seriously. It earned the respect of everyone around him, even Sermon and Ciarlare seemed to consider Caesar¡¯s words before they acted. In fact, he was the one who tied the Champions together.

    And, although they hadn¡¯t set an official date just yet, he was going to be her husband.

    He always did support her. Ever since they¡¯d met, he¡¯d been there to listen, to talk, to celebrate¡­

    Dinah had an idea.

    Tapping the burly man on the arm, Dinah asked, ¡°Azazel, could you conjure a set of crystal stairs that extend to the throne?¡±

    Giving her a look of disbelief, the man gruffed, ¡°Of course, I can. I can make anything. Why?¡±

    She stepped past him, and went between Sermon and Ciarlare, ¡°I have a proposal for you two.¡±

    Ciarlare gave her a considering look, before turning most of his attention back to the assembly, ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±

    Sermon looked down his nose at her, arching an eyebrow, and saying nothing.

    ¡°Silva was abandoned by everyone she ever knew.¡± At Dinah¡¯s words, Ciarlare actually turned to face her, ¡°I don¡¯t know if she remembers ¡ª or wants to remember ¡ª where she came from, her people, or her culture. But, if she¡¯s to join us as Champions, then we¡¯re going to welcome her as Champions.¡±

    At this point, the other three Champions stepped away from the railing and joined the semicircle.

    ¡°Before that, though,¡± Dinah looked Sermon, then Ciarlare, in the eyes, ¡°we¡¯re going to have to act like Champions.¡±

    The two men shared a look before Ciarlare spoke, ¡°We work together well enough, Dinah. We don¡¯t have to be friends to do our jobs. You¡¯ve made that abundantly clear by example.¡±

    Pressing her lips together, Dinah was loathe to admit, ¡°You¡¯re right. Most of the animosity between us started with me.¡±

    Ciarlare looked mildly taken aback. Sermon, however, still had his arms crossed, and looked unimpressed.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for how I¡¯ve treated you so far,¡± Dinah maintained eye contact. ¡°I know that I can be¡­ difficult¡­ from time to time, and I¡¯ll try to be more patient in the future. But I need you to work with me on this.¡±

    ¡°Why now?¡± Ciarlare pressed. ¡°Is this really just about Silva?¡±

    Dinah looked down as she tried to gather her thoughts. Someone took her hand, and she looked up to see Lady Sita giving her an encouraging smile.

    Chuckling softly, Dinah said, ¡°I¡¯m getting married.¡±

    All the Champions¡¯ eyes widened in surprise.

    Lady Sita immediately pulled Dinah into a hug, ¡°Congratulations!¡±

    As the others offered their congratulations, Dinah waved it off, ¡°I know, thank you, really. But, to answer your question Ciarlare, that¡¯s why. Caesar obviously respects you, as you do him ¡ª I¡¯m going to try and do the same. It¡¯s about time I really fulfill the role I¡¯ve taken.¡±

    Sermon eyed her for a few seconds before finally sighing, ¡°Does this mean you¡¯ll finally take your duties seriously, instead of treating them like chores?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take them as seriously as I take you,¡± Dinah smirked.

    Just as Sermon scoffed, Dinah extended her hand.

    ¡°Let¡¯s build a better future together, Sermon,¡± she offered.

    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he clasped her hand, ¡°For better or worse, I suppose.¡±

    ¡°For those we love,¡± Dinah added with a smile.

    His face softening for just a moment, Sermon nodded, ¡°Yes, for those we love.¡±

    Offering her hand to Ciarlare, he quickly clasped hers and said, ¡°For a better future, my friend.¡±

    As everyone took in the news, Caesar¡¯s voice echoed in Dinah¡¯s head, ¡°What are you all doing up there?¡±

    ¡°We were just talking,¡± she thought back, ¡°and we want to come down when Silva is introduced.¡±

    Amusement plain in his thoughts, Caesar sent, ¡°Oh? How did the guys take it? Sermon and Azazel love decorum.¡±

    ¡°We worked it out,¡± she smiled at the Champions in front of her. ¡°Are they all done begging for troops?¡±

    A mix of exasperation and relief passed through her, as she felt what Caesar did, ¡°Last one. So, what¡¯s the plan?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll descend a crystal staircase made by Azazel, and come by the throne,¡± she thought, ¡°while you announce that we Champions have something important to tell the people.¡±

    ¡°That sounds fun,¡± another wave of amusement passed through. ¡°It sounds like this guy¡¯s wrapping up, so just do your thing and I¡¯ll follow your lead.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there soon,¡± she sent her love to him, ¡°just stand strong.¡±

    A powerful feeling of love came over her, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t help but smile as warmth rushed into her chest.

    ¡°Thinking about someone?¡± Lady Sita grinned.

    Clearing her throat, Dinah said, ¡°Caesar was just telling me that we will have an opportunity to come down to the throne after this last speaker. We had decided that introducing a new Champion was too important to leave until after the open forum.¡±

    Everyone nodded at that, and then Sermon stepped forward, ¡°Well, Lady Constance, what happens next?¡±

    Dinah eyed him for a moment, finding it somewhat hard to believe he would call her that seriously, but his face held no hint of disrespect.

    ¡°Well, Champion Montis,¡± she smiled at him before giving a knowing look to Lady Sita, ¡°we¡¯re going to the fun side.¡±

 Apogee

    Despite the Bethel Lyceum being as crowded as it was, Caesar knew that more than half the ambassadors never attended the Meet directly. Many territories always claimed that they needed to oversee the growing number of troops in their cities, coordinating an effective defense against the hostile movements of the Alliance or the Primeval Orcs, which were absurd claims. Save for the perpetual battleground of Dimu Skanda, none of the nations had done more than saber rattling, even the Empire.

    It was obvious that the threat of demons filled these people with more fear than Caesar could understand. Even with the Sluice Gates upgraded stabilization frames, there were always new gullies and geysers that seemed to manifest every few months within a hundred miles of them. The demons that came out of those were nothing to the troops already on patrol.

    Between the enchanted armament, constant communication, and stable schedules, the geysers and gullies were no credible threat to the Empire. Caesar wouldn¡¯t be surprised to hear yet more senators trying to move troops around in an effort to cover every inch of the Empire with a scheduled patrol route.

    ¡°That concludes our morning proposals,¡± Minister Kali stated. ¡°Are there any other announcements or concerns that must be made before we move onto the open forum?¡±

    Normally, important announcements would have been known to the consulars who would then have informed the ministers. However, today was a very unique kind of announcement, and so Caesar had wanted it to be a surprise. After all, it wasn''t every day that someone destined to change the world was discovered.

    There were, of course, a few senators and ambassadors already walking out of their assigned rows and stepping down onto the open floor ¡ª the ''bloodless arena,'' as mom liked to say ¡ª in a hurry to bring up their grievances with others, no doubt.

    Before too many people left their seats, Caesar looked toward Dinah, up in the Champions¡¯ Den. Her wavy black hair was braided now, exposing the golden studs and hoop earrings she always wore. Her full lips spread into an open smile and she gave him a nod. He gave her a wink, and turned his attention back to the assembly.

    ¡°There is one announcement,¡± Caesar''s voice echoed throughout the entirety of the Lyceum, amplified by not just his mana but also the acoustics of the room. ¡°It is one of monumental importance, and not something I alone can make.¡±

    Looking about nervously, the few politicians that were standing began to slowly shuffle back to their seats. The consulars and ministers looked somewhat surprised, their trust in Caesar leading to their looks of curiosity rather than the fearful, furtive glances the senators and ambassadors kept throwing towards him and the Champions above. Caesar simply stood and watched, eager to witness whatever performance his friends had planned.

    The light of a new dawn covered the room in a soft orange glow, confusing the assembly momentarily, before Azazel appeared at the balcony of the Champions¡¯ Den with a tiny, blazing sun behind him. He raised a glass of water before him, as crystalline light seemed to gather in front of the railing, ¡°Some of you have met us Champions before, as we¡¯ve worked together to build cities¡­¡±

    The glittering light melted together and formed a crystal staircase so pristinely clear that you had to shift your stance just to notice it was even there.

    A twisting tetrahedron, with a clarity as clear as clean water, appeared next to the blazing sun, and the railing in front of Azazel seemed to split apart into segmented chunks, reforming itself into an archway before the staircase.

    Ciarlare stood next to the towering Azazel, smiling at the congregation below them, ¡°We have terraformed the wilderness ¡ª transforming inhospitable lands into bountiful landscapes¡­¡±

    The two men smirked at one another before they began to slowly descend the staircase together with their respective Orange and Blue Prisms glowing softly at their sides.

    As they approached the throne, an unlikely pair appeared at the top of the steps ¡ª flanked by a rotating, red diamond and a gurgling, green sphere were the smiling Lady Sita and the ever grim-faced Sermon.

    ¡°We¡¯ve healed the sick,¡± Lady Sita¡¯s voice echoed harmoniously throughout the Lyceum, ¡°and cured plagues that once kept us apart. We¡¯ve saved the lives of those who fight to keep us safe¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve rooted out corruption,¡± Sermon¡¯s voice was a crisp staccato, ¡°and helped former rivals become fast friends. We¡¯ve negotiated peace with the islands of the Commonwealth, and the myriad of hybrid nation states.¡±

    As Lady Sita and Sermon began their trek down the staircase, Azazel and Ciarlare had just reached the platform with the throne, and Caesar immediately clasped forearms with each of his friends. They shared smiles of pride with one another before excitedly turning their heads back up to the scene unfolding before them.

    A golden, twelve-sided beacon of light appeared, followed by a spiky, pink star that looked to be changing the direction it spun so quickly you could see afterimages. A moment later, Dinah and ka¡¯Kia appeared at the top of the stairs, hand in hand.

    ¡°We¡­¡± ka¡¯Kia took a breath, ¡°We¡¯ve helped make your dreams into reality!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve protected those dreams,¡± Dinah called out, ¡°from a flood of monsters that exist in a reality not our own. And now, we will finally have someone who can take that fight to them.¡±

    As Dinah looked over at Caesar, he knew it was his cue, but still couldn¡¯t help but wink at her again. She¡¯d gotten them all to do something like this? Normally she was much more quiet and reserved around others. The only people she would act so boisterously around would be her own family ¡ª and himself, of course. He would have to do everything in his power to encourage this kind of behavior. For now, though¡­

    ¡°Ladies and Gentlemen of the assembly,¡± Caesar called out excitedly, ¡°people of the Empire! For decades we have fought and died to keep the waves of demons from crashing into our cities.¡±

    Overhead, a translucent display of long, limbed shoggotthi amidst a swarm of raging heldyn collided with a force of Prismatic Knights. Enchanted spears clashed against the demons¡¯ claws sending sparks flying out over the assembly that dissipated before reaching the ground.

    Caesar looked back to the base of the stairs to see the Pink Prism steadily spinning above ka¡¯Kia¡¯s outstretched hand ¡ª no longer a spiky star ¡ª now a flat, twenty faced polygon. Dinah, standing right beside the normally nervous woman, gave him a wink and mouthed, Keep going!

    ¡°I was there,¡± Caesar roared, ¡°with our brave knights that followed me into that deep, dark abyss! Day after day, we struggled¡­ Year after year, we fought¡­ The demons fought with a tenacity that seemed to match our own. Even so, we persisted..!¡±

    The battle overhead faded to mist before dispersing into a crowd of screeching banshees and wailing wraiths. They darted about, their ghostly bodies leaving behind dead black smoke that began to accumulate a growing shadow over the room. Many in the assembly appeared aghast and anxious at the advent of the awful apparitions.

    Framed by a golden sun and clad in glowing armor, a translucent Dinah broke through the darkness. Following behind her was a similarly translucent Azazel, confident as ever, and Lady Sita, with a brash smile on her face. Together, they blew apart the ghosts with a radiant array of light.

    Caesar continued, ¡°Together, we¡¯ve been able to drive the demons back. Our sacrifices, though numerous and great, have finally paid off. There are still some demons that wander too close to our paths in the Hollow Expanse, but we¡¯ve secured all the routes that flow from the Imperial Estuary. The Prismatic Knights will be patrolling these routes so that we may once more secure provisions and troops, foodstuffs and medicine for people all across the Empire.¡±

    The illusory display faded away into nothingness, and all eyes turned to Caesar.

    ¡°This, however, is not the end. With the border of our world secured, someone will have to go into the lair of the beasts,¡± Caesar strode down the main aisle of the Lyceum, as all the members of the assembly watched him warily. ¡°At the Hadal Level, there is a dead zone where no magic can function ¡ª save for a Prism wielded by a Champion.¡±

    ¡°As the Chosen of the Colorless Prism of Life itself,¡± the glowing cube shined above Caesar¡¯s head, ¡°I¡¯ve been able to fight these demons in their own cold, lifeless world. They fear me. They hate me. They¡¯ve killed me and watched me come back. Again and again. They taunt and berate me, claiming that I will one day die alone and there will be no one to bring me back.¡±

    As he reached the back of the Lyceum, Caesar turned just his head, and said, ¡°But I won¡¯t be alone.¡±

    At his glance, the enormous double doors, that could fit five people abreast, slowly opened outward. Brilliant light cut through before a small figure was revealed.

    Clad in a simple, brown tunic, the girl stood out amongst all the marble, the armored knights, and the colorful congregation. Even after eating and a night¡¯s rest, she still had somewhat sunken cheeks. Her mop of dirty blonde hair was parted behind pointed ears, revealing a face of pure impassivity. But her hazel eyes seemed to take in every detail of the Bethel Lyceum.

    ¡°Allow me to introduce,¡± Caesar stepped aside, and swept a hand forward, ¡°the Chosen of the Brown Prism ¡ª Silva Shyanna.¡±

    Whispers immediately broke out with the words Chosen, demons, and child most often repeated. Caesar didn¡¯t pay them any mind, though. He looked down at his student, and she met his gaze. She always met his gaze. He didn¡¯t know what kind of troubles she¡¯d been through, or the kind of people that she¡¯d met, but there was a terrible serenity in her eyes.

    Regardless of the years she¡¯d lived, as she was elven and liable to be up to a century old already, this child seemed to have a cold, dissonant aura to her. Her experiences so far seemed to have inured her to take on suffering like it was a trivial burden. But Caesar wouldn¡¯t let her bear that alone.

    He looked back toward the throne, locking eyes with Dinah, his beautiful wife. She gave him a curious look before Lady Sita whispered something in her ear.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Dinah¡¯s concern flowed into him.

    ¡°I¡¯m just grateful,¡± he thought back, ¡°that I have the perfect wife to help me raise this child.¡±

    He saw her laugh as embarrassment and warmth flooded his heart, ¡°We¡¯re not married yet!¡±

    ¡°We can be,¡± Caesar thought. ¡°We already have a ring bearer.¡±

    Dinah crossed her arms, ¡°Maybe you should introduce us, first.¡±

    With a wide grin, Caesar held his hand out to Silva, ¡°Would you like to meet my friends and family?¡±

    As usual, Silva immediately met his gaze, carefully measuring his expression, before she placed her small hand in his. As they walked back up the main aisle, Silva¡¯s face remained impassive even as her eyes darted from senator to senator with that same intense scrutiny. To Caesar¡¯s amusement, some of them even shrank back from her gaze.

    Most, however, regarded her with looks of curiosity. Being an elf was certain to inspire misgivings among the more xenophobic senators ¡ª particularly those on the war front ¡ª but she wouldn¡¯t be working with any of them anyway. For the next few years she¡¯d be working exclusively with the Champions. Caesar knew he had some blind spots that they would be able to help her iron out before she went with him into the abyss, and killed the Doom Lords that lurked in its depths.

    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Dinah, ka¡¯Kia, and Lady Sita were excitedly discussing something; Azazel and Ciarlare were talking to mom.

    But Sermon had a look of disbelief and wariness. Once he noticed that Caesar was regarding him, he sighed and then schooled his features back into that signature frown.

    Caesar was tempted to telepathically ask what the man was thinking, but figured they could have a discussion during the open forum.

    As they walked up the steps leading to the throne, Dinah and Lady Sita immediately came forward, beckoning Silva to stand with them. As always, she carefully looked them over, weighing their expressions as a merchant weighs gold. However, Sermon stepped between them.

    Hazel eyes met hazel eyes as the two elves peered into one another¡¯s soul. Sermon suddenly sang softly in a language Caesar didn¡¯t recognize. It was too brief to be a song, but whatever meaning it conveyed caused Silva to regard Sermon with a look of curiosity. She sang something back. Sermon remained looking dour while Silva appeared as stoic as ever while the two seemed to exchange bars of different songs in rapid succession.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Lady Sita impatiently said in a hushed voice so that the assembly couldn¡¯t overhear. ¡°What are you two doing, Sermon?¡±

    ¡°She is definitely fey borne,¡± Sermon answered just as quietly, ¡°but is far from impulsive. Even more unbelievably, she claims she was raised by one of the fey aspects ¡ª an entity of deific proportions.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Lady Sita wasn¡¯t the only one whose interest was thoroughly piqued at the news. Caesar could see mom watching them from the corner of her eyes, probably wishing they would finish their announcement so they could begin the open forum.

    ¡°She can¡¯t name him,¡± Sermon continued, ¡°as fey are loathe to lend their true names, or even pseudonyms, to anyone. Even so, she could be lying.¡±

    At that accusation, Silva became visibly annoyed, and proclaimed in an echoing voice, ¡°For my mouth will speak truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips.¡±

    The room quieted substantially at the words of the new Chosen. The Champions were all taken aback, and it was up to him to smooth things over again.

    ¡°As you all can see,¡± Caesar called out, ¡°we Chosen hold a strong sense of morality. It is our duty to uphold the truth and peace in this world, and we uphold these values with every fiber of our being.¡±

    Surprisingly, Silva spoke up again, her voice carrying throughout the Lyceum, ¡°Anyone who leads an honorable life walks in safety, but whoever pursues wicked ways will be found out.¡±

    Once more, a tension fell over the room at the young girl¡¯s proclamations. Azazel had a wide grin on his face, while the rest of the Champions had pensive looks. Caesar could see that some of the senators and ambassadors glanced about each other nervously. Shaking his head, Caesar wondered how many people watching through the scrying stones became fans of Silva in that moment. He knew that some of the people in this room were undoubtedly pocketing money or engaging in blatant nepotism, but Silva wasn¡¯t going to serve as some sort of secret police.

    They already had the Edicts for that.

    ¡°It is comforting,¡± Caesar spoke clearly, ¡°to know that the one who will be facing down those terrible demons has so strong a heart. Those evil creatures will come to fear her just as they fear me.

    ¡°However, we will not rush into battle with only strong hearts. We must train in mind and body, as well. Silva still has to learn the tactics of our armies, the limits of our Prismatic Knights, and the craven strategies of the demons themselves. This will, of course, take time. It is time that we Champions will be spending with her until she is ready to act on her own.

    ¡°Silva, as you have shown the world your undeniable countenance, please show them the artifact you were fated to wield,¡± Caesar stated.

    Once more, Silva gazed directly into his eyes. He gave her an encouraging smile. They would have to work a bit on her public persona lest she end up with a reputation like Dinah or ka¡¯Kia.

    Above the blonde girl¡¯s head, a blood-brown nothingness began to spin, rapidly coagulating into the bare bones of a hollow pyramid before a growing web of lines began to fill in the faces.

    Electricity arced from one tip of the pyramid to another, giving the diminutive figure of Silva a foreboding presence, magnified by her unreadable face of impassivity.

    Everyone could feel mana surging throughout the room, as eight Prisms bore their strength for everyone to witness. To Caesar, it was a nostalgic feeling. He hadn¡¯t seen the Brown Prism since Gevurah had passed. A twinge of sadness plucked his heart strings as he remembered a friend he¡¯d known in another lifetime. He wouldn¡¯t let that fate befall anyone else. He would be more careful, more prepared to combat the demons.

    ¡°Something feels off,¡± Dinah suddenly said.

    ¡°You feel it, too,¡± mom stated as she got up from the throne.

    Caesar spoke quickly, ¡°Dinah, put up a wall to protect the assembly. Azi, get ready to begin an evacuation immediately.¡±

    The Golden Prism shined, and a transparent wall of light now separated the assembly from the throne. No magic or sound could pass through ¡ª only light. It was only then that Caesar noticed the tense feeling of mana was getting stronger, as though several mages were slinging spells at one another.

    ¡°I knew she was too calm,¡± Sermon seethed. ¡°We have to bring her to heel. The fey are just too chaotic to be given free reign like this.¡±

    Dinah said, ¡°It¡¯s not the Brown Prism, though.¡±

    Indeed, the Brown Prism didn¡¯t show any signs of acting strangely. Even Silva just stood there watching, without a trace of worry on her face.

    The Green Prism began to glow brighter, ¡°We can¡¯t take that chance. I¡¯ll just put her to sleep for now. We can sort this out afterward. Security is of the utmost importance here.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not her!¡± Dinah shouted.

    A bolt of green energy shot toward Silva, but was intercepted by a ray of golden light. Magic met magic. A shower of white sparks exploded in the air before dissipating into unseen mana.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing, Dinah??¡± Sermon snarled. ¡°She obviously can¡¯t control it!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s not even doing anything, you fucking idiot!¡± Dinah shouted back, ¡°Are you seriously going to attack a child doing literally nothing?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know the fey like I do,¡± Sermon spoke calmly. ¡°Whether it¡¯s a facade or a geas or self-discipline, she¡¯s obviously channeling too much mana. She¡¯s going to lose control.¡±

    A new flood of mana surged throughout the room, and everyone turned toward the source ¡ª mom.

    ¡°Something¡¯s coming,¡± she was looking at the base of the steps.

    ¡°Right there¡­¡± Dinah pointed to the empty space where mom was looking.

    Every Champion¡¯s Prism began to spin faster and faster, shining their signature colors in a brilliant rainbow across the entirety of the Lyceum.

    Caesar concentrated his will. He knew everyone here would be kept safe. No one was going to die here.

    Color began to bleed as everything gradually became gray scale. Mana flooded the room to near bursting as everyone was shielded from harm by the Colorless Prism of Life.

    Something slammed into Caesar. He physically recoiled as the feeling of nausea and dread and giddiness hit him all at once. As he gathered his bearings, he noticed that nearly all of the members of the assembly were unconscious. The scrying stones were no longer hovering overhead ¡ª their fragments were strewn all over the ground. And each of the Champions were either on their knees, struggling to catch their breath, or on the ground and retching.

    Except Dinah.

    With a roar, he watched her arms shoot forward, and suddenly the feeling was gone. Golden light encompassed the surge of mana that had taken everyone else out and confined it to a sphere in front of Dinah. Caesar ran forward and put a hand on her shoulder, giving her as much strength as he could channel through his Prism.

    He could feel her tremble under his grip, but she held her ground and gritted her teeth. The sphere kept slowly expanding, stopping, then contracting before it began the cycle anew. Tears were in her eyes as she panted with effort and the Golden Prism shined like the sun.

    Mom was at her other side, mana pouring from her body into Dinah.

    The sphere of confined mana in front of them began to glow white, and he could feel the cracks form as it leaked mana into the room before they were quickly resealed by Dinah¡¯s might.

    Caesar had no idea what the hell was happening, but he continued to pour all of his will, all of his mana, into keeping Dinah safe. She absolutely would not be hurt.

    A silhouette appeared in that white sphere. Someone suspended on their side, like they were just sleeping in an ocean of mana.

    The white light disappeared as all the mana suddenly surged into this figure.

    The Golden Prism winked out.

    <hr>

    _.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._

    ¡°What did you call me?¡± Caesar asked in disbelief.

    ¡°Hosanna,¡± an unfamiliar voice said.

    Dinah strained to open her eyes as the light seemed too bright. As she stirred, she could feel Caesar¡¯s arms holding her close to his chest.

    ¡°Dinah,¡± his voice was a gentle whisper, and she felt as he turned his body.

    A soft hand touched her shoulder, and warmth surged throughout her body, rejuvenating her.

    She opened her eyes to see Miriam¡¯s face full of concern. As she slowly rose to stand on her own feet, she saw that each of the other Champions were already standing, and on their guard.

    ¡°You¡¯re every bit the hero I knew you¡¯d be, Caesar,¡± the man standing in front of them said. And he was a strange looking man.

    His hair was disheveled and greasy, as though he hadn¡¯t washed it in weeks. His cheeks were rounded with fat, and his skin looked untouched by the sun. A gray sweater that had orange smudges at the hems was matched by a gray set of loose trousers, with a variety of colorful stains strewn about like patches. Strangest of all, his stockings had cartoonish caricatures of women making lewd faces. Was this schlubby guy the cause of the anomaly?

    ¡°Ebony and ivory,¡± the stranger wolf-whistled. ¡°No wonder you wanted to marry her, man. Perfect waifu material, seriously.¡±

    The man¡¯s eyes crept along her body like worms engorging on dirt. Dinah hated him instantly.

    ¡°You stand before the collective might of the Holy Prismatic Empire, stranger,¡± Azazel stepped forward. ¡°State your purpose, or you will be treated as a hostile invader.¡±

    The schlubby man gaped at the towering Azazel, ¡°Dang, Azzy, you¡¯re huge! You really are a Chad Asian dude!¡±

    As the stranger laughed, the Orange Prism apparently unfolded into multiple tetrahedra that then folded back into themselves, which resulted in the Prism suddenly shining dramatically brighter.

    ¡°Hold,¡± Caesar raised his hand toward Azazel. ¡°I believe he¡¯s a friend.¡±

    Looking around the room as though he had not a care in the world, the stranger remarked, ¡°Really nice palace thing you got here, Caesar. I thought there¡¯d be a bit more to it, to be honest, but I think the whole simplicity thing is kinda nice. I can see some similarities to the Temple of The One.¡±

    ¡°This is the Bethel Lyceum within the House of Vrata,¡± Caesar stated. ¡°It belongs to the Emperor. If you consider me a friend, then please show me the same amount of respect as I¡¯ve shown you.¡±

    ¡°Ah!¡± With a smirk, the man suddenly changed his accent and affected a stoop, ¡°Of course, hosanna! I apologize most profusely, good sir! This lowly worm prostrates himself before hosanna!¡±

    Before he¡¯d even finished speaking, the man dropped to his knees and bowed before Caesar. Just as each of the Champions began looking at one another in confusion, he looked back up at them and winked.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen enough,¡± Sermon¡¯s Green Prism began glowing. ¡°He¡¯s obviously a fool or a saboteur. Let¡¯s have the truth from you, lowly worm.¡±

    ¡°We need him, Sermon,¡± Caesar growled. ¡°It irks me, too, because I don¡¯t yet understand how or why, but I know that we need him.¡±

    Frowning at the stranger, Sermon clicked his tongue, and the glow faded from the Green Prism.

    ¡°Dang, Sermon,¡± the stranger said, ¡°you still have that chip on your shoulder? What year is it anyway? I mean, you guys are around for quite¡ª¡±

    The man suddenly stopped short as his eyes landed on the young Silva Shyanna. It was then that Dinah noticed a majority of the assembly were also beginning to stand up.

    ¡°Silva is still just a child¡­?¡± the man muttered to himself as he slowly got back to his feet. ¡°That means the civil war hasn¡¯t even started yet.¡±

    Ice ran through Dinah¡¯s veins. She immediately summoned another wall of light to separate themselves from the civilians.

    ¡°What did you say?¡± Caesar demanded, now on edge.

    ¡°Uh,¡± the man looked at each of the Champions, ¡°I mean, it¡¯s not like we can¡¯t stop it, you know. And-and I know exactly who the leaders are anyway! I mean, I don¡¯t know, like, the big one behind the thing, but I know almost all of the senators by name who were part of the rebellion. I can tell you everything I know, no sweat, and then we can stop the whole demon invasion from happening, too!¡±

    Everyone looked around in alarm. There¡¯s no way what he was saying was true, was there? A civil war? Why? But demons invading¡­ They¡¯d just finished clearing them out, hadn¡¯t they?

    ¡°Look,¡± he sighed, ¡°I know this is a lot to take it. But you guys have to trust me, cause, like, there¡¯s no way you¡¯re going to sur¡ª¡±

    ¡°Trust you??¡± Sermon scoffed. ¡°We don¡¯t even know your name!¡±

    Once again, the man smirked, as though there was some sort of inside joke he alone was privy to. He spun on his heels before settling into a pose with his right hand stretched over his face, his eyes peeking between his fingers.

    ¡°I had a name in my previous life,¡± his voice was now an octave lower than before, ¡°but that was the name of a weak man born to weak parents.¡±

    He spun once more, gyrating his hips back and forth before he began walking backwards, dragging his heels along the ground, ¡°As I have seen this world¡¯s future¡­¡±

    He ululated two high pitched cries and then threw his hands out to his sides, ¡°I am Kronus! El Shaddai! Yahweh! Mohammed and Vishnu! I am Kami! I am savior and destroyer! Alpha and Omega!¡±

    Green light began to cover the room.

    ¡°Sermon, don¡¯t,¡± Caesar warned.

    ¡°This imbecile is making a mockery of us, Caesar,¡± Sermon¡¯s voice was devoid of emotion. ¡°If half what he says holds any truth, then we should find out immediately.¡±

    ¡°I agree,¡± Caesar said, ¡°which is why you¡¯re not going to use your magic on him. We¡¯ll need to alter the memories of the assembly ¡ª wipe out any mention of a civil war. If that is what¡¯s being plotted, then we can¡¯t have our enemies finding out.¡±

    The man ¡ª Kronus? Kami? ¡ª nodded his head, ¡°Very wise, hosanna, very wise. There¡¯s a reason you were consistently voted the best character, you know.¡±

    ¡°Lady Sita, Azazel,¡± Caesar commanded, ¡°help heal and evacuate everyone. ka¡¯Kia, Ciarlare, I want you to go with Dinah and escort this man to our most secure prison, if any of the enchantments outside this room are even still working. Otherwise, Dinah, you can restrain him.¡±

    ¡°Wait, Caesar, c¡¯mon,¡± Kronus cut in, ¡°You can¡¯t seriou¡ª¡±

    His voice was abruptly cut off as his mouth closed. It wasn¡¯t clamped shut. Extra skin was now covering where his open mouth used to be. As Kronus worked his jaw, the extra skin dangled loosely where he once had lips.

    ¡°Everyone,¡± Caesar¡¯s voice echoed in the tense silence, ¡°do as you¡¯re told. We¡¯re going to figure this out soon.¡±

 Foretelling

    Bright white snow reflected the morning sun on a desolate mountaintop. The air here was brutally cold, and swept across the peak with a howl that could rival thunder. This icy cap was called the Peak of Desolation for no creature would dare call this place their home.

    Mana appeared. Without preamble, the mana began to cover the mountain top, stretching out in all directions like the light from a star. The tiny refractions of light from the snow were magnified to such a degree as to emit an explosion of color that could be seen even from the mountain¡¯s base more than a mile below.

    On and on the mana poured forth, digging into the mountain itself, and stretching up into the skies. Clouds became aglow with radiance, and the mountain began to shine. At this time, people all throughout Shu Varuna took notice of the phenomenon, wondering what this strange omen could mean.

    Not more than two minutes after the mana appeared, it suddenly recoiled ¡ª coalescing into a sphere the size of a house that shined like a second sun.

    There was a flash of light, and the Peak of Desolation was gone, with a torrent of steam in its wake.

    Suspended at the center of the crater where once was the mountain¡¯s peak, was a young woman. Her form slowly sank to the ground.

    She was, by almost any measure, an average looking woman. Her height, her stature, and even her looks, with the exception of her red hair.

    As soon as her feet touched the earth, her eyes opened, revealing a curious black freckle on her right eye.

    The cold wind cut across her flesh, and she shivered violently, wishing to be warm again.

    Warm she was, as mana enforced her will on the world itself.

    Confusion immediately followed, and the woman began muttering questions to herself, all of it drowned out by the sound of the wind howling.

    A set of white robes suddenly appeared on her person, and the girl hooted with delight.

    She looked around the crater, noting the devastation, and placed her palm on the ground. As she stood back up, a long staff, made of silver and bronze, rose to meet her hand. She looked down at the staff with curiosity before she shook her head and began walking.

    A hundred questions swam through her mind, followed by a thousand possible answers, as she walked.

    Whatever else may be, the first thing she was going to do was find a way down this mountain.

    <hr>

    ¡°It must be some kind of an attack,¡± Nayav insisted, ¡°there¡¯s no other explanation.¡±

    ¡°And from who?¡± Kulla stopped stirring the pot of stew to stand up and face her brother.

    Nayav just stared at her as if she were being purposefully daft. He must have picked that up from his human friends, because no proper orc would be so disrespectful to their elder.

    With strained patience, she counted off each reason, ¡°The Empire would be stupid to do this because we are the only people that can track down the soul of their Emperor without enchantments.

    ¡°The Alliance would be stupid to do this because our brothers and sisters there would turn on them the moment they found out.

    ¡°The Commonwealth would be stupid to do this because we would drive them out of Dimu Prithvi with a vengeance reserved only for demons.

    ¡°The hybrid peoples would be stupid to do this because it would only invoke a worse reputation about them from the rest of the world, and invite vengeance.

    ¡°Now, you tell me, who could pass by all of our tribes and somehow make it to the center of the Diluvium Bhoomi?¡±

    Nayav threw his hands out in exasperation, ¡°Demons, Kulla, demons. What else would try and bring about destruction to the world without reason?¡±

    ¡°And how would they make it there?¡± Kulla demanded. ¡°They cannot enter Yume¡¯kai. They cannot create portals in our land. Sages know when they near our border, let alone when they cross it. It is impossible.¡±

    Massaging his temples as he spoke, Nayav said, ¡°It is the Breaking, Kulla. We know it is coming. What other explanation could there be? The Breaking has started and they are attacking us first because we are the biggest threat to them. Open your eyes, Kulla!¡±

    ¡°A single wildfire is not the Breaking, you foolish boy,¡± Kulla lectured. ¡°For all we know, it was started by children as foolish as you are.¡±

    Nayav groaned in exasperation before turning to the only other person in the hut, ¡°Tell her, Modiuk. It is the only sensible explanation.¡±

    Not yet a proper sage, Modiuk was still able to enter the first layer of Yume¡¯kai, and thus shown great respect, as was proper. He had put off his ceremony only at the behest of Nayav. The boy had begged him to journey to the nearby Empire city because his parents wouldn¡¯t let him go without a chaperon. As a kind and charitable individual, Modiuk had offered to spend a month of his precious time looking after the growing warrior.

    The young orc had spent all of their money in the first week. They had to do odd jobs here and there just to afford travel and food until they got back to the border of the Bhoomi. Apparently, however, that first week had been enough to rub all sorts of bad human habits on the impressionable orc. Especially his willingness to immediately challenge the words of his elders.

    ¡°You are once again rushing things, Nayav,¡± Modiuk spoke softly, trying to keep a measured tone. ¡°Though we must always remain vigilant, it is not the way of Eratosk to see enemies where none have been found.¡±

    Crossing his arms, another habit picked up from being around his human friends, Modiuk was sure, Nayav said, ¡°Then what do you think started that wildfire? There was no lightning. We¡¯re not on a volcano. Was there a drought going on that no one told me about?¡±

    Modiuk wanted to slap the boy, but he was a patient and kind soul, ¡°You must trust that the sages will find the answers and focus on your own duties and training, Nayav. When was the last time you practiced your forms?¡±

    Shrugging his shoulders, the boy answered, ¡°I do them when I have time. I¡¯m doing many things.¡±

    The urge to slap the overgrown child grew anew, like a fire that was fed a pine cone, but Modiuk was kind. He was merciful and forgiving.

    ¡°Remember, ¡®he who chases two deer catches neither,¡¯¡± Modiuk reminded him.

    ¡°Perhaps they just aren¡¯t fast enough,¡± Nayav arrogantly countered.

    Before Modiuk could get to his feet, Kulla already slapped Nayav across the face, and jabbed a finger at him, ¡°You should hold your tongue if you¡¯re only going to say stupid things, you stupid boy!¡±

    Rather than looking chastised, Nayav only drew his eyebrows down in anger. As brother and sister stared one another down, Modiuk frantically thought how to calm them down.

    The young orc grunted and marched out of the hut in a fury.

    Modiuk could see the regret in Kulla¡¯s eyes, and he sighed. Even though it wasn¡¯t his fault, he would be the one to clean up this mess.

    ¡°Who goes there??¡± Nayav called out. ¡°Name yourself!¡±

    Modiuk and Kulla looked at one another in alarm before they both darted out of the hut.

    They saw Nayav, axe in hand, looking up the dirt path.

    There was a figure ¡ª human, judging by his size and stature ¡ª that was walking with a lazy pace to his steps. His clothing was bizarre and unlike anything Modiuk had seen during his time in the Empire city they visited. The human looked totally unconcerned, as if he were just going out for a stroll.

    No humans entered their lands without an escort ¡ª not the Magi, not the Oracle, not the Huntress, and not even the Emperor or Empress.

    Modiuk opened his eyes beyond the veil of reality.

    An infinite dreamscape overlaid atop the physical world as Yume¡¯kai revealed itself to him.

    The figure on the path had a burning soul that shined so bright it hurt to even look at it, as though Modiuk were staring at the sun.

    He blinked his eyes as he looked away, ¡°Impossible¡­ no human has that much mana..!¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Kulla voiced in alarm, ¡°What do you see, Modiuk?¡±

    ¡°Name yourself, now!¡± Nayav shouted once more.

    If only they had traveled further into the Bhoomi, or had waited for a caravan. The hut they took shelter in was meant to house a dozen of their people, not just a paltry three! They should never have traveled so few in number.

    ¡°Do you have any quests for me?¡± a voice shouted back at them.

    The orcs looked at one another in confusion.

    ¡°Do you know any good spots I can grind?¡± The human said as he continued along the path, ¡°Any raids or dungeons?¡±

    ¡°What does he mean by that, Modiuk?¡± Kulla whispered to him.

    ¡°Stay back!¡± Nayav shouted, then he dipped his fingers into a satchel on his belt, and began anointing ancestor ashes on his face.

    The strange human ¡ª no, he couldn¡¯t have been human¡­

    The creature stood still, though, and shrugged his shoulders as he watched them. He was only a hundred yards away now. If Modiuk were an archer, he would have shot the creature dead.

    But Modiuk had pursued the path of the sage. He wanted to learn how to enter Yume¡¯kai and mold the world like clay, as the Ten Prime could do. Even if he hadn¡¯t gone through the ceremonies, Modiuk still knew how to mold mana to his will.

    He stepped in front of Nayav, and thrust his palm forward. Fire gathered forth, and Modiuk could feel the heat, but the heat would not harm him. It would sear this creatures flesh.

    With a roar, Modiuk willed the fireball toward the creature. The flame screamed forward and impacted in an instant, exploding in a flash of light.

    Feeling his reservoir of mana already depleted, Modiuk focused on steadying his breathing as his body instinctively drank in ambient mana. It would be at least a few minutes before he could attempt something like that again.

    The smoke was dispersed with a burst of air that snapped the branches off of nearby trees.

    Unbelievably, the creature was still alive, and his arms were crossed.

    ¡°Run¡­¡± Modiuk whispered to the other orcs. ¡°Run far away. I¡¯ll try and hold it off as long as I can.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving you,¡± Kulla squeezed his hand. Her eyes met his, and he felt yearning and heartbreak all at once as his entire world crashed around him.

    ¡°I¡¯m with you til the end, brother,¡± Nayav growled.

    The creature uncrossed its arms, ¡°Do you know what an alpha strike is?¡±

    Nayav roared and charged toward the creature.

    It was the last thing Modiuk saw before the world went white.

    <hr>

    ¡°Fine, then,¡± Dinah reluctantly agreed.

    Ciarlare nodded his head, and then the Blue Prism shined for a moment.

    Blue light reflected off the marble walls as there was virtually no other light source in the chamber they were in. Luckily, that mana explosion from earlier had limited its damage to just the Bethel Lyceum as all the other enchantments in the House of Vrata were still operational. Including the bars for the holding cells in this room.

    Stolen story; please report.

    In an instant, Kronus was no longer sporting that weird, distended patch of skin on his face.

    He immediately gasped a breath through his mouth, ¡°Holy shit, that felt weird as hell! You think Caesar¡ª¡±

    ¡°You speak when spoken to,¡± Dinah snarled at the man. He clamped a hand over his mouth and bowed his head. Something about it annoyed Dinah, as though everything were still a game to him.

    ¡°Are you ready, Dinah?¡± Ciarlare asked her.

    Considering the scale of the accusations he had laid at their feet, Kronus had to be interrogated. The threat of a civil war was something that Dinah couldn¡¯t really believe, but also instinctively felt unsurprised by. However, the threat of a demonic invasion was too serious. And the fool had even claimed he would help them stop it? Dinah couldn¡¯t see this schlub accomplishing anything with his life.

    Dinah looked down at the man. He was slouched over, which made his already unimpressive stature even smaller. He winked at her, and Dinah immediately felt a new wave of revulsion at this man. ka¡¯Kia stepped closer to Dinah, the poor girl obviously uncomfortable with the whole situation.

    Fueled more so by anger than a sense of duty, she conjured the Golden Prism once more. All lies would be revealed to her. The Prism shined, and a barrier of golden light bathed the room in a soft glow.

    ¡°What is your name and true identity?¡± Ciarlare inquired.

    Kronus took a moment to appreciate the soft glow on his person, nodding his head appreciatively at Dinah, before turning to Ciarlare with a smile, ¡°For all intents and purposes, Kronus might as well be my name. I mean, why should anyone else get to decide that for me? My parents were sanctimonious assholes; the government doesn¡¯t respect the rights of the people; there is no god above me. So, what does that leave us with? ¡®I think, therefore, I am,¡¯ a philosophy you could appreciate, right, Ciarlare?¡±

    True. Dinah immediately scowled at the unrepentant arrogance of Kronus¡¯s absolute childish beliefs. The boy spoke like he could trust no one but himself. Dinah wanted to give him the verbal thrashing he deserved, but held her tongue. They needed him to speak, and insulting him wouldn¡¯t get him to cooperate.

    In the ensuing silence, Kronus looked at the bars curiously. He seemed to be thinking hard about something. After a moment, he sighed and shook his head.

    Ciarlare, however, simply stared at Kronus.

    A minute passed before Kronus, apparently bored, suddenly spoke again, ¡°I¡¯m giving up that old life of mine and choose to be someone new ¡ª someone better than I was before. There wasn¡¯t much for me in my other life anyway. My parents already disowned me, so it¡¯s not like I was going to get an inheritance.¡±

    True. Inheritance? Was this bratty man-child a noble? That would certainly explain his attitude. Nonchalance in the face of the Champions? Holier-than-thou disposition? It clicked into place perfectly.

    ¡°What kind of life are you choosing to give up so easily?¡± Ciarlare asked.

    ¡°A pretty shitty one, honestly,¡± Kronus answered. True. ¡°This whole thing was nothing more than a story where I come from. That¡¯s why I know everything that happens. It¡¯s why I know that the civil war can be prevented if we just take out most of the senators and ambassadors today. The ones that I can¡¯t name will probably never attempt something like that again once they find out how quickly you guys have already eliminated the others. Even the unknown benefactor will have to back off.¡±

    True. Ciarlare perked up, ¡°Who is this ¡®benefactor?¡¯¡±

    Kronus sighed again and dropped down to the ground, kicking his feet in front of him and leaning back on his arms, ¡°I wish I knew for sure, but that detail was never revealed. I can voice my doubts about a lot of people, but I can¡¯t definitively claim anyone¡¯s guilty of being the mastermind.¡±

    True. Dinah immediately stood at attention. ka¡¯Kia noticed her change in posture, as did Ciarlare.

    ¡°You actually do want to help us, don¡¯t you?¡± Dinah pressed.

    With a short, sad laugh, Kronus said, ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t want you guys to suffer. If I don¡¯t help you guys, then the world is way worse off.¡±

    True. Dinah asked, ¡°What do you mean this is a ¡®story¡¯ to you? How do you know so much about us anyway?¡±

    ¡°One question at a time, Dinah,¡± Ciarlare said. ¡°Tell us what you mean about this being a ¡®story.¡¯¡±

    Kronus smiled again, but it was a sad smile. He looked at Dinah. His face full of pity.

    ¡°In the way I know it,¡± Kronus began, ¡°you suffer most of all, Dinah Ukusika. Your fate was probably the worst out of all the Champions.¡±

    True. Shocking her into silence, Dinah felt as though she had suddenly been condemned. A flurry of emotion washed through the coldness as she felt confusion and hurt and anger all fight to break through her tenuous calm.

    A wall of air rushed around Kronus, and Ciarlare leaned toward Dinah, ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    She shook her head, but said, ¡°I need to hear more. I need to know what he knows.¡±

    ¡°He isn¡¯t lying?¡± Ciarlare sounded surprised.

    She shook her head once more, ¡°That¡¯s the scary part. He hasn¡¯t told a single lie. I don¡¯t understand.¡±

    ¡°He could have access to powerful divinations,¡± Ciarlare proposed. ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why he feels what he says is true. Maybe it is more of a possibility that he firmly believes in.¡±

    Dinah met Ciarlare¡¯s eyes, ¡°This man was prophesized to appear by the Chosen of the Purple Prism, just like Silva Shyanna.¡±

    Ciarlare gave a noncommittal hum. ka¡¯Kia gently took Dinah¡¯s hand, and Dinah gave the younger woman a small smile at the sign of support.

    The wall of air vanished, and Ciarlare declared, ¡°Tell us something that can prove this isn¡¯t all just pointless conjecture and accusations.¡±

    Kronus seemed to take it all in stride. He simply smiled again, and looked up at ka¡¯Kia, ¡°She¡¯s in love with Azazel.¡±

    True. Dinah felt ka¡¯Kia¡¯s hand suddenly grip hers tightly. Ciarlare looked at ka¡¯Kia with confusion, and the younger girl hid her face behind Dinah.

    ¡°No¡­¡± ka¡¯Kia flushed a pink as bright as her dress, ¡°Well¡­ I don¡¯t know¡­¡±

    ¡°Although telling,¡± Ciarlare mused, ¡°I¡¯d rather have information we can confirm concretely. Tell us something about these corrupt senators that no one else should know.¡±

    Kronus waved his hand dismissively, ¡°That¡¯d take too long. ka¡¯Kia can just read my mind? I know plenty of caches and secret passages and prisons that the senators and ambassadors have. You can just send Azzy to check them out.¡±

    True.

    Curiosity urging her, Dinah asked, ¡°Why do you think she can read your mind?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s part of her whole schtick, right?¡± Kronus looked between everyone. Seeing the confusion plain on their faces, Kronus continued, ¡°The Pink Prism of Dreams? Illusions? The veil of reality? The whole dreamscape of Yume¡¯kai? Nobody? ka¡¯Kia, you have to know this. C¡¯mon, girl, don¡¯t leave me hanging.¡±

    Suddenly put on the spot, ka¡¯Kia tottered on her feet for a few seconds before answering, ¡°Well, I have been contacted by some orcs before. They seem to deeply respect me as the Champion of the Pink Prism, but¡­ I don¡¯t think I can read minds or anything.¡±

    ¡°Huh,¡± Kronus nodded. ¡°Guess that¡¯s just a Chosen thing?¡±

    A thin slate of marble popped off a nearby wall, and floated in front of Ciarlare, ¡°If you know these locations, then you shouldn¡¯t have a problem providing directions, I assume?¡±

    At first uncertain, Dinah became both wary and impressed by the wealth of knowledge Kronus seemed to possess. Not only did he name the senators and ambassadors, describing their looks and mannerisms to a tee, but he knew the names of their estates, the colloquial slang for certain areas in each city and town and backwater. It was as though he had known these officials personally and been to these places himself a hundred times before.

    Ciarlare wound up creating multiple marble tablets. Some had descriptions but, eventually, he wound up creating floor plans and maps with Kronus¡¯s direction. Any trace of Kronus¡¯s foolishness disappeared as he went into detail on the intricate plans for civil war that were occurring right under the Champions¡¯ noses. Worst yet, Kronus never spoke a single lie. It was chilling.

    Dinah knew that, regardless of how she had felt about this man, he had to be kept safe. There was no longer any doubt in her mind that he knew the future. Her future. Caesar¡¯s future. As the conversation came to a close, they discussed who would verify the evidence Kronus presented and who would stand guard. Dinah knew she had to get more answers from Kronus.

    ¡°Take ka¡¯Kia with you to investigate,¡± Dinah ordered. ¡°If Kronus knows this much, but still doesn¡¯t know the true face of this mysterious mastermind, then we have to protect each other.¡±

    ¡°But who will protect you?¡± ka¡¯Kia tentatively put her hand on Dinah.

    ¡°No one else knows that we¡¯re here and,¡± the Golden Prism flashed brilliantly above Dinah, ¡°I¡¯m the strongest Champion anyway. Even Kronus acknowledged that it was only with the Golden Prism that the portals to the Hollow Expanse could be closed. I¡¯ll put more barriers and wards to protect me and Kronus until you all return.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia still looked worried, and tottered timidly.

    Dinah couldn¡¯t help but smile and pull the girl into a hug, ¡°You need to spend less time worrying about others and more time worrying about yourself.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia laughed as they parted, ¡°Lady Sita tells me that all the time¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Dinah gave ka¡¯Kia a reassuring smile. ¡°I¡¯m stronger than I look.¡±

    Blue eyes filled with concern, ka¡¯Kia shook her head, ¡°Lady Sita says that, too¡­¡±

    ¡°Then she¡¯s much wiser than I thought,¡± Dinah smirked.

    Air rushed past them before coalescing around Kronus.

    Ciarlare cleared his throat then asked, ¡°What if Kronus is somehow deceiving us? What if he is the true mastermind behind all this?¡±

    Although Ciarlare had a point, Dinah felt this wasn¡¯t the case, ¡°He can¡¯t speak any lies, and he has only just appeared before us. I think he might have been sent to us rather than coming here on his own¡­ I¡¯ll continue interrogating him and try to piece together his identity until you return.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell Caesar to make his way over here,¡± Ciarlare offered. ¡°This man seems to hold him in great esteem. Though deserved, the reason for such respect could be from something Caesar does in the future.¡±

    Wrinkling her nose, Dinah asked, ¡°What makes you say that?¡±

    Ciarlare shrugged, ¡°He was foretold to appear by the Chosen of the Purple Prism. I wonder if we are seeing eddies in the wake of Caesar¡¯s decisions in the future.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not entirely following, Ciarlare,¡± Dinah sighed.

    Smiling with good humor, he cupped his hands in front of him as water slowly filled the empty space. A small marble ball rolled down his sleeve and gently landed in the center of the water. A current took shape, and the water poured forward, looping along the outside of Ciarlare¡¯s fingers before coming back up his wrists to flow through his cupped hands once more.

    ¡°See how the water is parted by the front of the stone?¡± Ciarlare explained, ¡°But it comes around and splashes up the back.¡±

    ¡°Okay¡­?¡± She still didn¡¯t understand what he was getting at.

    ¡°Caesar is immortal,¡± Ciarlare said. ¡°He is like the wind and the ocean is history.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s famous for many things,¡± Dinah stated. ¡°I don¡¯t see what this has to do with eddies.¡±

    Ciarlare pressed his hands together and the water dissipated into fog before fading from sight in an instant. ¡°Caesar will be the only one of us who will personally know every Champion and Chosen that comes into existence.¡±

    Dinah swallowed hard. Whenever the topic of death came up Caesar laugh it off with an anecdote of his escapades. Thinking back, it became clear to Dinah that he was hiding a darker sense of loss behind his surface smile.

    ¡°You think when Caesar meets the Chosen of the Purple Prism of Time,¡± Dinah thought aloud, ¡°he¡¯s going to have a lot of points in time that he wants to go back to.¡±

    Shaking his head, Ciarlare clarified, ¡°I think he¡¯s a man of tremendous will and won¡¯t abuse a power like that to spare his own feelings. He¡¯d use such power responsibly.¡±

    ¡°You think Caesar is the one who sent Kronus back in time?¡± Dinah guessed.

    He shrugged, ¡°Maybe whatever Caesar does in the future makes the Chosen of the Purple Prism bring Kronus. I cannot say for certain.¡±

    Dinah blew out a breath, ¡°This is a lot to take in.¡±

    ¡°It is only speculation, Dinah,¡± Ciarlare said to her. ¡°What I do know is that we must trust each other, now more than ever.¡±

    His dark eyes held a shine she wasn¡¯t used to seeing in them ¡ª concern. He very much reminded her of her kid brothers just then.

    Acting on impulse, she pulled him into a one-armed hug, and kissed the top of his head. ¡°I could get used to seeing this side of you more often, Ciarlare.¡±

    He pulled back and readjusted the kofia atop his head, ¡°Well... you won¡¯t if that¡¯s what I¡¯m to expect.¡±

    She laughed, ¡°You boys always puff yourselves up and act proper. It¡¯s hard not to tease you for that already, so what do you expect me to do when you¡¯re so sweet?¡±

    Ciarlare eyed her curiously before turning to ka¡¯Kia, ¡°Is this not strange from her?¡±

    ka¡¯Kia only shrugged, ¡°I like it.¡±

    Dinah shook her head, ¡°You two should come to Nucifera. This stuffy place has always brought out the worst in me. People weren¡¯t meant to live in stacks of rock ¡ª the open sky and ocean breeze are where we are our truest selves can thrive.¡±

    With a finger raised, Ciarlare offered, ¡°Rain check?¡±

    Laughing softly, Dinah wrapped a finger around his, ¡°Promise.¡±

    Looking toward ka¡¯Kia, Dinah extended the pinkie of her other hand. The taller girl reciprocated with a pinkie of her own.

    Finding herself smiling, Dinah took in the scene in front of her. Both had been nearly strangers to her for three years, and now they were becoming fast friends. Why had she let all that time slip through her fingers? If she hadn¡¯t spent so much time focused on her problems, and instead recognized opportunities for moments like this, would they have been friends already?

    ka¡¯Kia placed a hand over Dinah¡¯s, a face of worry and questions.

    ¡°Look at us,¡± Dinah smiled at the scene. ¡°To think that I could have had this earlier if I only had the strength to reach out first.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Ciarlare cleared his throat, ¡°the same could be said of me. Communication is a two-way street, Dinah. I¡¯d be hypocritical to not mention that my own behavior has led to some roughness to our relationship.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s changing,¡± Dinah looked between the two of them. ¡°I think there¡¯s going to be a lot of changes coming soon. Like you said, Ciarlare, it will be easier to weather the storm if we work together.¡±

    ka¡¯Kia¡¯s smile was soft and gentle, ¡°Together.¡±

    ¡°Together,¡± Ciarlare echoed.

    <hr>

    Although the words of Kronus had wrought irreversible damage, at least the mana explosion that preceded him had caused a suitable distraction. Lady Soteria and Azazel would follow Caesar¡¯s orders and focus on tending to those effected instead of lashing out and trying to find somebody to blame. Sermon would have easily wiped the memories of the assembly, but stuck close to Miriam to protect her. Meanwhile, Caesar would be wracking his brain trying to figure out a long term plan to deal with Kronus, the civil war, and the alleged demon invasion.

    If he acted quickly, then he might be able to salvage things.

    ¡°ka¡¯Kia,¡± Ciarlare levitated the marble slats in front of the tall girl, ¡°could you hold these for me? I need to stop by the lavatory for but a moment.¡±

    ¡°Oh, yeah. No problem,¡± her voice was as demure as ever, but didn¡¯t tremor or vary in volume. Dinah¡¯s influence was already having an effect on her.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ciarlare gave her a small smile and nod.

    She returned his nod but shifted the focus of her attention to levitating the marble slats. Even if only subconsciously, she still preferred to avoid being the subject of scrutiny. That was good.

    Two invisible wards alighted atop the pair of bronze statues that he passed, which would keep out any trespassers. Likely due to the mana explosion, the lavatories were already empty, which allowed him to immediately get to work.

    Ciarlare closed the door, and a wall of darkness swept over it. In the cramped space, a translucent silhouette began to take shape ¡ª at first, nothing more than a humanoid shape, but soon it became defined with contours and a face. A perfect stranger stood in a cloak, with no particularly defining features. Technically, it wasn¡¯t a perfect simulacrum, so the form would collapse rather quickly without him concentrating on maintaining it.

    But it was perfect for what he intended.

    The Blue Prism shined as its infinite reservoir of mana churned. Memories and intentions flooded the empty vessel that stood before him. Without the Blue Prism, this would have taken hours, and any mistake made would cost him every memory that he was copying over to the simulacrum. However, after a few seconds, the Blue Prism calmed.

    The simulacrum became surrounded by shadow and disappeared.

    Doffing his kofia, Ciarlare took a moment to splash some cold water on his face and tidy himself. The wall of darkness in front of the door, as well as the two wards outside it, dissipated with a thought.

    As he exited, he saw ka¡¯Kia looking about the halls, nervously.

    ¡°Is something amiss?¡± he asked.

    A look of relief swept across her face as her eyes met his, ¡°Oh, no. I was just keeping watch.¡±

    Ciarlare smiled sheepishly, ¡°When I get nervous, I¡­ well, I have to go.¡±

    ¡°Oh, man, me too,¡± she chuckled.

    ¡°I can stand guard while you¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh, thanks so much!¡± ka¡¯Kia tittered anxiously, ¡°I¡¯ll only be a second, sorry.¡±

    He waved off her concerns and took the floating marble slats.

    After she left, he began rearranging them. They would be arriving at crime scenes, after all, so all he had to do was make sure they find the right evidence.

 Temper Your Salvation

    ¡°You saw the attack on the Meet earlier,¡± the shadow man¡¯s voice was clear to him, though he could still hear the guttural echoes of false sound faintly following every syllable. ¡°A new piece is on the board and, with it, new opportunities. Fear not, your role will not be changed, but you must be protected. Please make ready to accept a new gift.¡±

    Otis stayed kneeling before the cloaked figure, but hurried to remove his bracelets and upper arm cuff. With that, mana flowed out from around him, and the wards that protected him fell away. He knew better than to show hesitation to their benefactor.

    He saw the flows of mana twist around him, becoming complicated weaves and patterns that flowed into him at a dizzying pace, like an ocean of color. A feeling of worry and dread sparked inside his heart, but was soon replaced with a feeling of warmth and conviction. This was another test, surely.

    Just as earning the undying loyalty of the troops was a test of his charisma and wit; just as the plays for the seat of Ambassador were a test of his cunning and ruthlessness; just as his childhood was a test of his exceptionalism and resourcefulness. Otis was second borne, yes, but he was the first son people thought of when the name Ilmari came up in conversation.

    He wasn¡¯t a lowly blacksmith like his siblings, but a man of importance in the community. People sought him out for his wisdom and his grace and his foresight. He was the voice for over a hundred thousand people ¡ª a population bigger than most of the hybrid nations.

    The mana stopped surging around him, finally settling into invisibility once more, and the shadow man took a step back.

    ¡°Thank you for the gift, master,¡± Otis intoned.

    ¡°Serve us well,¡± the shadow man¡¯s words ringed in his mind like a church bell.

    He drew up to his feet in an instant, his focus now entirely set upon a singular goal, and made his way up the stairs. As his two most trusted guards greeted him at the entrance to the undercroft, he reached out and touched them. A whirlwind of mana pounded into their flesh, and they stiffened for only a moment before following behind him.

    Otis touched every servant and guard that he passed, causing them to fall into step behind him, as he made his way to the garrison. Some guards rose in alarm at his approach, but were held in place by his legion and soon touched. Every sleeping body was touched. Wordlessly, the legion armed itself with bladed weapons, and departed in groups of three.

    Two of the servants removed their upper garments before kneeling in front of Otis. A small group was rearranging the room to allow others to begin etching symbols on the stone floor with chalk. While they worked, Otis began to carve identical symbols into the flesh of the servants in front of him ¡ª mana pouring into each sigil as they were completed.

    Blood began to pour onto the stone floor, intermingling with the chalk like rainwater flooding a river, as the people who were once drawing symbols were now slicing open their necks. Mana pulsed throughout the room with a discordant resonance ¡ª yearning to be completed. With inhuman precision, Otis completed the final cuts on the two servants in front of him.

    With no expression of pain or triumph, the two stepped into the blood circle and were immediately engulfed in mana, transforming into white silhouettes of light. As the last of the mana from the shadow man left his body, Otis dropped to his knees.

    ¡°Oh, gods¡­¡± Otis croaked.

    Once, as a child, he had wandered to investigate a gully, like most curious boys his age had done. They were portals to another world, after all, and held an air of mystique and magic that was unlike anything in all of Amuun¡¯s history. He remembered the feeling from being close to it ¡ª like a whispering chorus of desire beckoning him to step off a rooftop. Back then, it had scared him and the other boys with its strangeness.

    But now, it was like a courtesan¡¯s caress and the feel of gold on his fingertips and the looks of awe from his men all at once.

    It was terrifying.

    The dread and worry suddenly broke free, twisting his face into regret and shame.

    The light coalesced into an image of dead black ¡ª a night sky with no stars.

    Eyeless faces. Pasty pale skin. Smiles that made your hair stand on end. Fingers that ended in points. Movement like a dancer. Shapely bodies that were absent of humanity.

    Sevaral Shoggothi walked past him, some deigned to give his shoulders a loving tap, and Otis shook with silent sobs. There was no realization. It was as though he had always known that this was going to be his fate. He wasn¡¯t anyone important. Just another fool who followed orders. There was no breaking free of the ties that binded you in this world. He was doomed.

    A tender touch on his chin, and a sweet smile for his eyes, ¡°Do you want to be free of this place? To cast aside your worries forever more? To be full?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Otis didn¡¯t get a chance to finish answering as the Shoggothi pressed its lips to his mouth, its tongue twining his own. Otis was eager for its taste, and felt a lump slide down his throat.

    The demon pulled away as Otis coughed up a storm.

    ¡°Embrace it as you did me, child. Let your heart join our chorus. Become everything you¡¯ve desired, and more.¡±

    Mana surged. Bone cracked. Otis screamed.

    <hr>

    _.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._.-*-._

    Kronus laid sprawled on the marble floor of his cage, looking more like a bored child than a prisoner. He had his right hand raised, lazily trailing through the air, as he muttered to himself.

    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    Dinah banished the wall of air that surrounded him, and the room echoed a few notes of the song he was singing before he abruptly stopped and turned his head to her.

    His dark eyes were calm, with a hint of curiosity.

    Dinah still couldn¡¯t understand how this man was supposed to be a savior or destroyer.

    ¡°I¡¯ll still know if you¡¯re lying when you speak,¡± she explained, ¡°so choose your words carefully.¡±

    Kronus nodded.

    ¡°The worst fate I could imagine,¡± Dinah swallowed, ¡°would be to forever lose Caesar in the Hollow Expanse.¡±

    ¡°Azazel creates too many portals,¡± Kronus slowly rose to his feet, ¡°and destabilizes the dimensional equilibrium. The demons come pouring out, and everyone scrambles to seal a giant portal that floods the Imperial Estuary. Caesar is desperately trying to hold them back and commands you to seal the portal, even with him on the other side. Eventually, you do.¡±

    True.

    A hollowness formed in the pit of her stomach.

    ¡°Why would I do that?¡± her voice was monotone. ¡°Was there really no other way?¡±

    Kronus stood directly in front of the bars now, shaking his head, ¡°Caesar orders Sermon to make you do it. Because it was either him or the world.¡±

    True.

    A wave of pressure moved through her, and she gripped the bars of the prison to keep steady. Of course Sermon would do that. The man cared too much about the Empire. It was like he had nothing else to live for.

    ¡°Sermon questions his decision for the rest of his life,¡± Kronus whispered. ¡°It¡¯s the start of a breakdown for each of the Champions, except Shyanna. That girl basically becomes the last line of defense for the broken remnants of the Empire.¡±

    True.

    Dinah raised a hand, ¡°Stop. Let me just¡­¡±

    ¡°After three hundred years, Caesar finally makes it back. He comes back from an endless hell only to find himself alone. Everyone he¡¯s ever known is lost to him, like always. For a time, he gives up. There¡¯s an emptiness in his heart that he knows he can never fill again. He tries¡ª¡±

    ¡°Stop!¡± Dinah trapped Kronus in a shell of air, but couldn¡¯t stop the feeling that was sure to follow

    True.

    She forced herself to take a breath, but choked out a sob instead.

    That was Caesar¡¯s fate? Her Caesar was going to be left alone after all of the sacrifices he¡¯d made?

    Tears dribbled down her face, and Dinah quickly scrubbed them away.

    Breathe, she had to breathe.

    It starts with the breath, his voice was soothing, even in memory. The breath is the locus of control for the parts of you that seem uncontrollable.

    She exhaled through her mouth, and took a long breath through her nose, followed by a brief inhale at the end.

    The calm will come, Dinah focused again. I need you to breathe for me.

    Nothing was set in stone. Even her future as the Champion of the Golden Prism, once an inescapable prison, had a way out.

    Dinah looked at the man in the cage in front of her.

    Kronus had fear in his eyes ¡ª no, concern.

    Everything he had said had been true, no doubt. He was plain and straightforward. He was prophesized to appear. Ciarlare said that he was likely here because of Caesar in the future. Caesar always thought about the future because it was something he would always have to face. An immortal would eventually meet every Champion and Chosen. Caesar wasn¡¯t selfish, and wouldn¡¯t change his past just to make his life easier.

    Caesar would change it for her.

    A twisting ache and love and heaviness suddenly gripped Dinah¡¯s heart, and more tears streamed down her face.

    Breathe, Dinah focused once more.

    She had a clear goal in mind now. In fact, it was the same goal she had always been working toward.

    She had to save Caesar.

    Save him from his prison of duty. Save him from his loneliness. Save him from this horrid future of hell.

    The air swept away from Kronus, and he said nothing.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me anything more about that future,¡± Dinah warned, ¡°because it¡¯s not important anymore. We¡¯re not going to let it happen.¡±

    The young man¡¯s eyes lit up, and he gripped the bars while bouncing off his feet, ¡°Yes! Yes, exactly! We can save him, and everyone, Dinah.¡±

    True.

    The feeling of unease lessened greatly, though its shadow still hung over her heart, ¡°Explain.¡±

    ¡°Okay, so the equilibrium fluctuates all the time because of how mana flows and is channeled through spellcasters and magic items and everything, but that¡¯s not what makes the portals appear, because then they¡¯d have appeared for, like, all time and everything but they¡¯re obviously only here relatively recently, right? So, though it¡¯s never been totally explained, we just need to build destructive interference around the world, yeah? But we can¡¯t just have a bunch of them everywhere or else they¡¯d cause their own degree of cataclysm like Tesla¡¯s Oscillator and stuff. So, we have to find a balance between enough, like, wards that can cancel out the resonance of the portals and not cause their own mana ruptures and stuff. I mean, that¡¯s just for the demon invasion, but it might just be easier if we group up and go after the rest of the civil war agents, because the influx of mana is what destabilizes everything to begin with, so maybe we stand a better chance¡ª¡±

    ¡°Stop,¡± Dinah raised a hand.

    True.

    ¡°Ah,¡± Kronus deflated. ¡°Sorry.¡±

    ¡°Keep it simple,¡± Dinah shook her head. After all the prophecies and strange behaviors, this latest display had Dinah convinced. This young man was like all those fresh recruits in the army ¡ª eager to fight for a cause he believed in. And all the more eager because he was one of the few that knew for a fact his actions would save the world. Sheesh, no wonder he was a little arrogant. ¡°But don¡¯t forget that we¡¯re only a few people. We can¡¯t do everything and be everywhere. Focus on the next step.¡±

    ¡°Right...¡± Kronus nodded, and scrubbed his hands through his hair as he thought. After a few seconds of circling around, he turned to her again, ¡°So, I think that the most important thing we can do is secure the Astrological Rituals for our use.¡±

    True.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of those,¡± Dinah said.

    Kronus nodded again, ¡°They¡¯re not discovered until after the demon war. They¡¯re used to help against the dragon invasion, but most of the rituals are revealed across time by various people making deals with the Astrum ¡ª er, the beings that power the rituals, basically.¡±

    True.

    ¡°Okay, then why is that important for us right now?¡±

    ¡°One of the rituals allows us to resurrect someone we have a special bond with,¡± Kronus explained. ¡°Whether that¡¯s the bonds of friendship, family, or love ¡ª as long as you both cherish one another, then you can bring them back. It¡¯ll be our safeguard for you and Caesar ¡ª and the other Champions, too.¡±

    True.

    The perfect way to save Caesar, and even herself, too? There was no way¡­ was there?

    She must have shown something on her face, because Kronus spoke up again, ¡°I know. It sounds too good to be true, but it¡¯s not. I actually already know the ritual, but it takes about twenty four hours to cast, with the right preparation. Otherwise, it would probably take a normal person about a week or so. We can¡¯t cast it without explicit authority by the Astrum to use their power. Though, once granted, they can¡¯t revoke it. They have strict laws and stuff they have to follow.¡±

    True.

    Dinah considered his words, ¡°If these Astrum are so great, then why aren¡¯t they helping us now?¡±

    Kronus shrugged, ¡°They have strict laws and stuff. I¡¯m not sure, but I do know they¡¯ll give us their power if we make the right offer. Best of all, once given, then anyone who learns the rituals will be able to use them. I¡¯ll be able to teach all the Champions how to resurrect each other, and we¡¯ll have one less worry to deal with while saving the world.¡±

    True.

    ¡°What can we give them to get their power?¡± Dinah asked. ¡°How do we even reach them to begin with?¡±

    ¡°The answer to both your questions is one and the same,¡± Kronus pointed to glowing orb at Dinah¡¯s side, ¡°through the Golden Prism.¡±