《Ein Gard》 Chp 1 The Fallen Knight Chapter 1 The Fallen Knight Astarian Empire North-West Border Day of Tria, 3rd Luna, Year 1110 Central Moon Calendar. The war had been going on for 12 years now. In these 12 years, our forces had been reduced from ten millions to two millions. There were new enlistments, of course, but they were not enough. Training new recruits in such a short span of time, under such condition, was not easy. Our resources were depleting. Our processing sites were destroyed. Our weapons were becoming scarce. Our enemies were too numerous. Was it too far-fetched a struggle? A struggle against those who controlled the world using demons and devils as helpers? A struggle against people who had lost their humanity and oppressed others Those who made contracts with the devils For power. In exchange, they did the devils bidding. Those who are not with us, are against us. So they say They destroyed our cities, towns and even villages. They burned our farms, our homes, and our folk. Even women and children were not spared. Again, they were too numerous. Their demonic beasts were too strong for our forces. Their main armies were humans, of course. Yet backing them were Minotaurs, Bullgars, Lurkers, Giant Snakes, Chimera... They covered our skies Growlers, Fire Drakes, and Demon Wyverns Giant monstrosity shook the earth as they march... Behemoths, Shriekers, Mummakill For the human Knights, Demons took possession of them, and giving them strength and magic of extreme magnitude. Can they still truly be called Knights? Selling their souls to the devils, For power. We were once called the strongest, among humans. We were hailed as heroes, those who would treat others, even enemy prisoners, justly. Of course, as long as theyre not demons or contractors of demons. In the first 6 years, we were winning. We liberated many minor nations from the clutches of the devils worshippers. We gave them food, build homes, and guard them from danger. We provided them work, freedom and happiness with their family. However, In the last 6 years, we were losing. Slowly, but surely. We had so much strong Warriors, Elementalists, Mages and Gunslingers. Yet we could not win against them. Not in this 12 years of struggle. One by one, we lost our comrades. Even I lost my dearest. Stephenie This war, I am of the opinion, is lost. Yet our Emperor keeps on struggling. Why? For he believe dying was better than submitting to devils. Of this, I agreed. People who took devils lightly, who said it would be okay to submit That it would be better than dying, was deluding himself. Once you submit, even if in your heart you still wish to fight on someday The Devils, being the smart-ass as they were, would know how to corrupt you. The Devils Corruption is strongThe chance of any human to ever escape its clutches was nil. ... Stephenie, I hope youre in Gods embrace Please forgive your foolish husband for failing to protect you. Ah, why am I writing this in my diary? Ill just sleep This story originated from another world. In that world, there existed a certain unique Empire, filled with unique people. Astarian Empire. An Empire consists of 60 million people, situated in the centre of the most modern continent of this world. It was an empire ruled by a just Emperor who loved his people dearly, and with his great intellect, rebuild the empire into a magnificent Empire without any slavery and oppression, be it physical or in any other way, in envy of many other countries. Capable people gathered around such leader, molding the empire into such a capable entity An solid entity of which those who controlled the world could no longer ignore Astarian Empire, Central Capital, Great Gorge of Astaria Taiga, 4th Luna, Year 1110 Central Moon Calendar. Sunlight finally filled the surroundings. A man fully clad in bloodied light armor, was holding his sword on his shoulder. He took from the ground, a ragged cloth. He cleansed his blade of blood with it. It was a sword of curves, light yet thick. Red lines were shining along the blade. The stench of blood was in the air. In front of him, dust cloud was forming. Another wave of enemies was coming. He stood looking towards the coming catastrophe. None could stop that rampaging wave this time. It was twice the amount that was stopped here. The place he was standing was a very tight gorge, capable of only accommodating a dozen people shoulder to shoulder at the same time. It was a crack in what could be seen from space, a colossal plateau. And within the crack, was a route pinched by huge walls, the gorge. Lowering his gaze, his eyes met the atrocities of war. Thousands of bodies, friends and foes, lay on the ground. The reason the man could see the incoming wave, bypassing the accumulated corpses was because He was standing on dozens of slain Minotaurs. In front him, the body of a huge silver snake separated from its head. There were some more in his sight, head separated as well. Further, a gigantic fish-like head was separated from its human-like body. The man with flowing black hair, tied at his back knitted his eyes. From where he stood, he could see a head high up in the dust cloud. Large enough to see from that distance, its flaming breath. As it moves on, another head could be seen. With long necks, both heads spew fire of great magnitude onto the air. Long time no see, you bastard KLAK, KLAK, KLAK. Two horses came galloping towards him. Rushing through the corpses, both stopped just behind the man. From one of it, a knight came down and kneeled. He slightly took a glimpse of the knight. The Knight threw him a water skin. He caught it and jumped down from the mountain of bodies. He sat in front of him and drank the water. Water, a gift of God, mercy of the Mighty and Wise Creator of all. He said, satisfied. General. Everyones evacuated as per ordered. Emm, good job Athmus. You may go. He put the waterskin on his belt. Sir, I bring a horse for you. Lets go. Im staying. Sir? Im staying, Athmus. Please tell the others Ill go meet our Creator first. Sir! This is no time for a joke. Haha Im afraid Im not joking this time, dear Athmus. Why? I know were in desperate times, but surely theres no need-- The general stood and lift his sword, pointing towards the incoming wave. We didnt get any info from scouts since all of them did not return but can you see that? Another wave? We know that alreadyWhat! That head in the air is that This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.A Demon Dragon, yes but watch closely. Athmus gazed intently at the incoming wave. Another head popped up from the dust cloud. Its huge body was barely visible from all the dust from the cavalry... yet clearly, it was humongous. Two-headed Demon Dragon! The very same dragon from that time From the battle of Canterra. This is bad Worse perhaps. Fire from that thing could not destroy our sanctuary, of course but even with Asmodite rock heat-resistance, it would take a little over a week or so for the heat to roast us in the ground... even with all those water there. It has two heads after all. Ah, Im also worried about the air our people need to breathe in the vegetation down there might die before people would. But the transfer would take two weeks to finish. The transfer our last hope. He pondered. Within the last year of the war, the Court Mages finally managed to offer the Emperor a way out of this mess. The solution was to transfer as many people as we can to other dimension. It was a great feat, to the credit of the Court Mages. Transferring one million citizens of the Capital into other dimension, thus finding refuge in another world. The Emperor did not like it, yet he had to accept the harsh reality that it was the only way to preserve the next generation. He did not like it, since it felt as if he was abandoning his people. A million, out of 60 million. A mere 1 out of 60, evacuated. Of course, 8 million already fell in battle. So it was 1 out of 52 million meh, lets not be so technical... Of them, 2 million were soldiers. Actually less than that, since many fell from day to day Of the 50 million civilian, around 30 million were already under the reign of the demonic worshippers human in form, but what of their souls? A few millions were burned, eaten and killed before things settled down. There were already a million people within the safety of the underground spring covered by layers of Asmodite rock, covered again with layers of high-intensified magical barriers intended to hold out for a month. 400,000 people were within the Asmodite rock. They were soldiers and Knights, guarding the outer layers. Three gates had been prepared. Enough to transfer all one million and a little more into another dimension. Half of the soldiers and Knights would be transferred with the civilians, under the orders of the Emperor. Thus another 200,000 joined the evacuation. Most of them youngsters, too young to die yet. Thus it is actually 1.2 million whatever. The other half shall wage the bitter struggle. No surrender, till the end. Despite the pleas of many, the Emperor chose to stay Let me die along with our folk, millions of our brave men and women, in the very same land our fathers lay slumber. Sir? The Emperor said so too when he decided to stay. Sir! Youre tasked with the duty as the Head of the Evacuation. Youre our new leader, the next Emperor..! I never ask to be one. Another general can do better than me. The Emperor thinks too highly of me. You cant possibly defeat the Two-headed Demon Dragon by yourself! Let me call-- AHHH--- Stop you fool! Athmus, in this tight gorge, what numbers mean are more corpses for that fire-breathing beast over there. Ill stop it alone with our God. ButAlone with God? You cant mean... Yes, Sovereign Ascension. Sir, dont! How am I going to explain to the Emperor? Plus, Lady Faith would beat me to death! Athmus, calm down. He said so strictly. His fighting spirit was directed to his subordinate. It calmed him effectively so. Sir Emperor would understand, and Faith is not that barbaric, you know. Trust me on this. He gulped. Still-- This would be the forth Sir? Just one Demon Dragon could kill hundreds of our soldiers in seconds. You know out of six Demon Dragons, how many had been slain Athmus? Three, Sir... Lightning Demon Dragon, Earth Demon Dragon, and Water Demon Dragon ... Yes, three all slain by Knights more capable than yours truly with contributions to our Empire uncontested by a young, inexperienced one like me. They gave their valuable life while I, the coward I am, was trembling at the sight of such beast. Remember the campaign in the South? We lost because of my cowardice. Thats not true, Sir! It was because of you many of us survive the battle of Canterra! Ah, that I might do something outstanding once a while, but He gazed the sky. A certain longing could be felt by Athmus. As the one who had served him as aide for five years in the war, he knew what he meant. That demon over there was the one who burned thousands of us He took in a deep breath and released it erratically. Steph was burned in front of me. What kind of man am I, cant even protect the one I should be protecting? Sir Along with her, my family, hundreds of citizens in one single breath. He closed his eyes. He took a deep breath, and this time, he released it slowly in orderly manner. He opened his eyes, took out his sword, and held it upward in front of his face. That demon shall be slain today, the forth Demon Dragon slain by Astarian Knights I, Averon Arcad, hail from the North of Astaria, Leader of Arcad Family, husband of Stephenie Arcad, father of son Isaac and daughter Isabel all of now in Gods Grace Athmus, in his kneeling position, was holding his tears. He rose, wiped his eyes, and took out his sword and placed it in front of his face. And Commanding General, Astarian 3rd Strike Corps! Athmus added. Averon smiled, and nodded. And this is my vow This life, granted to me, O my Creator I shall use to slay my enemy. Not for myself, but for a Just Course. Grant me your blessing, and may the enemy tremble before your might. May the next generation uphold the right conduct, inherit the legacy left behind. Athmus added again. O Creator, I am thankful. And I am grateful. For this life, granted by you to be used in a manner you told us to. To protect our Faith, uphold Justice and make Kindness a legacy for the next generation. Do forgive me for all faults and sins Ive committed, whether Im aware of or not. For you we fight on, for you we live, for you we die For we are merely, human and your servants. Athmus closed his eyes, his head lowered. In my final breath, I implore you O Almighty Creator, grant me the power He stood silent. The rumbling of incoming enemies was now apparent. Growling in the air by Growlers, the bat-like beasts, could now be heard. With my life, grant me the power, The power of a Sovereign. FSHUUU--------------!! A BURST! A great burst of air, spiraling around the General Soon the air spiraling him seemed solidified, and left behind a soothing air circulating him. Occasional stream of lightning appeared around him. He turned to his aide, now in tears. Athmus, youre still young how old are you? He spoke. His voice was deeper than before, as if his voice was echoing. The power called Life Natures Aura, a self-sacrificing power left behind by the ancestors of old. It granted the wielder the power ranging from ten to twenty times of his original power, depending on his faith and affinity to nature. This was the power used by the other Generals to slay the three Demon Dragons mentioned before. Ah, *sniff* 36, Sir I see, 36 huh When you arrived to the other dimension, make sure to make lots of babies. Heh. *Sniff* Youre still joking now, Sir Im not. Youll make a great father, Athmus. Youre honourable, more so than me. You Youre belittling yourself, Sir Haha Averon took a chain with an insignia of a bird inside his inner pocket, and threw it towards him. This is The Emperor would know. Please hand that to him. He kept jumping up a few times. It really felt light now, my body I guess this is goodbye, Athmus Thank you for your service all this time, and forgive me for any inconvenience Ive caused you. He stopped crying, and stepped up, with chest held high he gave a salute, with his knuckle slanted on his chest. Im honoured to have been of service, General. Likewise, Athmus. Send my regards to our Emperor and everyone. Tell him and them, Im sorry Hearing this, Athmus nodded while holding out his tears. May the Might of Our Creator be with you, General Averon Arcad, my leader. May the Peace of Our Creator be with you, Athmus, my friend. With the farewell, he walked towards the entrance of the gorge. Several Growlers as big as horses came with their fangs hurled at him. Each was cut in half with a mere swing of his sword, even at a distance. The lone knight walked up towards the mass of dust cloud, his sword on his shoulder Shrieks piercing the sky could be heard, and from the mass of dust cloud, giant crawlers appeared in the dozens. In the middle, even higher than the giant crawlers, was the bloody red Two-headed Demon Dragon, with black-red fire kept coming out from its mouth. He walked towards them calmly, and surely FUUUUUU----------------- Gust propelled the lone knight towards the final battle Lets go with a bang, partner. God is watching. He said so to his curved sword. *** Chp 2 Birth of a Unique Baby CHAPTER 2: Birth of a Unique Baby Hmhmm I am asleep Ah, deep asleep Ahhh Hmmmm Hm? Whats that sound Light passed through his closed eyes. - Is it dawn already? I still want to sleep Nea, its a boy! - What boy? Whose boy? Hm Hm A light laugh could be heard. It was a laugh while pressing through pain. He could feel he was being hold, and being put in a wrap of clothes. A few stinging pains came through. - Ah, this kind of pain is nothing now whats going on? Where am I? How come my eyelids so heavy? Did my eye got burn by that freaking fire-breather? GUSHHH..! A loud noise came. Someone just rushed in. Old lady Mia! Is it done?! Hows Nea?! Youre too loud..! Yes, its done Nea did well. Honey you okay? You look pale Im fine, dear look, youre now a father Father? Yeah, thats right Im now a father! - Oh congrats anyway where am I? In hospital or something? Did someone pick me up after that serious blow I gave to that stinking fire-spewing bastard? Ah, dizzy and sleepy *fuaaghhh* The mother started to caress her newborn, gently so Her gentle, slender fingers lightly touched the babys red skin She smiled, content. It was a serene view to any who was watching. - Hm? How come I feel someone is feeling me up all over Thats rude, doing so to a sick person! Well, if its a cute nurse heuheuheuk! Oh my Hm? The baby is laughing Is that weird old lady Mia? Shouldnt that be good? You fool! Usually a newborn would cry, not laugh! Ah, I see - Ah, thats funny. Seemed like the baby was quite unusual AH, my eyelids.. Ah, the light Its burning my eyes! The newborn now could move his eyelids after a few moments; he opened his eyes, slightly. Ah, hes looking at us So cute So small Of course its small, you dork its a newborn Huhu I know that Mia obaa-chan its just amazing Life is amazing You are amazing A gentle voice. Serene voice. Motherly. Averon gazed the overly large face in front of him. It was a smile of contentment, written all over the countenance of a blonde beauty She was sweating and obviously still in pain, yet could well gave him that smile full of sincerity. A dumbfounded look of a giant of great muscle was beside her, overlooking him. She looked at the giant, and closed her eyes, happily broadened her smile. A slight laughter filled with satisfaction ensued. - Ah, I see Im being reborn, eh Another chance Thank you, God. Thank You for being born, my son our son. The gentle voice whispered. *** Time passed on The baby ever since had become a toddler To the surprise of many, the baby managed to walk when he was barely 4 months old Of which actually he could do so even earlier, probably But the baby was worried if he would be pushing the fragile body too far Thus he took his time four months. He did his best to act like a baby, though. He became the talk of the village of Arum. During the time of his growth The baby was a bit strange, dont you think? Shh! Youre new here Be careful not to have Lady Nea or our Master hears that theyre very proud of the young master. What? Hows so? You know the baby was interested in reading books and maps even before hes one year old plus his body was stronger than any his age and he already walked through the mansion all on his own! Thats strange! I told you to shut it! The maids were whispering. Many found it difficult to accept the baby was anything ordinary. It was not just the maids Many guests were left in awe Many of them said something similar He indeed inherited the best of both families. A wonderful child, fitting for Lady Valery. A strong child, hell be a great knight like you, Sir Valery. He reminds me of his grandfather During the time as toddler, Averon managed to make out certain thing. The family he was born in It was a family of Knights from his fathers side His uncles, father and grandfather were in direct service of the King. Occasionally, his family would visit the paternal grandfather, who owned a mansion in the capital. The grandfather was a General, by the look of it. It took a few hours journey in carriage, which was quite near. It seemed his father, a Knight, was stationed in an outpost quite near to the capital. And it was his mothers idea that they stayed in the village close to the outpost. When they visited the mansion, the maids would often play with him, activity that he really engrossed in. They would hug him, caress and even kiss him often. Of which he seemed to enjoy Heuheuheuk! ehem Yet as time passed, the maids noticed that the baby was unusual in several ways. First, he would ignore, deny and refuse any foods or juices offered to him, even when the food was edible and sweet. He would throw a tantrum, should he be forced to consume them. As a result, his mother told them not to force him any food or drinks anymore. If it was other baby, they would enjoy such delicacy without restrain. He would accept cool water though. Within the two years, he was just breast-fed, and had fresh, cool water afterwards. Second, he would sometimes listen to conversation of adults, and even seemed to catch on what they were saying. They did not notice his unusual behaviour when he was with them though, since he was quite the actor But something else, he did not try to cover Of which, was his interest to talks of politics, whenever the men of the family gathered. He would pay full attention to the talks, even when the maids or ladies from other family were caressing him. He even seemed to catch on some phrases and cunning plans used by the nobles in their power struggle. Em, em The sight of him understanding the conversation was eerie. They became curious, since they barely understood it whenever the men got serious in their conversation. Men and their talk Third, his eyes shone brightly whenever his grandfather told him stories of his feats in battle. From the duels, formal matches and battles punitive expedition, and up to the war from ten years ago, of which he commanded a division then an army. Due to his attention and excitement whenever the old man started talking, the old man was very pleased. He showered him with attention, and whenever he visited, spent time with him more so than his sons. He was carrying his grandson on his hand, walking around the garden accompanied by his mother and a maid. My boy, youll be a Great Knight one day, so its best for you to prepare early on! Ahhh Em! He gripped both palm, showing his determination. Unusual for a baby of such age to show such feeling. Gracious, father the boy is barely a year old He couldnt possibly understand what you said. Nonsense, Nea! This boy has the thick blood of great warriors flowing through his veins! He understands well what I meant. Haahh Men just make sure you dont force him to do any sword training Father its too soon. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.Sword train..ning He said, gesturing the act of practicing the repetitive swinging of sword, up and down. Hahahah! See? I told you so! Nea, this child you bore is amazing! Hell be a Knight surpassing even me one day! Father do you even listen to what I just said? Swordtrainning! Ahahahaha! I see, I see Come, Averon my boy! Well begin your sword training now! Em! Father! Regarding his name, he was quite surprised at first, but knew very well that it was Gods Will to give him his previous name as his first name. He was grateful. And Forth, The baby was really interested in physical training, moving and jumping. He was barely a year old when he managed to walk through the whole mansion on his own with a maid accompanying, of course. He showed strong physical attribute and constitution. Earlier on, he would watch his uncles in their training, engrossed in it to the point of ignoring the maids. He imitated the complex movement of his uncles when they sparred. In doing so, he fell down and injured himself, yet he did not even cry or show any irritation. - This body is still too weak They were worried if he did not have the ability to feel pain, so his uncles pinched him, and he understood, so he reacted from it. Hurts! That put their mind at ease. On his birthday, his grandfather, the Master of the House, gave him a wooden sword to practice with. For starters, its enough for you to swing it 1,000 times my boy! Father, hes still a baby please dont say something impossible. Impossible? Nonsense! Hes the successor of the house of Valery! Cant you see his eyes? That burning eyes of a Great Knight Hes just like me, so I knew what he can and cannot! Haah What to do Dont you worry, Nea! Ill train him well! Like I said, hes barely one year-old! Averon gazed the sword with sparkling eyes. It had been a year, in his memory, since the last time he held a sword, so even getting a wooden sword burned his manly desire to be strong. It was a sword as tall as himself, yet he could train with it well within a day He swung the sword repeatedly. His weak body, the body of a year-old, hindered his progress. Yet with much effort, he managed to finish 1,000 swings under his grandfathers supervision. That little incident made the grandfather extremely proud. He would take him on a stroll around city riding a horse, and seemed to enjoy the time of his life. They would train in the morning and evening. His mother was worried, but since the grandfather guaranteed her that he would not to overdo it, she let it go for now. When they return to the village, the old man would often long for another time to spend with his grandson. And fifth Since he was a year-old, his mother would bring him to her study room in the library. Sometimes, she picked some children books and read it for him. The Story of the Sages. In our loving world, Ein Gard, there exist people who are cruel and oppress others. They are those, who do not feel compassion and pity to people who are unfortunate, poor and mistreated even when they have the power to help, cause their suffering and at times, they even do the act themselves. They bully the weak and take their food. And feel no remorse in doing so Averon, do Mama a favour, never be cruel and oppress others, alright? She looked at him with compassion. - Maybe its too hard for one year-old toddler. Em! - He understands it? Heh heh She chuckled. To the most extreme of people like these, the God send over his immediate punishments The Sages. Humans like us, but clearly, they are granted with power by God. They are very few in this world, but they go to these cruel and evil people, and deliver the appropriate punishments This is the story of the people in the East, simple people villagers who were oppressed by the Feudal Lord She continued to tell the story of the Sages, the very few people in this world who possessed power and wisdom, who quench evil and injustice in this world. He did seem to enjoy such books, and asked for another Books! Eerily so, he would walk around and take books randomly or so they thought at first. It was not random. It was evident the toddler knew exactly what he was searching for. His mother was a bit perplexed, yet she read the easiest one among them nonetheless. She taught him the alphabet and characters used in the books, and he listened to her attentively. He made mental note to remind himself the different characters. It was different from what Astaria used, but how did he understand the language? - So its Gods work Im grateful. Averon, youre really clever you might inherit more of my traits than your fathers. Hm? Mama, clever whats inherit and traits Oh I used difficult words this time let me explain She patiently explained the words to him and Averon was enjoying this tranquil time of his life. - Since Im a toddler, it would be strange for me to know those words I should live my part as a child from time to time besides, its a good feeling. This feeling of being pampered. What a nice lady, my mother Later, when his mother went into study as he fell asleep, he woke up silently without alarming his mother, who was giving her full attention reading and writing up her research. He chose more difficult books as he already learned the alphabets being used. By his side, several dictionary and encyclopedia, including picture encyclopedia. Since his family was wealthy, they could afford such expensive books. His mother finally broke out of her study trance. Oh my Averon when did you wake up She went up to him. To her surprise, several books were by his side. The subjects of the books were related to History, Magic and Martial Arts. She later observed that he was interested in history, philosophy, weapons, military strategy and politics. However, Military and History seemed to be the area of his main interest. He would make a gesture befitting a scholar, and made a sound as if he understood what the book was mentioning. At first, she thought he was imitating her, who was a magic scholar. And that he was interested in drawings available in those books. Later, when she left him with the maids He reads through all the books available from the time his mother left him to the time she returned. Within some hours, he could finish a thick book all on his own and he did not leave any impression that he was merely glimpsing through. The book he prioritized first would be general knowledge of the world. Soon, the books he managed to finish were attracting attention; the maids in particular. How could a year old boy interested in such thick books? Scary scary this child seemed to understand what is written Dont you think hes just imitating his mother? No, doubly so look at that eyes such deep eyes how could a mere baby wear such an eye?! Some of them even thought he was possessed. Yet none dared to utter such nonsense out loud. And it seemed, aside from the time he was in his study, he seemed like a normal, cute toddler. If you could call a toddler who wielded wooden sword as tall as himself around normal. *** Chp 3 This World Called Ein Gard Within a year and a half, Averon managed to make some sense of the world around him. First, The world was not that different from his world, albeit slightly technologically inferior. There were some airships, much to his relief. However, a long-range flight was not possible, thus sea route still remained dominant. It seemed there were indeed gunslingers around, yet their existence were mysterious and they kept their knowledge as a well-guarded secret. Not many existed throughout the known history. That caught his interest, yet he went on to gain knowledge of the now firstKnowledge of the fundamental aspects, which were different from his world. He grasped some understanding from listening to adults conversation, but confirming it through books would not hurt. The world was called Ein Gard. He found the map. A bit incomplete and lack the names of minor nations and cities, yet it was a good reference to grasp the summary of the world politics in general. From what he could hear, the land his family affiliated to and currently in was the Kingdom of Cestia, a prospering Kingdom of Commerce situated strategically in the middle between Continent of Arcad and Continent of Erlin. Many nations who wished to circumvent the monopolization of Vrien Empire found Cestia to be the best alternative, especially in the trade with Serian Archipelago, the Minor Nations around Cestia and even Arcadia Federation further west. Cestia was located in the continent of Trish, just below many minor nations of which the influence of Vrien Empire, was dominant. The empire was also a land of commerce, yet it engaged much in colonization policy and banking, dominating hundreds of vassal states in the east, in the Continent of Heraldia. Averon noted he was born in a village near the Central City, Crest. He wondered why Cestia was not dominated by Vrien. It must not be that easy, and such knowledge would be quite limited to acquire just from books, so he decided to ask his grandfather later on when he could be considered mature enough. - Did Vrien ruled here by proxy as well? Well, lets say they didnt Lets see might be since Cestia have a good navy or coastal defenses and the land connecting the Empire and Cestia is rather small, thus the land defense could be concentrated there. I wonder how much the existence of minor nations there influence the survivability of Cestia what about their agents in the royal court Ah, the role of Arcadia The were four notable Superpower After gathering much information, he made his initial conclusion One Vrien Empire, to the North, Central City Visdan, was an old 1000+ years Superpower through its sea dominance, trade, monetary and colonization policy. Much was written of how it conducted its operations, book after books. It included slave trading as a major source of income. They euphemized it, but there can be no mistake about it. They also had dominance of commerce and policy in Kriz Union while staging a false fa?ade that they had different agenda. - Ah, a cunning Empire, eh cheap, lying, deceitful bastards Harsh words! From a toddler! Two Alvinn Theocracy, to the Southeast, Central City Alvina, was Superpower through the spread of faith and compassion, dominated the land through the confidence of the masses. Strong land cavalry and armies. - Oh? Interesting I wonder if its a true religion or a false one investigate more later. Three Arcadia Federation, to the Northwest, Central City Saint Averburg, was a Superpower through its large amount of resources and self-sufficiency. The Federation was founded around seven hundred years ago, originating from a large warrior clan. It had been forging good relations with the many minor nations down until the Kriz Union. Famous for its War Behemoths and Garuda Knights, plus its technological superiority. It seemed their Knights had mysterious power similar to Mana. - Hm, seems decent must have capable leaders in lines have to read their policies and applications. Hm? Arcadia Averburg sure sounds familiar mysterious power whatever, Ill find out later. Four Kriz Union, to the Southwest, Central City Misr, was a Superpower through an ideological revolution erupted around three hundred years ago. It was supposedly build to help the weak, and it seemed quite true to some extent within the first fifty years, yet the theory and application within the recent hundred years seemed very contradictory, at least with the information available so far. - Uhh a case where you should not judge a book by its cover suspicious there might be some people who are still good but well, Ill just defer my judgement now. There were also notable major nations worth noting. Cestia herself. A powerful nation with good relations with minor countries around it. Located between Superpowers in the sea, a really strategic location one must attain for world domination. Then Armuld, Dusran dan Restia in the continent of Erlin. Powerful nations that resisted Vriens agenda for long years. The Melc Island, with many tribes and city-states merging together to form a united front against Vrien Empires expansion, and Trias, a nation that withstood the colonization from Vrien, much to the credit of its neighbours in Erlin. The Serian Archipelago was under protection from Arcadia Federation, and this stopped Vrien from having its claws on it, much to the relief of Cestia. - It seemed Vrien has the most influence among the Superpowers, but it seemed to gather a lot of enemies as well. Arcadia could very well be second, but it restrained itself as a regional power. Why? Is it because of the Ocean? Alright, enough with politics for now. Second, The number of life one possessed. Yes, surprisingly so. In this world, a normal person possessed two lives. Once they were killed or died, they would be revived again in another place, usually a cathedral or the nearest safest place possible. The revival would take around a week. If they died of disease or battle, they would have another chance to live. However, this does not do well for people who died of old age, usually 130-140 years old, since they would just die again within several years. Yet he could see the possibility of the condition set here. - Amazing. This mean people could fight in battle without worrying much so long as they have another life to spare. Meanwhile, an excellent person, given birth from family of Knights or powerful people, would possess three lives instead of two. They were sought after by nations and principalities since they could be trained and have two lives to waste in battle, one to spare. And thus bloodline was important. Such hereditary element was of high value in any country, and thus, they supported their knights to have a lot of sons in order to bolster their countrys might. Additionally, should one do great deeds deemed to be worth it, it was believed that another life would be conferred to the said person. Knights were trained to be honourable and excellent, in hope that they might be given another life by the Creator. Averon wondered if he had three lives available. Third, There was another reason why Knights were sought after. The power of the Knights here were a whole lot different than normal foot soldiers. An average Knight could take on a hundred foot soldier in a level battlefield. Of course, this was similar to Astaria, yet it seemed they were strong not entirely because of physical training. It was the existence of Mana. Reading on, he knew that people who came from family of knights had stronger potential in Magic and higher Mana pool. A theory also suggested such condition was due to the parents and their lineage of the layers and layers of people with high affinity to Mana. Another one suggested that it was due to early on experience and training in magic. They had uncanny ability to combine physical attacks using Mana, resulting in devastating attacks. Higher than Knights in pure Magic potential were Mages and Magic Scholar, but they were not front line unit. - So the so-called magic is practically the same with our magic. A bit of difference here, usually only Magicians use Magic, while we Astarian Knights use Nature Manipulation or for some, Qi Manipulation. Magic reminds me of Dark Arts though is it similar to how water element could heal, wind element increases speed and overall power? I did not study it and was not that close with the court magicians They were quite capable. I remember some of them Ah, need to read more Maybe Ill act spoiled sometimes and ask Mama to explain while sitting on her laps heuheuheu And Forth, He read about the Stats Window. Usually available to youth with enough maturity and excellence, they could call upon it using their voice. Upon saying so, they could monitor their growth and excellence in basic numerical value. The value was not all that determine their worth though. Skills and Mastery played a role as well. Level was stressed as not the value of fighting force, just suggestion on ones experience in battle. Bonus Stats Skill was given in every level up. One may freely distribute it to certain Stats and increased it that way. Ones Stats Window could only be viewed by him or herself. However, the wise author of the book stressed that the decision one made in times of need could very well differentiate between one who truly was excellent and one who was excellent only numerically. - So usually a child of Knights between age of 9 to 11 could call upon their Stats Window, huh why dont I try out Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Stats Window He said so, to the surprise of the Maids. D-did he just said? So he really did read those books! They wondered whether the Stats Window really did appear Ohhhhh The toddlers amusement confirmed it. Both of them were in confusion. He did it! W-what should we do? Ill call on the Lady and Master. Look after him for awhile. Dont take your eyes off him. Alright. Please be back soon Averon was delighted. He suspected it, but for it to emerge in front of him, meant that God acknowledged him as mature enough. Well, with 43+1.5 years of experience The toddler was mature enough.
STATUS WINDOW
Name Averon Valery
Level 0 Class None
Title Martyr Fame Locked
HP Regen 2.0% per minute MP Regen 5.0% per minute
ST Regen 2.5% per minute NP Regen 11.0% per minute
STATUS
Health 44/44 Mana 27,500/27,500
Stamina 21/21 Nature 57,000/57,000
Strength 4 Agility 4
Vitality 4 Wisdom 1500 + 1000
Faith 2500 + 3000 Intelligence 2500
Fighting Spirit LOCKED Honour LOCKED
Charisma LOCKED Leadership LOCKED
Charm 50 Luck 1000
Art 100 Endurance 1
AFFINITY
Earth 25% Water 25%
Lightning 49% Wind 50%
Fire 100%
MAGIC RESISTANCE
FIRE LOCKED WATER LOCKED
EARTH LOCKED WIND LOCKED
LIGHT LOCKED DARK LOCKED
Granted Lives: 27. - Stats improve faster from physical exercise than normal Knights until you reach your previous lifes value. - You may now learn Natures Aura up until Master level. Life Natures Aura (Ultimate Level) from your previous world is now locked. Main Title: Martyr - You have proven your worth. You died in defense of your people, without any arrogance or conceit. Under Gods Favour, you are allowed to keep your previous memories and skills. Your previous Life Natures Aura augmented your ability by a factor of 24 in fighting off the Demons, the highest value done so far. Thus, you have been granted 24 extra lives in addition to 3 from your family. Overall abilities were streamlined to fit in this world. However, most of your abilities will be kept locked until you are physically mature to cultivate proper growth. For now, you may use your Mana and Nature Manipulation and your new skill, Natures Aura (Lesser Version) without sacrificing yourself. This information is for your knowledge only. Demons would know you are a Martyr when they take a proper look at you. Some might become more hostile. Fame +40,000 (Locked) Wisdom +1000. Fighting Spirit +1000 (Locked) Charisma +100 (Locked) Face to face, brave and honourable people will trust you better. Be at ready. You have the responsibility to quench evil and oppression. Hidden Title: Two-Headed Demon Dragon Slayer - You have slain the fearsome Two-headed Demon Dragon of the Demon world! Your name had been spread across the worlds as the only human in history to defeat the Two-headed Demon Dragon, pride beast of the Demon Overlord. You have shamed the Demons Army. Demons affiliated with them across dimensions would hunt you if the knowledge of your existence reached them. The Force fighting Demons Army across five dimensions had your name chanted in raising morale against the terrible scourge of the Demons horde. This Title is hidden for the time being. Faith +3000. Fame +1,000,000. (Locked) Inherit All Fire Affinity and Traits of the Two-headed Demon Dragon. Nature Affinity increased tremendously during times of need. All Stats +100. (Locked) Hostility with the Demons Army is at Maximum. (Locked) Other Title(s): Successor of Astaria Hero of Canterra Tactical Strike Leader Exemplary Knight Style Freak Unique Toddler Undistributed Bonus Stat Point(s): 0
- HP 44 it said in the book that normal adults without training have 600-800 HP means Im so squishy right now huhu Granted lives 27! Martyr Slayer Hah, so that fire-breathing freak dead huh yosh! Hm? Style freak? Whatever. Fame locked I see, Thank you, O God for hiding me from the Demons Fame invites disaster Finally, Fifth The Demon Army had yet made their appearance. However, records of incidents involving demons existed within the writings of historian. Though no all-out war had ever been waged, punitive campaigns had been waged from time to time. From the descriptions of creatures existed he identified Growlers, Minotaurs, Steel Serpents, Skeleton warriors and other types of lesser Demons. Medium-class Demons occasionally appeared, causing much commotion. The appearance of higher level Demon, such as pure-blood Vampire, was very rarely reported and the existence of a Demon Dragon was considered as an Ancient legend told in tales of the storytellers. - No Shriekers, huh? Thank God, thank God... Vampires wouldve been better, they took blood usually for their necessary nutrient anyway, once every several years. A Shrieker could easily destroy a town on a whim. Averon recalled. The higher-level here hint on their battle prowess such as destructive capability. It did not mean the higher-level one possessed smart mind, though it usually the case. If the power was overwhelming but the mind was not well-developed, it could still be considered high-level. A Shrieker was one prime example. In this contrary, Vampire, though not as destructive as a Shrieker, possessed superior intelligence, style, creativity and flexibility. There were only handfuls of Vampires in the Demon Army, most did not join and chose to stay neutral. Some reported that there were vampires who cooperated to kill a Shrieker when it was going to destroy the town they lived in. Astaria chose to treat them as neutral existence, and publicly declared any vampire who did no crime or hunted just enemy of Astaria would be left alone. Any who wished for blood could register and took the necessary blood from the blood bank. It was a move to ensure public safety and focused on only aggressive ones. Shrieker was a giant crawler demon, four-legged, with body much like human, but backbone and thorns evident at the back, with giant eagle-like claws as its feet. The head was similar to a fish with mouth gaping wide, baring its human-sized teeth. Very ferocious. It got its name from its nasty habit of shrieking in high pitch frequency, piercing its enemies consciousness and fighting spirit. Many trembled at the sight of such giant, easily bigger than a thirty metres ship, shrieking from the distance. It was a lot smaller than the seventy metres Demon Dragon, but seeing its numbers in the front line easily destroyed the morale of young recruits. - Killing even one cost me a massive heart-pounding action. Those things are quite fast How many did I defeat hmm forty? Well even so I didnt do it alone Knowing that the Demon Army not yet made their appearance in this world gave him hope. - I wonder if my people were transported to this world as well I stopped the dragon somehow so they could be somewhere out there regardless, I definitely need to be stronger way stronger The fact that he had 27 lives hit him. Be at ready. You have the responsibility to quench evil and oppression. - Could it be The God gave me this much lives for this purpose? So this world is next No matter. Ill protect the people of this world This world called Ein Guard. ======================================================= Forgive me for the lack of coding.... :-fightingchicken:- Chp 4 Growing Up With Hope Chapter 4: Growing Up With Hope. Dearest brothers! Averon already summoned his status window! What? Already? That boy is really scary at one years of age? One and a half. No wonder father is so attached to him well, at least well be safe from fathers hell training when hes around The younger brothers of Averons father nodded in agreement. *** Another half year went by He had just finished his breast-feeding period, a crucial growth for a healthy mind and body. A period of which he enjoyed fully He drank quite a lot of milk, and thankful for his mother that she was patient enough to feed him all the milk he need, and not to feed him any other than from her own. It might be strange to say this, but the baby had a plan He intended to grow up to be a man stronger than he had ever been. And of course, the milk was important heuheu ehem! Thats his mother, nothing wrong with that dont laugh! - Im already two years old the body should be prepared enough. I want to drink juice huhu TING. Optimum Growth Due to your insistence on only being breast-fed for the whole two years, your bodys growth and potential further on would be at Optimum potential as long as you did not take intoxicant or be poisoned. Your immune system is at Optimum. Your physical constitution is at Optimum. Your mind potential is at Optimum. - Hm? Lucky me. Thank you O Creator. Previously, his family made a commotion with him summoning his status window at such a young age one and half year-old! His grandfather had been dedicating himself to train him and instilled all necessary knowledge, even when he was still a toddler. - Its really lucky to have such a positive-minded Knights family. From his grandfather, he learned that the Knights of Cestia were bestowed with four different ranks. First, young knights who had proven himself in missions were bestowed the rank Noble Knight. All over Cestia, they numbered at around 5000 Knights including those who served the nobles. Second, veteran knights who had shown bravery and accomplished much in battle or missions were bestowed the higher rank Valiant Knight. They numbered at 700+ in Cestia. Highly admired by many. All three Averons uncles were conferred this rank. Third, a very privileged rank, given only to Knights that commanded successful campaigns involving great risk and of great importance, coupled with good command and well-liked by other Knights. The High Knight was a rank aimed by many knights. They amount to a mere hundred plus in Cestia, all were high-ranking Commanders of important post. Averons father was one, responsible for the defense of Eastern area before the Capital. Finally, a rank that no Knights should say he aimed for it without reaching the High Knight first. A rank only Eight were bestowed in the powerful Knightly Kingdom of Cestia, all of which were Generals. They had commanded large army in the perilous war against Vrien Empires assault, about ten years before Averon was born. Respected and awed among Knights The rank of Great Knight The best of the best *** Another six moons Come on, Averon my boy, nine more laps Ha ha water ha - Old man I know you meant it good, but this body is merely two and a half years old geez. If its my old body this is nothing but thisThis is child abuse! At the time, one of the so-called Great Knight was forcing his two year-old grandson to complete a run around the mansion for a total of 30 laps, one lap was around two kilometers. Good, good A man should never give up when he made his mind on a worthy cause. - Its you who made the decision for me! I want to have a say too but hes too scary As a once powerful Knight, Averon could sense his grandfathers real fighting spirit, even when the old man suppressed it. With his original fighting spirit LOCKED, it affected him. Haah A gasp could be heard from a distance. My God, Father..!! I left only for awhile and you-- Oh no your mothers here! Ive got to hide. Go to your mother for now, Averon. Well train sword skills later, okay? Em! - Yes! Mama, thank you~~ Hard to believe the old man was a Great Knight. *** Averon trained hard with his grandfather, while in the presence of his mother he studied the various books and his mother would always tell him various stories and facts important enough for him to relate certain subject with another. His mother, being a magic scholar, only needed to report her research to the Cestian Central Institute of Magical Application (CIMA) every fortnight. Everytime she did, she spent several days in the mansion with Averon. She had to go occasionally to the institute, sometimes bringing him along. He learned that his mother was well-respected among the scholars. Lady Valery, welcome back! Well be having a discussion regarding the Mana Manipulation this evening in Dome Three, we would be proud if Lady Valery, please grace us with your presence in our conference next month. Lady Valery, concerning our invitation last week, could you think it over? Having you with us would Oh my, what a cute boy you have Lady Valery! So cute! And chubby! Oh my playing with swords this young? So you want to succeed your father and grandfather eh? The people greeting her come in droves, and the number of lady scholars who came and caressed him was in dozens. Averon did not ignore them, but he was more interested in the structure of the Academy. Located in the middle of the Central city, it was a large square land on a hill with walls complete with guards, one very large mansion-like building, three observatory domes with this huge telescope, residential areas and towers with guards and some Wyvern Riders flying around. Looking at them reminded him of Demon Wyverns during the war. Wyverns, with two hind legs and two front legs, were majestic creatures. The difference of the demon one to a normal one was that it carried a dark presence, bloodlust and fierceness not akin to mere hunting for food. - Its normal Wyverns didnt see any in the villagesso in this world its quite rare as well so this world managed to use them as a ride too Anyway, this place gives off the feeling that the information available here is really valuable. The visit was memorable, but nothing of significance. It seemed whatever his mother taught him was already the best in the field that he knew nothing before, the Mana Manipulation. With Mana, one could enchant equipments for certain period of time. In Mana Manipulation subject, Seals were used in order to stabilize Mana in object, gave certain orders or directives and augmented its longevity to up to several years. It seemed his mother was particularly specialized in Mana Manipulation and the use of Seals to use it with much higher stability, potency and flexibility. He learned that not many had reached her level of understanding, despite her young age of barely 20. Many Magic Institutes competed in their struggle to get her to affiliate herself with them. However, it seemed she chose CIMA due to it being close to to where her husband works. *** Time went on Averon now started to take vegetables, fruits, goats milk, grain and fishes. Fortunately, rice was available from traders from eastern Cestia. Rice was his staple food in Astaria. He decided not to take meat yet as it might upset his stomach. When he was in the village, he managed to mingle around the children his age. However, that was merely for appearances sake. At the time where he was left alone, he activated Natures aura and trained himself to conceal it. After months of training his new skill, he managed to activate Natures Aura without alarming anyone around, including his parents. Since the skill used Nature Power, even his mother did not notice the presence around his body. It was a presence akin to nature herself, and thus people did not notice. He later trained to make his other skills available in fine details, since there could be circumstances, he thought, that he might have to use it without alarming others. It was better to avoid fame, since he was pretty much weak as a mere three year-old. He still carried his wooden sword around, though. - Everyday, 10,000 swings! 10,000 push-ups, sit-ups, 40 KM run divided by two! Huhu this body is still weak Ill have to defer Astarian Special Training Regiment for a few years at least. His determination of undergoing massive physical training was noticeable to his parents, even with him playing dumb. His mother in particular, was worried. - He takes after his grandfather too much it would be better if he takes after Gerald. He trained hard, but not this hard. This is not normal why would my little baby trained as if hes a knight? Did his grandfather influence him that much? *Haah* She sighed. Averon trained Mana Manipulation when no one was watching, and managed to reach a level where simple villager would not notice him activating his Mana Manipulation. The difference between Mana Manipulation and Nature Manipulation was its source. Mana came from within him, the energy his body processed from the nature. He then had to manipulate it by taking out Mana and convert it into several forms fitting his imagination. - So in a way, its similar to Qi circulation not that I know much, but General Chan did tell how he manage to do that destructive inner palm strike. One clean hit at the head of a Shrieker, it dropped dead, brain destroyed. He did say something about breathing technique. I did learn it, but Averon recalled one of his colleagues in Astaria. Back then, the breathing technique did reduce his stamina usage, thus making him able to battle well for a long time This time He grinned. - If its true then I should be able to do the same! Imagine channeling Mana into the palm, concentrating it match it with the breathing pattern release it into the ground all at once! He remembered what his friend told him before. Inner palm strike! Inner palm strike! Inner palm strike! Inner palm strike! Inner palm strike! He tried it many times, yet that did not work. - I guess its not going to be that easy huhu wait, is there any need to call out the techniques name out loud?! Chan did it all the time so I thought its necessary? Meanwhile, for Nature Manipulation it took the source directly from the environment. Directing water for various purpose, using wind to increase speed, hinder enemy movement with earth, collide the air around to produce lightning, and using the ether around to produce fire. Some logic here probably would apply differently in different world. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. For example, Fire-Breathing Demon Dragon took the ether around and turned it into the burning source of its devastating fire. It was made almost instantaneous, and it did not involve Mana. Fire Manipulation would be so much devastating should there be a volcanic source around. Earth, Water, Lightning and Wind. These were the elements Averon mastered during his past life. - Ill have to train using both Mana and Nature. In a way, its quite similar. Mana could probably be said as a processed form of Nature from a humans body. There must be reason for God to give me both. He pondered. - Well, Ill also train the usual breathing technique ah, its already done its a habit already. *** Averon was three years-old. In the village He played with the children for a little while, then went out all by himself. For such a young child, one might think it was preposterous to let him go out all alone. However, this was a village where practically everyone knew each other and care for each other. There was no immediate danger as the village had fences and guards patrolled them frequently. Wells were located in places where people could see often, and were closed tight with wood cover when no one was using them. There was a river flowing through, but it was too small to drown anyone, even to a three-year old. Averon found a spot beside a large kapok tree, well-hidden from prying eyes. He froze the small rivers water using Mana! Then use water manipulation to unfreeze it! Created an artificial pool using Earth manipulation. Also use Mana to solidify the soil into solid substance. Filled it with underground water, using Water Manipulation to channel it. Heating heated it with Mana! And finally, soaked himself in the artificial hot spring - Huhuhuu heaven Ill have to find some volcanic stones to put here and there He hesitated to use his new Fire Manipulation, since it came from the Demon Dragon He played around, um, trained until all his Mana was drained. - Funny how easy it is to train Fire-based Mana He thought, since even in his past life he was never good in Fire Manipulation. *** Another year passed on Averon was four years-old. With his grandfathers insistence, his mother Nea stayed with Averon in the mansion for several weeks at a time when she need to focus in her research, with her husband coming home every two or three days. It was in the evening, when the sun was no longer up over the head. He rode his horse into the front of the mansion, and quickly searched for his father. Nea! Father! Im home! Gerald! Nice timing. Come and join us! Father? At the back of the mansion, Averons grandfather, Heinz Valery, was in the middle of the sparring field, where the ground was cleared out of any grass and even pebbles. Averon was on the ground, gasping for air. His face was pale. Gerald looked around, noticing broken practice swords in the dozens. Nea went out to the institute this morning. Shell probably return soon. Uhh Father dont you think this is a bit too much? Hm? What are you talking about Oh the mess! We didnt take any break so I didnt bother cleaning up. Didnt take any break? How long have you been sparring? Sparring! With a four-year old! Hm? Hmm since the sun started to fall Thats three to four hours, at least Haah Father, please restrain yourself. Restrain? Nonsense! The child himself never complains! - Even if I never complain, I had to agree with my father there huhu this old man is more brutal than me as an instructor He got bruises all over. He put his hand on his sons cheek, and casted Healing Hand, a type of healing Magic. Hes a boy, Gerald. Thats normal. You want to be strong, dont you Averon? He looked him, expecting the usual answer. It was this question that continuously reminded him that he need to keep going on. His grandfathers honesty and straight forward manner really impacted him. He thanked his father, then raised his upper body, now sitting in dogeza. His gripped his knuckle. Yes, Grandfather! See? Ahh I dont care anymore as long as you dont cripple him or drive him insane Hah hah! He wont He might fell unconscious sometimes, but Ill never let him damaged permanently. - Uh oh! Now Im starting to regret answering his question that way! Whatever! Wheres my water *** Averon was five years old. He was in the field, alone after his Grandfather trained him. Afterwards his three uncles would usually train with him, but they were unavailable from then. Why? Well, they just got married of course. It was a hectic day, and Averon hated it. He however, was happy for his uncles Who clearly seemed quite lonely. The youngest was 19 already, so they had to force him to marry somehow. They already had their eye on certain daughters of Knights. All three were married at the same time. Efficient! So said his grandfather Though it was him who said to his sons, Those who had yet to be High Knight should not marry! It seemed the King had convinced him somehow. Only Averons father managed to reach that rank, when he was 25. In these day and age, marrying someone at 25 was quite late. Fortunately, he managed to get a superior bride, a girl of 17. And Averon was successfully born a year later Averon just finished his morning routine and sparring with his grandfather. All bruised up, he sat down in the field alone, with a large kapok tree on his back shading him. Recently he became worried of how he had hit a plateau in his study of Mana Manipulation all by himself. - I need a teacher no, a Master Mama could teach me well, but if she knew the level I achieved at five years of age, I think shell faint and thats the least of the worry its imperative that I should not do so at this time. The time he mentioned in his deliberation was the fact that His mother was pregnant for six months. I just hope Ill get a cute, healthy sister huhu I dont want any brother! Spending his time for five years acting the role of a child, his mind was affected somehow Somehow - Havent checked it for awhile Basic Stats Window.
STATUS WINDOW
NameAveron Valery
Level25ClassNone
TitleMartyrFameLocked
HP Regen2.0% per minuteMP Regen5.6% per minute
ST Regen2.5% per minuteNP Regen12.0% per minute (MAX)
STATUS
Health1970/1970Mana32800/32800
Stamina4290/4290Nature60,000/60,000
Strength160Agility175
Vitality175Wisdom1800 + 1000
Faith3000 + 3000Intelligence3000
Fighting SpiritLOCKEDHonourLOCKED
CharismaLOCKEDLeadershipLOCKED
Charm72Luck1000
Art110Endurance115
AFFINITY
Earth29%Water29%
Lightning49%Wind51%
Fire100%
MAGIC RESISTANCE
FIRELOCKEDWATERLOCKED
EARTHLOCKEDWINDLOCKED
LIGHTLOCKEDDARKLOCKED
Granted Lives: 27. +Stats improve faster from physical exercise than normal Knights until you reach your previous lifes value. +You may now learn Natures Aura up until Master level. Life Natures Aura (Ultimate Level) is now locked. Main Title: Martyr Hidden Title: Two-Headed Demon Dragon Slayer Other Title(s): Successor of Astaria Hero of Canterra Tactical Strike Leader Exemplary Knight Style Freak Unique Toddler Genius Child Undistributed Bonus Stat Point(s): 125
He gained experience from the intense sparring he had with his grandfather and sometimes, his father and uncles. - Quite a slow growth but still, faster than any of my age Hmm Im still wondering where I should distribute these bonus stat points Grandpa said to do so as my heart told me from what he said, the higher the stats, the harder it is to improve it later so the best course of action would be the same as the years before look at intelligence and wisdom books no longer gave that much stats like before. The Luck stat did not so much as adding one more these four years Even the nature affinity becomes harder as it goes. So Ill have to wait until I really need to distribute it. Until then, train like crazy He noticed the word MAX beside the NP Regen - So theres a MAX value for my Nature regeneration NP, Nature Point, the value of how much the body could use nature this Stats Window really tells me a lot. Nature Manipulation depended on Faith, my confidence in Our Creator For Mana Manipulation, I guess Grandfather would do Young Master Averon, breakfast time! A maid called out to him from a distance. Coming! - I promise. Ill be even stronger than before! Way stronger and smarter even! *** Chp 5 The Mysterious Traveler Chapter Five: The Mysterious Traveler To those who oppress -- we shall deliver them --- the terrible punishment -- A series of humming. And when -- they return to you -- Almighty Creator -- you shall punish them-- On a large ship, in the middle of sea With your punishment C of which none could comparehm hm hm Breeze was flowing without restraint To those who are good -- faithful --- your abundance ---as reward befitting them --- Hitting the brown ponytail of a young lady, sitting on a chair nonchalantly on the deck of the ship, fishing. And we shall demand ---that which are -- easy for them -- She had a purple frilled skirt over her dark blue trousers, purple shirt covering till her arm and large cape-like red scarf around her neck covering even her back and partially, her fair-skinned face. --- from your command C that they may live well in your abundant world --- She was humming a saying from childrens story, and happily looking over the blue sky. Ooo C hm hm C hmmm--- hm fuaah--- ahh Beside her, an overly large cat was sleeping on the floor. It was similar to Lynx, with yellow-orange fur. Around the ship, the seamen started getting busy. It seemed they were nearing the port, and thus preparation and the final check were made. A sailor noticed her still fishing or seemingly sleeping while on it. Um, Miss were nearing the port so you might want to prepare-- I can feel it, I can feel it Eh what? Shh! I feel it its quite near come on, take a bite take a bite yesh! She pulled her fishing pole and raised up a fish N-no, correction! A shark! As big as the man who went to speak to her! The jaws of the nearby crew dropped. The face of the man was stiffened as the jaws of the shark went passed his face. Thud! Oh lucky! An eerie silent came as the fish shark splattered on the deck. The lynx woke up, looking at its master. She took out a knife, and with her hm, hm Thank you God, for this lunch thank you. Drove her knife into the neck was there any neck? Well you know where C of the shark. The knife was driven very deep into the flesh, she moved the knife to the right and left through the gut, yet no blood was splattered into the deck. The fish shark stopped moving. Instant kill! She raised it up carefully, and spilled its blood and guts into the ocean. Seeing such brutal act done by a young lady of 14, maybe 15 was phenomenal. Many who just came onto the deck, had their jaw dropped, and mouth gaping wide without them noticing. But while it may seem brutal, it was merciful, since the fish shark died instantly. What? Not convincing? Whatever! Having taken out its blood, she placed it into a skin bag near her. Pushing it in, strangely, it fit. Thank you for this meal, O Creator! She clapped her hands. With her usual hm,hm she went inside the ship, towards her room. ... ... The deck was silent for awhile until one of them snapped out of the whole trance. What on Ein Gard did we just see?" *** Port East of Cestia Ship from Armuld, just arrived! Welcome to Cestia! Two men and two ladies were welcoming the people from the ships docking in the port. It was a port well-built with bricks and with dampeners on the water surface shielding the hull of the ship from being damaged. People were alighting from the newly arrived ship in masses. Any information and needs, please feel free to take a look at the notice board or ask us should you have any questions. It was a welcoming party organized by the port authorities, with responsibility of providing guests and merchants just arriving from neighbouring countries with information. After the passengers alighted the ship, workers when on to move out the cargoes. Several guards were around the port with their spears and bows. The young lady went towards the board, observing the map pasted on it. She went to one of the ladies from the welcoming party. Excuse me. Welcome to Cestia young lady? Thank you. Can I ask what this direction leads to? She gestured towards the west. The west? There are several towns and villages on the way, but going further on would be the Central City, Crest. Ah, so the map is quite accurate. Thank you. Umm young lady? Did you come here with your father? Ah no, Im travelling with my friend here. She gestured to her friend the lynx. The lynx yawned. !! Uwaa emm what an adorable little friend you have here You think so? But shes not that little actually. Yes shes bigger than any cat I saw before What type of cat is she, may I ask? Tasha is a legendary cat many just call her type Lynx since she looked quite similar. Ahaha legendary you say My name is Natalia. Nice to meet you um Young Lady? Ah, please excuse me tardiness. My names Shisha. If it would not trouble you Miss Natalia, Im not quite familiar with this continent and its culture Of course. Its my job to explain for anyone asking, Young Lady Shisha Hahha you keep calling me young lady Its only etiquette after all you would become a splendid lady in a few more years. Hm,Hm She was quite pleased. If youre taking the land route, then shall I present you several options? Yes, please do, Miss Natalia. *** Three days later The Capital City of Crest, Cestia. The City built on top of a hill, with three apparent lines of walls as the central defense from any invading forces or monster hordes. Though it was build for a long time, constant maintenance and care kept the wall in a good condition. The silver-coloured walls, originating from Sinica stones mixed together, created a seemingly shiny sight from a distance. Next to the city, a massive lake with ships and a port could be seen. Outside the walls, small houses were grouped together with a sentry tower in the front and back. Normal trees were abundant, and giant trees of 20-30 metres were present in and outside the walls. However, they were nothing to write home about since one could see six giant trees even from afar. It was bigger than the rest, with height reaching over 50 metres. Greeneries were abundant in Crest. Finally! A traveler just arrived at the city gate along with a merchant caravan. The guards greeted her warmly. They were wearing light armor with simple leather clothing and boots, with lance on their hand. Youre a traveler, little Miss? Quite tough for your age, eh? Since she was a traveler, she was asked simple questions by the guards. She smiled, pleased. She showed her letter and after a few exchange, an officer told one of the guards to guide her. The guard gave his friend his lance and took a sword then strapped it to his side. He was quite young, apparently just a mere 16 or so. He had quite a deep voice for his age. Despite being a mere guard, he wore a cloak. Miss Shisha. Please follow me. Ill bring you through the shortcut to His Excellencys residence. Thank you Umm Ah, of course, my name is Niam. Nice to meet you, Miss Shisha. Nice to meet you, Niam. Just call me Shisha. I dont mind. They walked side by side. Tasha, the Lynx, followed her Master. From her walk, Shisha could observe things quite well. Only after the three walls the residential areas were available. Buildings of three to four storeys with structures much like medieval theme, lined up perfectly with roads well-built with red Granica stones, a type of light stones paved onto the road, quite comfortable to walk on. Most of the houses were made of wood with combination of stones as the foundation, with full of greenery around. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Shops were available here and there, but Whats that big building there, Niam? Oh, thats the market. Market? That big? He explained. The markets in the central were located in the four city squares called Maidans, which she could not see now from where they stand. Next to these Maidans, four large two-story buildings with facilities were available in each of the citys direction, free to be used for people who wish to do business. However, for storage, you would have to pay a fair rent to use the nearby warehouse. It was a place of business with the first come, first take rule. None could prevent anyone from taking one particular spot. If you were not around, you cannot take the place. It was a system that allowed small-time traders to flourish, since they do not have to spend money on rent or building, and also convenient to traders with wealth enough to pay the fair rent for storing goods. The rent then would be used to maintain the structure. - A sense of Justice is in the city. She thought. Niam continued. The government of Cestia maintains a free-of-charge market with strict control from monopolization, swindling and usury. You cannot reap what you do not sow, afterall. Yes. And the market allowed the use of Gold, Silver, Copper and even barter. However, we do not accept any paper bills. Especially those from Vrien and its vassal states the traders would be furious Ah, Im sorry, you probably already knew this. No, its quite alright. Its fun listening to your explanation. Been awhile someone really had enthusiasm explaining these things, I kind of enjoy it. Really? Yes. In fact, you dont seem like simple guard do you intend to take the Knights test? Yes Is it that obvious? Quite so. The way you talk, walk and holding your stance. Plus, you never show you back to me Ah thats just a habit. Its fine, its fine What about those buildings with emblems on? She was referring to a building with a Shield and Sword, and another one with wand and book. Thats the Warriors Guild, and the other the Mages Guild. They took care of those in their respective professions, and they have branches all over the cities in Cestia. Whats their function? Im sorry I asked since Im not familiar with them. No problem. They provide Quests and Missions to members. If youre a warrior or mages, then you can register and with small fee, you can enjoy all sorts of benefits and temporary residence in the cities all over Cestia. They have free accommodations for members who are travelling. Free accommodations? Wont that cost a lot of money? Actually not so. They are dorms, divided for male and female. Its quite basic and would be good enough if you only wish to stay for several days. There should be one restaurant for each branch, and the price is reasonable. Hm Should I consider registering? I would have to travel for quite some time too. So youre considering of considering registering, Miss Shisha? Hahh Thats sounds funny, Niam! I didnt know you have quite a good humour. Ha, people said so quite often. So, do you feel confident, in the upcoming Knights test? When will it be? In another six months truth be told, Im not quite since my Mana Shisha observed him, her eyes stared at his centre as if she was seeing through him. Hmm I see... your Mana flow is quite erratic Erratic? How do you tell, Miss Shisha? I could. Its my field of expertise. Then! As thanks of helping me out and explaining things, Id like to buy something for you. Eh? No, no, I cant accept anything from our guestsThats-- Boo hoo no fun. Well, its nothing expensive. Its to help your Mana processing and flow. Could you please show me the herbs and medicine shop? Or are they far? Ah no, they are some on the way Ill take you to them, I appreciate your kindness, Miss Shisha but please be quick or my officer might think Im loitering around. No problem, no problem hm hm They end up spending an hour in those shops She gave Niam the herbs and save some, then wrote up the instruction of how to prepare them. *** Count Heinz Valerys Mansion. The Same Morning. So basically all you have to do is SWOOSH! SWOOSH! Blades of Air came from his Mana-clad blade. They went on and cut through the leaves of a nearby kapok tree high up there. Grandpa Heinz just went on and demonstrated the use of Mana in different ways. He and Averon were in the field of his mansion. It was the first time Averon asked him to teach him about Mana, so he was overjoyed with his grandchilds aspiration. - So in essence, Mana is Nature, converted by our body and takes the form of what we imagine and we need certain affinity to nature to make it successful. Huh that means when I boiled the waters using Mana Averon pretty much was using the Fire Affinity he inherited from the Two-Headed Demon Dragon. He was suspicious of of the fact... Yet refused to admit it. - No, no, nooo So Averon, you will be able to do this in time. Why dont you try to channel your Mana to your sword first? Since its a wooden sword, Fire is no good. Try to do like Grandpa. Use Wind, imagine it to cut that stone over there. He pointed to a large boulder as big as a horse. Yes, Grandpa. - I dont think I should hold back my power in front of old-- Grandpa. He already developed a certain kind of respect to this old man, always so enthusiastic and diligent. He focused his Mana on his sword, and clad it with it up. Then he imagined Wind circulating around it, and within him he felt certain familiar electric current flowing through him. He felt the wind merged with his Mana Wind Blade. He just felt the need to say it. SHING! An almost invisible blade of wind surged through the air, with extreme speed went forward to the boulder. SHIIII------- No, it was not a curse word. It was the sound the wind did as it went through the boulder. The large boulder was cut in two. SWOOSH! Another wind blade went through the air, faster, then colliding and neutralizing his wind blade. It was launched by Grandpa Heinz. That was close. Neutralize it since it might go out to the neighbourhood and injure people. Your wind blade is stronger than I thought Averon. Yours are faster, Grandpa. Haha of course! I could even do this! He launched another wind blade, it went on to the sky Grandpa Heinz waved his hand, and immediately it dissipated in the air. Wowww Hmph! This is nothing. Could you teach me that, Grandpa? Can I do that? Hah of course! All in due time He noticed a maid coming up to them. It was not yet tea time, so he wondered. Master, you have a guest. Guest? Who could it be? A young lady, Master. She said her Master send her here. Heres the letter. Heinz took the letter and read it through. He was pleased. Hmm I see Kyoseis apprentice. A pleasant surprise, indeed. Lets go meet our guest then. Youre coming, Averon? Yes, Grandpa. *** Chp 6 Sage of the East Chapter 6: One with a Mission An honour to meet you, Lord Valery. Ive heard a lot of your feats from Master. Master sends his regards. Shisha greeted the old man. She bowed a little. Ha ha, its good to hear something from him in years. So youre Shisha? Likewise. I remembered he mentioned you from his few letters. No need to be so formal. Its good to see Kyoseis first apprentice oh, nice companion you have there. He referred to her lynx. - Thats some cat a lynx, eh Aveon pondered. This is Tasha, my trustworthy companion. I hope you dont mind me bringing her along. Not at all. And this is my grandson, Averon. Ah, nice to meet you, young hm? She noticed something unique of the boy. - This child young yet well-trained no, more so Young Averon. Averon, nice name name of the legendary hero. She smiled. Averon was almost captivated. - Hm? That smile reminds me of my Emperor she is wait, legendary hero? Nice to meet you, Lady Shisha. Thank you. Come on in, well discuss further in a much proper place. Thank you Lord Valery. Hah! Just call me Heinz. Since youre his apprentice, were like family though I shudder at having you call me Uncle hah! She was in the waiting room near the entrance, with several guards. Now old Heinz led her in into the large living room reserved for guest. He told the maids to prepare light refreshments. They entered the large room, with couches and seats surrounding a knee-high table. All around had ornaments fitting for a knight; shields and swords, even armors, some paintings of battle and wall decorations. On top of the wall, was written, ACT JUSTLY, WITH HONOUR. NEVER YIELD TO TYRANNY. NEVER COMMIT OR ALLOW TYRANNY. COMMIT TO TRAINING. THAT IS TRUE KNIGHT. Shisha observed the writings, a smile was on her. Old Heinz noticed her reaction. How true. How beautiful. Hmm Your Master inspired me to write it. Is that so? Im honoured hm,hm - Somehow, these two might be similar to each other Old Heinz gestured her to take a seat. They sat facing each other. The lynx took her place below, and started to sleep. So Shisha, tell this old man about yourself. Its best to know each other first before going on to a more serious topic, since I have the impression its not that urgent important, but not something that can be rushed. Is that right? Yes, youre right, Lord Va- -Heinz. If you insist, Heinz-sama. Master told me to be respectful to you in a very serious way. Hah! Hes still too serious a man, I see. Ah, I forgot. He told me to give you this gift. She presented him a small package from her bag pack. She opened it in front of him. It was a root, with ground around it in the package. Averon was impressed. Wow that looks quite old. Ah, very rare and high-quality ginseng, I see Goodness, Kyosei he still remembers... He smiled, reminiscing his past. How old is this one? Around 190 years its full of life force, though it might not be so in another decade. He told me to prepare it for you should you forgot how to do it. Ha! He did teach me how, but I often forgot the steps He told me even though youre like that, youre someone he considered his rival. Yes, yes of course. Im the strongest among the Great Knights, afterall ah, thats arrogance. Please excuse this old man. Enough with him, tell me about yourself. She wrapped the package, and put it aside on the table. Of course. My full name is Shisha Valarov. Originally of Arcadian descent, but I was born and raised in the continent of Erlin. Its halfway around the world, so I never step a foot in my homeland. My mother raised me to become one of high affinity with nature, and my father was a warrior with talent, so I was trained in combat early on. We did not stay long in one place, so you could say we were Nomads, in a way She noticed a young maid came with refreshments. Excuse me, Master. Green tea, honey and some refreshments. It was cookies and fruits. That was fast, well done Sitka. My Masters pleasure is my joy. Please excuse me She placed the plates and filled the tea for the three of them. Please help yourself, Lady Shisha. Thank you Miss Sitka. She nodded politely and excused herself. Shisha simply gazed at the cookies. Ah, please help yourself. No need to restrain yourself so much. Thank you, Heinz-sama! She helped herself with the cookies, while Averon ignored them and took some pieces of fruits and dipped it in honey. They both took some honey and mix it with the tea and sipped some. The whole scene was as if they were of one mind, with little different preference. She continued. We stumbled onto a very cruel ruler. True to their virtue, my parents rallied the people against that ruler, and it was during that time that we met my Master, who was living by himself deep in the mountain. It was he who led the people to arm and took out that hideous ruler out of the country. To this day, people remembered him and my parents as the heroes of the people. I see. How so very typical of him. He did mention something like that What was the name of the country? Thiaren, a highland country near Armuld. Ah yes, Thiaren. In the map, it was below the Kingdom. Its small and new so most map outside Erlin Continent didnt have the name. - Hm? Rebellion of Thiaren? Didnt that happened 10 ah, adding up 16, 17 years ago? She looked like 14 or 15. Averon thought, yet he did not object. How old are you, Lady Shisha? THUK! He was pounded by his grandfather. Auuu Grandpa Im sorry for his rudeness. Hes still quite young, you see. Its fine, Heinz-sama. I appear this young since I inherited Masters Secret Technique but please keep it a secret. Master told me I can trust you like I would himself. I thought so. A technique that keep your appearance that way Life Force Regalis. Yes. I was told to only teach this technique to my one chosen apprentice, in the future. Ah, teach many, one inherits all, the wicked shall not live. Yes. Im inheritor of all his technique, though Im still lacking in many ways. Inheritor wicked not live whats that, Grandpa? Its a policy of Masters of the East, you may teach one or many, but only one may inherit all techniques including the secret technique, considered to be the core symbol of chosen successor. Why only one, Grandpa? To ensure quality, and also prevent inner conflict. Is that right, Lady Shisha? Just Shisha will do, Heinz-sama. It is as you say. What about the wicked not live? Wicked not live mean that those who you train, should he be corrupted with power, should be killed before he brings anyone harm, or at least, should lose all his power by destroying their inner Mana processing centre. Did you comprehend, Averon? I see. I see. Itll bring danger to everyone if someone who cannot control his power from his own evil desire to be let loose in the society. Power brings temptation, afterall. Good, good. Thats my grandson. So eloquent. Ah, speaking of Life Force Regalis reminds me of that time I ask him to teach me Yes, he did mention you asked him. He didnt teach you, Grandpa? Not even you? Haha no he said Im already strong as it is and my inner power may run in conflict with his style, thus endangering my life, possibly our different power would destroy each other. Eh ... It is as you say, Heinz-sama. Master told me you were as strong as him back then it would not be good to take such risk just to achieve his style. Both of you have different style, but just as powerful. Hah, though it was possible he cant stand a man like me to succeed him. Hahaha. Thats not true at all. He said many times he still wish he could meet you when youre younger by 20+ years. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.Hah he just doesnt like a grown-up man to be his apprentice afterall. Well, all is well anyway during the war I wish many time he would come to my aid well, since he was busy with this Thiaren issue Speaking of Thiaren, I heard they had a new King well, 15 years ago when rebellion ended, who refused to call himself one. Ah, thats my father. Eh..!! I see Valarov yes, it sounds familiar. They continued their conversation, with old Heinz telling stories of him and Kyosei their adventure together for four years. Both of them saved each other many times, travelling through the most dangerous lands of Cestia and Vrien Empire, fighting monsters of many kinds, sneaking through the well-guarded city and port and even running away from the pursuit of the Empires assassins, who hunted them very adeptly like an Eagle. They were nightmares. They went on to having Averon introducing himself. Trying to be a bit childish, he told them of his ambition; to be the strongest, to fight demons and tyranny, and that his grandfather inspired him to be better everyday. Old Heinz was content beyond words. Shisha was impressed. Demons, huh Ive met some human whom I would call demon myself, but I havent seen many demons aside from Growlers and some Skeleton warriors from the remnants of war in Erlin. There are some powerful ones out there. Vampire for one. Arent they just a legend, Heinz-sama? Had I not met one, I would think so too. You met one?! Both Averon and Shisha said, almost shouted. Yes, it was years after I parted with your Master. She was strong indeed. She called me Boy even when I was in my 40s. Now what was her name? She didnt suck your blood, Grandpa? Hah! She said she was tempted to, but she just had her fill, so she let me go. We did spend a few days together in a dungeon. What how did you end up in a dungeon with a Vampire? Oh, simple. I was tracking some very vicious criminals in some old ruins. We fought a mortal battle and when it was down to just two of them, the ground collapse. When I came to, the two criminals had their blood sucked dry. They looked like dried fish, you see. Wow Scary she didnt harm you, Heinz-sama? No, in fact, she rescued me from the rubble. She said she took the mens life since they tried to force themselves onto her while she was sleeping. Reasonable enough. What do you mean forced onto Grandpa? In times like this, Averon feigned ignorance. Haha! Youll know soon enough, Averon my boy. Remember the things I taught you, and never be like those criminals ever. Huh? Alright So the Vampires not evil, Grandpa? At least to me, no. Perhaps not all the same, and we should not generalize. Em. Agreed, Heinz-sama. So Shisha now that were acquainted, do tell me this Mission Kyosei mentioned. Yes. Master gave me a mission, in regards to unfamiliar irregularity here in Cestia. Mana Fluctuation? Mana Fluctuation was the term for influx of Mana usually originated from a very large number of Magical creatures migrating usually the fairies, common during large battle that affects their land. No, not Mana fluctuation As you know, Heinz-sama Mana usually came from within us, processed from Nature air, water, earth, fire for five years now, Master sensed certain irregularity of Nature coming from Cestia not Mana, but in its unprocessed form, Nature. Youre saying Kyosei could sense it all the way there? Master could only sense it when he was in deep meditation, though even then, it was barely so. It was the surrounding nature that helped him sensed it. He said it was something they were excited about, yet at the same time, afraid. How? From such distance. What could it possibly be? A very powerful being, enough for Nature to inform us Sages of its existence. Though never in our history, one existed to be sensed so far out across the continent by nature. -Huh? Sages? Ah, young Averon didnt know Its not something you should tell others, afterall. I didnt even tell my sons. You mean Sages from the books? From the fairy tales? No, it was not fairy tales though were so few almost everyone thought we are young Averon, can you keep this a secret from everyone? Of course I can! Lets return to this irregularity. What do we know? If I could list it down, Heinz-sama First, we know that this irregularity itself is not evil or oppressive in nature It could be neutral, most likely. Second, what makes the nature afraid? Master deduced it was not afraid of the power itself, but what could come along with the existence of that power what could it be? We can only guess Third, it was possible this power only came to being into this world five years ago or at least that was when it became active and finally, Forth if we managed to sense it from that far out, it was possible for others to sense it as well. It might become dangerous should such power falls onto the wrong hands Vrien Empire, for one. As Master said so as well. - Irregularity of nature in its unprocessed form afraid of what could come along demons? five years ago hey isnt that ... Me? Averon accidently said out loud. Both of them looked at the child, then laughed inwardly. Yes, it could be dangerous should such power falls onto a childs hand. Hey..! Haha Averon, if such power falls onto your hand, what would you do? I will use them to destroy tyranny and demons whore evil. Ill leave that vampire alone if she did nothing wrong. Hah! My boy be careful not to be obsessed with vanquishing evil. Some people become crooked that way. They only believe in their own way of doing things. I wont, Grandpa. Ill always remember your teachings. Thats my grandson! Ehem, so Shisha, whats your plan? Yes, Heinz-sama It might take some time perhaps a few months if not a year. Detecting something so faint a presence requires me to go into deep meditation, something best done in a high place, quiet and late at night perhaps on hills where I would have a good view of my surroundings or the giant trees I could see out there. With Crest being the highest land aside from lands in Vrien, this place would be best for now. Im hoping to get your help in this, Heinz-sama Im not familiar enough with this continent. Not to mention I rarely go into city or town. Though I will understand it if you cannot Im thinking of registering into the guilds, with all its benefits. Now, now dont say it like that. It sounds as if were strangers. Of course well help you in any way we can. First, you can you must stay here. Make yourself at home. I was serious when I said were like family. Your Master and I are like brothers, perhaps of even deeper bond. And you as his first apprentice, wont that make you my niece? I cant possibly impose myself No, no think of it as though youre doing me a favour my grandson here is really studious in nature. While Im not around, maybe you could show him how to do things? Hes a quick learner. I wont force you though. Think of it as playing around with him. Those his age didnt mature as fast as him. I probably wont be able to teach him much, is that alright? Like I said, think of it as playing around with him. Ill be teaching him myself when I had the time, so dont worry. Ah yes, if you wish to go around the city he could help you with that. Huh? Really? Yes, hes no ordinary five year-old. Arent you, Averon? Grandpa Heinz patted his head. Averon breathed in with pride, with fist on his chest. He played his act as a child so much; he started to act like one unconsciously. Shisha was taken aback by their warm welcome. It reminded her of her family when she returned from the mountain after such a long time. Thank you, Heinz-sama and you too, young Averon. She said so with a smile. Chp 7 The Vow of 700 Years
KNIGHTS OF ARCADIA YOU ARE THE SUCCESSORS SUCCESSORS OF A GREAT EMPIRE AN EMPIRE THAT STOOD WITH ITS PRINCIPLE AGAINST THE HORDES OF DEMONS AND CORRUPTED HUMANS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IMPROVE YOURSELF ONE DAY OUR MARTYR EMPEROR SHALL RETURN AND THAT WAS THE PROMISE OF GOD AND GOD NEVER BREAKS PROMISE
She recited the hymn before going on to sleep. It was an inspiration of sorts to all children of the homeland. She was in a room with a grand bed, a chair and desk. A fine sliding door was in front of her bed, with the field in full view. It was a moderately large room at a corner of the mansion. She went to sleep with a smile on her face. Mmm After sleeping for 5 hours, she woke up, washed herself up outside, and changed her clothes. She opened her window, sat on her bed in a full lotus, and changed her breathing into a much silent, deeper kind. The Sages meditation began ***
Chapter 7: The Vow of 700 years.
Morning, 7.00 am. Shisha walked towards the large kapok tree with height reaching over 20 metres. She was wearing simple red-clothes, with short black skirt over her tight black trousers and boots. Over her shoulder was crocodile-leather covering. Her fair face and brown hair was shining with olive oil, and she had tied her hair with a crimson ribbon. She stopped a mere metre from old Heinz. She bowed. Good morning, Heinz-sama. I apologize. My first meditation did not bear fruits. Dont apologize, Shisha. Perhaps youre too tired. That, and this location might not be ideal for meditation. Like you said, hills or the Great Trees of Crest might be better. Thank you. Ill try the closest Great Tree tonight. Will there be restriction or rules regarding that? Not at all. Should any guard question you, just show him the Crest I gave you last night and mention my name as well. They will understand By the way, how were the clothes? I did told Sitka to give you the best available. The clothes were very good, and Miss Sitkas choice was superb. I appreciate your concern Heinz-sama. Old Heinz and Shisha were conversing in the field where Averon was training, full of sweat. His wooden sword was bigger than before, as big as himself. On his wrists and feet were weight straps. 1301, 02, 03 He was swinging his sword up and down, to both sides and backside, front and circular while moving and making maneuvers. He guarded against imaginary attacks, sidesteps and rushed in the imaginary opening. Shisha observed him. - It looks like the Three Steps technique Master mentioned before. As effective as our movement technique, though this one focus on having a centre for quick and easy change in direction. So youre interested? Quite so, Heinz-sama. Master mentioned the Three Steps technique as practical in battle. Hah your Natural-Waves Movement should be more than enough to deal with it. Perhaps so. I wonder what would happen if someone master both movement techniques? Quite unlikely both style practice different way of moving but I suppose its not impossible. The one who did will become a terror no normal knights could followhm? A maid came towards them, walking up fast. Master, you have guests. Who? Valiant Knight Vestianna and High Knight Alnair. They brought some news from the border. Ah, then its official Please excuse me, Shisha. Of course, Heinz-sama. Averon, stay here and finish your 3000 swings Battle against at least 10 individual opponents, and one against many. I have guests. Yes, Grandfather. He mentioned about mind-body training, battling against the battle style of ten people he had seen before. During the years his grandfather took him to see a lot of Knights doing battle, sparring and practicing. He told him to remember their style and way of behaving. It was indeed too advance for a five-year old, but the old man had great expectation. He tested him and told him to show the styles he remembered so far, and how to counter such movements. If its not Averon and instead a normal child, then such training would fail miserably. Though Averon was a Lieutenant General and an Elite Knight of Astaria, he still managed to learn something new from the old man. He was thankful the old man treated him quite strictly in training thankful, when he was not deadly tired. - Guess thats why God gave me this family Im grateful. If Im by myself I might fall victim to an idle life. Shisha observed him for awhile. - He is indeed diligent. I wonder how many children out there could be so hardworking. I better move my body havent reached limit for awhile. She started to stretch herself. She then warmed up herself by running around the field. Averon took note of her, but continued his training nonetheless. - Hm? The wind is He noticed the wind started to gather in the direction of Shisha. She was currently running around the field, yet as she did the wind started to merge with her - Wind Clad! A nature manipulation technique So a Sage could use it? How come I didnt hear anything about it from before? Her speed increased drastically, it was as if it doubled. The Element-cladding technique, a technique native of Astaria and specialty of Astarian Knights, was not in appliance in Cestia, who use Mana and Fighting Spirit to strengthen their body. The one Shisha did, was no different from the one he used. - Could it be THEY really did come here? He continued his training while keeping her in check. Wind-cladding was indeed the most natural and pleasant among the Five Nature Cladding technique. It enhanced speed, distracted the opponent in close range and slightly diverted attacks especially ranged attacks. When one reached a certain level in nature affinity, one could use Cladding technique. Averon from his previous life could use many types of cladding. His specialty however, was Wind and Lightning. In this world, he had tried them out in secret, and it seemed he still can manage both, but the earth and water or ice cladding was out of question... or at least, not yet. His body could not move good enough. He did not try out fire-cladding out of his loathing of the Demon Dragon. Nature-Cladding differed with Nature Aura, which was the most special. Nature-Cladding had some natures aura, though not as dense as the one Averon used during his last fight against the demon dragon, not even close. Shisha finished her warm-up, a 20 laps around the quite large field... She returned to Averons side, smiling. Ah, its a good work out but its quite boring just running She observed him. Averon was indeed strong-looking for a mere 5-year old. With his well-trained body, he looked as if he was eight years old, with muscles - He really is a good material I mean, good potential Ah, am I considering having disciple already? Im still quite young or should I? Well, no need to rush. Lets So young Averon, you mind if we have a spar? With her being so close, he paused his training. Not at all. Im quite interested with Sage techniques too. Lets try out a spar. Alright. Ive observed your training, so Ill try to adjust my speed and power to your level. Im specialized with hand-to-hand combat, so just use your sword. She took a position five metre from him. Thank you. Please show me guidance, Lady Shisha. Please show me guidance as well, young Averon. They stared each other for awhile. Shisha was taking it easy, thus she did not emit any fighting spirit, but Averon, as usual was over-thinking things. - Should I attack first? Hm, should I use my full power? Will she be alright? No, will I be alright? Since she use Nature Manipulation should I just out and say I could do so as well? No, no better fight normally first, then pursue the issue have her talk yeah, better keep my identity secret at all time but this kind of keeping secret really hamper my progress I hate it. I should not waste time, the Demon Army could appear any moment well, maybe another 1000 years I dont know Should I attack first, young Averon? He snapped out of his deliberation. He nodded. Then Im coming. She rushed towards him. As she said, her speed was indeed adjusted to his own. He managed to evade easily, and side-stepped using his Three-Steps, immediately counter-attacked with a slash. Her gauntlet deflected the attack softly from the side of his blade, pushing his blade to the side, and her other hand grabbed the wrist of his left. - In that instant? Wow ! Averon stepped further front to deny her the use of her kicks while hitting her chin using his head to no avail since she changed direction with her feet making circular, waved-like movement to his back in an instant and grabbed his other hand. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. - This movement! Next is! A jump. She jumped backward while her both hands on his wrist, bringing him along. He was too late or did he? He was in the air when, in split second, she released him and gave him a kick on his back, sending him back 10 meters away. He spun on the air, and landed on his feet. - Yes, yes! This is our technique! The basic three among the early movement technique! And she also used Waves-Movement. This means they are here and she is related to them somehow! Wow, you could spin in the air already? Amazing, young Averon. Averon did not mind her comment. He took a good look at her. W-what? Was I too harsh? Im sorry, I guess? Ah, no, Lady Shisha it was not that. I was wondering where you learn such technique and that movement just now I really need to know. Need to know? She felt alarmed. It was indeed a bit weird for such a young child to exhibit such maturity, but earlier, she had brushed it off as simply him being a genius child. After all, an heir of a Great Knight couldn''t be normal. However, the way he said so... It was as if he had chosen his words carefully, something a child should still unable to do. Sensing her sudden concern, Averon knew what to do; Please, I really want to know, O graceful and beautiful Lady Shisha Graceful beautiful? Hm, hm okay. - Oh, shes so simple They sat on the field. Shisha explained to him more about her origin, the Arcadia Federation, some called Empire, though they never called themselves so. She never set her foot there, but she inherited the tradition and the blood of the original Clan that ruled the Federation. The Clan members had surprisingly high affinity with nature and possessed power beyond normal people of Ein Gard, which was Nature Manipulation. - So thats the mysterious power that book mentioned! How come the name was unavailable? By right, I should only mention this to a family member, since our power was meant to be kept secret Since Heinz-sama did say were family - Oh, shes a sentimental type not that I hate one An estimated only 5% of the whole 100+ million population of Arcadia inherited the blood enough to use Nature Manipulation, but hers was surprisingly thick, and since her mother knew how to raise her affinity with nature, hers was stronger than normal. Nature Manipulation had a restriction. Those who were irresponsible with it lost the ability, slowly so. During the rebellion in Thiaren, her Master noticed her high nature affinity, which was crucial to any Sage technique. Spending much time in nature, appreciating it, being responsible, do battle within, meditating, having fun all increase the affinity. Since spending time much in the wild was quite dangerous for any human, rarely any had enough to even perform simple nature manipulation. The people of Arcadia maintained such affinity not just through their special blood, but also through living in the embrace of nature. Even their cities were built within the forests and mountains, and beaches, and they live in harmony with their surroundings by being responsible and compassionate. The 1st Regent of Arcadia taught the Arcadians well no matter where we are, well always remain Arcadian; responsible, compassionate and strong. Regent wait, Regent? That reminds me, how come The Federation had Regent? Is it the same now? Im not sure about recent changes but the last time my parents took off from Arcadia, it was the reign of 32nd Regent, Averous Asthmus the 17th. The Regent was supposed to rule before the coming of our martyr Emperor. - Huh? Did you just say Athmus? A.T.H.M.U.S? I guess thats the correct spelling I thought its ASSMUS at first but why? Was that also the name of the 1st Regent? The 1st..? Oh yes, thats his name. - Athmus..! The 1st Regent of Arcadia?! A superpower! So they succeed Well done! But that means It meant that the whole of Astarian people who came here arrived before him, earlier by 700 years. - 700 years..! God, how come its so late Meh, whatever one who died shouldnt complain. But why would he change the name Astaria to Arcadia? Or did 700 years enough to make one of those Regent got into a spelling disorder and change.. nah, I dont think any would be an idiot thus there must be reasons So Emperor really didnt travel along a pity but why Athmus?! Well, sure hes capable but other Generals would be better that means those idiots! They didnt choose to stay, did they? Ahhh who am I to call others idiots when I practically marched alone towards a Demon Dragon? Bah! Did I influence them somehow with my idiocy?! UUUGHHHH! The boy was holding his head, hard. Young Averon? Are you alright? Hello? Hm? Yes, Lady Shisha, Im alright which reminds me you did mention something about my name, Averon along the line of ahh, when we first met? He asked her the softest way he could, trying to be as childish as possible. Ah that The name Averon, as Father told me, he intended to give me should I be a boy haha. Many Arcadian named their boy Averon, with a second name though. It was the name of the legendary hero of Arcadia The martyr Emperor whom the God promised his returns before a great trial a messiah, a sign and mercy of God to all mankind - Martyr Emperor when did I become an Emperor well if its Athmus then its quite normal of him to add some spices in the story well its not entirely false, since the Emperor did choose me as his successor but a Messiah? Haah thats a tall order. Just where did he get that preposterous idea? He fought the Two-headed Demon Dragon one on one with his people at his back, set on taking the wretched fire dragon with him to the grave. His people, hearing his feat, came out of their hiding, and marched to retrieve him or his body. However, by the time they arrived, the Dragon was slain, but the heros body was burning fiercely from the raging fire of the dragon Fire Burning, black fire His Natures Aura protected him, for some time. His people watched the hero burned, yet a smile, some swore, was etched on his face before he returned to Our God. He saluted them C palm opened wide -- while his body turned into ashes ... - My people Uu I miss all of you wait, I seemed to forget something Ah! Shishas also one of us! Our descendant The next generation I swore to protect He took a deep breath, and yet... Tears started to swell in his eyes Its been a long time since well only five years to him, but it was like reuniting with an old family you were so accustomed with during childhood just an analogy. The Emperor of Astaria had built a society who cared about each other, helped each other, and never let any one of its people suffered anymore hunger and poverty You would know how significant it was, had you know what hunger and poverty was! It was a miraculous revival of a once fallen Empire An Empire of kindness, joy and work! Then the invasion! The genocide happened, of which Astaria had to intervene to stop the massacre of their people, which then became the pretext of the invasion of Astaria Demons were used in order to stop greater evil, as mentioned by these maniacs After that genocidal war after seeing so many of your people burned in front of you after seeing hordes of demons and corrupted human spreading destruction throughout the land after feeling hopeless in front of irrefutable might After feeling youre unfit to call yourself a Knight And then! Finally! Finally! After all those struggling years! Finally knowing that you fulfilled part of the duty you swore yourself with That feeling -- Most fulfilling! And seeing the next generation with his very own eyes was overwhelming. You wont know what he had been through, but a heavy burden was placed onto him. Yet at this time, he felt something so far removed from what he had been through. As if a heavy burden was lifted from his chest all those bottled up feelings In front of him, he could almost see the two figures that most influence his life Good work. Welcome home, dear. The words of his beloved echoed in his ears A lady whose smile was uplifting Youre a true Knight, young Averon. The words of his ever encouraging Emperor followed suit An honorable man, true of his words. Both of them smiled to him from afar that greenery in front of him Both he could no longer see No more. Young Averon Ein Gard to Averon Hello? He twitched. Yet in front of him, the successor of their generation, inherited their values. She carried in herself, the very persona of his Emperor, and the innocent countenance of his wife. Tears swelled. *Sniff Uuu *Sniff W-whats wrong young Averon? The story shouldnt be that sad right? W-well the hero was remarkable and he did lose his life *Sniff Uwaa *Sniff* Uwaahhh Ahhhh AHHHHH! Wait, young Averon dont be like this listen stop this or theyll think Im bullying a child! Oiii! That day, the boy cried like never before. That day, Shisha could not help but felt guilty. That day, old Heinz smiled, saying it finally came out all at once. That day, the maids came into consensus that the boy was indeed, a boy. ### -- ??
I solemnly swear to protect our leader, our people, our next generation, our homeland, and most of all, our faith and duty to Our Creator from our enemy, within and without. O God, May I be guided by you at all times, and not strayed off the path of righteousness. So please help me, God. Solemn Vow of an Astarian Knight 2nd Year, Astarian C Demon War
?? Chp 8 Seeing is Not Necessarily Believing
Chp 8: Seeing is Not Necessarily Believing
The boy cried his heart out. Why? Why I wonder It was not because the story I told was sad in any way Plus Im not that good of a storyteller Well, probably a bit, but That day, I saw a boy, yet I saw also a man Who was, as if some heavy shackles from the past, lifted As Heinz-sama said, finally Now I wonder What kind of heavy history could a five-year old possess?! ================================================================ Hear me, hear me! Last night, I was instructed to guard the Great Tree in the eastern Garn district along with some colleague of mine It was eerily windy that night, yet true to my duty, I arrived on time. When I got there, it seemed my friends did not arrive yet, so I sat under the tree. I waited for them for half an hour, yet they did not come I know from some older guards, that guarding the Great Trees was a waste of time But they shouldnt be reckless like this, what if an officer decided to do some inspection out of a whim?! And then! It was then..! I heard an eerie sound! It was a sound along the lines of Hm, hm, hmmmm ... ... No, no, Im not making this up! You bastard! My hearing has always been superb! The sound was as if it was deliberating My Goodness! No one told me the Great Tree of the East was haunted! Is that why my darn friends didnt come? That thought crossed my mind. So much for being friends huhu I looked up. I saw nothing. It was too dark. But then, the moonlight came out of the clouds. There it was..! Sitting on the highest branch of the Great Tree, a being..! Continuing that Hm, hm, hmmmm Was it deliberating to eat me now, or wait until some more of my friends came? Could it be a human, you asked? No, no, no bloody way! Its got to be demon! A vampire even! What kind of human would sit that high up on the Great Tree, at that time in the morning?! What did I do? Well, you darn I took off as if my wife just knew I stalked my old fianc. ========================================================= I was a bit disturbed by what happened the morning before. I did not expect young Averon to cry out that much from me telling him that story. Perhaps Im just so darn good at telling stories? ... Nevermind. Disturbed as I was, however, I dont intend to make it as excuse to skip out my duty. I went out of the mansion before 2.00 am. I ran towards the Great Tree, no guide needed. It was visible in front of me I mean, its a Great Tree. Why do you think it got its name? Then, since it was convenient, I jumped from roof to roof. Using Wind Manipulation, I made sure not to leave much sound. I was sure even if someone heard it, one would think it was merely a cat. Sorry to disturb your sleep! When I arrived, there were no guards. Weird. Heinz-sama said there would be sentries around this time. Sentries Just in case someone went nuts and do some immoral things to the Great Tree Where are they? Did they play truant? No matter. I climbed the tree actually, I just ran up the big trunk. Wind manipulation sure was convenient. However, this tree was quite tall, so I stopped on a branch, catching my breath. Ah, maybe I should dispel my gravity weights..? Or so I thought, but I did not. It made me quite heavy, but it was for training. You should not take training for granted, or that attitude would be a habit. During my stop I noticed an incoming man with a torch. It seemed to be one of the sentries. He was a bit disturbed, probably since he was alone. The night was quite dark afterall. I managed to get on top of the tree, onto the highest branch. Even higher than the top of the trunk. There, I sat in full lotus. I tied my body with a cloth and rope I prepared beforehand. The other end of the rope, I tied onto one of the smaller sub-branch. It was just a safety measure Well, not a big deal even if I fall down. I could always use Wind to put me back to the tree. Or to slow down my fall. I changed my breathing, deeper It was the breathing technique for meditation. It requires quite a while to reach deep meditation. Hm, hm, hmmmm *** Deep, deep cloud Piercing through the horizon The moonlight, ah, the moonlight Taking a birds eye view of the surrounding nature Empty the mind Let nature shows what it sees Grey dark night Oh, the moonlight Windy the wind was strong. Ahhh so comfy The place, once filled with noise Now silent Silent It was peaceful Hm? A light A scorching, strong light It was in the city. The Great Tree and its kind, were delighted. For thousands of years, they felt so for the first time Yet at the same time, they felt anxious Since they could feel A fire of hope and destruction. The two opposing criteria, merged together as one entity. Impossible Where? A view A view, moving towards the same path I took? Its close. Yes, its close. The Great Tree was helping me. It recognized me, and lent me its aid. ... ... Hm? A mansion? It seemed familiar? Ah the dim crimson light came from a room On the third floor, the window was open? Wait, thats! ================================================================================= SHUU---- The wind was blowing violently. The roof, windows and houses, shook as it went through it. The early birds C people who woke up early, took a look outside their windows of the rare wind. Pak, pak, pak, pak C SHUSH! What the--?! A moving silhouette of sparks was visible for the better eyes C people with training. It was moving at such a speed, as if the whole space in front of it was giving it the right of passage. No way, no way It cant be, right? The thing was mumbling by itself as it dashed from roof to roof. SHUSH C SHUSH C SHUSH The sound of it dashing was akin to the violent gust, and as it slows down for a very short moment, one could see legs moving at high speed, hitting the roof four times before sparks came out. Again and again, it rushed further at a much higher speed. The occasional sparks made it visible to the better eyes in this dark early morning. Roof after roof, trees after trees, soon she saw the large continuous wall getting bigger C the second wall of Capital City of Crest. By its side, was the residence of Cestias Great General. She stopped by the front gate, and after being recognized by the guards, she walked in as fast as she could. After a considerable distance, she shoot herself into the source of her distress; a room just beside the field C Averons room. - What if hes a? Then I have to --- No, no lets check it closer it might just be a mistake please God let it be just a mistake on my part After making sure he really was sleeping, she hopped right onto the huge tree outside Averons window. It seemed the boy did not really close his window, as half of it was clearly open. The cold early morning air seeped into his room, yet the boy was clearly not disturbed by it. Shisha closed her eyes for awhile, and opened them back for her pupils to be much bigger and deeper than before. Her eyes stretched and bulging blood veins appeared. Her eyes became red.Stolen novel; please report. Her sight went through the darkness right into Averons room, and from her position, she could see him sleeping with no care of his surrounding C with his blanket half-covering him and his left leg being put on a large pillow. His hair was a mess, while his tummy was half-showing with his right hand clearly scratching it. Fuaargh~~~ Emmm He yawned, inhaling so much air before his right hand closed his opened mouth. He shook a little. From an average peoples point of view, the sight was nothing interesting to see. However, Shishas eyes... She was able to perceive things outside normal. It was the most baffling sight she had seen ever. Dim gold particles -- coming in from all around the atmosphere, going right into the room, and right into his mouth -- as if the whole sea of air was being sucked by a sudden whirlpool appearing out of nowhere. The whole surrounding was illuminated - That C That amount Ether?! Ridiculous, even the best fire Sage Illmar cannot C forget him even the Eldest Fire Dragon Freivenn cannot possibly C this is madness! What am I seeing here?! The whole space was filled with another wave of flowing gold particles as they were sucked into Averons mouth. From his right hand a dim purple barrier seemed to merge the particles into a much denser form. - Ether purification! And hes doing it while hes asleep?! God, this is tell me this is just a dream C a human cannot possibly C could it be -- a devils reincarnate? Ugh! She grabbed her hair C her brown silky hair was pulled down in frustration. She gritted her teeth, and one of her sharper one cut into her lip. - God, why? Why must it be Averon of all people? To make the very boy Im associated with a devil reincarnate C plus hes Heinz-samas grandchild. No, no. this must be a dream a nightmare even C and when I woke up itll be just like before. Ill have to search further C yes, thats it C its just a dream Then she felt the pain C the pain coming in from her lips was evident, one she could no longer deny C of which denied her denying the truth. That THIS-IS-NOT-A-DREAM. No no, it cant be Tears came out from her eyes and the source of the tears came from the sworn responsibility of the Sages. Sages had several responsibilities C aside from destroying great injustice, the other main responsibility would be to destroy any devils incarnate. It was one of the deepest secret of the Sages C of which she could not even mention such thing to even old Heinz C though she suspected that he already knew. - So far only Kei are able to discern and kill a boy who was a devil reincarnate C only after he was sure and he was given revelation about his real existence. Usually we could only sense when theyre adults And such a problem they would be to us Sages. Fortunately, they were rare Of such rarity C so far I only destroy mid-level demons A devil would be at least a High Level Demon She was in distraught. She needed to report this to the Sage Council through her Life-Force Regalis, of which the Council would decide how to proceed. Killing other human is strictly prohibited unless it was a justified self-defense or under a just war C with several exceptions. She was really worried, should she reported it and it turned out that the council decided to do the forbidden necessity C killing a child C she just could not take it, even if he really was a devils reincarnate. That, and she really hated the idea of killing someone whom she already considered family she was indebted to them, even for just a short time. It was an act akin to betrayal, but - Uuughhh theres no denying it. My eyes my senses theyre tingling so much after the meditation. Im shaking I could sense such presence clearly C such overwhelming presence of a fire demon C a level I could not imagine existed, seeping through his body a little at a time yet such quality C theres no mistaken it. A high level demon C no, a really high level demon! Far beyond any high-level demons others had described! - Damnit! Damnit! Damnit! - Averon, just what are you? Aaah why is it that I could not even sense such presence when he was awake? And when I was so near him before? And when I meditate the night before? Was it conscious enough to hide itself when I was nearby? Was it because of the Great Tree? Did that demon already awake and taken over the body? Did the whole thing about him being mature was a fa?ade of the devil? Am I charmed by it already? Should I really report this to the council? But if they decided to then I but if I dont at this level Uuuu God! JUST-WHAT-SHOULD-I-DO?! ! ! ! She yelled within herself, frustrated as of the dilemma of her options Then the sound of a rustle hit her ears. Um? She noticed Averon waking up, and in a flash she leaped high onto the rooftop -- an open rotunda with a dome as the roof. W-what? Hmmm Fuaaahhh~ She could hear Averons voice mumbling as he went back to bed. She sighed weakly. It seemed he didnt notice--- !! PANG! She parried a sword with her gauntlets. The sword was thrown back a few metres, and it seemed it was not unsheathed. She stared the darkness C of which she could clearly see C an aura so far beyond what any human could possess. In her eyes, it was a dim purple existence, slowly taking the form of a C something? The fighting spirit it unleashed upon her made her breathing heavier. Shisha stared at the existence with full readiness for a confrontation, and her normally cute-childish demeanor turned cold C stinging cold. The cute shining face turned into a gaze of a warrior. I thought it was an intruder, so I throw that just in case My apologies, Shisha. It was Heinzs voice. She finally saw his appearance, with his training outfit of leather trousers and bandaged strong arms. His small goatee, his army-style hair and his bulging muscles evident on his bare chest, with scars all over gave the impression of a very formidable veteran warrior. Heinz-sama - Did he know what I was doing C no, not possible but if he does Auuu his Aura what kind of training he did to develop it to such an extent? Haa its hard to breathe She still had her guard up, and her stare was piercing the distance between them, ready for any incoming attack. She knew he was strong, and even stronger than her own self. - If he knew what Averon is then it would be possible for him to neutralize any danger to his grandchild If we are to fight here Damnit! Why am thinking this? I dont want to fight him! Why the fighting spirit, Shisha? I wont attack you --well, not anymore. She noticed he no longer emitting fighting spirit. He had inquired with a mark of concern, and she snapped out of her confrontational demeanor. H-huh? Oh, I I apologize, Heinz-sama. Nevermind that, you dont have to apologize. Regardless, why are you sneaking around here C I see Averon, huh. Y-you knew? That hes special, yes. When you mentioned that theres an irregularity, the possibility of him being the cause came to mind, though I immediately dismiss it. I see Do you know of something else, Heinz-sama? Something substantial? I do not have the same sensing ability as Sages do. Though I know he has a lot of internal Mana and energy, and his perseverance even bested High Knights So, what did you find out? - So he only knew that much, no, he just suspected it. But what would he do if I tell him? I only suspected, for now. Ill have to report this first to the Sages Council. Hm, I see From then on the decision will be theirs? Yes, Im afraid. I remember Kyosei mentioned being one of these so called Council members a decade or so ago. Yes, Master was elevated to that position by the decision of the whole council. I believe he is the most junior among them all? Among the six of them, yes. So this council made the decision Heinz-sama? Shisha noticed his last sentence. Before she could ask, she noticed two people approaching. GENERAL, SIR! MASTER! Two people with sword at arm arrived there by leaping onto the rotunda. One of them was a handsome black-haired man in his 20s, wearing a simple tunic with a purple-red armor pad on the chest and shoulder along with boots, while another was a blonde beauty barely twenty, wearing a loose pink nightgown showing parts of her fine legs C the moon did well to reflect the light on the surface in such time. Oh Alnair, Vestianna. Sir, I sense fighting spirit just now, did someone C Lady Shisha? The High Knight Alnair noticed her peculiarity. She had a rather guarded demeanor, much more so than the first time they met the day before. He remembered her as someone more of a cheerful side. Vestianna, by his side, did not fail to notice so as well. Did something happen? She asked her Master. Yes, and no. I merely mistook Shisha for an intruder, so I threw my sword and release my fighting spirit a little. A little, Master? Vestianna asked, dubious. She took a glimpse on her masters sheathed sword lying on the floor. Lady Shisha, youre out quite early you too, General. Alnair knitted his eyes. He knew quite well something had occurred, yet he could only hint on the obviousness. Vestianna just stood silent, eyes observing. Im sorry to be a bother this early morning -- I had just returned from my meditation. And I was on my way to my morning training, so we bumped into each other C nothing serious. Dont be so uptight Alnair, hah, ah yes, about what we discuss just now Shisha Y-yes? Send my regards to Kyosei, and tell him to trust me on this. Err yes, Sir C Heinz-sama. Old Heinz just referred to the Life-Force Regalis communication ability. She smiled bitterly. Should the Council decided to rid of Averon, she knew even her Master could not stop them. However, what old Heinz just said somehow eased her feeling a bit. - Hopefully everything will be I would be honoured if you do the same as well, Lady Shisha E-eh? Um, um y-yes, Heinz-sama! I shall. If you have nothing else, please do take a rest, Shisha. You look like you need it. By the way, you two Old Heinz turned to his two subordinates, smirking. The two jolted. They had a shocking realization of what the old man had in mind. I- I had to see the King la-later in the morning so-- Inspection, master C I have to do inspection later at the North Camp-- No matter! Both wont take much of your body. Come, I need some sparring partners! No! General, Sir! Please! The King-- M-master! Im still in my nightgownwha?! He took the two in tow with him towards the field ignoring their plea while laughing so lively. Shisha, looking over such incident, was dumbfounded. What on Ein Gard did I just see? Ahh I REALLY need a rest ===================================================================================== Chp 9 The Sage Council The Sage Council. A group of six people sat in circle, silently listening to a young lady explaining in their middle. None of them say anything even when the young one stopped her narration. Silence ensued for some time What do you think, Master Illmar? A deep voice asked the one by his side. Massive Ether purification while sleeping? Impossible. Even performing small-scale Ether purification need continuous focus a tedious process. An old voice responded. It was an image of a rather old man, with long white beard, yet with a well-toned body and black cloth wrapping his neck. He was caressing his beard while deliberating. Impossible, until now. The deep voice said. It must be the Devil doing it while the boy sleeps, Master Kharnain. Hmm What do you think, Shisha? I do not believe so. It seemed he did it without conscious effort as if it was as natural as breathing. I see. What of the presence? Only a little came out when he was asleep, though it was high quality, I do not think it is capable of controlling the boy yet. This would be your first time, as Sage, to meet a High Level Demon. Purifying Ether unconsciously? Preposterous. Master Illmar, Shisha here is among the best in detection ability, unlikely for one of her calibre to make such blunder. The man with the deep voice asserted while turning to the young lady. His image was blurry. The situation seemed to be a meeting of six people sitting around on higher ground, while Shisha was standing in the middle of them, a little lower ground facing the blurry man. The images of the other five seemed to be much clearer than him. The atmosphere was hazy and ethereal C out of this world. The place seemed to suggest that it was not our normal dimension. I confirmed it several times, Master Kharnain. Though I would like for someone else to confirm it with me. Shisha nodded while closing her eyes for a short while. Indeed. We will take that into consideration, since the only High-level demon you did encounter was during the Thiaren Rebellion, and that was before you become one of us. So in term of experience, you may yet be sufficient. Yes, Master Kharnain. Shisha nodded, again eyes closed for a short time. She opened them and observed the reaction of the council. In front of her was Master Kharnain C the blurry one -- The Leader of the Sage Council. To the left of him, was the old man with the white beard -- Master Illmar. He seemed to be musing quite a lot. To his right, a rather handsome man of seemingly in his 40s, with simple brown robe and dark green cloth wrapped around his neck. He sat straight with his arm wrapped with each other. Eyes closed still -- as if he was sleeping. His breathing was deep and quiet. - Master Kei the one with the best discerning eyes among the Sages is he sleeping? It cant be, right? Shisha mused. Of the Ether did you see with clear mind? Do describe it once more, young Shisha. Yes, Master Kharnain. What I said, I really did see with clear consciousness. Sky full of flying Ether, gathering and being gathered as if they were streams of water forming whirlpool of Ether. Wave after wave that night I counted eight waves sky-full of Ether being consumed and purified C from what I can see, to a much denser form of at least a thousand times. The radius? Around 10 km radius and counting. The whole phenomena seemed to be limitless as if the Ether listened to its whim without any complain. Impossible a thousand times denser 10 km even Freivenn cannot do that much There are bound to be existences we have yet acquainted ourselves with, Master Illmar. Is that not right, dear Shisha? A rather calm, motherly voice noted. To Shishas left-back side, a long black haired lady with elegant sleeveless dress commented. Shisha turned to her. White, soft glittering skin she had a presence of serenity of which reminded Shisha of sparkling pearls. It is as you say, Master Asiya. Shisha, what of his demonic power? Can you go into details? Beside Kei, a sturdy man senior in age, with bald front head, rather spiky hair complemented by his seemingly sharp black beard and sideburns. Shisha recalled the experience. Yes, Master. It was stronger than a High Demon C I mean, from what I could tell from merely the power which seeped out from the boy when he was asleep -- Ive never met a High-level Demon aside from the one we meet in Thiaren, but from what Devils I knew from other Elders, I believe his presence is stronger C more menacing than any that was described. I find it hard to believe what I was seeing. Shisha answered. The one who asked would be her Master, Kyosei C Heinzs old comrade. Silence ensued before Then it must be destroyed. Illmar broke the silence. We still need to confirm it Asiya tilted her head. Who will do it? Tell other Sage to go there while giving it C the devil C a few months to prepare? Shisha had Tasha with her, they both should be strong enough. Hold it, Master Illmar. Maria, youre quiet as per usual Your take on this? Master Kharnain asked the lady between Kyosei and Asiya. She was wearing an outfit fit for a priestess with white scarf covering her head C with her blonde hair slightly visible C and on her body, light blue garb. She had a calming beauty with soft white skin and a rather teenage-like face not yet in her 20s. Shisha turned to her. - Maria She looked just a little bit older than me maybe 17 or so though one must remember that we Sages can maintain our youth if we desire so. While Master Asiya looked mature and beautiful, Master Maria exhibits a youthful yet soothing feeling to others. Master Kei is quiet as well, Master Kharnain. Her soft, youthful voice vibrated in the surrounding. He is deliberating. Your opinion, Maria. Ah We certainly need confirmation first. Its good of Shisha to report it to us in vivid details C even when she is clearly reluctant-- She eyed Shisha, who slightly jolted at her remarks. Thus I really support sending someone to help her confirm it. We cant risk a mistake; moreover, its a boy. Five-years old, Shisha? Yes, Master Maria. Five. Any of you have the heart to kill a child with Life-Force Seal? It would seem cruel to do so, even when the one in question is possibly a devil incarnate. She eyed Kei, who seemed still closing his eyes and in deep breathing. Plus, ordering our dear Shisha to do so would be bordering evil in itself, dont you think so, Master Kharnain? I would differ. Illmar interjected. Kei did what he believed was best, and we did give him our consent Plus, our responsibility-- Aside from me, and Kyosei, who had yet joined. I know of our responsibility, Master Illmar. Maria interjected as well, ending her sentence with more weight. Asiya sighed weakly. Maria, dont be like this in front of our young one I know -- My apologies. Thats why I opted to stay silent. She eyed Kharnain before closing her eyes and nodded in respect. Kharnain nodded. It seemed we may have to discuss this among us first, Shisha. Thank you for reporting this to us in good details. If theres nothing else, then you may dismiss. Master Kharnain, if I may add Hm? Please do. The one I currently reside with C Lord Heinz Valery had told me to trust him on this issue. He asked the same to my Master. The whole council went on to an eerie silent For the next few seconds, Shisha gulped. Kharnain looked around, before observing Shishas determined face. And do you trust him? I do, Master Kharnain. I see What about you Kyosei? He is my old comrade. We had gone through the worst of situations together and save each other multiple times. I trust him as much as I do myself. Heinz I remember you spoke of him before with overwhelming respect. How strong is he, Kyosei? If Im not mistaken My equal. Know that we have yet to duel each other for over two decades. Amazing. A trust not eroded by time and distance Plus someone who rival your strength Master Kharnain seemed to be deliberating. I understand. I will make sure the council takes that into consideration Shisha. Anything else? Err em No. Nothing, Master Khar-- Youre restraining yourself. Please do tell us, Shisha. Anything we can take into account. Well, I Master Kharnain observed her. Soon, he turned to his right. If youre so reluctant, then Kei. With that word, the one called Kei opened his eyes, and immediately as he did, his eyes looked intently at Shisha, as if scanning her. Then as immediate as he opened them, he closed his eyes again. Shes fine. She wanted the boy as apprentice. !! Apprentice! Arent you too young to have one, dear Shisha? Its too risky. Young Sages these days tsk, tsk Grown up quite fast, eh, my apprentice. Aaa Shisha had a shock of her lifetime. - Eh? Eh? Wait! How did he know?! Shisha was shocked. While its true that she did, she secretly desire so as part of her ploy to protect him. She was relieved that Kei did not add more C or will he? Is that true, Shisha? Ah Yes. Yes, its true, Master Kharnain. Then well consider things with you in mind then Thank you, Master Kharnain. Thank you. She thanked him profusely. She was really glad the leader of the council was quite considerate. I expected the best from you Shisha, Master of Four Elements... dismiss. Yes Sir! ==================================================================================== Shisha already left the place, leaving the six contemplating themselves before the leader spoke. All of you have heard, and already have ample time to think this over. I asked each of you to give your thought on this, and think carefully before even suggesting, as this concerned the life of someone dear to the friend of Kyosei and young Shisha. I shall hear all of your opinion and suggestions, before making the decision. The issue is, how to approach the matter regarding this boy Averon. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!Weve always destroyed Devils before even with the case of Kei discovering that young boy why should the treatment be different? Old man Illmar made the statement. Kharnain did not answer, instead, he looked at the direction of Asiya. She nodded, knowing full well what the leader asked her to. Master Illmar please reconsider. Kei have the ability to discern even the slightest tricks while Shisha had yet to achieve such. The fact that she told us all of the information in details, while adoring the boy and his family why do you think she did so? Because thats her duty. Thats it. Because she wished for us to make the right decision, one that will consider all possible options C whether having precedent or unprecedented. She trusted us, and we must respect her decision. Bah. Sentiment. Responsibility comes before feelings. Maria snapped at the words. Responsibility? Isnt it our responsibility to make sure 100% what was possible, before we decided to take life away? Have your age make you senile, old man? You Illmar gave a serious gaze to the young lady, yet stopped as Kharnain raised his hand. Maria, Master Illmar had been fighting the Demons before you were even born. The effort of his generation made sure our dimension safe from the demon horde. Do not lose your respect. At his remark, Maria jolted, and seemed to calm herself down. She lowered her gaze and took a deep breath. Forgive me, Master Illmar. Im terribly sensitive when it comes to killing especially if the one in question is a child. I did not see what you have seen in your generation, nor do I have the wish to. I apologize. Hrmmm As long as you understand. Weve strayed off topic a little but continue. Kharnain said so with weight. I suggest sending someone capable to confirm or at least look into the matter in better details. Asiya said, finger on her lower cheek. I fully agree. Maria quickly said so. As do I. This time, Kyosei did. That means a Sage better than Shisha, at least Kharnain turned to Kyosei in front of him. Since he was her Master, the connection of their Life-Force Regalis would be the strongest C allowing him to sense her growth. An Adriat, at least. With sensing ability better than hers. Shes already a Midriat? Isnt she too young to be one? Illmar asked. Yes, I gave her the rank when she passed the test four years ago. She is young, yet her potential possibly exceed even my own, Master Illmar. Kyosei answered. "I see... if it''s you who evaluate, then there should be no problem." Amazing. She reminded me of a certain someone Asiya eyed Maria, who seemed to ignore such statement. Kharnain raised his hand, of which all fell silent. Is there any nearby? All Masters, confirm the nearest possible Adriat Sages to the location C Cestia. Any available, report. With his command, all six of them sat in silent, trying to confirm every possible location the Sages under them were located in. ... ... I have some in our homeland and Alvinn Theyre busy training young ones, so I would prefer not to disturb them. Maria said. I have all twelve of them near or within Vriens vassal states. If I move any, it would open a serious gap in our barricade. Illmar said. I have them all in Continent of Erlin. Were preparing for possible incursion from Vriens proxy. Kyosei said. I have all seven in the Union. Were all busy right now so Im afraid I cant spare any. Asiya said. All three of mine are quite far apart right now the nearest would be well, far Kei? Kharnain asked the one who kept on being silent by his side. Linz. All ten. !! Whats all ten doing on that island? Maria asked. Its about the opening in the sea, isnt it Kei? Asiya answered in his stead. Sealing opening troublesome. Can you spare one to help our young one? No Seal barely. Kei mentioned of the Sealing of the opening within the seas of Linz, the area between the continent of Arcad and the Serian Archipelago. The rare occurrences of opening between dimensions were considered extremely dangerous. With the opening, those with enough power and the right ability would be able to transverse through, entering the world of Ein Gard. Since the start of the Sages in Ein Gard, they had treated such opening as something akin to demon armys incursion. So far, there were no news of any permanent victory from the five known dimensions, and thus they treated the existence of these openings as such which proved to be true, around 200 years ago. It seemed my lack of contact with all of you produced such trouble. In addition of the fact that Kei is not the type to ask for help Hmm, Asiya, being the nearest, can you spare one or two Adriats to help Kei? Master Kharnain like I said, the situation in Union is quite hard to deal. She turned helplessly to the others One by one, they avoided meeting eyes with her, clearly unwilling. Soon, her gaze stopped at Kyosei. He closed his eyes in deliberation, but soon said; Hm I understand, I will send one of my five. Asiya sighed, glad. Thank you, Master Kyosei. ... Seeing Kyoseis sacrifice, Maria seemed to take everything back into account. Master Kharnain, I think I can spare one from our Capital C Hell help Master Kei, so the one Master Kyosei will send may go to Crest C Well save time that way. Wouldnt it disturb the training? Theres only three there. She watched the seemingly sleeping Sage with some concern. Ah well, if Master Kei fail, the consequence would be much more serious. Who do you have in mind? Ill send Vortus. Hes quite handful C I mean, powerful. Ill fill up the gap in the training of our apprentices. I see. Your sacrifice is appreciated, Maria. All to protect the legacy, Master Kharnain. He nodded in acknowledgement of her sacrifice. Having less high-level Sage C Adriats under her meant that she needed to prepare for more countermeasures, in case of any emergency -- especially a dimensional rift called opening or officially, Gate. Though they were really rare and slow to develop, a Gate was considered a priority danger, one which called for the ultimate sacrifice. Adriats were Sages that had reached such a high-level mastery in their art of nature manipulation, so much so that they can influence a dimensional rift and even close a Gate by disturbing the energy around it. If it was formed artificially, an Adriat could directly break the magic seal used to form the Gate. Thus, Adriats were scarce and highly valued. The most senior among Sages, Illmar the Fire had twelve Adriats. The most prominent eyes and earth user among Sages, Kei the Seer had ten. The most cunning of Sages, Asiya the Tactician had seven. The youngest and most popular among Sages, Maria the Light had six. The best beast user among the Sages, Kyosei the Beast-Master had five. The leader of the Sages, Master Kharnain, had three. All of Adriats, counted to 43. However, that was not all. There were also Adriat Sages who went under the radar C of which they went missing and lost contact for reasons unconfirmed. Some of the council members do know some... but thats a story for another time. If youre sending one of the five, Kyosei then I suggest sending Laksha, shes quite capable and sharp. Just right for the mission. Ill consider that, Master Kharnain. Could you please specify the mission? Alright. Kyosei, send one of your Adriats, find out whether the threat is real or not. If it is vague, continue to observe it. Send reports to the council after a week of observation or when something evident was observed. If any emergency occurred, then the Sage in question is to use his or her own judgement. Work separately from Shisha unless it is necessary. As for Shisha, let her take him as apprentice. If per chance he managed to form Life-Force Regalis C then the chance for the devil to surface would be close to nil. I hear and I obey, Master Kharnain. By the way, about your friend Heinz could you ask Shisha to have a bout with him? Im quite curious of his ability. I I shall tell her your wish, Master Kharnain. Then the matter with the boy named Averon will be under the jurisdiction of Kyosei. Any objection? There was no answer to such questions, of which even Illmar was merely making humming sounds Then its settled. The Adriat Sage under Kyosei will examine and judge the situation C and report back to us within the nearest time. For the time being, we will let Shisha do as she wish. Im still worried, Master Kharnain I understand, Master Illmar, but please trust the young ones on this. If it gets out of hand, I shall personally deal with it. Thats assuring. By the way its been bothering me for quite a bit What is it? No need to hold back on my account. How come your image is so blurry. I know you wish to prevent any detection, but for it to be so blurry that it even distorted the colours why? Was thinking the same thing, Master Kharnain. Asiya added. Hmm its nothing special. Im in Vrien right now so I had to take extra countermeasure. Those Hawks are quite pesky. Aaa The other Sages had their fill of surprise, with only Kei being indifferent. Maria tried to say something, but started off stuttered. Vrien Empire, being their adversary for such a long time, was considered to be the most dangerous ground a Sage could step on. Kyosei did so over twenty years ago with Heinz, and even with the two of them and even while being not a listed Sage, he was hunted fiercely by the Hawks Incantus C Supernatural Assassins trained by the Empire. It was a life and death adventure for the two. If -if you die, Master Kharnain Dont worry Maria, my Life-Force is still full. Ill just have to avoid encounters if I die once. Seriously, Master Kharnain youre the 1# wanted person in Vrien for you to be there Asiya sighed weakly. Well, thats life Full of challenge Whatre you doing there, by the way? Kyosei asked. Sightseeing Alright. Its a joke. A bad one, I know, but at least dont make such face*sigh* Im there to deal with the original Seal the First Kharnain did. !! WHAT!! The whole four -- aside from Kei -- shouted in unison. ===================================================================================== Chp 10 “Since We Are Family” It''s a hectic week for me. I apologize for the delayed updates. Still. I will continue Ein Gard until the end, I will not drop the project halfway. Here''s chapter 10. ======================================================================================== Chapter 10 -- Since We are Family ============================= Kharnain, with his blurry image, was sitting in front of Shisha. The others were not there, and it seemed only the two of them were present. Its decided. Your Master will send Laksha. Itll take around a month for her to arrive. He told her. She nodded. For the time being, Shisha you may take the boy as apprentice. That way we can keep him in close watch Yes, Master Kharnain. Shisha smiled, if he was under her supervision then she could help him to the best of her ability. Also, a favour could you please have a duel with his grandfather Heinz? To this request, she was a bit perplexed. Is that really necessary, Master Kharnain? I know youre interested, but Shisha was reluctant. It is necessary. Just ask him for a duel, if he refused then no need to force him. I cant possibly match him. Hes Masters equal. Ask him to fight you at half his strength. Thatll fit you well, wont it? Perhaps, Master Kharnain What of the boy if he becomes my apprentice Well, if he formed Life-Force Regalis then its possible to spare his life. However, if he cannot Master Kharnain stop halfway. Then hell have to die? She gulped. ... ... ...Do me a favour and evaluate Lord Heinzs strength. Then Ill have the boy the benefit of the doubt should such time comes. She jolted a little. It was surprising, also the fact that he met her all alone like this... Yes, Master Kharnain. - I wonder whats hes thinking Master Kharnain, the most mysterious of all Sages ============================================================================================== The Mansion for the Count of Valery was located in the eastern Garn district, quite a short distance from the Great Tree of the East, as the people of Crest called it. The Mansion was not very luxurious, though one could call it beautiful with greenery and wide open field. On top of the mansion, a rotunda was in the middle, dome as roof. The mansion was immediately beside the Eastern wall of the Crest city, and served to accommodate the Great General of Cestia, a long-time trusted friend of the King. The Master of the House did not have any particular interest in using so much money to renovate or beautify his residence. It was kept clean, tidy and any damage would be quickly restored, but he would never add any luxurious items out of his pocket. The few that existed in the house were presents from other nobles and the King himself. All around the mansion, large fields enough to fit a procession of over tens of thousands soldiers. There were some pools between the fields and the mansion. Many tall kapok trees identical to the Great Trees were there too, but they were merely 15-30 metres. Here a big, bulky man was swinging his heavy sword, and it was as if he was fighting invisible enemies. He was over 60, an age where in Ein Gard, an adult started to show signs of old age. His black hair already had some white ones, though his body muscles clearly defied the notion that he was an old man. His black-white beard was barely visible. In this world, normal people who died of old age usually do at age 120-130s. However, for martial artists it differed. Those who practiced breathing technique claimed it prolonged ones age by another 50 but that was just a claim. Records however did show a martial arts Master could live well over 200. The old man slashed, jumped up and down and moves fluidly from one place to another in such high speed Cnormal maids could only see his afterimages as he moves. One could not believe that he was over 60 of age from afar. His speed was already over the perceived limit of human body one expert said. Who? Nevermind. Tang Tang Tang Tang It was 4.00 am. Hah! Old Heinz placed the heavy metal sword on his shoulder. It was a training sword which edge was blunted. - Its time to wake Averon Must use the time fully when Neas still occupied with her research huh? He noticed a figure walked into the mansion from the front gate. The guards greeted it It was Shisha, walking towards the mansion. - What the as if shes in shock. I better inquire her but first, my cape She was walking in empty steps as if she was in a trance. She bumped onto a huge wall wait, no Heinz-sama? Whats the matter Shisha? You seemed shocked..? Ah Well She deliberated. After hearing the councils decision, she was a bit glad but also worried. Should Averon fail to form Life-Force Regalis, the chance of him being killed with Life-Seal would be quite high. Life-Seal was a special technique, which differed from level to level. To counter Devils from resurrecting again, a high level Life-Seal technique would be used, which resurrects them in the same place, denying them life resurrection elsewhere. Since humans in Ein Gard were born with either two or three lives, normally killing those possessed would not be enough C they must be killed over or over again, if they were born in a family of knights. Unfortunately, there were no saving for those humans whose body and soul were possessed C Only God knows what would happen to them. If such a thing was to occur, she wondered how she should react. - Should I tell him? Should I tell him I suspected his own grandson of being a presence that far surpass a Devil? And what the Council wanted to if No, I better not no, no Its better to be honest in times like this. I need to discuss this I dont know who else to trust here. Heinz-sama, theres something I wish to discuss privately. Hm? Alright. ========================================================= Hm? Thats weird Usually Grandpa would come here and wake me up at this time. Well, I rarely still asleep at 4.00 so I dont mind. Hes fifteen minutes late! There must be something wrong Or maybe hes just being lazy for once That hulking Monster of training? No way! Under him, even a baby had to train! Ahhh Lets just wake up ahh the air in the morning is so fresh Letting the window open when you sleep is indeed the best. A bit cold though Achoo! Averon went out, washed himself up and return and change into his practice attire. It was a simple shirt and pants, and took with him his wooden sword. He walked through the hallway, and soon, he heard someone conversing in a low voice. Seemed hes wake up already. Are you sure about this, Heinz-sama? Of course. I believe in what you say. If this is the only way to suppress it, then I would be honoured to have you as his--- - His? His what? They cant be talking about me? Then lets us rouse his interest, at least. - Interest? Interest in what? *** Averon went on to train as usual. It was a regimental training of swinging and moving in evasion and attack maneuvers. Old Heinz then went on to do light sparring with his grandson. Later he called for some guards and seemed to tell them something C of which caused them to be excited and rushed over to do what must be done maybe. Afterwards, when the sun came out Averon, today theres a special treat for you. Hm? What is it, Grandpa? Hah! Youre about to witness me battle with half of my strength. What? But whos oh Lady Shisha? Shisha stepped forward. Yes. Ill battle with your grandfather, young Averon. Ill try to show you the proper way of using Nature Manipulation. Youre interested in that, arent you? Well yes please! Open your eyes well, Averon. Absorb everything. Its not everyday to see the clash of 1st Class Warriors Yes, Grandfather..! - I think theyre over 1st Class already well why bother with little details Ill have to observe this. === From a far, he could see several dozen Knights coming to see the rare event. Among them, were his grandfathers apprentice, Vestianna and one of his right-hand man, Alnair. They came towards him while the other Knights spread around the area. Lady Vestianna, Sir Alnair. Averon acknowledged them as they approached him. Vestianna kneeled at him, petting him on the head and cheek as per usual. When they first met two years ago, he felt awkward with such behaviour. Then again, she seemed so sweet a lady as whenever she did, she would smile and giggle a little; a feeling of warmth was there, so much so that he started to not mind such treatment. This will be the first time for you to see your grandfather in a formal duel, isnt it young Averon? Ive seen him spar with even High Knights, but never dueling. Thats because whenever the general duel, the least that would happen some massive holes on the ground. Alnair chuckled. Averon looked at him and turned to Vestianna, who then pinched both of his cheeks. Dont worry young Averon, well protect you. I-Im not worrying or anything! The General might not be like it, but hes quite a berserker whenever hes serious. I hope Lady Shisha really know what shes doing Alnair turned to see the two, who then were walking to the centre of the field. === Shisha and Heinz were standing five metres away from each other. From the centre of the wide field Shisha could see many soldiers and knights started to crowd the surroundings. She turned to her opponent. Old Heinz did not use his heavy sword, instead he was holding a blunted practice sword placed on his shoulder, while Shisha was not using any weapon. Again Shisha, are you alright not using your weapon? Dont worry, Heinz-sama. Ill be using my full power. I cant use my weapon for a friendly match. Perhaps Ill have a copy made soon specifically for this kind of occasion. Besides She showed him her metal gauntlets on both hand. It was shining with lines of green light. I have these to block your attacks. Hah! You seemed confident enough. Good. Since its half your strength and youre not using your heavy sword, at least I should be able to cope since youre my Masters equal. Right. Bring it on. They stared each other for a few minutes. Averon was getting a cold sweat. In a fight between high-level warriors, this kind of time was the time their observation was at all time high. Each of them was emitting fighting spirit equal to tens of Noble Knights he met before. Since Averons fighting spirit was locked, he could feel the burden of theirs clashing. Scary huhuhu Winds came forth, surrounding Shisha. The soil jumped from the ground, onto her gauntlet and breasts or lack thereof no,no,no! Theyre small but of high quality! *ehem* And the soil seemed to be absorbed by her skin in general. - So shes using both Wind and Earth Claddings Her defense must be quite good hm? Shes uttering something Heil Arcadian Knights wherever you are When fighting, be honourable. When win, be humble. When lose, be strong. Strength is with those of right action, and blessing is with those of right intention. Go forth, Knight of Arcadia..! ..! She dashed towards the big hulk old Heinz. Lightning came forth from the fist, and she hurled her punch directly towards him. Averon had a pleasant surprise. - Lightning Fist! Old Heinz did not stagger; he gripped his hold on his sword, and strengthened his stance. With almost the same precision, he swung his sword. BOOM..! PAK PAK PAK The ground on the field where the force clashed was destroyed, sending small hurls of soil onto Averon, who now guarded himself against the coming earth. In front of him, movement of an agile girl could be seen amidst the dust, exchanging a few blows with the big hulk, evading and redirecting each others attacks. Water stream went towards her opponent, chains of lightning followed suit, and continued to go forth from time to time. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. She took her distance. He could see earth bullets fired off from the earth while wind slashes were rushing through the air. She was directing wind slashes with her mere hand. A Relentless Assault! From watching the battle, he reminisced his time during the Astarian C Demon War Watching over the battles of Knights of Astaria of which he was part of. Indeed, the scene in front of him reminded him of such. - The next generation I vowed to protect heh heh heh He was pleased. SHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIZZZZZZZz Chains of yellow lightning came again. The air surrounding their fight was energized with ions. BAM! A solid sound. A sound he was not accustomed with, but he had heard one similar before. It was when a Knight used his Aura in immediate effect. Though this one, was clearly louder. Mana from ones body, directed into his immediate surroundings, it was called Aura. It was not similar to Natures Aura, but it carried its own merit. Strength and Speed increased, and a Knight could use it as medium-range attacks. It carried the whole meaning of how useful Mana Manipulation was, to a Knight. By now, he could see it An Aura of pure transparent purple, originating from his Grandfather. It surrounded him, and as if alive, it took an appearance of its own. From afar, he could see an appearance of a fierce tiger, front lowered, in fighting stance against its opponent. KAAAAAAAHHH The Aura was eerily making its own sound. FUUUUUUUUUUSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHH..! FIRE! A stream of fire was directed onto the face of the tiger. The tiger raised his foot to defend no, it was not. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA---- --------AUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUMMMMMMMMMMMM! A ROAR! The Roar dispersed the incoming fire. A Roar so deafening Averon was losing his stance. Alnair and Vestianna had to sit in front of him, kneeling, shielding him from the shockwave. BAM!! The tigers foot had planted itself onto the ground, shaking it. The fighting spirit being hurled towards the opponent was no joke. The tiger rushed and attacked. Streams of aura claws came rushing forward towards the opponent. At the time, water came out and formed a wall. - WATER VEIL! The claws ripped the water veils like a scissor would a fabric. Soon, mist engulfed the whole battle ground. At the time, Averon could no longer see or sense her. - Smart. Wheres she? Even her presence disappeared amazing. In the meantime, more of the guards and knights came rushing towards the scene. Though they were obviously informed beforehand, curiosity got the best of them. A little more than two hundred guards and forty knights surrounded the place, maintaining their distance further than Averon. They knew being closer would be rude, and potentially would take their life. Whos winning? Do you think Of course, our General wont even be serious. No matter what genius she might be, she cant win. Yeah, yeah! Just shut up and watch. Hey! Who said that? An eerie silent followed suit. - This mist she mustve clad herself with Water-Mist Cladding as well. Using all five elements like that how many among Astarian Knights could do so? Well, I could probably do so now, but... using both earth and water cladding still beyond me. Fire meh, who cares about fire! There were no sounds, aside from the wind. The wind was moving around the battle ground, yet barely on the outside, thus the mist did not disperse. The sound of the moving wind disturbed ones concentration to focus on the sounds of possible footsteps or presence. A flicker of fire was sighted near the circling area of the wind. Then, the whole fire raged and engulfed the whole of the wind encirclement. - A FIRE STORM! The ground started to shake. Spikes of earth came out. Giant Spikes, surrounding the whole combat area. Soon, they piled up into a giant cone, with a mere opening on the top. Meanwhile, the fire storm was raging inside. HAAAUUUUMMM..! The roar of the tiger dispersed the fire within, and had shaken the earth cone so much it vibrated violently. - This doesnt feel like the end of it Up! Above the field, black clouds started to gather. It seemed it was charging itself. - This technique! Heavens Lightning! Strikes of lightning hit the centre of the cone! Two Strikes! Four Strikes! Eight Strikes! Sixteen Strikes! The lightning started to move around, as if it were dancing. Sparks hit the field every so often, leaving the ground burning with fire. Averon! By this time, Averon noticed his mother, Nea was coming towards him. Vestianna and Alnair gave her way. She immediately embraced him, then put up a translucent blue spherical barrier of sorts with inscriptions - Seals? Mama, you shouldnt be out here its dangerous I should me be the one who say that! What was father thinking? Jeez..! and youre having my sister too, mama. I can take care of myself! *Mo* Wheres my little baby boy mature too fast I couldnt enjoy it enough She pouted. Heh heh heh What are you laughing for? Nothing, mama nothing heh. Making fun of your mama, eh She noticed his suspicious behaviour, and pinched his cheeks in protest. Dont worry Lady Nea, well protect both of you. Youve nothing to worry, Milady. Vestianna, Alnair When its father Ive every little reasons to worry, you two She sighed. Both of them exchanged look, sighed in unison then turned to observe the fight. JIZZZ. BIZZZ. The sound of the leftover lightning kept buzzing through the air. - Did that end it? Doesnt feel like it BANG!!! A being was pushed through the earth wall, partially breaking the earth cone. Ugh! Averon could hear short scream of pain. It was Shisha. Sparks of lightning was around her, though it was faint. She was clearly pushed back, and was in retreat. Old Heinz came out of the cone, brandishing his sword. Shisha activated lightning around her body. Thus Averon smiled in excitement. - Lightning Clad! She showed me four Claddings already! Then her speed should be fast! Old Heinz swung his sword, accompanied with his Tiger-like Aura, it was as if the Tiger was swinging its paw towards a mouse. With lightning speed, she evaded it, yet another swing came from the sword changing its direction. - Changing direction of such a swing?! Heinz-sama is better than I thought! In that instant, Shisha could see the face of her opponent, the seriousness and fierceness akin to a Tiger The roar The claw coming towards her. She could clearly observe, as if in slow motion The eye as if he was a real tiger, hunting its prey Beauti--- BANG! The sword hit her gauntlet. She managed to put up a guard at the last moment. *Crack* SWIIII--------------------------- She was thrown so fast towards the end of the field, and POW! CLACK, CLACK, CLACK The spectators gasped! She hit the wall. The thick wall of the residence stopped her of being thrown outside. The bricks scattered, dust covering her. - It hits! And a strong one too! She flew for 400 metres at least Will she? The audience were ecstatic, and worried. Oi, oi wont that kill any knights you know of? Aside from other Great Knights, I dont think anyone can guard against the Generals full-blown attack. Yeah, even High Knights wont survive that crippled, maybe. Can you survive that? Nope. Not even with my aura at maximum. Ahh shes dead. So dead, I tell you. Ahhh, shut up you penguins! Whos shouted that just now?! Old Heinz stopped his Aura. The Tiger faded back into him and he put away his sword. He walked hurriedly towards Shisha, who was currently planted onto the wall and stopped when he was standing a mere metre from her. She was on the wall, a little higher than him. He looked up to her. Her brown hair was all messed up. Her eyes were closed, and her face was pale. There were flows of blood from her mouth and her eyes. I didnt intend for it to end this way Im ashamed. Silent It was silent for awhile Averon forcefully took his mother by her hand towards them, despite her clumsy protest. Alnair and Vestianna followed suit. He was walking a bit hurried, but still mindful of her mother being pregnant. - She wouldnt die just from this, right? I mean, grandpa did say he would use half of his strength. Did he lose his cool? Ahhh! My precious new generation! Grandpa!! Heh. With his Wind Manipulation, Averon could hear a small laugh. It was pleasant to hear, especially when you were expecting the worst. Heh heh dont worry about it, Heinz-sama I had been worse Hm, glad to see youre still alive. Please forgive this old man for losing his cool. Losing your cool, Heinz-sama..? No She remembered the face of the warrior, the solemn and fierce look that was about to strike her Beautiful. She blushed. Huh? What? Eh? No, no It was a beautiful fight, Heinz-sama Ughhh..! Blood started to drip out from the above of her left eyes, on her forehead. Are you alright? Did you hurt anywhere? I cant move my legs and I think my left hand bones were broken somewhat. Huh I see. Well, as long as youre not dying Nature Manipulation should heal the broken bones quite fast. Besides, my daughters here. Ah, Lady Nea Umm If its not too much trouble, Heinz-sama Yes? Could you please take me out of here? I dont think I can move myself and its awkward to be here when they arrive Oh, forgive me. I feared I would hurt you more so I didnt here up and daisy! His aura turned some of the bricks into dust. When it was clear, he took her out from the wall, and laid her on his arms. His Aura surrounded her, and it gave her a comfortable, warm feeling. It wont help much, but it should stop any bleeding, even internal ones soon. His voice was so composed. I apologize, Shisha. That last attack was not at half strength. Unconsciously so I use almost my full might for that last attack. Shisha stared at him with her weak eyes A feeling of satisfaction overwhelmed her. She smiled. Of course its fine, Heinz-sama you said so yourself Hm? What did I say? Dont mind little things since were family, right? Heh. True indeed. Since were family! Hahaha! But you being hurt this much is not a little thing so it contradicts the saying! Hahaha! He gave out a hearty laugh, taking her closer towards the incoming spectators C who were cheering them for the great battle. Some people she knew these past week came towards them in a hurry Guards and knights Alnair, Vestianna and the Valerys Nea and Averon. She could also see her lynx running towards her. Did great there! Amazing! Simply amazing! Thanks for the great show! Lady Shisha! Please marry me! You dork! Youre already married! Cheers and admiration. A sense of full joy and awe filled the air around the field. Knights and guards, clapping and jesting, some trying to imitate the event while some laughed. Heh. Lady Shisha! Hang on! Mom, hurry! The voice of the young boy she wished to protect reached her ears. It was a voice filled with hope and energy, with a slight desperation to see her to safety. As she watched him, blood passed just by her eyes, merging with a drop of water coming out from nowhere Her eyes filled with such. - I dont know why or how but Ill protect you, for sure. She gave out a weak smile amidst the cheering masses. A weak smile, full of content And warmth. Since were family, heh. *** Chp 11 The Link Added some more to Chp 10 (missing part from before). Do check it out. ============================================================================= The Link ============================================================================= It was dubbed as a legendary bout between the strongest Great Knight of Cestia and a mysterious genius martial artist from somewhere. The news and rumors spread like wildfire. The Great General Heinz duel with a martial arts genius! The Daily Crest and other newspapers made headline of the news C even adding more spice to the story C some makes sense, some just dont. The people spoke of it with excitement. That martial artist is a young girl from the east. A genius in her art. She was quite small, but she had the blood of Arcadian Knights! Lightnings above the lords residence! I saw them that day! It was a beauty with power equal to a High Knight The General had to manifest his Fighting Spirit! She was trying to find a man worthy of her hand! The public was ecstatic. At the time, whispers and rumours among the soldiers, citizens and even Knights in Central City of Crest made many of them motivated to pay their Great Knight a visit in bulk. Foreseeing the situation, old Heinz had both of them out before the fuss reached its peak. With Shishas quick recovery, they got out of the mansion the next day. =================================================================================== It has been a month since. Again in a rather ethereal atmosphere, two people were sitting in half lotus on little higher ground. They were Master Kharnain, still blurry, and Kyosei. In front of them, stood two girls in slightly lower ground C one of them was Shisha. Hows the preparation? Master Kharnain said. Lord Heinz had agreed, and he himself had volunteered to safeguard the ceremony with his four most trusted High Knights and one of his apprentices. Ive set up the Seal for the ceremony in advance. Well begin when the moon is out tomorrow. Very well. Lord Heinz had already shown us that hes more than competent to handle high-level demon C his aid is assuring. As this will be your first time, Laksha To Shishas side, a much younger-looking girl was standing. She looked oriental, with her braided semi-long grey hair and smooth skin. She was wearing a short gray robe until her knees, with long pants underneath. Her long, wide sleeves extended down to the surface, and her pair of leather shoes extended up to her knees. She looked up to Kharnain, her eyes were black, with only her iris silver. As requested, Ill be there to monitor and aid the whole ceremony. Ill be meeting the Valerys that night. Right now Im just at the border of the capital. Her soft voice ringed around the space. Good. Be there early as to check on Shishas Seals Check thoroughly, its her first time doing it personally afterall. Ill keep that in mind, Master Kharnain. Shisha, about the irregularity, did you not sense anything else aside from the boy and the presence within him? No Master, the nature around Crest only directed me to the boy. Unless all signs are wrong impossible for me to mistake the source of such irregularity. Similar to what you sensed before, the nature was excited yet in fear at the same time. Shisha answered, definite of her observation. She had extended her sense in deep meditation all around Cestia within the month, and she was certain of the fact. These two facts are what troubled us C the nature being excited would mean its something nurturing, but in fear would mean devastation Kyosei turned to Kharnain. Just like a natural disaster C one may see it as destructive, yet at the same time hmm, dont over think it Kyosei. Weve made the decision so well proceed with it. Laksha, after the ceremony you will have to separate yourself, maintain an appropriate distance C enough to observe and lend aid should the worse happen. Ill leave the distance up to your discretion. I understand, Master Kharnain. Im sorry for asking this of you, and separate you from your previous task. It may very well be a task that takes years. Dont mention it when the time comes, Ill ask you to recompense for it. Really now haha, Shisha, as your Master has given you his blessing, I give you my blessing as well. I hope you will obtain what your desire. Laksha, Shisha, may God protect you two. May God protect all of us, Master Kharnain. Both of them replied in unison. Very well. All of you, you may dismiss. Shishas image became blurry before disappearing all together. Kyoseis image followed suit. Soon, only Kharnain and Laksha were there. She raised her right hand and observed it right in front of her face, and felt swirling wind around it. She checked the surrounding before turning to him with an intense look. Youre restraining my dismissal, Master Kharnain. Explain. She said, some weight in her words. Please excuse me for that Laksha, as I have special mission for you. I shall hear, Master Kharnain. ==================================================================================== It was past midnight. The moon was out. It was a full moon, with some clouds hovering in between The light reflected by the moon was shining ever brightly, illuminating one of the fields and several pools next to Heinzs mansion. On the field, there were five knights, fully armored C two standing while the other three were sitting beside large roots of a 30m Kapok tree. The two standing were Alnair and Vestianna. It should be about time. Wheres the General? Master is in the room just next--- hm? Soon, the other three stood as two figures and a lynx came towards them. It was Shisha, and beside her, slightly shorter, was Laksha. Seeing their approach, Vestianna quickly went into the mansion to call for the lord. While waiting, Shisha introduced Laksha to the knights present while Alnair introduced the others to her. Seeing her stature, the knights had trouble believing her to be a possessor of power surpassing theirs, yet were reminded by Alnair with the story of the Masters of the East C whom retain their youth using their supernatural power. Hm? Laksha turned to the direction of the mansion as she sensed two particular presences. These two presence Such power one must be Lord Heinz Ive heard so much about She softly spoke to Shisha just beside her. You can sense it, Laksha-sama? Faintly. He suppresses it, but still its unmistakable. However, the other one Soon, old Heinz came out from the mansion with Vestianna and Averon beside him. You must be Lady Laksha Ive heard about. Thank you for making such a long journey. It is my pleasure, Lord Heinz. Ive heard so much about you from the Master. Oh? Kyosei told you about me, eh? That makes it awkward I hope I didnt disappoint you somehow. On the contrary, Lord Heinz. I felt the same level of power I could sense from the Master raging inside you roaring to get out its amazing how you could effortlessly suppress such power. Hah. Youre sharp, Lady Laksha, Ill give you that. Oh, this is my apprentice, Vestianna. Pleasure to meet you, Lady Laksha. Vestianna gave her salutation by placing her palm on her chest, and gave a slight bow. Pleasure to meet you too, Knight Vestianna. So youll monitor todays ceremony, yes? Indeed, Lord Heinz. I thank you for your cooperation and support. By the way is that the boy, Averon? Averon was looking at her intently, and she noticed the gaze. - Another one of my next-generation! Woohoo lucky me another beauty~~ The gaze staggered her C as if the boy was examining her, but not in an ill way. She could not detect any of such, and just as Shisha had said, the boy did not have any presence of demon whenever he was awake. After a month of observation, it was discovered that the presence only seeped out when he was sleeping, about once a week. While Laksha might seem like a child, she was a sage with abundant experience C she had fought devils before, and defeated five of them. Her extremely sharp intuition was acknowledged even by Sage Council. The experience gap between her and Shisha was quite evident, yet at this time, she was a bit perplexed by the gaze It was a gaze filled with affection and delight. She could also sense positive excitement coming from him. - This is not the gaze of a child who met a stranger, but more of a brother who seemed to meet his long lost sister Just who is this child? ... ... Laksha-sama? She snapped out of her muse. Ah, excuse me. First and foremost, let me check the seal you placed on the boy and afterward, on the ground. Yes, Laksha-sama. She kneeled in front of the boy, with her head now at par with his no, slightly lower. She smiled as best as she could, before introducing herself. Young Averon My name is Laksha. Im Shishas friend coming quite far away to meet you. Nice to meet you? She held her hand slightly up to her chin, with fingers up -- and Averon noticed such hand gesture C the camaraderie hand-shake of Astarian Knight! One must put his hand in response and grip tightly, and take them to their chest. Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Ah - No, no way this hand gesture survived? Why didnt Shisha wait, she could be restraining herself since shes away from her normal circle. Anyway, is this a test? Meh, lets just do it! While Laksha chuckled at his musing, he grabbed her hand, gripped and pulled them towards his chest, and hers along C much to her surprise. Ah, em Now their hand was barely at each others chest, their face an inch away from each other -- his eyes met hers. He smiled confidently, while his eyes conveyed acknowledgement. Not just Laksha, the others who observed the exchange wondered in amusement, and pondered C either the boy was well-trained or just filled with overconfidence, or both. Nice to meet you too, Lady Laksha. Pleased to be your acquaintance, and I hope we can be friends. - This boy did Shisha taught him of this gesture no, she told me she didnt. This so this is why Shisha was attracted to the boy such quality. Can this really be coincidence? Did he learn this from somewhere? Perhaps his grandfather..? Ah She took a little more comfortable distance before answering. I hope so too Averon. Now I have a task to do I heard youre a rather smart boy, so I figure you can comprehend what is happening? Pretty much. I need to check on the seal Shisha placed onto you. May I? S-sure its on the back so He eyed the others around, and Laksha exchanged look with old Heinz before he asked the others to give space. He took out his shirt, revealing a really well-toned body of a five-year-old. Laksha examined the seal placed onto him. It was a seal with eight celestial inscriptions C a five star as base with a circle around it, and a rather obscure language in the middle of that star and on each of its five point. You forgot to place this, Shisha Eh? Oh Laksha placed another round of language C from her fingertips light came out, and she wrote symbols that kept on connecting with each other. After a few minutes of rather awkward and ecchi, I mean, itchy moment C she finished the inscriptions. Done. Now Ill check the seal on the ground. She turned, and began to examine the ground where previously, the knights were sitting on. The seal was placed near the large 30m Kapok tree, with inscriptions hard to see with naked eyes. The tree however, did not obscure the moonlight. At the same time, Shishas lynx went to take a nap near that very tree. Hm, hmm She circled the ground three times before stopping. Good C Perfect, actually. The seal is ready and the moon -- She looked at the moon, which now was obscured by the clouds. She turned to the others, and they seemed to anticipate something C it seemed they might have been acquainted with her ability more so than she had like. She sighed a little, before raising her right hand C her long and broad sleeves rose up to the air, and a series of swirling air currents rushed up onto the sky. SWIII -------- SWIIIIII ------------ SWIIIIIIIIIIIIII------------ Up above, all present could see the clouds being dissipated and the larger ones being pushed. The knights present gawked C jaw dropped -- as the full moon returned to shine over them again. The image of silver haired girl with grey robe, illuminated by the moonlight filled their vision, and the waft kept the robe flying C making a majestic sight with the large full moon at her back. Her silver iris C and the sound of swirling wind added to the magnificence of such scene. Laksha C The Grandmaster of Wind Manipulation Alnair uttered. The other High Knights exchanged look, trying to figure out whether what they were seeing, was not their own hallucination. Old Heinz smirked while his body was trembling, raring to have a go. - Amazing even though were not in full war, these Sages C successors of us Astarian Knights did not grow weaker instead, they develop more techniques unique to theirs then again, Ive yet to see some of our old ones meh Ill ask Shisha later in a discreet way. Hm? Vestianna heh heh heh Meanwhile Vestianna still had her mouth open. The blonde lady snapped out when Averon poked her belly, of which he feigned ignorance when she turned to him. Now its time. Shisha Yes, Laksha-sama. Young Averon, come. Yes~~ Averon left the confused Vestianna. Shisha kneeled just beside him, speaking softly. Hear me, young Averon. This is the vow of a lifetime. You may reject it, though I wish you would accept. Accepting it would mean linking your life-force with me, secondly my master and slightly so with all the Sages around Ein Gard. This is the Master C Apprentice Vow of Sages C Sworn Protector of this world C against any injustice, cruelty and things of similar nature. As per custom Ill let you have a minute of time to think over your decision. - It must be similar to Master C Apprentice vow of Astaria but why the seals? Oh well Ill just trust my next-generations on this Do you, Averon Valery, accept me, Shisha Valarov as your Master, and you yourself as my Apprentice? I do. Then repeat after me. He nodded, then Shisha, clearly stated. I, my name, solemnly agree to be a loyal apprentice to my master I, Averon Valery, solemnly agree to be a loyal apprentice to my master Averon followed her instruction. The vow was nothing binding except the fact that the apprentice have to be loyal to the Master as long as the Master did not ask or do something outrageous, cruel or against any just principle. O God, May I be guided by you at all times, and not strayed off the path of righteousness. So please help me, God. O God, May I be... guided by you at all times and not strayed off... the path of righteousness. So please... help me God Eh? Eh? Tears started to swell on Averons eyes The important part of the vow still did not change even after 700 years. Even if they were not called Knights but Sages instead -- Even when they were so far from homeland. Laksha and the other noticed his peculiar behaviour, yet soon he wiped out his tears. Are you fine, Averon? Yes, yes Im fine, Master Shisha. Haha then Ill proceed with the linking. Shisha instructed Averon to lie with his front on the ground, of where the seal was placed. His shirt was again removed, with only pants on. She uttered something, but it was so softly spoken he could barely make sense of what it was. Heinzs High Knights surrounded the place, with a hand on their sword. She stood up, and exchanged look with Laksha. She nodded in response, of which Shisha then put her hand on Averons back. I, Shisha Valarov, accept this boy, Averon Valery, as my apprentice. As the Master I shall share my life-force with him, and aid him to his formation of strong mental, physical and spiritual attunement. Should he be worthy, I shall aid him in his formation of Life-Force Regalis C the very skill of which God has blessed us with. With the moon, the nature surrounding us, the Ether and those present here as witnesses, I hereby proclaim this vow as my responsibility, until he was strong enough to be independent. Light our way, O God. The Seal placed onto Averons back glowed in brilliant light, absorbing the moonlight around them. The Seal on the ground glowed slightly, and Shisha with her right hand seemingly attached to his back, and left hand its wrist, glowed in similar manner. Ugh! Is she alright? Old Heinz asked Laksha just beside them. Should be. Its always the hardest for first-timers C but nothing life-threatening, I assure you at least so far. That last line was not at all convincing. I guess If anything goes wrong Ill jump in to help. Until then, lets wait, Lord Heinz. Shisha had her eyes even turned to similar glow as the moonlight, and she was trembling From within her chest, a sphere of sparkling light seemed to slowly seep its light into Averon through her hand. Averon gritted his teeth to keep himself from shouting. The exchange took a few minutes before *Flash* A flash of light entered Shishas vision, and she noticed she was somewhere the ground was a wasteland C the land was badly burned, and signs of battle was evident. Smokes from afar so many that the battle should involve hundreds of thousand Soon, a shadow C large enough to cover the whole of her view, covered her vision. Two pairs of eyes each with head so large that an eye alone was larger than her body Dragon? Two dragons? No Whats with this ridiculous size?! KUAAARRRGGHHHH!!! They roared in unison. The roar was unlike any she had heard before. Ugh! The sound how annoying! Who are you, you beasts?! Darn it, I cant move. The fighting spirit the beings emitted was bizarre C enough to immobilize her C something that never happened before. Soon, she heard two familiar sounds C the sounds of deep breath being taken in. OH, SHOOT! ===================================================================================== Chp 12 A Glimpse of the Past To dear readers, I find myself in a dilemma of sorts -- not really, but I do need your opinion. About the *sound effect* I tend to put inside each chapter, do you honestly think it is just right or need to be reduced? Please share your thought on this... and oh, all of your comments do encourage me, even if I didn''t reply to each of it, I do read them (about a dozen times or so...) So please continue to comments and share your thought. Heh anyway, here''s chapter 12. ============================================================= Chapter 12 A Glimpse of the Past ============================================================= OH, SHOOT! FSHHUUUUUUUUUUUU--------------------- Black fire. A fire breath of black, rushing towards her. Darn it! As she could barely recover from the shock of its roar, she laid herself onto the ground C trying to activate her earth manipulation C to no avail, and the fire was closing in CHIIZZZZZZZZZZZZz Eh? A chain of lightning cut the fire being thrown towards her, and proceeded to land onto both of the dragons face C zapping them well, digging deeper into their skull. Right then, Shisha could see for sure what was in front of her C Bloody red two-headed dragon, heads swinging in pain, with height over 70 metre C twice the height of a normal Arch-Dragon. Two C two headed dragon?! By now she realized, in front of her was not two dragons, but a dragon with two heads. The two dragon heads were a little confused due to the powerful strike. Lightning? Who this kind of power im-impossible As a Master of Four Elements C including lightning, she knew well how hard to deliver a precise and powerful lightning strike towards an opponent, over such distance. It was lightning at such a power she never imagined possible for a human. She turned to her back, and could see a figure of a man, standing on the ground with his hand up C lightning cladding was apparent around him, accompanied by wind cladding at the same time. Two--- two different claddings at the same moment? How waitthis level of purity am I dreaming? Yes, this must be a dream C no, could this be the devils memory? She noticed the level of nature purity surrounding him C a level impossible to achieve. Shisha simply concluded that it was a dream C and she ignored the dragon behind her, afterall, a dream cannot kill and observed the man closely. The black-haired was fully clad in bloodied light armor, and his sword on his shoulder. It was a curved sword, light yet thick. Red lines were shining along its blade. Meanwhile, his power In her mind, she was calculating no, not possible. She was merely estimating. Purity aside Raw power of around fifty Adriats heh heh how thats basically the power of all known Adriat Sages The most powerful Sages, just below the Council members All power in one? Haha heuww Shishas mind was practically blown, and she was having a similar effect of a heatstroke. She held her head with her right hand, and lowered her stand to give her head a rest. Having such a capable sensing ability could very well be hazardous. Uuu Tch, brute strength just wont make the cut Oh well She could hear his voice very clearly C as if she was standing beside him. He tapped the ground several times with his feet, then sprang forward at such a speed C that he passed through Shisha before she could even turned her head to see his face. The wind passing by her threw her brown hair flapping. Eh what the speed..?! He rushed towards the dragon, which responded by swinging its tail towards him. GROOWWWWWWWWW---------- He jumped C no, flew up avoiding the enourmous tail whip. Ugh what absurdity such a large existence could still moves that fast Again Shisha lay herself onto the ground, shockwave of air came rushing towards her, and she gripped the ground to maintain her position. The shockwave was powerful enough that she had to close her eyes to brace for the impact. PHIIII----------- PANG!! PANG!! THWACK! THAWCK! SHRIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTT----------- FSHUUU ------------- While she closed her eyes, all manner of sounds reached her. She could recognize most of them C the sound of lightning rush, the sound of metal clashing with hard material, the sound of very efficient cutting, the hurling of fireballs and the sound of fire breath. Soon, she opened her eyes once more. She could see it C the man moves in a manner similar to Sages C waves movement, with him avoiding now not only attacks from the gigantic dragon, but also Growlers C a giant bat as large as horses, flying fire drakes hurling fireballs and also menacing Wyverns with Dark Knights on top of them C throwing their javelin and dark-purple sphere. He cut through some of the growlers with ease, even stepping onto the drakes to fight with the Dark Knights C only needing one or two attacks to finish each of them. Their body was cut through C and often, along with their wyverns. A-amazing From afar she could now see a few existences C gigantic existences simply observing the battle from a distance. Some giant crawler had the face similar to fish with teeth so sharp, some were similar to behemoth C cat-like creature with fish tail and fin, yet the dark aura around them suggested to her that they were in fact C demons, or possessed by one. Now, all around the airspaces -- Growlers, Fire Drakes, Demon Wyverns, flying lion-gorilla hybrid, birds with head of human and some she could not recognize D-demons? Whats with this amount?! Ohh, spare me all these surprises my maiden heart cant take it anymore! And further from her Minotours with either giant axes or hammer, Lurkers crawling with their protruding claws, Giant Snakes slithering the ground, Bullgars -- horned demons with bulging muscles yet small legs with big tail as support, Borrosque C giant red demon with big belly and even one she could not recognize C bigger than the rest, an elephant-like demon with tusks yet mouth opened wide with sharp teeth extending out These demons simply kept their distance from the demon dragon despite the fact that the attacker was so close to it C as instinct told them they would be dead if they came anywhere nearer. Further away, she could see movement clouds of ashes suggesting the movement of cavalry, and less intense than that C infantries, by what she could see, tens of thousands of human infantries. They seemed not to mind the demons around them, to which she deduced they were of the same side. Ah! That thing Finally she recognized the giant crawler with fish-like face as Shriekers the kind which she only heard from stories of a particular War all these signs of course suggested that it was that war the Ancient war yes, that war. Astarian C Demon War..? She remembered the stories of which her mother and father would often tell her during childhood a terrible war consisted tens of millions. A war of which their existence in this world, Ein Gard came to be. The war where Astarian Empire alone deployed ten million soldiers over the course of 12 years, against their opponents C Armies of over 30 million, with demons backing them cooperating to destroy what they called the Universal threat to all C Astaria My original homeland? FSHUUUUU------- Again the fire from the two-headed dragon rushed towards the man, who evaded the fire while maneuvering through waves of wyverns and other kinds of demons. The black fire did not distinguish friend or foe C thus burning its allies while the target twiddled its way around their encirclement C with a specific aim. Hes aiming to take down that dragon..? In that situation C impossible! He jumped from one flying drakes to another, confusing the whole encirclement C a knight on a wyvern further up in the sky screamed a command C with voice so loud and clear even Shisha could hear from the distance. WHIRLPOOL FORMATION! TWO LINES! As soon as the knight gave the command, the wyvern knights, fire drakes and even the growlers left the man alone, and assumed an encircling formation around him no, it was similar to a circle, yet the two lines continued to be formed C two lines, as if one continuing from the front to the back they numbered only in a few hundreds, yet the threat of such formation was substantial. It focused on the swirling movement C where speed could be increased to overwhelm the opponent with swarming enemies while those in the back could also attack with their ranged attacks. It would leave the target with no time to regain its breath. The formation now flew above the demon dragon, waiting the right opportunity to strike on the lone attacker. A formation of hundreds to take down one opponent Shisha mused. It was her first time to see such formation C formed in the sky by hundreds of different units. She wondered how the growlers and fire drakes even participate in such a complex formation. By the one God who controlled the wind with no effort She noticed a particular chant A chant she had heard only once C from her master, as a line once uttered by the strongest of all Sages. Now, the man in front of her uttered the same while evading attack upon attacks. Giant claws of the dragons tried to sweep him over, and enourmous wings flapping destructive air current -- making hard his effort to focus on his attack towards its heads, neck and body in general. For all his attacks on the weak crack between its scales C the sword accompanied with wind and lightning cladding barely injure it C due to him having to continue moving and fail to focus on one attack after another. Yet the dragon, losing patience, swirled its gigantic body --- Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. SWWUUUUSHHH----------- Ugh.! Shisha braced the impact. The shockwave this time was stronger than that time with the tail whip. Despite the horrible stunning effect and overwhelming sound, she could still hear the utterance by the man C clearly, word by word. By the wind which spread the clouds by the Angels who guard with utmost loyalty by the will of our Creator, bring me dark clouds of lightning to strike these demons and take them down to hell where they belong! All while moving about the body of the dragon C defying the logic of gravity -- he put forth his left hand onto the sky C and as if on cue, the whole atmosphere darkened, with movement clearly evident in the air Clouds moved and gathered above the gigantic dragon Soon, it turned dark and ever bigger What C whats happening? DAMN! ATTACK, NOW! The knight commander from before, having realized the gravity of the situation, ordered the formation to attack. In the sky, the two lines, as if one, dove towards the man. The growlers were at the front, with fire drakes and Wyvern Knights further at the back, hurling fireballs, dark-purple spheres and javelins Brave, yet misplaced! From the man, now standing on the back of the dragon, sharp wind blades ripped through the front of the formation C bodies of growlers fell, fire drakes lost its arms and wings, wyverns ripped apart C the riders fell with them. With his attention occupied, the dragon tried to snatch him with its arm C to no avail. Indeed, he did not lose his sight towards his arch-enemy. It took him around a minute before uttering I am grateful for your consent, O Creator. Shisha heard that line. She took a good look at the dark cloud C now bigger than she could even imagine, filled her horizon. Dark cloud Such magnitude! SHRIIIII------------------- SHRIIIIIIII-------------------- SHRIIIIIIIIIIIIIII------------------ BIIIIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzz----------------------- Strikes upon strikes of lightning hammered the dragon along with all the rest of enemy units That particular location became the very focus of the lightning strikes --- continuing on, as if the lightning had a bad blood with those within it, and simply venting its wrath upon them. GRAAAAAAAAAAAAA--------------- UWAAAAAAAAAAA---------------- KIIIIEEEKKKKKK------------------- Ugh! I could sense it life taken in such numbers hundred two three terrible pain Even from afar she could feel the loss of life all due to the lightning, as well as the howl of the dragon in pain. Soon, the lightning strikes were no more, yet the sound of electrocuting continued on, while the dark cloud filling the horizon did not disperse. This is no freaking way Ive got to see this better--- She closed her eyes for awhile, channeled her energy, and opened them back. Her pupils now turned red, bigger and deeper. Her eyes stretched and bulging blood veins appeared. I knew it. Ethers all around --- gathering, the cloud -- it seemed to be charging its energy! This seemed too familiar eerily familiar RAAAUUUUUUGGGGHHHHHHHH---------- Ugh the roar Once again, the bloody-red two-headed dragon roared C dispersing all the irritation it had been feeling for some time. From the roar, Shisha could see the other demons shriek away, while their human allies widened their already far distance. The roar seemed to be a burst of emotion, as if saying enough is enough. Both heads inhaled deeply, and from his action the man, still there, flew way up onto one of its head C and impaled his sword onto one of its eye. HAUUURRRRHHH---- That particular head roared in pain, yet the other one did not stop inhaling. The man then spread his intense lightning through the eye --- channeling it right into the thick skull of the dragon. SHIIIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ-------- Ehhh. Uuu Shisha felt a terrible tingling of current all around her body. The other head rushed towards that head, spewing black fire in a wide arch. The fire engulfed the other head along with its attacker, of which was thrown down due to the violent shaking of the now burning dragon head. Seeing its attacker finally falling, the dragon did not relax C instead, it turned its body sideway and whipped him with its giant tail. Errghhhh-------- She heard the painful scream, and for some reason, she felt her body stung by pain, and in heat C of similar feeling of being burned. Whats--- happening water summon She tried to summon water en masse, yet failed. It seemed her nature manipulation hold no value here. The heat was excruciating. While she could proudly say shes used to pain, the feeling of it was overwhelming from her teary eyes, she could see the man engulfed in black fire being thrown so far into the enemy hordes before he stopped, hovering in the air, and a newly-formed tornado hit him all around, dispersing all the black flames around the field C hitting the surrounding demons and human soldiers alike ARGHHH----- OUUUGHHHH----- HOOWWWKKKK------- HELP MEEEE-------- BURNSSS---- IT BURNSSS------ They shrieked in pain from the ceaseless fire. A part of the black fire hit the elephant-like demon, which suddenly became panicked and started rampaging its surrounding allies in order to quell the fire C only spreading it further. She faintly heard a command being ordered in desperation. Kill that Mammokill before it takes all of us with it!! Around the same time, Shisha was relieved from the burning pain, though still in massive pain in the area of her left hand. Why? She pondered the reason of such pain before turning and noticing the man in question had a distorted left hand, possibly due to being whipped by the dragons tail. No no way thats could it be? His armor was in tatters, and the clothes were all but burned. His pants, seemingly made by very good material resembling steel, withstood the fire C yet became red hot from it. He disposed of his lightning cladding, and summoned ice all around his body, cladding himself with it. The redness of his pant turned white within seconds. This time, Shisha felt herself being relieved of the pain from her left hand. ..Hauu Now its combination of ice-wind cladding! Amazing so far I could only use water-mist cladding, the most advance of my cladding combination well, the sole one. But can he win..? Ice cladding will slow down his speed--- hm? She noticed him putting his right hand on his left, and ..? THAWCK! Auuuww! Auuww. Auuu Thats hurt really hurt why must you do that?! She said so with such childish voice and directed her rage unconsciously so to the man in question. However, his action later explained of why he did so. He moved his left hand around C stretched it up down, all around seemingly already recovered from the terrible distortion. He he thats a harsh treatment Now hovering in the air, he directed his gaze back to his arch-nemesis The dragon, now only one head left, turned its attention to him, seemingly wary of his next action. The other head was fried by the lightning he seeped through the eye before, and now went limp. Meanwhile the demon army below him was in disarray from the spread of the black fire. The man now, tornado at his back, put his right hand into it, and filled it steadily with ice Ice is not really my mastery, but ah well wheres my sword ah, there. Come! SHUU----------- Wind swirled around the red-lined sword on the ground, and immediately threw it to him C hilt coming in first. He took it with ease. Lets go, partner. He rushed towards the dragon again, this time slower than before, but alongside him, the tornado as big as the dragon itself, followed him C now being filled with ice nuggets and snow swirling inside it. From afar, it seemed like a clash between a red dragon and a mortal with white tornado behind him. Thats thats so badass ah, a maiden shouldnt say such a crude word..! Hm..? The battlefield seemed to only focus with the fight and with it, the enemy failed to notice the change which was happening further back to Shishas back She turned to her back. She extended her eyesight, and could see it, lines upon lines of people coming out of what seemingly like a small entrance into a massive plateau covering her line of sight. She could feel their power power similar to hers. This is thousands Sages..? KNIGHTS -- OF -- ASTARIA! HEAR -- MY -- CALL! It was a voice booming with confidence, deep and shaking the battlefield. It was a voice which reminded her of Master Kharnain C yet of more importance, more vitality, more authority, more power. What who? HEAR ME! KNIGHTS OF ASTARIA! OUR ARCH ENEMIES ARE HERE! TELL ME! WHAT DO KNIGHTS DO WHEN THE ENEMIES KNOCKED OUR DOOR? WE KNOCK THEM DOWN, MY EMPEROR! WHAT DO WE DO WHEN THEY TAKE OUR COMRADE? WE TAKE HIM BACK, MY EMPEROR! HAIL, KNIGHTS OF ASTARIA! LETS KNOCK THESE TRASHES DOWN AND TAKE OUR COMRADE BACK! AVERON ARCAD! YOURE COMING BACK! UWWOOO! FOR DUTY! FOR HONOUR! FOR EMPEROR! FOR OUR COMRADE! FOR GOD! It took awhile before one particular fact seeped into Shishas thick skull. Eh eh Averon Arcad? The Martyr Emperor?! ================================================================== Chp 13 The Martyr Emperor Do comment and rate, Chapter 13. =========================================== It was a fenced house in the middle of a mountain, with lush forest nearby and waterfall with flowing river just beside it. Inside the thick wooden house, a child was about to go to bed, and was placed to bed by her parents C a black-haired handsome man, and a brown-haired beauty both of whitish skin. Dad, is the story about our Martyr Emperor real? Its not a fairy tale, is it Mom? The five or six year old girl asked a question seemingly too advance for one of such age, first to the father then to her mother. The mother caressed her brown-haired daughter with adoration, while the father kissed the girl and then pinched her nose. Hes as real as you, your mother, and me, honey. The father assured her, voice full of confidence. Of course its real, dear. The mother added. Then can you tell me that story again? The parents sighed. They somehow knew it was a ploy by their smart daughter for her to hear that story again It was quite a long story; nevertheless, their daughter never seemed to get bored of it. The father pinched her somewhat chubby cheek. Very well, but you have to promise me you still have to wake up early tomorrow. Okay I promise. The girl held out her little finger, and made a pinky promise with her father. He gave a contented sigh, while his wife giggled at their daughters cuteness. In a world where our people originated it was a world of other dimension than ours it all began when a certain man raise a crippling Empire He was from humble origin =============================== Chapter 13 C The Martyr Emperor =============================== ROME, FIRE-PROOF FORT. KARLZ, OUR ESCAPE ROUTE. HELMUTH, STRONGEST J.T.S. SHIARINE, AIR UNITS AND FIRE. FAITH, HALT CAVALRY, RUIN ARTILLERIES. ATHMUS, TAKE KNIGHTS OF WATER. FOCUS -- PROTECTION. ARK, TIME MANIPULATION -- COMMANDING KNIGHTS AND AVERON. GO. As you command, My Emperor! The seven Knights around the Emperor said in unison and left his side C howling commands as they ran towards their respective knights. The Emperor stood with his two aides C a sturdy brown-armored Knight and a rather short lady with a black cloak. Wind from the battle was flapping the lower part of the Emperors black coat. Shisha, who was looking at the man, was in awe. He was wearing a shiny hard cap of military, with black chest armor similar to a well-trained chest as well as wide shoulder plate, black gauntlet, black sturdy pants with materials similar to Averons, shin guard and boots. All of his uniform screamed black with black shiny coat, and the man himself, was a man over 60 years of age, whitish wrinkled skin with wide moustache and a goatee. He seemed stern yet had a charming look C to those who love manly figure. He stood with his large sheathed sword in front of him, reaching the ground. His hands, with fully black yet shiny gloves held the tip of the swords hilt. - Aa Amazing His presence Such presence How to describe it Majestic, yes! And his voice what a voice! KNIGHTS OF EARTH! FIRE-DEFENSE FORMATION: EARTH WALL..! MAKE ALL INCOMING FIRE DISPERSE ELSEWHERE! KNIGHTS OF FIRE! PROTECT OUR RIGHT, LEFT AND FLANK! SECURE OUR ESCAPE ROUTE! DISPERSE! KNIGHTS OF LIGHTNING --- JOINT-TACTICAL STRIKE FOR THE DRAGON! 50-MEN STRIKE. HUDDLE UP! KNIGHTS OF WIND DEAL WITH ANY AIR UNIT OR FIRE COMING IN KNIGHTS OF WATER, ICE-CLADDING TO EVERY INNER WALL AND TO KNIGHTS OF LIGHTNING PROTECT THEM! KNIGHTS OF LIGHT! CONFUSE ANY ENEMY PREPARING LONG RANGE ATTACKS. BLIND THEM! HALT ANY MOVING CAVALRY! KNIGHTS OF TIME! TIME MANIPULATION EN MASSE ON GENERAL AVERON! INCREASE HIS SPEED! SECOND TEAM C BOOST THE CAPTAINS! MOVE! MOVE! UWWAARH! Their war cry vibrated in the air. ... ENERGY. PURE ENERGY. GENERATED BY MANY, STIMULATED BY ONE. - How As if the whole Knights were strengthened 200% just from him rallying them This energy coming in nature is helping out! Shisha had her mouth opened by the sight in front of her, eyes monitoring, yet she already forgot to move around as the view was already too much to calculate. From her eyes, she could see Ether and various other elements in the air and from beneath the ground, the underground water, and even the subspace elements coming in to answer their call for help. It was as if seeing the whole of Sages gathered at one spot -- and tripled their amount ten times their power. 20 minutes. The Emperor said. His aides by his side heard it, and without delay, the knight delivered the command C 20 MINUTES! OPERATION: COMRADE WILL END IN 20 MINUTES! HURRY! The command was given. The time was of extreme importance, as the enemy all around them would cut off their retreat should they have enough time. Right now, due to the fact of them being quite near to the fire dragon, the gigantic demons did not dare to attack C but it was merely a matter of time. Shisha again took a good look at the man, the very one who led them His sharp gaze was looking over the battle between Averon Arcad and the dragon. His eyes were deep, and it was as though he was calculating She was just beside him, yet since this was merely a recollection of an event, he could not possibly see her. Yet the vivid event was evident to her - This This man the one they called My Emperor he must be the original Emperor of Astaria the man who built up the falling Empire and placed the foundation of Arcadia The man against his time A man against the whole world of demons She took a deep breath - For me to witness this the very man who lead these capable men The Legendary Knights of Astaria! She shivered as she looked upon them again. They numbered at around 1500, making a base at her location C not far, yet not near enough to be trampled by the dragon. However, its fire breath should be more than capable to reach the location C as Shisha had experienced before. She stood just in front of them, witnessing the organization of Knights C each knew full well what to do, and among them there were clear chains of command C all went about their role without doubt, with haste. The leader of each group would give instruction to their knights to do something specific, and they moved on without delay. The knights each wore uniform and armor slightly coloured on their shoulder matching their nature affinity. Within a minute, the earth facing the dragon were raised by the Earth Knights into a formation of three triangular, sharp pointed walls, yet the walls at both sides were different. The earth around the walls and around them was in a wide double arch -- designed to disperse incoming fire breath to circle fire around them. In between the three walls, there were two open spaces where they could observe the battle. NOT BIG ENOUGH! BIGGER! 30 METRE! TWO LINES! EARTHEN SPEARS AND BARBED PERIMETRE -- ALL AROUND! STRENGTHEN THOSE ARCHES! With the commands, the earth walls were made bigger, stronger, and another wall of earth came out, forming another defensive perimeter. This would serve as a fail-safe should the first wall fall. Large and small earthen spears and barbed perimeter came out of the first then second wall C to prevent enemies from latching on the wall so easily. Soon, the double arch around them became thicker than before. She noticed the leader of Knights of Earth. He was a handsome man still seemingly in his 40s stern yet calm manner, wearing a black-grey set of armor. He stood as still as mountain, even with violent wind flapping his black coat. She estimated his power. W-wow at least double an Adriat what kind of age is this what was his name? HUDDLE UP, CHARGE! All the while, Shisha noticed the five groups of 50 knights each C huddling together, channeling their power into one sphere. The amount of power channeled into each of the five spheres was outstanding, and opened her up to the true meaning of Joint-tactical strike. - Theyre going to attack the dragon to open up a chance for him C Averon Arcad to deliver the finishing blow is that what theyre doing? Whoa this power the leader also double an Adriat She looked around with her stretched eyes, and noticed the flow of nature coming in from all around into each spheres. PROTECT OUR COMRADES! NO STRAY FIRE WILL GET PAST US! The knights of water encircled them, channeling their nature energy into a formation of something else She calculated the ability of each knights original ability without the boosted status they got from the Emperor, as she did to the leaders before. Midriats! The average powers of these Knights are Midriats My level And hundreds of Adriats! These guys strong really strong Hm? She noticed ice forming around those knights, then, solid hemispherical blue ice covered the whole of each group, preventing any outside observer from taking a peek. All these happened within less than a minute when they started to gather. Even then, the Knights of Water did not move from their location. A knight with blue cloak was commanding them, and he seemed quite thorough with his job. Solid hemispherical ice cladding and within, each knights started to have their own ice claddings the leader an Adriat? No, stronger almost Master Kyoseis level. Shisha could also observe the Knights of Fire securing their escape route towards the entrance of the plateaus crack, planting something into the ground all around the route. Fire spheres and such amount too WE SECURE ROUTE FOR OUR EMPEROR AND OUR COMRADES. NO ENEMY SHALL PASS. The Knight leaders voice was calm yet unyielding. It was not a shout, yet the voice vibrated through the air and reached all Knights of Fire. Their leader what what the heck with this power?! She noticed the knight, a blonde with a long strip of red cloth binding his eyes, the one who was commanding the Knights of Fire. She sensed his immense amount of power --- surpassing those of others Wind blew the extra red strip of cloth at the back of his head - Three no, four Adriats?! Averon Arcad is using the legendary Lifes Natures Aura C which should multiply his power up to twenty times C but this man even his normal power is this much Even Master cant hold a candle against him How what was his name just now? K Karlz? She shivered. This time she reminded herself of the power of her ancestors C those who struggled a bitter and long war against the demons Even with this much power, they still could not win - Knights of Astaria really strong Yet Just what would happen if an Opening C a portal, successfully established hordes of demons into Ein Gard Uiii. Just beside her, Knights of Time C the least amount of Knights there were, only amounting to 24 -- men and ladies, were directing their particular skills on Averon Arcad It seemed their skill needed certain time and effort, possibly since he, the target was quite far and constantly moving. Soon, she noticed Averons movement steadily becoming faster. They did not focus on the dragon since its sheer size and power would mean exerting too much effort to restrain even its simple movement. - This is Time Manipulation? No Sage could do this They are --- the Emperors Personal Bodyguards! She had her jaw dropped. Too much! All these information are too much to be discovered in one single event! My maiden heart huuuuu [Averon] My Emperor? The voice of the man, the Emperor, calling Averon, reached Shisha. She turned, only to see that the man was still gazing the battle and did not yell or speak. It seemed he was calling him telepathically. Without meditation? She mused. [Well prepare some chances for you. Conserve your energy C even the power from Lifes Natures Aura has limit.] [Understood, My Emperor. However, I plead you to return to safety.] [Im a Knight before Im Emperor, my boy. Do not worry of me. Ill inform you of possible chance. Be ready. Lets take down this abomination with our comrades.] [ Acknowledged, My Emperor!] Averon replied to the man in the same manner, and she could sense excitement and his morale rising even from this distance. He was hovering in the air, engaging the Fire Dragon with snow-white tornado hitting the dragon with chunks of ice blocks. The dragon seemed weakened, now only with only one head conscious while the other was limp C either dead or merely fainted. However FSHUUUUUUUUUU------------------------------- One massive fire breath of black, and the tornado dissipated. Black fire hit him, only for him to release all the chunks of ice surrounding him to relief him of the fire. He retreated, and he was panting. It seemed summoning the dark cloud, generating the tornado, flying in the air with ice and fighting the demon dragon for over half an hour took a lot out of him. [Ice will slow you down, change to lightning Averon.] [Defense is good, but Tch, so lightning is the right choice, huh? I thought just maybe ice will ---] AHHHH-------! He changed from being surrounded by ice to being clad by lightning. The wind cladding was still there, swirling around him. The dragon flapped its wings, and waves of destructive air current hit him --- and it released its fire again, this time dispersed by the violent wind. He twiddled around the fiery air with his wind and lightning cladding C trying to get a good chance to deliver a blow on the head. The dispersed black fire even reached the base of the knights C yet was blown away by the Knights of Wind. My Emperor, allow me. The rather short lady in black cloak turned to him. Shisha took a look at her -- She was of the whitest of skin, with black scarf covering her neck. She had a mysterious beauty, with eyes so deep yet seemingly sharp. She knew quite well the story of the Martyr Emperor, so she wondered who the lady was while the Emperor gazed at her determination. Luna, that dragon is too big. Ill just bind it or blind it when theres chance. Do not worry, My Emperor. Then Ill leave it to you. Thank you, My Emperor. Luna rushed closer, and moved to the back of a rock formation quite close to the battle. She peeked, and the rumbling sight of the dragon clawing around its body filled her view. [Averon, Lunas there in the rock formation to blind or bind the dragon.] [Isnt that bordering reckless, My Emperor? This thing is too] [Blame yourself for leaving her behind.] [Ugh, Yes Sire.] Meanwhile, in the airspace close to the base, a few hundreds of enemy air units seemed to have noticed their existence, and coming in towards them. Half of the Knights of Wind jumped and either stood or sat on top of the earth walls, now with Wind Cladding around each of them. Originating from their blade, Shisha could ascertain that they were ready to deliver powerful wind blades -- each strike by the dozens. In C in term of experience even if my power at the same levels with them their experience and mastery is much higher WAR make or break Hm? A lady knight stood amongst the Knights of Wind, with braided brown hair, clad in green armor and light cape. Her shiny green gauntlet seemed evidently special, so did the light sword strapped on her shoulder. She was a beauty befitting a princess, graceful and elegant in hopping from one place to another. Her lips moved KNIGHTS OF WIND... CUT DOWN ANY FIRE OR ENEMIES WHO DARE COMES... LET THEM TASTE THE MIGHT OF ASTARIAS MASTERS OF WIND... It was a whisper carried by the wind -- A whisper which sounded so enigmatic, yet so elegant. WE, MASTERS OF WIND, SHALL CUT DOWN ALL ENEMIES, O GRAND DUCHESS! B-BAKA! CALL ME GENERAL WHILE IM IN COMMAND! *MO* Wind Clan of Astaria What did I just hear..? Her power double Adriat Em? Blinding lights grabbed her attention, moving her view to several group of knights who now assaulted the nearest of enemy group. ILLUMINATION AT 10 OCLOCK! KNIGHTS OF FIRE, BURN DOWN THOSE ARTILLERIES WHILE WE DISTRACT THEM! Shisha noticed a particular blonde knight commanding the Knights of Light and alongside her, Knights of Fire. She was with power equal C no, even surpassing an Adriat She commanded the knights with grace, and knew well where to strike before the enemy could. Blinding lights covered the enemies view, and it bought enough time for the Knights of Fire to deliver devastating blows upon blows onto their artilleries C cannons seemingly merged with living organisms of demonic nature. SEND BURSTING LIGHTS OVER THE CAVALRY! She noticed more groups of Knights of Lights delivering sparks of intense lights to enemys division. As the day turned dark due to the dark cloud, the lights seemed to be more effective. Its ready, My Emperor! The one in charge of the Knights of Lightning, Helmuth informed the Emperor. Shisha turned to the hemispherical ice it seemed to be trembling with lightning power within it C ready to burst at any moment. [AVERON. TELL ME WHEN YOU WANT US TO STRIKE.] [UNDERSTOOD, MY EMPEROR.] The Demon Dragon, noticing the absurd amount of knights near its vicinity, flapped its wings C trying to fly away from the already disadvantageous location. SHUUUU------ SHUUU-------- SHUUUU--------- The flapping was so strong that the incoming enemy units were thrown about in the air --- many lost their bearing altogether. The Knights on top of the wall braced for the squall After a few flapping, the gigantic dragon was now hovering in the air Not so fast! Averon hurled himself towards one of its wings, and with his lightning sword, hit its thick wings with the intent of piercing it. SHRIIIIII------- The sound of the sword meeting its wing was akin to a sword cutting through an Asmodite rock C such was its hardness. He failed, yet the lightning and the sword left a definite injury on its wing. KYAOOOOOOOOOO------------ The dragon shrieked in pain, and fell back onto the ground. BAMMMMMMMMMM--------!! [NOW!] Averon informed his Emperor, and --- SHIZZZZZZZZ-------------------- The first strike came and hit the dragons chest --- the lightning strike staggered it and for awhile, it seemed to lose its balance. ANOTHER! DOUBLE! SHIZZZZZZZZ--------------------! SHIZZZZZZZZ--------------------! KYAOOOOOO------------------ !! Two more rounds of Joint-Tactical Strike of lightning hit the dragon. It howls in pain, yet still standing on its two feet, inhaled deeply Averon noticed this, and --- [TAKE COVER!] TAKE COVER! FSHUUUUUUUUUU----------------- An extreme black fire was directed to the base. Fierce hot wind all around rushed in as well. Fortunately, the Averon-Emperors warning was heeded in time and the Knights dashed to the safety of the back of the now ice-clad walls. The fire shook the first, and later the second wall C yet most of it was directed sideways C to both left and right, and only two openings allowed that black fire to enter. The remains of fire were immediately disposed of by the wind directed by the knights. Two remaining ice-clad hemispheres were shielded from the black fire by the walls, with only its remains managed to land on them, burning the ice slowly before being removed by the wind. Wa Wow Shisha, being in the centre of it all, witnessed the ferocity of the black fire. Even when it touched the ground, it did not cease, but burned the ground as well for how long? Unknown, yet she could see it the first three walls, filled with gigantic spears were now burning with black. The back of the second walls were burning as well. The whole earthen base was now half-surrounded by black fire, as well as steam and water from the ice. The temperature rose at an alarming rate. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Just what kind of fire is this this thing [Averon. J.T.Ss. are ready. Two strikes. Limit the battle to nine minutes.] [Yes, Sire.] GRUUUUUUHHH--------- KYASHA, SHIIIEK! Seeing the demon dragon in a pinch, from afar commands were directed to assist the dragon. The command this time came not from a human or a normal demon, yet from one dark figure riding on top of a Mummakill. [Tch, a Cantus now of all time I killed one just yesterday] [Forget about the Cantus. Karlz will deal with it. Focus and tell me when and where to strike.] [Yes, Sire.] KYASHA, SHIIIIIIEK! Hearing the Cantus forced command, the gigantic demons C dozen of Shriekers and Behemoths, plus three Mummakills rushed to the scene. Seeing the advance, the Minotaurs, Bullgars, Borrosque, Giant Snakes and Lurkers followed suit. The flying units came in droves as well, Growlers, Fire Drakes and Demon Wyverns C all commanded to aid the demon dragon. The demon army already lost three demon dragons C if lost another, no doubt the Cantus; the Demon General in charge of that army, would suffer terribly. GUHGUHGUH SHAAA----- KOO--- KOOO---- DUMM--- DUMM---- Oh great. Now we have a lot of meat to slice The usual, guys. Lets warm up before its too late. Its warm enough already Im drenched with sweat or is it water from the ice? Lets took down these monsters, guys and grabbed Averon by his legs back home. Yeah, lets do that. The Knights of Wind, standing on top of the second wall and seeing the view, chuckled in excitement. They were not tired yet, and still in a good mood for a good battle. A few of them were about to jump before --- DO NOT ENGAGE -- HOLD POSITION. Grand Duchess? Many turned to her, and saw her calculating face, full of confidence. They turned, and nodded to each other C it seemed the Emperor still awaited the signal from Averon, thus she wished to trust on that. Averon was like a brother to her yet she She decided against plunging ourselves against that. Thats wise, no, sane. Lets trust on the Emperor, we still need to preserve the next generation. [Seven minutes, Averon] [Yes Sire.] The rumblings of the ground were enough to shake the fighting spirit of any soldiers C but not a knight. Averon rushed towards the dragon, now turned towards him and spew black fire C less than usual, yet it did not take much breath to execute this one attack. Ugh! EH?! Shisha felt the same burning sensation from before, yet it was quickly dispersed. She came out from the base, and rushed nearer to see what was happening. It seemed she still retained her speed even when she cannot control the nature here. SHUU--- PAK, PAK, PAK! BAMM----------- The giant claw of the dragon hit the ground, and from the dust cloud came a figure moving lithely around the arm. Averon was still holding his sword with his right hand, blade to his back, running up the shoulder of the dragon C his aim was clear C the head. Any attacks on its body merely tickled it C or paralyzed it to some extent, but not enough. Even the lightning from the dark cloud that filled the horizon was merely enough to stagger the demon dragon. Damn beast and its endurance Im tired already! [Keep moving Averon.] [Yes Sire Im doing C just that --] Now! Luna, who was eyeing the battle all of a sudden land her hands onto the ground C black ethereal vines came out just below the battle ground and caught the face of the dragon, with its vines digging into its face, moving just below its thick scales towards its eyes. KYAOOOOO---------------!! [Averon!] [Got it!] He hurled himself towards the distracted dragon, which now closed its eyelids to protect its eyes. He landed on its face, and not stopping C continued to jammed his curved sword into its left eyelid. [NOW!] SHRIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ-----------------------! KYAOOOO--------- RAUUUUURRGH------------!! One of the prepared lightning struck the dragons right wing, and managed to drill a gaping hole and half-burn the rest of it. The demon dragon was now on its knees C before another black vine came and latched onto its right leg, and drilled itself into its scales KRAAAGH---- BAMMMM------!! The dragon fell with its back onto the ground, and its unconscious head was thrown about violently. Ugghh!! Shisha could feel the whole scenario clearly, as if she was in the middle of it. She suspected it, and now it became clear to her This recollection its its then again! How come its so clear even to the people all around me? I heard we should only get glimpse of our apprentices memory C but this is! Too clear! Too vivid! Even the feeling --- aw, aw how come even my legs become sore?! She was complaining. With his sword left on the dragons left eye, Averon forced himself to keep running with the wind, while the dragon moved its falling body left --- GUUUUUSHHHH----- And right---- GUUUUSSSSHHHHHH---- And repeated the process a few times. From afar, one could see a dragon wiggling on the ground -- and ground trembled as it did. The rock formation near the battle crumbled and its giant rocks fell. Luna was nowhere to be seen. [Wheres Luna?!] [Dont worry about her! Focus!] On the skin of the dragon, Averon had to maintain his position. Flying up in the sky was not quite as effective as staying near, in term of avoiding attacks. Though he could shrug off the blast of black fire, and had done so twice already, the energy needed to withstand the attack and disperse it all around strained him, even in his current Natures Aura form. And then the demon dragon did something he had feared it would --- Oh, shoot---- GUSHAAAAAA-------------- !!! ---!! Shockwave dispersed through the land C throwing the currently approaching demon army C Giant Snakes and Minotaurs were flying, Lurkers quickly burrowed itself on the ground, yet it was too late and were thrown about on the ground. Bullgars and Borrosque, able to use their brain a little, hold onto each other and braced the impact The dragon just body-slammed itself onto the ground. It had seen Averon as significant threat C one it cannot tolerate anymore and waited for other demons to remove. The gigantic demons seemed to only staggered, and had to resume going in to kill off the attacker due to the command of the nearby Cantus. FSHUUUUUUUUU--------------! Soon, the dragon threw the black fire all around its body, attempting to clad itself with it. Shisha at the time, was having the dizziness of her lifetime. She wondered why C especially when she already braced for the impact early on, though she already could guess the reason. [NOW!] At that signal, the Emperor raised his hand and pointed it towards the head of the dragon C the source of Averons voice. The last hemispherical ice opened up, and a burst of lightning came out, landing on the monstrosity that was on the ground SHIZZZZ----------------- What the?! The lightning that came through seemed to land, yet it seemed to be absorbed by an entity, before ---- SHRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIII----------------------- Lightning pillar! The general heabsorb the lightning?! Thats the lightning pillar technique! For him to master it this young-- From a little further, Shisha, with her extended eyesight, saw what happened C Averon grabbed his sword on the left eye of the dragon, and after absorbing the lightning, channeled it right into the skull C directly to the brain, intending to fry it for good. She could feel sensation of lightning current swept across her body C much stronger than when she even received her own lightning strikes one particular time. KYAOOOOO------------ In a desperate attempt to finally kill off its attacker, the dragon hurled out as much black fire as possible in frenzy. The incoming demon horde C the gigantic types, were close enough to the dragon that the fire caught them all around. HAUUUU------------ KYEEEEAAAA--------- AUOOO------ OOOO------------ BAM! BAM! BAM! Many of them went on a rampage and effectively stopping more hordes from coming in nearer C aside from those in the sky. They already assumed encirclement, and --- KYIASK! UR SERRA!! A command was given C the command for the air unit to finish off Averon before he finished first. Enemy air unit numbered at thousands, all hurling ranged attacks at him while growlers approached him with their baring teeth. O the One God who command the loyal Angels Your command is absolute. I plead you, O My Creator command the Angels to strike the demons again With Absolute Lightning. This time, his prayer was answered immediately. SHIZZZZZZZZZZ-------------------- SHIZZZZZZZZZZ-------------------- SHIZZZZZZZZZZ-------------------- SHIZZZZZZZZZZ-------------------- KYAOOOO-------------------------!! KYOOAA------ KIEEEKKKKKK-------- WHOAAA------- The dark cloud strikes again. Strikes upon strikes of lightning landed directly on the dragon, and along with it, the thousands other victims who were unfortunate enough to be within the vicinity. While it was happening, Averon was absorbing some of the power, and channeled it directly to the brain of the dragon BUUU----- BUUUUUGGGHHH---!! The part of the head, where the brain was, exploded with it, the body of the dragon went limp. Averon fell down to the ground, gasping for air Is it over? Shisha, seeing the dragon went silent, pondered. Indeed, the life force of the dragon seemed depleted already The other knights, seeing this, looked at each other with amazement. ... Better safe than sorry! Averon opened his eyes and jumped towards the other head --- the one he jolted early on. He impaled another of its eye, and --- KYAOOOOO------------ Its still alive?! Shisha and the knights from afar had a feeling that it might be, but for the dragon to play dead Playing dead, eh Well just be --- dead! He used his last strength to deliver another round of lightning, this time, he did not stop C and nothing was stopping him until he heard the sound --- of brain splattering. It was not a good sound at all, yet he was glad he could hear it. FSHUU---- BOOOOOMMM!! Another round of fire breath caught him, yet this time, it was an explosion A massive explosion of black fire, piercing through his body as the whole two heads of the fire dragon exploded C and from afar one could just see how big it was. Auu. Uuu? Shisha felt piercing and burning sensation before it finally stopped. She wondered what that meant Could it be..? [Averon!] Damn it! The Emperor and his brown knight, as well as Shiarine and half the Knights of Wind rushed towards the scene. Knights of Time followed the Emperor as well. When they arrived, they saw him, lying among the lump of meat that was the demon dragon clad all over his body black flame *HAAAA* Shisha and Shiarine, who arrived along, gasped in horror. "Delay it!" Ark commanded. Knights of Time, in unison, quickly use Time Manipulation to delay the burning flames. Shiarine tried to dispersed the black flame latched onto his body -- SHUU---- SHUUU---- SHUUUU---- No result. The fire seemed to be more potent this time. She gritted her teeth. Tornado Waves! SHUUUUHHHHHHHHHHH------------! A violent swirling of wind came from Shiarine hand, swirling larger and consumed Averon and then took the black fire away Then again, some of it still lingered inside his shoulders and thigh. Shisha, looking over the event, could only shed tears falling from both eyes, which still could see the Divine Wind around his body C protecting him to some degree, yet only able to slow it down Even his skin was no more, and with the effect of the divine wind, he C and she -- did not feel much pain. Kuu--- Wind---- Stop, My Emperor. Ill be dead anyway. He spoke, without so much as trying to get up. Wind Knights! Help Shiarine! The Emperor disregarded what he said, and ordered the knights to disperse the fire C wind came and went, wind after wind yet the fire did not disperse. Shisha then noticed -- Just beside him, his tattered sword, on the ground. You can stop now This fire is not normal Even my skin is no more, Shiarine-nee and My Emperor--- do not waste your life for me. He spoke while his whole body was consumed by it. You knew? Life-Force Transfer Shiarine told me once. The Emperor turned to the green knight princess, who whimpered in return. You, what are you doing? Hurry! He urged his knights to disperse the fire once more, yet still to no avail. Im currently alive thanks to the Natures Aura stop, my comrades. Or youll see your Emperor giving his life to me in exchange. The other Knights staggered. They looked upon their Emperor with questioning look. You youre my successor just when I finally God Hmmph! He clasped his palm, and the earth around Averon raised itself and put him in a slanted sitting position. The earth clad itself around him, yet slowly so even the earth was burned by the flame. Em?! Shisha sensed a large amount of force clashing from quite a distance. She recognized one of them as the leader of Knights of Fire C Karlz. After just a few exchanges of attacks, he took down the main enemy C the Cantus commanding the demons. Consequently, the gigantic demons surrounding them C half already were burned by the demon dragon C became less active only observing from afar. The Majestic Presence coming out from that very location made them trembled in fear, as it was screaming at them the existence of a presence much superior than theirs Two figures approached them from behind the remains of the demon dragon. GENERAL AVERON! Soft voice of a lady came, and there was Luna, brought to the location by Athmus, with her hand and temple bruised and slightly bleeding. She gasped as she saw him, and turned away while gritting her teeth. How could this... be? Damnit! Didnt you promise me..?! Forgive me, Luna I couldnt You promised damnit! You promised! You promised! You promised---! She had her whole face flushed, and tears flowed out before she was embraced by Shiarine. Uwaaaa----------! Aaaaaa---mmmm-----! She cried herself out in her embrace, with her voice dampened by Shiarine. The Grand Duchess looked at him -- now a burning black figure clad with earth, he did not answer Lunas childish gripes. Athmus, just beside her, had tears running down his cheeks. Shisha, tears subsided, observed her. Luna was quite young, being barely 20 C she was not mature enough to hold back her overflowing emotion. The Emperor, just next to them, had his eyes closed. Averon put his feet together, and saluted everyone there with his open palm. Its been an honour... My Em..peror I wish could... be of service more but God have better plan Hearing this the Emperor gritted his teeth, yet composed himself, and took his sword into his front, returned his salute. The other knights put their feet together, and saluted in the same manner. He went to the front, and turned to the knights C with the burning Averon just beside him. MY KNIGHTS! HEAR MY PROCLAMATION. WE HEAR YOU, MY EMPEROR! The knights replied in unison. The Emperor stood majestically in front of them C his Majestic Presence was awe-inspiring, and Shisha could feel how superior his existence was, while his voice instilled into her a sense of camaraderie and safety. His presence and action made Luna stopped her wailing, and along with others, turned her attention to their Emperor. A MARTYR LIVES ON -- SUCH IS THE PROCLAMATION OF GOD! AND THUS C I HEREBY PROCLAIM, THE NATION OF OUR NEXT GENERATION C SHALL HEREBY BE CALLED ARCADIA C AND ITS LIVING EMPEROR SHALL BE C AVERON ARCAD, THE MARTYR EMPEROR! I PLEAD TO THE ONE GOD THAT YOUR MARTYR EMPEROR -- SHALL RETURN..! BELIEVE IN GOD IN ME, AND IN YOUR MARTYR EMPEROR! WHAT DO YOU SAY, MY KNIGHTS..? WE HEAR AND WE OBEY, MY EMPEROR! LET THE NEXT GENERATION REMEMBER THIS DAY! ENGRAVE INTO THEIR HEARTS AND BEING C THE SACRIFICE MADE BY THE KNIGHTS OF ASTARIA! LET THEM KNOW! THAT THE MARTYR EMPEROR C SHALL RETURN--! UWWOOO! UWWOOO! UWWOOO! Seeing the whole scenario C the figure engulfed with black fire seemingly smiled. Prote o net gene tion com---at His voice was barely makeable as his body turned to ashes, with black flame still burning him and the earth. He again saluted them, with what remained of his palm, open. Return to us, youre a Martyr! Promise me! Lunas childish demand resounded in his ears. Youve surpassed me, my baby brother Shiarines whisper vibrated in the air. I shall safeguard the next generation until your return, General..! Athmus was still in his salutation and his tears. We, Masters of the Wind, saluted the successor of our Empire! Knights of Wind saluted him en masse with style. May the passage of Time intertwine us again, General. Knights of Time saluted him en masse with solemn look. A Martyr lives on, so lives on, my senior. Ark bowed to him, holding out his tears. Lets meet again Averon, in front of our God. The Emperor forced a smile, raised his sword onto his shoulder then bowed his head and shoulder down a little C his brown knight followed the same example. Shisha, who was standing there as a mere spectator, felt the rush of feelings. She instantly knew -- The people there C Shiarine, his clan leader and sworn sister Luna, the one whom he took under his wings many years ago Athmus, his trustworthy aide who always took things seriously The Knights of Wind, laid-back knights whom he grew up with The Knights of Time, lead by Ark, his junior who always pestered him And the people quite a distance from him, he could well sense their presence Rome, his former stylish superior and mentor Helmuth, his former Hell instructor and a heck of a teacher Faith, his second-in-command whom he often teased Karlz, his target towards being the best... and all the Knights there, and the people who awaited them under the Asmodite plateau And next to him, the very man he dedicated his life to--- the one who taught him never to give upthe one who brought their Empire back from the rubble... who brought forth their inner strength out to become the best of living human in history. VREWW Finally, his body turned to ashes, and the squall took it all away spreading it all over their homeland. The Emperor, holding out his emotion, turned to the hundred or so Knights who followed him. He held out his hand, and the curved sword with a red line on the ground swirled and hurled itself into his hand. He grabbed it with ease, spun it and with it on his back, he turned to the Asmodite plateau C where the portal to the other dimension C Ein Gard, was. The Knights followed suit. Shishas vision went blur as she heard his last sentences. LETS GO. WELL SECURE A HOME FOR THE NEXT GENERATION. WELL SECURE ARCADIAN EMPIRE FOR OUR MARTYR EMPEROR. ================================== POLL: Reader - Author Interaction "RAI" To all dear readers, Thank you for supporting or simply reading Ein Gard and enjoying it to some degree. Unfortunately... I have to end this series... ... ...
Kidding!
Actually, it''ll end after hundreds of chapters! That''s the plan, anyway. To readers who waited for the next chapter, I wish to convey my apology. I''ve finished several chapters in advance, yet I still need to improve chapter 14... It should be ready tomorrow. I dare not give you an inferior product, and I have quite a time constraint this year... work... (Boo me for not writing seriously when I had the time... Boo... huhu...) Anyway, back to my original topic. I created this thread called Reader - Author Interaction "RAI" as a way for you to give constant suggestions and thought/critic/ about the series. I also enjoy reading your comments, especially those with idea/critic/feeling. Since the 1st Arc -- one which I called "Background Story" already ended, I wish to hear some of your honest thought. Some did give me his/her critic on the way and I appreciate that. B-but have mercy on me, please... Onegai Shimasu! "RAI" in my 2nd language means celebrate, and in my 4th it''s a short for thunder & lightning, so let''s celebrate this thread with booming thunder until the next Arc! I already planned several Arcs in advance, so here''s spoilers... Just avoid the next two windows if you do not wish for spoilers...
Warning! Spoilers!
Arc 1 - Background Story Arc 2 - Setting up the Stage Arc 3 - New Blood
While I did ask you guys to restrain doing an in-depth review until after chapter 21, the amount of possibility that there are gems of ideas that you my readers could offer, entice me... Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Sorry for being greedy! Actually, there are many ideas at my disposal so this might be unnecessary but... I''ve seen and read many of the comments in RRL that simply WOW me... "How come I didn''t think of that?" So I thought. *Slightly bow in respect* Thus, I wish to keep this thread alive until the next Arc -- of which I shall create a new one and close this one. Well, having no focus in a thread is a serious no-no... so I''ll start with Focus 1# Nature Manipulation Poll -- Do pick your choice. What element(s) of Nature best describe you?
Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Lightning (Metal), Light, Dark, Time, Space
Which do you prefer... and What is your trademark "Chant" and skill. You could also combine them. Here''s an example and spoiler...
Warning! Spoilers!
Wind Manipulation (Primary) + Water Manipulation (Secondary)
By the fecundating winds of which you send C It is from you water descends from the sky as our sustenance -- Verily, you are the owner of the heavens stores. I pray to you, O The Only One with Authority. Show this as testament of truth to my next generation. --- RAIN FORMATION ---
So dear readers... let''s do this with a bang! :-LpendraguinRocker:- Map of Ein Gard Good day, guys... Forgive me now I don''t know how "tomorrow" becomes almost a week.... but Chapter 14 is just around the corner. Let me just tease you with this rough map Averon found in Chapter 3... Ah to those who managed to notice... I made a mistake in posting this before. Silly me... sorry. "Sleepiness is strong in this one." So said the Youngest. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. It''s just a rough map for now... I could do a basic map using what I have, yet I have yet to make a better map because of time constraint. I apologize. Thanks for your support! :-fightingchicken:- Chp14 The Deciding Factor To all dear readers... Please forgive me...! :noei: For having wronged you with cliffhangers for such a long time... I am ashamed... Here''s Chapter 14... And how I wish I could upload Chapter 15 today, but I have an invitation to fulfill... Anyway, Thank you for your support! =============================== Chapter 14 C The Deciding Factor ================================ Laksha and old Heinz was looking over the Master-Apprentice Linking ceremony, of which Shisha would share her Life-Force Regalis and form a bond with Averon. At the time, Laksha noticed Shisha already entered into a trance, of which she would view glimpses of who her apprentice really was. The trance seemed to last for quite some time, unnaturally long. Old Heinz knitted his eyebrows, and turned to her. How long this would take? Im under impression it wouldnt be this long. It shouldve ended already This could only mean That the memory that was shared with her was quite strong C one of which would entail vivid description due to the persons strong memory. Please be patient, Lord Heinz Ill take a look She closed her eyes, and Hmm hm? !! She jolted, and opened her eyes back with her heart racing She just caught a glimpse of what Shisha had been seeing C possible due to her inscribing additional Watchers Seal on top of Shishas Life-Force Link Seal. What the heck was that? A demon dragon? She whispered. Are you alright, Lady Laksha? Old Heinz noticed her peculiar behaviour. Y-yes Im sorry, Im just surprised, thats all What did-- Ughh..! The shout came from Shisha, of which garnered their attention. The four High Knights as well as Vestianna, who encircled her and Averon, lowered their stance with hand on the hilt of their sheathed sword. Laksha opened her eyes wide, and bulging blood veins appeared. Her now sharper eyes could see Shishas Life-Force flow, which previously had poured into Averon, yet now something else from him poured into her. Something powerful Something eerie. - This is Is this bad? What is that? Damn it dealing with something unknown like this! She jumped into the circle, and touched Shishas arm which was linked to Averons back --- Auw, Auw! She retracted her right hand, and shook it profusely. Her hand was red hot, and so did Shishas. - Alright. This does it. Its bad enough! She put her hands onto the ground, trying to sever the link through the Seal circling them. - Its not responding?! How Nevermind! Lord Heinz, Im going to sever their link with force! Old Heinz raised an eyebrow before nodded in response. She raised both her hands up, and wind started to swirl around the circle. From her right hand she gathered the wind around her arm, and then did the same to her left. She closed her eyes, concentrating the swirling winds even more. HAAHHH! SWUUUU--------------!! SWUUUU--------------!! She pushed both winds from her hands C her right for Shisha while her left for Averon. The swirling winds seemed not to have enough effect, only staggering both of them. Tch Ummh O My Creator who commands the loyal wind please, grant your servant the wind which pushed the clouds! SWIIIII-------- The winds intensified. The High Knights and Vestianna near the scene had to kneel to shelter themselves from the violent wind, while old Heinz only held his heavy sword with his left, both hands on his chest, smiling in amusement. Soon, the twin swirling mini-tornadoes seemed to be pushing them both apart, yet her hand still stuck. UHHHHH. Laksha was pushing herself. She had to handle both winds to be strong enough to push them back, yet careful enough not to harm them. Eeerrgh--! SWWIII---!! Her last push made the winds strong enough to sever their link. Both of them went back flying C Vestianna jumped and caught Averon while Alnair caught Shisha. Both put them onto the ground as soon as possible. HOT! Shes burning my hand! Stop whining, you two Check their condition. Alteram, Leste, Siran take water from the pool. Yes, Milord. Old Heinz went immediately to Averons side, taking a glimpse of him and then Shisha. He took his grandchild while his purple aura manifested from him and engulfed him. He placed him next to Shisha and his aura did to her the same. His aura turned brighter, seemingly absorbing the heat from them. He turned to Laksha, who was still panting. Are you fine, Lady Laksha? Im huh fine She was breathing in deeply to restore her stamina. It should have been easy to sever a link, yet the fact that it was not confused her. - I dont understand if the devil still did not possess him how I have report this to the Sage Council. She took a look at them both. Old Heinzs aura was shining purple, slowly restoring their temperature to normal. She sighed weakly. It seemed she might have underestimated what was reported to her before. Just what in Ein Gard happened? ... ================================================================================= Late Morning, Central City of Crest, Eastern Port. Shuuuuuu The wind was blowing pleasantly. PAK! PAK! PAK! The flag of Cestia, with its flashy red background lined with yellow rectangular, and purple armored knight with a pike and a shield in the middle, was high up in the air. Merchant ships of various sizes were coming in and out of the citys port. The wind blew the ships sails very well, making haste their journey to the ocean. The lake just on the east side of the central city of Crest was a special kind of lake, of which it was connected with a grand waterway that came all the way from the ocean. In a vital way, the waterway made the central city of Crest, which was situated on a hill, a strong trading city in the centre of Southern Trish continent. Though the lake was connected to the ocean, the sea water did not merge with the water from the lake, as God per decreed, there was a barrier between the two types of water C forbidding their merging. This in fact had helped Cestia in maintaining its freshwater supply year by year. Just by the lake, a young black-haired boy was sitting on one of the enormous black rock C with many more similar rocks of various sizes around. The boy was wearing a white tunic and brown trousers with laced dark-red shoes. He had a sturdy build, which suggested that he was over the age of perhaps eight. In actual fact, he was merely five years-old. Shaa--- Shaaa--- The lakes water around the rocks was moving and shaking as the wind blew. He was facing the calm lake, watching ships getting into the port as well as those getting out towards the grand waterway leading to the ocean. With his superior vision, he could see people working or wandering about on top of those ships. Hahahaha Look! Look! Its so big! I saw a really big fish! Where? Where? Hey hey wait for me~~ Laughter was carried by the wind to his ears. He looked up and gazed upon those people in one of those ships C a massive 30m long and around 12m wide brown-coloured passenger and supply ship, with two lines of different height at its side and its main mast reaching over 40m while its mizzen mast at 30m. He saw children running about and people admiring the wide open sails C counting over fifteen, opened with all their glory. All the sails by themselves, were bigger than the ship. He focused his gaze upon some children running excitedly at the ships side, while some were trying to climb over the ropes and some were pulling over the riggings, swinging their body around C only to be chased by the sailors. It was a heartwarming scene, yet - The people normal citizens and children living so cheerfully without much worry. Of course the adults have their own issues, but the children so innocent heh ,am I not one? At the top of the main mast, as well as near the spanker sail, were flags of blue sphere and a sword at its back C the flag of Armuld. The scene reminded him of her origin. - She said she took a ship from a port in Armuld, didnt she? He sighed weakly. Its my fault. Im acting too spoilt, as if Im really a child. I shouldve known C or at least, theorize it. He sighed again. He clearly believed he needed to plan his course of action. Lets meditate. He said it out loud. It had become his habit to do so, usually when he was alone and wished to do something. On the rock, he sat in a lotus position. He aligned his breathing to be slower, yet deeper and much better in quality. Wind after wind passed by him Soon, he closed his eyes and the sounds of wind and birds chirping faded away as he did. From the link Shisha established, he had somewhat recovered more of his memory C especially so the memory from when he was fighting the Two-headed Demon Dragon. His seemingly intact memory from back then was not actually intact C a fact he knew when he heard the story of The Martyr Emperor from her. Still, he felt like he was missing something from the battle. - Did General Rome not attack the dragon with his earth shells? Or no, thinking about the scene from back then would not help. I should focus on what I should do, now that I have this information C Arcadian Empire, named after my family name, was conferred to me by My Emperor So its not Athmus who did this out of his own whim The whim word struck him hard, as he remembered using Lifes Nature Aura and plunging himself into the midst of demons, alone. Not only the Emperor did not scold or scorn him, he even planned to transfer his Life-Force to him, since someone who used Lifes Nature Aura already traded his life for the activation of the technique. - One of Astarias High-Tier Knights acting so childishly meh perhaps I already forget what I felt at the time now He tried to remember all the details The people whom he knew The skills he used back then The strategies and tactical maneuvers used against Astaria The various kinds of demons and then, the fiery Demon Dragon itself, with its fearsome black fire why did he hate it so much? ...? !! He jolted a little. The image of a beauty a blonde in the middle of a flower field, with her hair flying due to the wind came into view. She wore long yellow dress with pleated cloak; beads sewn into it. She was holding a bucket of flowers, and seemed engrossed in picking the right one yet still careful in her steps -- as to not inflict unnecessary damage to the flowers around her. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. His footsteps that time warned her of his presence. She turned to him, and the most innocent smile was there Her green eyes Her clear, smooth skin The butterflies and flower petals swirling around her - Stephenie He figured actually, just took it into attention the reason he did not train his Fire Manipulation. It was hatred, deep hatred C abhorrence toward the freaking giant lizard and his fire All this time, he did not forget Merely brushing it aside and focused on something else. - And due to my selfishness, now my next generation I did not make use of Gods gift Haah Its my fault damn it Averon how childish can you be! This was due to the event taking place the night before yesterday From what he had heard, the heat was something unnatural C putting himself and Shisha unconscious. He woke up a few hours later, yet Shisha did not C even after 30 hours. Her body was in a high fever, and the heat continued to rise if it was being left unattended. Averon quickly recognized the possibility that such heat came from his massive no, perfect 100% Fire Affinity C something a human cannot handle. He could, since it was Gods gift. - I did not use this gift is this Gods way of making me realize my mistake? Then its super effective! And I even troubled my own mother His mother Nea, who had returned from the institute, had to take care of her constantly C since normal physicians had no idea how to deal with her condition. She put a type of Seal that absorbed heat constantly, yet the Seal, which was supposed to withstand a dragons breath, broke every hour. She did not say it; yet putting a Seal of that degree put a strain on her. Fortunately, his grandfather used his aura to absorb the heat, preventing her from over-straining herself C the only downside of using aura would be that he cannot be apart more than five minutes from Shisha. - That Seal is strong, but only enough to withstand the breath of normal fire dragons Forget it. Thats not the issue here How could I miss what I should be focusing Did being a child for five years dull my thinking? No, thats not it. I simply forgot. He clenched his right fist. - I neglect my fire manipulation. Power is just a tool if it was water instead that killed Stephanie and my children, would I hate water as well? No Forget the Demon Dragon C its dead anyway. I need to master my fire manipulation, and somehow get Shisha out of coma as soon as possible. Also Status Window!
STATUS WINDOW
NameAveron Valery
Level26ClassNone
TitleMartyrFameLocked
HP Regen2.0% per minuteMP Regen5.6% per minute
ST Regen2.5% per minuteNP Regen12.0% per minute (MAX)
STATUS
Health1994/1994Mana32860/32860
Stamina4307/4320Nature60,000/60,000
Strength174Agility177
Vitality182Wisdom1800 + 1000
Faith3000 + 3000Intelligence3006
Fighting SpiritLOCKEDHonourLOCKED
CharismaLOCKEDLeadershipLOCKED
Charm75Luck1000
Art110Endurance121
AFFINITY
Earth29%Water29%
Lightning49%Wind51%
Fire100%
MAGIC RESISTANCE
FIRELOCKEDWATERLOCKED
EARTHLOCKEDWINDLOCKED
LIGHTLOCKEDDARKLOCKED
? Granted Lives: 27. ? Stats improve faster from physical exercise than normal Knights until you reach your previous lifes value. ? You may now learn Natures Aura up until Master level. Life Natures Aura (Ultimate Level) is now locked. Main Title: Martyr Hidden Title: Two-Headed Demon Dragon Slayer Other Title(s): Successor of Astaria Hero of Canterra Tactical Strike Leader Exemplary Knight Style Freak Unique Toddler Genius Child Undistributed Bonus Stat Point(s): 130
- With all these advantages plus my knowledge of what is to come, it would be a sin for me not to prepare Ive to use all available means necessary Prepare, by all means necessary! I need to prepare myself and the world I live in He went deep in thought. He thought about his goal C of protecting this world. Then it came to him, that if he was successful in protecting this world, then what? The fact that he received 27 lives... was an obvious statement of his future role. - Then with all force available, Ill liberate all the other five dimensions currently in struggle against the demons including Astaria! The thought that he could liberate his homeland excited him, yet he did not let it overexcite him as to lose logic. He focused on his current goals. A struggle without definite goals would be a serious offence to ones God-given ability to think. - My goal immediate and long term Lets set up the goals first then Ill take action immediately. His immediate goal would be to master the Fire Manipulation and help Shisha recover from her condition. His long-term goal would be the protection of Ein Gard and then the liberation of all five known dimensions. He set these goals in his mind, similar to what the status window would look like.
Immediate Goal: Master the Fire Manipulation and help Shisha recover from her condition. Long-term Goal: The protection of Ein Gard and then the liberation of all five known dimensions.
- In order to do this, I need to ready a foundation set forth the stage better to choose and condition the place when we have time. He used we as he thought of himself and his people as a whole. As the successor of the Emperor, and the prophesized Martyr Emperor of Arcadia, he thought of the need of Imperial Policies C Those which will help in achieving the goals. Again, he noted these Imperial Policies within his mind in a similar manner.
First Five Imperial Policies: I. Total Submission to God''s Will. II. Uphold Justice and Punish Injustice. III. Strong Economic, Provision & Defense Position. IV. Strong and Loyal People -- The Use of Media and Habitual Training. V. Continuous Improvement C Research and Development.
- Just the basic five for now Will add some more later if necessary Im not a Policy Maker, but Ive been close to the best two years The best among us The boy longed the good times... back then... ============================= Day of Faima, 7th Luna, Year 1090 Astarian Empire: Hill of Canterra. Thuk! Thuk! Two knocks woke him up from bed. He looked at the clock, and it was 3.00 in the morning. He usually would start his day at 4.30 am, readying himself and then went to the Emperors Chamber just before 5.00 am to start his job. What job? The job. The Personal bodyguard -- of the Emperor. The dream job of any Knight. Who is it? It is me. A voice calm, yet definite and clear no mistaking it. It was his voice. My Emperor?! Yes, would you open the door or do you need some time? Y-yes, My Emperor C give me some time. Very well. - I cant let him see me like this! His black hair was a mess and he was in his pyjamas. He tidied his bed and went straight to the bathroom, did what was necessary and put on his readied military uniform of dark green. He combed his hair, put on some perfume and put on his shiny black boots and gloves. He stood directly in front of thick wooden door. My Emperor, Im ready. Good. Open the door. He went straight to the door and opened it slowly. There stood the Emperor C a much younger version of what Shisha had seen. The man was in his 40s with his trademark small goatee. He had a solemn, confident face and gave off a vibrant feeling. White, clear skin and black-haired, he was fine-looking, with his similar yet black military uniform, finely tugged and tidy. Black boots and gloves were there too. At his back, was his large black and shiny coat. To his left side, was his Imperial Sword hidden well by his coat. Lets go. Go where, My Emperor? Go and see the people of course! Haa..? ==================================== Chp 15 Reminiscence of a Guard Guys, thanks for the support. Heres chapter 15. Disclaimer: The picture of Gold Omega was by icondevco. ================================== Chapter 15 Reminiscence of a Guard ================================== Day of Faima, 7th Luna, Year 1090 Hill of Canterra, Astarian Empire. Very early morning. It was the place where the Emperor would go for a retreat after his busy weekdays. Surrounded by lush forests of green pines, there were three nearest towns around the hill, with combined population of over 100,000. On top of the hill, was one of the Emperors humble residences. It was quite luxurious for a house, yet too humble to be called a mansion C of which some even called it The Emperors Chalet. The house was bright and airy with light jade colour scheme, with large windows were built around it. The structure was rectangular with wide great hall and many rooms within. A tower-like structure was connected to it with a dome on top. In a way, it was similar to a manor house. Open-air recreational park and garden beside it were visible even from afar. Nearby there were several more houses C around ten, with a green house in the middle, a field, a stable and a wide and long landing strip for Garudas, Wyverns and Airships. Nearby, a rounded teahouse on a higher ground was present just near a cliff, with wooden path and railings connecting the residence to it. It showed a grand view of the Mountains near the place as well as forests and clearings. At one spot it featured a scenic view of the whole valley just beside the hill. The three towns were also visible. From the Emperors residence, two figures were walking silently towards the long landing strip, stopping by the guards only to be saluted in shock -- My Emperor, if you dont mind me asking No, go on. Why this all of a sudden? You couldve planned an official visit to these towns. Thatll make people happier Im going in this time to avoid such situation, young Averon. ? Averon knitted his eyebrows. Because looking at the people during their daily life, knowing you influence them to live better would inspire you besides, Besides? I also wish to hear their normal chatters, complaints and worries. I see Then again, My Emperor do you mind if I give my honest opinion? No, what is it? Your attire doesnt suit this incognito operation He noted the Emperors black and shiny coat C one which would instill immediate recognition that the person was not common. Not-at-all. The Emperor made a blank expression. Really? Really. Well, what do you suggest? At least, change your coat, My Emperor. There should be some common-looking ones near the airfield in the staff office. Good thinking, young Averon. Lets do that. Yes, My Emperor. Few minutes later, they arrived at the airfield C one which was lighted slightly all around by luminescent stones. They went into a building just beside the airfield, lighted with lamp post all around. It was the staff office. Thuk! Thuk! Thuk! Thuk! Yes, who is it! Captain Averon here. Mind opening the door a bit? Captain Averon?! Its three and half in the morning! I know. Its necessary. Mind opening a little? Yes, Sir! The code, Sir. Truth and Justice for Our Homeland. The iron door was opened a little, with a metal chain still undone. The lad raised his hand, and lightball emerged from his palm. He was a blonde younger lad. He recognized Averon immediately. Captain! An emergency? No Corporal, sorry to disturb your sleep. I need to borrow a coat C just an average one. Do you have any? Err Yes, theres a dozen here. But the officers coats are not here, its in-- Nevermind. Can you pick the most common-looking one? Yes Sir! He picked up a brown coat, a rather coarse one. Thanks. Ill return it later. Maybe tonight. Yes Sir. Eh whos that with you, Sir? He noticed a figure behind him, but the light did not reach him. Someone I need to escort. Can I get the keys for the Garudas? Yes Sir C but I need the document for that. Here. He handed the young man a writ through the opening. He took it and read it, with eyes opened wide and then looked over at the man behind Averon again. T-then thats Any problem? The man behind Averon inquired, of which the young Corporal jolted. N-no, nothing! Ill hand over the keys now! Then Ill escort you too, My Em--- Shuhhh! Youre too loud! By the airfield, was a special kind of cage C one which was designed to be a large dome as home to majestic birds C Garudas. As the three went into the dome, the iron bars squeaked a little. The Corporal was still carrying a lightball of slight yellow as they went in. Gruu..? The Garudas seemed cautious of them, yet PHiiiii----! With a whistle, all the Garudas in the dome immediately moved and flapped their wings. They started to move towards and landed near them. Swusssshh-- GUSSHHH--! ! Dust covered the view for awhile before revealing, standing in a row Majestic Garudas. Lined up with their head up, and some down. All eyes on the three men. They all amounted to fourteen birds. Each with beak larger than a mans head, claws larger than a mans thigh. Garuda was a large eagle-like bird with height of 4 metres and a wingspan between 8-10 metres. Each had its own majestic appearance C some had black and some red head, with wings and body varied in colour between white, yellow, orange, sky blue and black. Averon took a black and red head Garudas, both with body filled with orange feathers. My Emperor, where do you intend-- The town with the busiest early morning. Averon raised his eyebrows. Town of Kirla then. The Emperor chuckled, as if he had confirmed something. With the help of the Corporal, they tied belts around themselves at the back of each Garuda. The Garudas made a free fall from the cliff before flapping their wings. SWUUSSHH--! Muaahahahaha~~~ The Garuda which carried the Emperor made a swirling flying manoeuvre, of which his rider made a really weird laugh. Are you fine, My Emperor?! Averon asked loudly while riding the Garuda, since the Emperor seemed a bit too excited. Perfectly! Its been awhile since I last ride a Garuda! Please dont make such unnecessary manoeuvre, My Emperor C Youre giving me a heart attack! Dont be so uptight! Have fun too young Averon! Haha Yes, Sire They flew for awhile before the lights of the town of Kirla was obvious to the eyes. The town had white-stones fortification surrounded it, with half of it connected to an ocean bay. They were close. However, the moon was not out, so it was too dark for anyone C not even the town guards, to even notice their approach to Kirla. They landed nearby the town gate to avoid attracting attention from the populace. The sound of them landing alerted the town guards. Two of the guards, carrying lance, approached them. One of the guards created a lightball and lightened up the surrounding. Whos there? Identify yourself. Averon Arcad, Captain of Imperial Guards. He gave them his silver emblem of circular shield, of which they identified and saluted him afterwards. Whos that with you Captain? VVIP. Were just here to look around town. Heres his identification. He handed them with a Gold Omega symbol, with luminescent light surrounding it. Both guards were shocked, turned to each other, and quickly saluted the man. Can you take care of the Garudas? Well be out of town today C perhaps in the evening. Yes Sir. Well take them to Kirlas Garuda dome. Much appreciated. Im going to borrow two horses--- No need young Averon. The Emperor raised his hand. We have feet. Well just walk or run around town. Yes Sire-- Sir. Lets use wind cladding at least. Wind gathered and swirled around them, giving off a soothing feeling and pleasant humming. Wind cladding increased overall speed, also could hurl them forward when they dashed or jumped, as well as acted as defense against projectiles. =========== Have you ever experience hunger, shame, and desperation? If you had, then you probably could empathize with the following story. If you have not, then at least, try. It was the story of a once glorious Empire -- Astarian Empire. It was not quite a happy story, and thus it was intentionally made short. Post-War, Year 1070. Astarian Empire. It was crumbling. It was an Empire which had lost its Emperor due to war. And the victorious nations demanded absurd reparation for a war of which they themselves started. They took over the workings of the government C especially the banking and the media. They scrapped the nations railway and train, took many of its heavy machineries, technologies and ships. Within a year without an Emperor starvation, economic depression all coming in desperation started to be replaced by depravity, in order to get food on the table. The world and media did not help, but instead, had been showing depraved theatre and pictures to the populace by making it a daily occurrence; they were slowly corrupting the mind of the people. At first, it was bad yet still bearable to most. The people lost their pride, but did not lose their bread at least, to most of them. Ten years going and then! The worst economic downturn in history occurred. Jobs lost in millions. Families crumbled a father lost his dignity, a mother lost her shame, and a child lost his or her family. People resorted to mischief, prostitution and any unlawful measure that could, they thought, better their life C all to escape the desperation everyone was experiencing. It got worse year by year. Even the farmers and people in remote countryside could not escape the heat. They were slapped with a huge amount of interest payment from the money lent by the banks, and plus the heavy tax imposed onto them C it was an oppression at a level where small and medium business owners and farmers had become a mere servant to the high finance C burdened by these payment of which unjustly imposed. Unable to make the payments on time, factories, farm and farmhouse were seized as mortgage payment. In order to meet the demands for the reparation in time, the interim government was desperate. Possibly under the order of the government officials C pushed by the internationalists C they used their power of printing paper money to print as many as possible, further worsening the situation. The inflation made money worthless. Foreign nationals came in and bought the farms, the lands, and the factories for such a low price. The government then fell behind in their payment. An army from the neighbouring country came and seized a vital production area of the Empire C worsening the condition. Without the means of work and production, people became even more desperate. To make matters worse, a new movement C a fanatical movement which blindly target business owners and farm holders, even when they could not even make ends meet C was burning and killing people of whom they claimed were oppressors of the people. The movement was aggressive, and deadly C influencing hordes of people into their cause. Desperate people now became the oppressors yet claiming they were fighting the oppressors. What irony. It was a very terrible time, one of which compelled many to degrade themselves with a payment nowhere fitting for a days work, the more desperate to whore themselves or let their women did so to any foreign nationals with money, and the most desperate ones committed suicide. Desperation. Everything C everyone C was for sale. One man, however, believed he had the solution C something he had been preaching since the following year of the post-war. That man was now walking no, was propelling himself with the grace of wind towards the port to see the activity there. Even in the year just before I took power, we often read in the paper that another mother took suicide, taking her children with her Believe me, young Averon, when I say these people -- they are not bad people they were desperate, and whose mother is it, that could bear seeing her children starving? ...Yes, My Emperor. Averon lowered his head in agreement. He was there as well. He knew how hard the times C no, the corruption of certain people, within and without C had hit the populace. He had however, the fortune of being a child of the Wind Clan C The Ciellune Clan C one of the most powerful clans in Astaria. The clan, situated high in the mountain with valley, lake and rivers, knew how to deal with the hard times. They knew well how to feed themselves with the abundance of Gods wealth. Inspired by what the man in question claimed, they did their best to support him. The clan moved, convincing other clans to join in their cause. They organized and distributed their idea to the crowd in an easy to understand way C through the speeches by the man himself and men well-trained, and beforehand, pamphlets to inform the public. They also established a printing press C of which many death threats and attacks ensued, though prevail they did. As the movement grew, it was later protected by well-organized men, carrying the movement with power and determination. The movement preached Unity and Noble Work as a way to get out of the depressing and shameful situation that gripped their people. =========== Flags of Gold Omega were flapping majestically by the sea wind. They arrived at the port with their wind cladding still on, where fishermen had just arrived and trading their goods with the people. The people were surprised at first, yet later continued on their business as they thought of them as Imperial Knights. Under the Imperial decree, the price for fishes and other marine products were justly stated to be around such and such, taken in the consideration of the time, labour and risk involved in acquiring the goods. Officer, thank you for the hard work. Noble Knights, come and see these fine products! Officer, do you think this building could be improved-- They walked around and were kindly welcomed by the people, who thought of them as either Knights or people from the military. In Astaria, military personnel guard the populace, and were taught to be kind and helpful to anyone who sought help. They were the protectors of the people, and even went as far as receiving complaints and relaying those complaints to the proper people. Thus, the people became rather close and confident with them as a whole. They could see grocery owners were picking the products, restaurant employees and even housewives were there in the early morning to get the best products possible. A sense of security and fairness were visible C with them bargaining in a fine manner and accepting or declining the deal nicely. They also heard complaints from the populace, but mostly minor complaints such as the boats needed proper maintenance, the buildings needed further improvements and so on. He told Averon to ask of them about the local government, and they received either compliments, or no complaints or minor complaints. The Emperor seemed to note these complaints in his mind. It was quite dark, and the people who had seen him only thought of him as someone who resembled the Emperor C probably a fan who kept his appearance that way, they thought. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Young Averon, lets see the building of the new port. Yes Sire. They took a visit to the port, and could see the construction of a better port was well on the way. The sun will come out soon. Lets go back to town. Yes Sire, lets. They went back into town, and on the way, greeted the soldiers guarding the streets. Keep up the good work guys. Sir, yes Sir. Thank you. Flags of Gold Omega were present in abundance in the middle of the town. On each floors, and each buildings, you could find three or more of the national Imperial Flag of Astaria. Soon, they observed the sleeping town awakening slowly as the time went by. The houses there were finely arranged siding on each other, with fine stones placed to form wide pathways. Most of the houses were built by timber, with a triangle shape on the top, several floors and a lot of windows on each floor. The colour of the houses ranged from dark red wood, brown, orange, light blue, black, grey and white. Many of their windows had the pleasant green colour and plants as well as flowers arranged in a row, especially so for their wide ground window. As the sky started to brighten up a bit Its morning wake up, dear You have school today Nielle Wake up or youll be scolded by your father. Its your favourite breakfast today Marielle~ They could hear mothers waking up their children in such gentle manner some did shout, but it was not in extreme. They could see more housewives went out of their house to buy groceries, and to prepare breakfast for their soon to-be-working husband. As the morning came, the streets started to become lively with more horses, carts, wagons, bicycles and people walking the streets to start their working day. Some Garudas and Wyverns flew in the air, carrying their riders past the town. As people came across them, they were greeted kindly with a slight bow, some with hands raised to the chest, palm-opened and some even took off their hat and gave a slight nod. Many had pleasant smile. Good morning, gentlemen. Thanks for the hard work. Good day, Officers. May God let the Empire continue to prosper. Thank you. As threads of sunlight started to emerge, they could see several small caf was opened. At the Emperors behest, Averon chose a table for them. It was a caf with three tables outside with large umbrella as shelter, and four more tables inside the modest brown building. Averon chose a table just outside the building, with his seat leaning over the wall and he had a good view of the surroundings C a habit out of his training as a bodyguard. The table was surrounded with several flowers C red roses, yellow tulips and white purplish lilies. After you, young Averon. No, you first My Em Good Sir, please. Very well. They took a pleasant breakfast together. It was milk, red tea, slices of melon, bread and butter plus some honey. After paying, Averon asked the caf worker about the direction of the nearest school. They went and observed the school. It was a primary school where children age five to twelve received their education for free C so did the secondary, and college level. There were only several buildings with a chest-high white fence. They jumped to a large tree just beside the school, and sat on top of its largest branch. The shade and leaves of the tree made their position a rather hidden one. They observed the children playing, and how a teacher was trying her best to curb the pupils from running about in class. Must be a new teacher, My Emperor. She needs to learn class control. Still, a good one. She used kind words and advice to persuade the children The problem is, they dont listen. Kukuku Perhaps we need to focus more on the training of teachers. Yes, perhaps. Averon observed the seemingly young teacher. With his well-trained eyes, he could observe her in details. She wore yellow long dress with pleated cloak. She had blonde hair with pony-tail reaching half of her back and a pair of soft, green eyes. White, clear skin and a beauty, plus her gentle voice and elegant manner C she was someone worth remembering. Now listen, I know its hard. Yet I know you can do it. Here, give me a fist of confidence C like this! Yosh! She held her fist to her chest and pulled it down. She repeated it several times with passion. Soon the children copied her and seemed to be pulling more among them into a fist of confidence frenzy. The children were happy, and with her seemingly passionate advice, they soon listened to her. She did not let the children learn all the time just by sitting. Instead, she held activities with songs and that which tickled their imagination and gained their attention. I take back my earlier comment, My Emperor. Shes like you said, a good teacher. We need to observe more details of humans in order to judge them, young Averon. Ill teach you that whenever possible. Im grateful, My Emperor. They observed the children for awhile, before Heh. Dont you think its a miracle? Yes, a miracle. Its only been four years since, but the moods of the Empire changed this much. Happiness and prosperity it was to your credit, My Emperor. Everyone did their part but no, I wasnt speaking about that, young Averon. I was referring to the children. The children? Yes, the guarantors of the continuity of our effort, the bearers of our values and inheritors of all our work. A miracle of God. A miracle Remember this well, young Averon. The next generations are akin to the King on the Chessboard C if chess truly had importance. They are the absolute tangible existences of which we must protect at all cost C Mind, Spirit and Body. Yes Sire. I shall remember. They went on to the church, of which he could see the Emperor had a longing yet upset expression. He had heard of his relation and the bitterness he had felt against the corrupted church authorities... yet he dared not ask for more, at least not now. Still, he never see him badmouthed them, though he had heard the word "corrupt" from him when someone mentioned the Papacy. Later, they went on to observe the works all around town. The factories, they went around asking the workers how fare was their work, how they were treated and so on. Most gave a pleasant answer, credited to the Imperial Policy of making harmony the employers-employees relationship. Their treatment was fair even similar to that of family -- with two hours break in-between with caf available and to some, were even provided swimming pool. The work was limited to eight hours with fair extra hours pay and paid vacation. Their monthly pay was just and the employee enjoyed a stable stream of income. Hearing their pleasant comments and reliefs of being released from the shackles of post-war situation, the Emperor cannot help but to smile ear to ear. Didnt I say so, My Emperor? What you did these four years was a miracle by itself. Heh. Everyone did their part, young Averon. As the morning turned into late morning, they went to Kirlas Garuda dome, and went out to see the nearest highway construction. A highway was necessary as it prevented monsters from attacking caravans and populace trying to get from one town or city to another. A highway was one of the many public projects. Using the ability of issuing money, the government issued money without interest C without usury C and poured all of it into necessary projects which gave people the opportunity of work and proper pay, of which they would soon spend it on the economy. The money issued by the government would have real worth C the worth of their labour; the projects. The projects would later be useful for the populace as a whole, generating income and expanding trade. They were standing on one, with their Garudas just beside them. They could see the fence, the well-done road and security posts alongside it. The highway itself brought in confidence C a mark of a true quality work. The project is going well, My Emperor. Yes, itll take another year for it to finish, but once it did, well see a boost of trade and income coming into our border. Safety, speed, lower cost and fairness contribute confidence, and confidence then transforms into prosperity. Note into your mind what Im going to say, young Averon Yes? Work brings prosperity. Work is the true lifeblood of a nation C of which we produced something useful from the abundance provided to us by God. Remember that. Yes Sire I shall. Lets visit the border a little bit, young Averon. Eh? Wait, My Em-- And thus Averon was dragged to the border, of which he witnessed the exchange of goods using the barter system. With the restriction on international money, Astaria had to resolve it using barter C and it seemed the system was successful, even better than expected. Food and many necessities were procured this way. People from the neightbouring nations loved the fair treatment and evaluation of worth the Astarian Empire gave to their products. The products of Astaria itself, were notably among the highest quality in the world. They returned to Hill of Canterra in the late evening, of which he unfortunately, still remembered being admonished by the Field Marshals and Ministers for bringing the Emperor out without them knowing. They were capable and nice people, but when they were angry Its not my fault! Boohoo~~ ============================================================ Averon snapped out of his reminiscence. He was still sitting on the black rock by the lake, with the soft wind blowing and the sound of water moving. - Geh! What a long reminiscence I wonder why I''m being so sentimental... *Sigh* Remember, remember, remember Those words still rang He learned much from the teachings of his Emperor; someone much dear to him that he considered him his own father. He tried to sum it up into six lessons though he still had a lingering feeling that he missed something, he decided to try to remember it later. Ill note it down in my mind for now. The foundation I wish to build will follow these lessons.
Lesson 1: Noble Work C You reap what you sow. Work is the lifeblood of the economy. By means of work, we produce something. Better yet, something useful from the God-given materials all around us.
Lesson 2: Usury, Speculative Economy, Any Parasitic work and Seigniorage right to private entity or irresponsible governance must be forbidden. C In contradiction with work as the lifeblood of a nation, these are the bloodsuckers. At one point, they would be in a position to manipulate the perceived value of money C spreading injustice and destroying peoples work. Never allow such thing to happen. Seigniorage right belongs to the people, and thus must be committed to the building of public utility and to provide works of real value.
Lesson 3: Know and Unite the People - Build the ability to judge and evaluate people. Know how to influence them, what interest them, and what their nature really is. For many people, you may see their true behaviour just from their face C formed by their everydays work and activity. It is ones behaviour which determines ones abilities. If youre responsible for a mass of inferior quality, seek to improve their inherent ability through culture, splendid behaviour and family values C all habitual formation.
Lesson 4: God, Culture, Behaviour and Family Values - A leader must know the importance of building up the right culture and behaviour of the people. The environment must be molded in a way that it will uphold God in high regard through justice, fairness, and kindness. To achieve this, the role of family must be stressed and values nurtured. Government and everyone must help struggling families.
Lesson 5: Building up your team - The people surrounding you must be kept limited only to people who could use rational judgement, highly devout to your cause and have no interest in squandering the nations wealth. Lead the masses using emotion, and lead your circle with rational thinking and consideration.
Lesson 6: The Next Generations - The guarantors of the continuity of our effort, the bearers of our values and inheritors of all our work. A miracle of God, the next generations are the King on the Chessboard, the absolute tangible existence of which we must protect at all cost C Mind, Spirit and Body.
I shall remember, My Emperor Now, lets start practising Fire Manipulation. He thought so and started to channel Ether and formed fire just outside his body. He felt it working, and as he opened his eyes, he could see fire all around him. Training fire manipulation had never been easy during his past life, but now... he attributed it for his 100% affinity. He raised his hand, the fire followed and flew upwards ---- FROOOUUUU-------! The fire burst upward for several metres Ops too strong Must control --- !! SWIIIII--------- Averon turned his body and made a quick spin on the air, evading an incoming attack C a swirling wind coming in at such a speed. BOOOOMMM! The rock of which he was sitting blew up. The impact threw him further towards the rocky cliff, of which he turned and landed with his feet, almost in a vertical position. He already activated wind cladding while he was spinning, and now wind was moving around him. I know youre not normal but to be able to use fire so well plus, that wind The soft yet stern voice was familiar to him. - But why would she out of all people, attacked me? He turned to the place her voice was coming, seemingly forgetting one important fact C that she was a wind user as well. He immediately realized his mistake C a mistake only was made since his instinct was dulled. Shuuuuoooo---- Eerie wind blew past his back Only then he realized that she was No doubt, the short grey robe grey hair, the long, wide sleeves leather shoes up to her knees the black-silver eyes sharp gaze yes, at his back Laksha. Do C not C move, else Swwiii---------- A cold, moving wind was coming from his back. He knew the sound of it the technique created by his own sworn-sister a very dangerous one Shiarines Sword of Wind He whispered. Just by his neck, wind was swirling so fast, yet so stable in its course that it was assuming the form of a long sword which came out from her bare hand. Just answer my question no playing with words, else your head She made a stern yet incomplete statement. Before Averon could say anything, he could feel her high fighting spirit flared behind him one which made him staggered. He could barely withstand it, since his own fighting spirit was locked by God. He had a cold sweat What on Ein Gard are you?! =========================================================================== Poll: Cliffhangers Good day guys, sorry but not a chapter. I''ve read your comments, and it seemed the cliffhangers were torturing you guys, so I was wondering... Do you prefer having a cliffhanger or not? Or preferably not-so obvious cliffhanger..? I''ve posted a poll, do vote in any one of them. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Important! The result would no doubt influence your experience of reading Ein Gard from now on. Chp 16 The Moment of Truth ====================================================================== Continent of Erlin C Years ago. A sturdy-looking man and a little girl were hiking a hill filled with pine trees all around them. They wore brown leather shoes with leggings and thick coat of white, with yellowish fur around their neck all the way down, and also around their arm. The girl had grey hair, and the man had black. The sun was shining brightly, yet the air was chilling. Some snow was around while some squirrels were moving about on the trees. Haa Their breath left behind mist as they pressed on. The girl tried to quicken her pace in order to stay near to him. Once a while, she had to rushed forward as her usual steps were not fast enough. Tap, tap, tap--- As soon as she was able to follow, his pace quickened. Soon it was too fast for her, resulting in her puffing for air and slowing her pace yet the man did not wait. She changed the way she breath, inhaling the air slowly yet much deeper into her stomach, before releasing it slowly through her mouth at intervals. Looking up, she noticed he was about ten metres further than her. Wait! Dad! She called him out. He stopped, turning around and looked at the child C his daughter. She ran uphill towards him, stopping a mere metre to his front. She looked up to him. Huffhuff D-daddy, mind if I ask you something again.? The request from the young child made him smile. He knew it was her trick to make him stop and rest, since he hardly gave her any chance during training. Even walking uphill like this could be considered training for such a young child. And when they arrived to their destination, a much harsher training awaits. Heh Dont tell me let me guess is it about his return? Y-yes, the Martyr Emperor will he really return? Its been too long. He placed his wide palm on her head, caressing her shoulder-long hair. She almost closed her eyes as her hair was being ruffled by her father. My daughter my pride and joy Believe in his return, with all your heart and being. God promised, and Hell never break promise. Then will he return during my lifetime? Been almost seven hundred years since, who knows how much time more-- He chuckled. His daughter was too smart for her age. To deal with such intelligent yet fragile mind, he knew as a father, he must use the best of such opportunity C to touch and left behind a fine imprint of values inside his next generation. He sat directly in front of her, face-to-face, humming with his arms crossed. Hmm~ He grinned with confidence. That, my daughter, I have no-- such knowledge. H-how come you dont know dad? You know the names of trees, plants, birds, animals, terrains oceans, clouds, even the star-zzz C and you know history a lot C and you can cook! I thought you know everything! ... Hah! My daughter I might know more than most people, but certainly not everything and no one but God, knows everything. I am but a human. I must say I do not know when I truly dont. Then why must we be ready with all these training Im C Im not complaining dad Well, its just The father made a rather blank face in front of his daughter, with her hiding her face behind her hands in embarrassment for questioning her fathers training. Children of Arcadia C no matter where C were taught to be strong both mind and body. It was imprinted into her that complaining about the hardship of training was something akin to shame. Heh Do you remember the story of the Astaria C Demon War? O-of course I remember. All the suffering all the hardship all the sacrifice? Good. Then you must know this, my daughter We have the responsibility to restrain any demons from entering our dimension; that alone was enough as the reason. I I see. Plus The Martyr Emperor, our ancestor, was the one who took down the Two-headed, Demon Dragon of Fire C enabling your great great grandfather and mother to come to Ein Gard and here we are. Able to enjoy peace together with your mother It took awhile for the whole explanation to seep in into her consciousness. Our ancestor, as was mentioned, was actually referring to him as part of their people as a whole. When she finished analyzing the meaning behind what her father said, she nodded. T-then we must be thankful? Then! Ueh! Her cheek flushed. She was shocked by her fathers enthusiasm C yet soon calmed as he did this every so often. When he arrived, dont you want him to feel proud when he sees us? Eh..? She blanked out, but soon nodding furiously. And then, you can tell him I C I can tell him? Yes, you can tell that legendary Emperor of ours yourself when he comes that his sacrifice, was not He slowly embraced his daughter, and whispered into her ear Sudden cold breeze came and passed through them, yet his daughter could hear his words quite well. She smiled. It was a smile filled with content. ================================== Chapter 16: The Moment of Truth ================================== By the lake, two figures were on top of a large, black rock by a high cliff. High-speed wind started to encircle the two, bringing a lot of humidity into the surrounding air. On top of the rock Averon, and at his back Laksha, with a barely visible long sword protruding from her right hand; its end was placed at Averons neck. He could feel the cool breeze and hear the buzzing sound coming from her Sword of Wind. He was questioned, yet he did not answer. He stood silent, with his back facing her. Answer the freaking question. Laksha said with heavy tone. Why are you being hostile, Lady Laksha? You know who I am. Youre testing my patience. Just answer the question! SWUUUUUUUSHH------------------------- The wind encirclement started to move at a much higher speed, as if the nature defined her temper. She was in a rather awful mood, possibly because of what happened to Shisha, and also the fact she had to do this. As for Averon, he was pondering - Why is she acting this way? I know shes not Is it because of what happened to Shisha? Should I tell her? But the warning He was thinking about revealing himself at some point, but not this fast. The warning from C God C on his Status Window was about keeping his identity a secret. He was merely five-year old, not even ready, and should the Demon Army be aware of his existence The locked status on his Maximum hostility with the Demons Army would possibly be undone. - A secret need to stay with just one person. Even another person knowing could spell an end to a secret. He thought. He also pondered the reason why Laksha was behaving this way then another fact written in the status window struck him -- His hidden title - Could it be? I inherited all fire affinity and traits of the Two-headed Demon Dragon Did I emit demonic presence somehow if I did when? You WRUUU ----- Lakshas fighting spirit flared again. The air surrounding her shivered, with pieces of small rocks started to float around her. The cool air surrounding them was getting heavy C pressuring him. The pressure was overwhelming, yet he refused to kneel. Ughh! - Being pressured into kneeling by my very own next-generation? No way! My fighting spirit might be locked but I still have the mentality of a Knight Tch! His legs were shaking He forced them to stay with sheer willpower. He had to decide fast. Fine, but tell me one thing Im the one asking question here! VRUUUU---! The surrounding air trembled, her grey hair fluttered while her robe rose upward. The image behind Averon was akin to a ghost. Wait! Just one Its necessary! Just one, and depends. Get on with it. Alright. The question is, Lady Laksha. Can you keep a secret? ? His question threw her off-guard The wind around them slowed down, moisture filled the air. Her mouth opened a bit in surprise, yet soon she regained her composure. Well? Fine! I can, only if it was absolutely necessary. Really? You Asta--- Arcadians always keep their words. Arent you an Arcadian, Lady Laksha? Wha She knitted her eyes. That fact was not really a secret C yet somehow, the way he said it it was as if he knew Arcadians more than he should. She already accepted the fact that he was not normal, so she tried to shrug it off. Yes, Im a proud Arcadian! I will keep my word. Satisfied? Really? Really! VRUUUUHHH---! The surrounding air produced eerie sound reflecting her emotion. She was pissed off. - Oh my God. Shes like a child throwing a tantrum ironic coming from me whos a mere five when shes supposed to be older than Shisha again, ironic when she right now looks thirteen or so I dont think shes a bad child though Ill need to discipline her somehow when I can. Now, answer! He had no way to subdue her right now, so he decided to ask for her cooperation. While his nature manipulation might be more powerful than hers, his body could not even withstand her one serious attack. His bodys endurance, speed, vitality, strength and even fighting spirit he lacked them all. He knew it from the start; that her first attack that blew the rock before, was too slow to be called a real attack. Thus, the fact emerged in his mind that she was controlling herself. Then again, he still wished to find any chance to keep his secret only to him as the Maximum hostility with the Demons Army C though it sounded like a compliment, did not appeal to him at all. Any premature leak would be disastrous, yet It was the moment of truth. Fine, Ill answer. You may not believe me, but Ill explain if need be. Just out with it. Im a Martyr. Silence ensued. Laksha was in a daze, with a little of her mouth open. Her eyes were fixed on him, yet she was clearly spacing out. Um Lady Laksha? She snapped back into reality. A A Martyr? How dare you utter such -- blasphemy! She said so with scorn. Im not lying. I was a Knight before, I cannot blatantly lie. Knight..? So youre saying youre reincarnated?! Yes Lady Laksha, no need to speak that way Its harsh Youre a lady and this should not be an interrogation. You cant treat one as guilty until one is proven so. Wha--- Ughh The way you speak Really So you were really a knight? Yes, was and still believe myself to be. She pondered. She knew well how a knight would talk, since she grew up with one. It was tiny details C but to those who were accustomed to how knight of Arcadia talk, they would know Perhaps. People of Arcadia were taught that a Martyr lived on, though she never met any who claimed to be one. She lowered her Sword of Wind a little, yet soon decided not to and returned her hand back to position. Uuh Isnt this thing too dangerous..? Please put it away No, Im not done yet I will once everything is clear Her tone became a little nicer. Averon sighed in relief. At least he would not be missing a head from a sudden mood swing. - Being killed by your own next-generation is no laughing matter huhu Meanwhile, Laksha was observing him in details from his back. He was a bit uncomfortable, but at least he was out of danger, for now anyway. Cant I at least turn and face you Lady Laksha, this is a bit No, please stay that way. - Please? Well that a good improvement He could feel the sharp gaze coming from her up, down sizing him up. Averon had a well-toned body, different from any usual five-year old. While normal child of Knights might have better body than others, his body was even better than them. She pondered what kind of training a five-year old had to endure to achieve this C and such fact reminded her of her own childhood. Her eyes then stopped at the back of his head. The word Martyr lingered in her mind. There never been a living, breathing Martyr reported before. So can you give me proof? Well, first Do not think they are dead. Verily, the Martyrs live on, in a place unknown to you along with God-granted abundance. !! You Saying from how do you know those..? I just know it All Knights of Astaria do. Or should do, at least. Aaa She gaped. As-- Astaria?! Youre from our original dimension? Then why how come you emit demonic aura? Eh? When did I..? I cant recall doing so. She sighed, then decided to tell him some information. It was when youre asleep Actually Ive observed you for over a week, and four days ago You emit very minute, yet very dense powerful demonic aura. Eh could it be that you per chance, make a mistake? My whole sensation was tingling back then Theres no way I mistook it for something else. It was an aura of a fire demon so dense I thought At first, I thought it was a high demon yet to take possession of you but that fire and that nature manipulation Averon listened to her fumbled explanation while enduring the eerie, tingling buzzing to his neck. After the incident during the linking, she had suspicion that a demon capable of hiding its aura to be dwelling inside him, and had already taken considerable control. The fact she just presented hit him C Fire demon, with an aura so dense That was most likely the Two-headed Demon Dragons aura. This confirmed his theory just then. Then again How can I know youre really a Martyr? She ended her explanation with a question. Ask away Lady Laksha. I cant be flaunting myself Not befitting a Knight. Tell me in details about yourself then. No Ask me specific questions telling in details is a bit Fine! Whats your real name and rank? Well? Surely thats reasonable? Can we skip past the name and rank? Can I just prove you with techniques of Astarian Knights? Suspicious. Whyre you making this difficult? Just out with your name Sir? You jest I wish to avoid that If the demon army knew of my existence therell be disaster Wha Youre exaggerating. Argh fine, Ill just tell you this C the Sages, us, are actually monitoring any Dimensional Space-bending. Any Opening or portal, would be closed immediately before its too late. Closing one is much easier than opening one. The Demons which seeped into this dimension through incarnation, the amount is rather small Plus, most are Middle or Low-ranked. So you have no cause for worry even if youre a famed knight of Astaria. ...I see Regardless just trust me on this And Ill show you the techniques I knew. Some demons could copy our techniques Ill show you High-level techniques the demons couldnt possibly copy, since it involved Gods name. A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.High-level techniques I might be mistaken, but isnt that only capable to be executed by High-Tier Knights? She referred to Astarian Knights Tiers C four in total. It started with Low-Tier, Mid-Tier, Advance-Tier and High-Tier. The High-Tier, even during the height of the war, amounted to a mere twenty four. No, not only High-Tier Knights even the Advance-Tier could, though sometimes they failed. They..? Then youre? Why dont you see for yourself Afterall, actions speak louder than words. Fine. Then Ill start No tricks! I dont trust you yet And Ill be holding your sword. She eyed his sword, which was thrown away onto the land when the rock exploded. It was rather strange for a wooden sword to still be intact while the hard rock turned to smithereens C that fact disturbed her. Wind swirled and threw Averons wooden sword onto her hand, and she backed away from him. She felt rather cheap even restricting him of his sword, but she had to make sure. Years of experience had taught her not to readily trust suspicious things. She stood a mere ten metre from him, and could hear him breathing in and out. She knew the breathing pattern C it was similar to how Sages breathed, though that still did not prove anything aside from him knowing how to do it well. Really well, in fact. Averon closed his eyes. She could not resist observing closely what he was doing, and tilted a bit towards him. By then it struck her that she forgot that looking at him directly could possibly be dangerous C since he could very well use charm on her. Charm magic was not rare, though a strong one that even Sage could not resist was really rare. Everytime she looked at him, she had the tendency to trust him C or at least, think he was trustworthy. It was something impossible, due to her personality of questioning things. Thus even the Sage council members, she had yet to fully trust. Yet it happened. Odd, she thought. Averon opened his eyes. He waved his right hand. Form zero, one, one, two, three, five, eight, thirteen, twenty-one, thirty-four, fifty-five He uttered the numbers steadily Water, your grace to mankind. O The Most Benevolent I call upon spiraling water to show my next generation C your truth. The water from the lake vibrated, and from the middle of it, currents could be seen moving Closer Then a mass of spiraling water was formed C it was a tsunami of over 10 metres C heading straight towards them, yet barely missing their position. It passed by Averons back and Wha WHUSSSHH------! Hit the rocks beside the lake. Booming sound shook the ground, and splashes of water hit her face. She raised her hand as a shield and almost closed her eyes in response. She opened them up immediately, thinking it was over Yet from behind, came another. Another one?! WHUSSSHH------ And another. WHUSSSHH------ The giant waves continuously formed and hit the rocks just beside the lake. From afar, people of Crest noticed the giant tsunamis. In the citys port, soldiers, fishermen, traders, customers, knights, nobles and peasants alike; on their ship, on the wall and on the ground all gaped in awe of the strange natural phenomenon. People who witnessed it made a commotion. By the living God~! Look! Another one! Is it a monster from the lake? Is it?! Call the Knights! That cant be something natural! Amazing! Im going there for a look! Wait, Im going too! "Wait! It could be dangerous!" And thus people from the port started to run towards the place the Tsunami hit. As they did, wave after wave C overall eight waves hit the rocks. Soon, water vapour was visible in abundance, and the whole place filled with fog. Fog so thick what is he? Laksha pondered his next action. Meanwhile the onlookers were too far away from the scene to notice the existence of a girl in gray facing a much younger boy. Averon raised his right hand. By the fecundating winds of which you send C It is from you water descends from the sky as our sustenance C Verily, you are the owner of the heavens stores. I pray to you, O The Only One with Authority. Show this as testament of truth to my next generation. SWWIIIIIIIIIIII------------- Wind now came one trip after another, taking up the water in the air C aerosol around the place the tsunami waves hit. It took some time for it to reach high altitude. High-level technique combination Laksha opened her eyes wide, looking up through the whole process. The particles came in contact with the water vapours above, of which condensed around these particles and turned into water droplets. These water droplets formed a rain cloud. This is..! Laksha observed the sky in awe. Rain Formation. It was a high level formation requiring a Grand Mastery in Wind Manipulation and Mastery in Water Manipulation. Even then, only those with over two thousand Faith could form this natural phenomenon C as long as God permits. These requirements restricted the formation of rain by the Sages C or any Arcadian for that matter. Of this, Laksha was God-smacked. Her mouth was gaping wide and her black-silver eyes were staring at the moving sky She was among the few Sages who reached Grandmaster level in Wind Manipulation, and she knew well how hard it was to form a rain cloud from a lake C impossible alone. In fact, since she lacked the mastery of water manipulation, forming a cloud from a lake would take a lot of time. Still, she could do it from the ocean, as long as there were strong waves that kept hitting a rocky shore. Usually, rather than forming clouds, she would just move any already formed clouds to places that needed water. The rain cloud was formed without a hitch. Averon was thankful to the Creator, and he made a satisfied smile. He turned to her, witnessing her gaping mouth and eyes fixed onto the cloud. - Thank you God Next The Thunderbolt which Seized No, no thats too powerful just a warning one would do One capable enough to explain to her Explain in details Yeah, that one still a high-level one ..Let me warn my people with The Destructive Thunder One of which overtook the two tribes who were arrogant and disdainful. O My Absolute Creator Let this be a reminder to everyone and my next-generation, of Your Eternal Power..!" Vruuu--- Signs of thunder started to appear within the rain cloud. Laksha had her heart beating in excitement and fear. It was due to signs of thunder C at a level much higher than a Master of Lightning such as Shisha could possibly execute. Averon raised his middle and index fingers towards the cloud, then directed them onto a surface behind Laksha SHIIIIZZZZZZZZZZ----------- And next to him, onto the lake SHUUUZZZZZZZZZZ----------- And to his back, onto the hill SHAAAZZZZZZZZZZ----------- Ueh! She ducked as three clusters of lightning strikes hit the ground behind her, the water next to them and the hill behind Averon. The whole place shook. The ground behind her rose to the air, with sudden burning smell came next C while the water rose up in steam and the lakes water filled the sudden hole. On the hill, the strikes had shoved down the ground and rocks C now burning charcoals, into the lake. A show of force. It was a clear testament of power. She turned her attention to Averon again. He noticed her and smiled in return. Rain started to pour and soon it poured down in earnest. The rain soaked them. Laksha in particular C her robe was drenched and thus showed her well-developed figure, despite looking so young. Averon noticed her figure. - Eh Very well done Oh darn it what am I thinking! God forgive me for having per-- em? She Shes not moving? Laksha had since stood there immobile. Averons wooden sword was on the ground just beside her. She tried to open her mouth, yet closed it back. The rain kept pouring. Her braided grey hair fell down and covered half of her face. - Why is she Could it be these are not enough? I dont really want to show any High-offensive technique C using one without absolute necessity I dont know how to face God should I really do it. No, Im thinking about it too much. I should just wait for her to say something. Laksha stood silent for a good five minute. She knew He was at GrandMaster level C and truly, reaching GrandMaster in any element was extremely rare C much less in two. .. Two! Wind and Lightning! Unheard of among the living in Ein Gard, and mentioned only in legends. Plus, the fact that executing such technique did not even stagger him hit her C and she finally uttered; Hi High-Tier Knight of Astaria Her heart was beating fast. One of the legendary figures of which she grew up listening to C was in front of her. She began to ponder which one among them C at least from what she could remember, had both Grand Mastery in Wind and Lightning nature. Three names came into her mind. M-my Lord Can I ask you a question? ? Ask away. She used respectable honorific to address him. - Shes acting a lot nicer So she already trusted my explanation but whats with her heartbeat its not healthy He noticed the vibration around her. Her heart was beating so much he started to get worried. Her curiosity was killing her, literally. Laksha hesitated, but then garnered enough courage to ask. Were you also Emm a C a man, before youre reincarnated..? Ehh Of course I was. Lets not dwell on this matter anymore, Lady Laksha Dont you think Ive shown you enough? Strike one, two left. Then M-my Lord, youre are you also from the Wind Clan? Eh Emm He nodded in response. He knew where this was going, yet he just did not have the heart to lie especially so when the one in front of him was closer to him than expected. She was of the Wind Clan as well. She tried to say something She stuttered, then after mumbling a bit, uttered; It is He Who sends the Winds as heralds of good tidings Going before His Mercy. And he answered instantly C of which he started to regret doing so. She jolted, but then Wind of Good Tidings ascend. She whispered. Winds carried her, and the whole pouring of rain was carried with the wind which followed, and she began to move around him Till when they have carried a heavy-laden cloud... We drive it to the land which is dead Averon ascended, with wind below and much faster wind above. It was an exchange. An exchange between two Clan members A tradition which lasted for over a thousand years They began to move in a circle while facing each other. As per tradition, Averon had to be the one chasing Laksha, with her facing him while moving. Then We cause water to fall thereon Then We produce every kind of fruits therewith. From her face, Averon could see her tearing up. Her usual pale face flushed red C yet there was no anger Similarly, We shall raise up the dead So you may remember and take heed. Both of them were moving with the wind A circling wall of wind was visible from afar. The onlookers, and the people approaching them stopped to look at the phenomenon in awe. The winds were elevating them as to heights higher C as if they were elevating within a wall C a wall made of winds and water. Within the said wall, Laksha continued on From the land which is good Grows easily by His Permission And Averon still answered. He flew by her for awhile, and both of them encircled each other while flying From the land which is bad Brings forth nothing but with misery. She closed her eyes The final verse Thus do We explain variously the Signs For people who are grateful. She choked, and then lowered her height slowly before stepping onto the rather wet, sandy ground sided by two elevated hills. Averon followed suit, knowing well that The Dance of Wind was over. Strike two. Theres only one left Only drizzle fell, and the wind circling them seemed calmer than ever From afar, Averon noticed people coming in, approaching their location with extreme eagerness. They were covered by the hill, but it was a matter of time before they arrived and witnessed them both. Lady Laksha, lets get out of here before Final question. I dont think we have much time. Just a short one, My Lord Just Yes or No. What is it? Your real name was Averon Arcad. Was it not? Averon Arcad - Damn it. Is it too obvious?! It was only a matter of time for her to come up with the conclusion C something he had preferred to stay hidden. Now that she asked Not answering. Just say No if you were not. Is it too difficult, My Lord? Please. If its not true just say no And I wont dwell into it anymore Then its true A Knight cannot lie. As foolish as that sounds, that refer to non-enemies and for treaties. Youre not my enemy Youre Your next-generation. She answered in his stead. The drizzle fell onto her Her whole body was wet and her face seemed as if she was crying Was she? The one who continues your legacy... bearer of your values... inheritor of your work The one who was protected by you Ive waited, for a long time Yes, I am Your next--" She coughed, and almost choked herself before continuing generation I, Latianna Kauf Sherman, call name Laksha She dropped her legs, and fell on her knees. Her right hand was on her chest, slanted, while her left was placed onto the ground. Her wet hair almost covered her face as she kneeled. From the position, she bowed to him as much as she could Your servant, Laksha -- pays respect to you, My Emperor! He was looking at her with a serious gaze. Wind moved violently around them. Sudden lightning and thunder followed suit; the resulting shadows engulfed him with a dark atmosphere. Finally, in this world of Ein Gard, the truth was revealed. ===
The Next Generations The guarantors of the continuity of our effort, the bearers of our values and inheritors of all our work. A miracle of God, the next generations are the King on the Chessboard, the absolute tangible existence of which we must protect at all cost C Mind, Spirit and Body.
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