《I WAS the Rank–1 Hero》 1.Prologue: The Last Mission (Part 1) 1.Prologue: The Last Mission (Part 1) "Even the greatest hero can fall, but it¡¯s what happens afterward that defines them." It¡¯s something my mentor always said. Back then, I didn¡¯t understand what she really meant by it. I mean, come on¡ªI¡¯m only 17 and kicking. Everywhere I go, people worship me. "Oh! You¡¯re so powerful!" "No one is stronger than you!" "The savior of humanity!" "The greatest of the 10 heroes!" "The No. 1 Hero!" ¨C Bullshit. They don¡¯t know the blood, sweat, and tears I¡¯ve poured into this journey. "The strongest human ever known to mankind"¡ªthat title didn¡¯t come easy. And trust me, no one in the next thousand years will come close to earning it. What about the No. 2 Hero, you ask? Heh. Not. Even. Close. But enough about that. Back to the mission. As always, the Hero Association handed me one of their ¡°impossible¡± tasks. Standard protocol for the No. 1 Hero. I tapped my wristband, and a glowing holographic screen appeared in front of me, resembling a game quest window: Mission Details: Mission Rank¨CSS+ Task¨CReclamation of [Flora Island] Assigned Hero Name¨C[HOPE] Hero Rank¨C01 ¡°[Hope] to the assist team. I¡¯m in position, confirming target location¡ªover.¡± I swiped the call button and reported in.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. A cold, robotic voice responded, ¡°Assist Team Member 245, reporting. Location confirmed¡ªyour coordinates are 0¡ã24¡¯34¡¯¡¯ S, 78¡ã35¡¯40¡± E on [Flora Island]. Sir HOPE, you are cleared to proceed.¡± ¡°Oh, it¡¯s 245. Long time no see! How have you been?¡± I asked. ¡°Position confirmed. Current location verified. Sir HOPE, please proceed with your mission.¡± I smirked. ¡°Still all business, huh? That¡¯s why you don¡¯t have any friends.¡± ¡°Sir HOPE, the president is monitoring your every move.¡± My smile faded. Damn it. Just my rotten luck. ¡°Understood. Proceeding now.¡± The wind howled across [Flora Island], carrying a mournful tune that echoed through the dense forest. The towering cliffs loomed over the raging ocean, where waves slammed against the rocks like thunderous cries. Even the air felt heavy¡ªcold, sharp, and unnatural. It was 7 p.m., but the sky was so dark it could¡¯ve been midnight. Thunder rolled in the distance, and rain fell in relentless torrents, hammering the ground. The chill was so piercing it could freeze even the undead to its death. Something felt wrong. It¡¯s too¡­ quiet. ¡°This is the right place, yeah?¡± I asked. ¡°Affirmative,¡± 245 replied. I stood at the edge of a cliff, scanning the chaos before me. The mission seemed simple: reclaim the island from enemy forces. But the eerie silence gnawed at me. It was too quiet, as if the island itself was holding its breath. ¡°I think¡­ this might be my last mission,¡± I muttered. ¡°Did you say something, sir?¡± ¡°¡­No. Anyway, what am I fighting here? A [Ghoul]? A [Reaper]? Or maybe a [Fallen]?¡± ¡°It¡¯s [Wrath], sir.¡± My brow furrowed. Wrath? Monsters in this world came in all shapes and ranks, each with unique abilities. [Wrath] was middle-tier¡ªa threat, sure, but nothing a triple-rank hero couldn¡¯t handle. ¡°You¡¯re kidding, right? Then why is this mission ranked SS+? Wait¡­ don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s an army of [Wrath]?¡± Even that didn¡¯t sit right. A single Rank¨C10 Hero could take care of an army of [Wrath]. Sending me, the Rank¨C1 Hero, to handle this was overkill. Something was off. A trap? A test? Or something far worse? ¡°Permission to use [Doombringer],¡± I ordered. As the words left my mouth, a weight settled on my chest. This wasn¡¯t just another mission. Something was coming, something far bigger than I had anticipated. And for the first time in years, I wasn¡¯t sure if I was ready. 2. The Last Mission
  1. The Last Mission (Part 2)
The atmosphere was electric, charged with tension as the storm raged. Rain hammered against the ground relentlessly, subduing visibility. The winds howled, twisting trees into bizarre shapes, and the crashing waves against [Flora] Island¡¯s cliffs added a dark and powerful rhythm to the chaos. I stood at the edge of the cliff, my black cape snapping wildly in the gale, my pale-white hand hovering over the control panel on my wristband. [Doombringer]. The name alone was enough to make my chest tighten. It wasn¡¯t just a weapon¨Cit was destruction incarnate, a power I wielded with absolute precision and control. So why does it feel so heavy this time? ¡°Activating [Doombringer],¡± I muttered, my voice barely audible over the storm¡¯s roar¨Cbut loud enough to echo in my mind. My heart raced as the ground beneath me began to glow. My emotions were like a storm mirroring the chaos outside. In my mind determination, anger, unease¨Cthey clashed and collided in the battlefield. I clenched my fists. No time for doubt. Focus. Focus. The weapon materialized before me, a massive, black, obsidian blade humming with unstable energy. Sparks cracked along its long-edged length, illuminating the darkened island with violet glow. As I gripped the hilt, a surge of familiar raw power coursed in my veins. For a moment, I felt invincible¨Ca god among men. And yet, the nagging feeling in the back of my mind remained. ¡°Enemy detected at 10 ¡®o¡¯ clock!¡± 245 warned. From the distance, shadows began to stir. Dozens of [Wraths] emerged from the treeline, their monstrous forms illuminated by the flashes of lightning. Their glowing red eyes pierced through the darkness, and their guttural growls were barely audible over the storm. They moved in unison, a horrifying and strange synchronization that hinted that a greater intelligence controlling them. I took a deep breath, narrowing my eyes¨CI unleased the [Doombringer]. ¡°Come on then,¡± I growled. ¨CClick!! The ground trembled beneath my feet as the blade cut through the air, The first swing of the [Doombringer] unleashed a devastating arc of energy, slicing through the advancing [Wraths] like butter with brutality. ¨CSwoosh!! A single swoop of my blade eradicated all the [Wraths], destroying nearly a mile of trees in the process. ¡®They are all dead, and I didn¡¯t even budge, ~Heh, told you it was overkill.¡¯ The explosion of light and heat turned the surrounding rain into steam, creating a hazy battlefield where shadows and shapes danced ominously. ¡°Hmm? ¡­ something seems off. Hey, 245, are there any other monster species here except the [Wraths]?¡± ¡°¡­. Negative.¡± the answer delayed. For every [Wrath] I cut down, two more seemed to take its place. They moved strategically, leading me towards the heart of the island. I felt the weight of the battle pressing down on me¨C¨Cthis wasn¡¯t just a fight. It was a trap. ¡°They¡¯re stalling me,¡± I muttered, my eyes darting around the battlefield. ¡°For what?¡± Suddenly, a chilling presence made itself known. The air grew colder, and the storm seemed to momentarily still as if holding its breath. As I turned¨Cmy instincts screaming me to run away, but it was too late. From the shadows emerged a figure unlike any I had encountered before. Clocked in darkness, its form was indistinct, shifting and blurring like smoke in the wind. Its eyes glowed with an otherworldly light. Without any delay I held the hilt of [Doombringer] and slashed at the shadow, ¡°Full Essence [Nova Blast],¡± I muttered, as I hit the shadow with my blade. Before I could react, the figure moved with blinding seed. It caught my [Doombringer] with his bare hands. Gold colour blood started dripping from the figure¡¯s hand. ¨C¨CGolden Blood!!! Before I could process the sight, the figure flicked its wrist, it exerted a force so great¨Cthat it sent me flying, my body crashing through trees and slamming into the cliffside. Pain erupted through me as I struggled to breathe, the metallic taste of blood filling my mouth. ¡°What the¨C¨C¡°I coughed, struggling to stand. The [Doombringer] lay several feet away, its glow dimming. I reached for it, but the figure appeared before me, its hand plunging into my chest. All this happened so quickly that even I, hailed as the strongest human known to mankind, was left in awe. ¡°[Hope],¡± it said mockingly. ¡°How ironic.¡± My vision blurring as I felt an icy, burning pain spread from the wound. The figure leaned closer, its voice a mere whisper in my ear. ¡°Even the greatest can fall.¡± ¨CHow is this even possible. After all, no one¡¯s ever called me ¡®weak,¡¯ why can¡¯t I move my body¨C¨COhh!! It¡¯s that golden blood¨C¨C. The world around me seemed to slow. The storm, the rain, the battle¨C¨Call of it faded into the background as I collapsed to my knees. My mind raced, memories flashing before my eyes. Faces of my mother, father and my big sister appeared one after another. ¨C¨CIt¡¯s been a while I have seen my mother¡¯s face¡­. How much year has passed 2 years¡­no¡­ 3 years I assume since I last saw them¡­. They didn¡¯t even know that their son is the Rank¨C1 Hero, what type of face they will make if they knew ¨Cproud¨Cworried¨CMy mother will definitely starts crying, my father I think he will be proud and my sister ¡­ I am curious to know what type of face she¡¯ll make¨C¨C ¡°Sir [Hope] your vitals are falling!!...... sir [Hope]¡­... can ¡­. Me!!.... back¡­...right¡­¡­. with you¡­!¡± 245¡¯s voice broke through the haze, panicked for the first time. ¡°Please respond! Sir¨C¨C¡±The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°This¡­ can¡¯t be it,¡± I whispered. But even as I fought to hold on, darkness began to consume me. The battlefield was silent now, [Hope¡¯s] lifeless body lay motionless amidst the chaos, his once vibrant aura extinguished. The [Doombringer], inert and dull, rested a few meters away, a haunting relic of a battle fought and lost. As the storm began to calm, as if the heavens themselves mourned the loss of the Rank¨C1 Hero. The figure that had struck the final blow watched for a moment longer. ¡°The Fallen [Hope],¡± it murmured before vanishing into the shadows, leaving no trace behind. Hero Association HQ News of [Hope¡¯s] death reached the Hero Association headquarters within hours. The sterile, white conference room was silent as the board members¨C¨Cmen and women in sharp suits with sharp eyes to match¨C¨Cgathered around a long table. The air was cold, devoid of emotion, as the president of the Hero Association, a man known as Magnus Bloodstone, stood at the head of the table. ¡°So, it¡¯s confirmed,¡± Magnus said, his voice like steel cutting through the air. ¡°[Hope] is dead.¡± A murmur ran through the conference room, but it was subdued, restrained. No one dared to show grief or shock¨C¨Cnot here, not in front of Magnus. ¡°We cannot afford for this information to reach the public,¡± Magnus continued. ¡°The Rank¨C1 Hero is more than just a man. He is a symbol. A beacon of hope for humanity. If they find out he¡¯s gone¡­¡± He deliberately let the sentence hang, the unspoken consequences heavy in the air. One of the board members, a woman with piercing grey eyes, leaned forward. ¡°What do you propose, Mr. President?¡± Magnus¡¯s lips curled up into an ominous smile devoid of warmth. ¡°We replace him.¡± Gasps echoed around the table. Another member, an older man with thin frame, spoke up. ¡°You mean¡­ find another hero to take his place?¡± ¡°Exactly,¡± Magnus said. ¡°We¡¯ll assign a new hero to the name [Hope]. The public doesn¡¯t need to know what happened. To them, [Hope] will be alive, still fighting for humanity.¡± ¡°And where do we find such a Hero who matched [Hope] Description,¡± The women with grey eyes asked. ¡°¨C¨CI have a perfect candidate for it,¡± Magnus stated immediately. ¡°But¡­ what about his legacy?¡± someone whispered. ¨CBAAM!! Magnus slammed his hand on the table, his cold, calculated demeanour breaking for just a moment. ¡°HIS LEGACY BELONGS TO US!! TO THE HERO ASSOCIATION!!... Cough! Cough!... [Hope] is not a person¨C¨Cit¡¯s an idea, a brand. And we cannot let the brand die.¡± Silence fell over the room again. No one dared oppose him. ¡°What about his body?¡± the grey-eyed woman asked. ¡°Destroy all evidence. Chop his body parts and burry it deep in that very island. Ensure that no one ever finds out the truth,¡± Magnus ordered. ¨C¨C¨C¨C With that almost a month has passed, a new hero was chosen, His name was irrelevant; what mattered was his appearance and ability to mimic Hope¡¯s powers. The new [Hope] stood on a stage at a press conference, the Hero Association¡¯s emblem gleaming on the backdrop behind him. The crowd cheered. ¡°We will continue to fight for humanity!¡± the new Hope declared, raising his fist in a gesture of triumph. But behind the scenes, the Hero Association moved like a machine, cold and efficient. Files were erased, records altered, and the real Hope¡¯s existence reduced to whispers and ashes. [After thirty more days] Deep beneath the surface of [Flora] Island, something stirred. Hope¡¯s body parts, tossed in a forgotten corner of the battlefield, began to glow faintly. An unknown energy, pulsed through him, knitting together torn flesh and mending broken bones. His heart, silent for so long, gave a single, powerful beat. ¨C¨CBa-dump!... Ba-dump! Hope¡¯s Eyes shot open, as he gasped for the air as if surfacing from the depth of darkest ocean. He clutched his chest, feeling no wound, no pain. His body was whole, unscarred. ¡°What¡­. happened?¡± he muttered, his voice hoarse. Memories flodded back to him¨C¨Cthe battle, the mysterious enemy, the cold final death. But then something else. A fragment of knowledge buried deep within him surfaced. A skill, dormant and hidden, has activated in his final moment of death. ¡°Immortality¡­¡± he whispered, the word tasting foreign yet familiar on his tongue. As I stood, I felt my legs trembling as I surveyed the area. The [Doombringer] lay nearby, still lifeless. I picked it up without any delay. ¡°When will the backup coming?¡± I wished. I loomed my attention to my wristband and tried to contact the association, but it seems out of battery. ¨C¨CI remembered charging it to fullest. It has to last atleast 30 days¡­is it broken? I waited. One hour passed. Two hours passed. . . . Six hours has passed and there is not a single member of Hero Association. ¡°What exactly happened?¡± Without waiting any longer, I started climbing the cliff. As I climbed, the brimming light of sun falls on my skin erasing my worries. As I reached the top, I witnessed something unusual, the Island is brimming with people, people where parting on the beach, swimming in the ocean. Cars honking on the roads. Huge sigh boards of Hero Association pasted on the hot air balloons floating above my head. Without wasting any minute I returning to the main Island, I moved in secrecy, as I searched for the clues, my instincts guided me toward answers. What I discovered left me reeling. The Hero Association¡¯s betrayal was laid bare¨C¨Cthe press conferences, the new [Hope]. I stood in the shadows of a crowded city square, watching as the new [Hope] in a press conference, flaunting his recent achievement. My fists clenched, as my nails digging into my palms until they drew blood. ¡°After everything I gave them¡­¡± I muttered, my voice trembled with a mix of anger and despair. Betrayal burned in my chest, a searing pain that threatened to consume me. Anger coursed through my veins, hot and unrelenting. Agony twisted in my guts, the weight of knowing I was discarded as a tool, my legacy stolen. And yet, amidst it all, there was a flicker of relief. I was alive. I had another chance. But what should I do with it? Should I take revenge? Should I leave everything behind? ¡°I think I understand your words now master.¡± I whispered. Without any more thinking I went to the island¡¯s airport. ¡®It¡¯s been almost three years I saw my parents face. I wonder how are they? ¡°Heh¨Cheh,¡± I chuckled. As I reached the airports reception window, a young lady with dark black hair greeted me.¡± Good morning, sir. How may I help you?¡± ¡°A flight ticket to Frostveil city,¡± I answered. ¡°Certainly! give me few minutes¡­ Umm... may I check your Identity, please?¡± I froze for a moment, showing my Hero Association Card as Rank¨C1 would definitely cause an uproar. I quickly checked my inventory ring¨C¨Cwhich, to my relief, was still functioning. From it, I retrieved my Citizenship Card and handed it to the receptionist with a calm smile. ¡°Here you go mam.¡± The card was a standard 3x6 cm in size and transparent in appearance. Every citizen in this world possessed one. The data on the card automatically updated to reflect any changes in the body, like hair colour, skin tone, age, marital status, or occupation. It was no different from my Hero Association Card, except for one detail: it displayed my real name, a name even the members of Hero Association didn¡¯t know. That was part of the contract I had signed with them¡ªmy identity was to remain undisclosed, even to the upper echelons of the organization. "Alright, sir. Please wait while I verify your details," the receptionist said, studying the card closely. Citizen of Frostveil Kingdom Name ¨C Zane Skylark Citizen No. ¨C 200103789 Age ¨C 17 Birth Place ¨C Honeyford, Frostveil Kingdom Date of Birth ¨C 12-04-5030 "All done, Mr. Skylark! Thank you for your patience. Here¡¯s your Citizenship Card and your ticket to Frostveil. ~ Wishing you a pleasant journey!" After thanking the receptionist, I took a seat in the waiting area. A few hours passed before my flight details appeared on the digital board. I boarded the plane, settling in for the roughly seven-hour flight from Flora Island. It was plenty of time to come up with a believable excuse for the ¡®three years¡¯ later reunion with my parents. 3. Return
  1. Return
The cool, fresh air greeted me as I walked out of the Frostvile Airport. It is currently 8. a.m. in the morning. The sky is blue, scattered with wisp white clouds, and the towering Frostvile Mountain loomed in the distance, its icy peaks glittering like diamonds as the sunlight pass through it. The city of [Frostvile] stretched out before me, a perfect blend of ancient architecture and modern innovation. The crystal white streets, magical rail lines and the air hummed faintly with the energy of frost magic¨Call so familiar, yet new. I adjusted my jacket as I walked into the bustling city square, The shops and hotels lining the streets were filled with life¨Cvendors, selling warm clothes, and steaming street food that fills the air with rich, provocative aroma. ¡°So much has change after only 3 years,¡± I murmured. Before returning to my hometown¨CHoneyford, I decided to buy some clothes and a luggage bag, I did have my clothes in my [Inventory Ring], but I couldn¡¯t use those, as to prevent any unnecessary questioning, I chose not to were them, every single item was of high quality and value¨Cluxuries only people with high status like nobles could afford, Additionally, I couldn¡¯t use my [Inventory Ring] in public, because it was the rarest of rare artifacts, valued so highly that you could probably buy part of Frostvile Mountain with it. A standard [Inventory Ring] had a build-in storage capacity, allowing items to be stored in a confined dimensional space. Mine worked the same but it¡¯s capacity is vast, It could store up to fifty airplanes inside it. Even a regular [Inventory Ring] was rare, a status symbol of the nobility. My clothes and equipment were even rarer¨Ceach price worth as much as a national treasure. As I wandered around, I stopped in front of an ancient looking clothing store, Pushing the creaky door open, I stepped inside and greeted by a badly organized space, with racks of cloaks, robes, and boots crammed into every available corner. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm sensation, while an ancient stove in the corner struggled to keep the cool at bay, puffing occasional plumes of smoke. The air smelled faintly of wool, lavender and an explicit hint of burning coal. Behind the counter stood a man in his fifties wearing an outlandish fur coat, its arms outstretched like it was guarding the merchandise. Above it, a hand-painted sigh read: ¡°No refunds. All sales final unless I like you.¡± Cloaks enchanted to repel ice spells dangling on racks labelled, ¡°Battle-tested!¡± while boots advertised as ¡°Never Slip Again!¡±. After spotting me the shop owner greeted me hurriedly with a creepy smile. ¡°~What can I get you sir?! We sell almost everything from head to toe every possible accessory. Name it, and I will present it to you!¡± ¡°Umm¡­ I¡¯m¡­ just looking around.¡± ¡°Please take you time, ~Good Sir.¡± As I browsed around a bit, my eyes stopped on a long black coat¨C ¡°~Ah, this coat is perfect for someone like you! Durable, stylish, and only 300 frost coins,¡± said the shopkeeper. ¡°Three hundred? Are you selling the coat or a piece of the Frostvile Mountain with it?¡± ¡°Quality has its price, young man.¡± ¡°At this rate, I¡¯ll have to offer a kidney to afford even a glove.¡± I said jokingly. ¡°Well, if you¡¯re offering¡­¡± ¡°I was joking!¡± what¡¯s with this guy! ¡°~Oh¡­ with this coat you even get a free enchanted hat!¡± the shopkeeper said, presenting me something¡­ vaguely resembling a hat. It has two big round eyes, and few red feathers on top. ¡°Why does it look like a chicken?¡± I asked. ¡°It¡¯s not a chicken! It¡¯s a Frost Phoenix, symbolizing power and grace.¡± Shopkeeper explained. Hmm. Frost Phoenix never heard of them. ¡°It¡¯s staring at me like I owe it money.¡± ¡°That¡¯s just enchantment working! It¡¯s intimidating your enemies!¡± ¡°I¡¯m more worried about intimidating myself¡­ Does this place even sell decent clothes?¡± ¡°~By all means Sir! Take a look at this scarf, It¡¯s really friendl¨Ccough!...I mean fancy!, It¡¯s currently our best-selling item.¡± The scarf is glittered in a mix combination of pink, red, blue and purple colour. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it look like it belonged in a children¡¯s birthday party.¡± ¡°Ok then. How about this?¡± the shopkeeper proceeds to pulls out a plain looking grey scarf. I took the scarf from his hand and tried it on. The scarf has a Woolen texture to it. I kind of like it. ¡°Finally, something that says ¡®I¡¯m serious.¡¯¡± I complemented. ¡°~Oh, it does say something. It whispers motivational quotes while you wear it.¡± ¡°You are kidding.¡± [Scarf]: ¡± You can do it!¡± ¡°Take it off! Take it off right now!¡±If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. What is wrong with this place. Should I run away. ¡°Hey! Hey! Don¡¯t through hi¨Cit! Wait sir! Don¡¯t Go! Please¡­ just one chance¡­give me one chance! I have clothes with no enchantment and with no hidden creatu¨Ccough!... I mean no hidden magic tool in it!¡± With that he presented me some decent cheap looking clothes, I carefully examined it before adding it to my basket. With that I only need weapon and a luggage bag. ¡°Also, show me a long sword, with decent material and it has to be light weight.¡± I ordered. ¡°~As you wish sir!¡± From the corner rack he pulled out a long old looking sword. ¡°This sword is perfect for you. Normally, it¡¯s 1000 frost coins, but for you, I¡¯ll do 150.¡± ¡°That¡¯s suspiciously generous. What¡¯s wrong with it?¡± ¡°Nothing! It¡¯s just¡­ uh¡­ slightly haunted.¡± ¡°Define ¡®slightly.¡¯¡± ¡°~Oh, just occasional whispers and maybe a scream or two at night. Totally manageable!¡± ¡°I¡¯m paying extra NOT to have a screaming sword.¡± ¡° ¡± Finally, after an exhausting amount of negotiation (and resisting the urge to strangle the shopkeeper), I walked out with a medium sized leather luggage bag inside it was 6 pairs of clothes, and a plain looking katana. The shopkeeper tried one last time to convince me to take the ¡®Motivational scarf¡¯, but I was out of there before he could finish his pitch. I made my way to a food stall. The smell of grilled frost trout and hot spicy cider was irresistible. I sat down, savouring the warmth of the meal against the chill of the air. The food tasted better than I remembered, or maybe I just hadn¡¯t had the time to enjoy simple pleasure in years. As I ate, my thought wandered. [Frostvile] was one of the five [Elemental] kingdoms, each named after and ruled by their dominant [Elementals]: [Frostvile] for ice, [Pyrestone] for fire, [Terranova] for earth, [Stormshade] for wind, and [Aquadore] for water. Each kingdom thrives on pursuing its magical affinity they are rich with, their people adept in their respective [Elemental]. Yet, unlike most, I had the rare ability to wield all five¨Cthat set me apart, even among the top heroes. I had wielded that power to become ''Rank¨C1''. But now, I wonder if even that was enough. My thoughts darkened as I remembered the mysterious figure killing me¨Cits golden blood¨Cits mocking words. That figure wasn¡¯t just strong¨Cit was an unknown existence, which defies even my logic and reasoning. And it had defeated me like¡­ I was nothing. My memories are still fresh. It¡¯s like it had happened just yesterday, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was a threat in this world that¨CI couldn¡¯t handle, even with all my power. That very thought chilled me more that Frostvile¡¯s air. And what of this newfound skill [Immortality]? No matter how much I focus I couldn¡¯t even tell what that skill actually does or what are its limitations or even its side effects. Would it work again if I fail? Or was it a one-time miracle with unknown consequences? I decided to make my every move carefully. And to avoid any unnecessary attention. I wouldn¡¯t return to the Hero Association. Not now, perhaps not ever. They had betrayed me, discarded me like a tool. For now, I would lay low, live quietly. If the world needs a hero again then ¡®someone¡¯ else would have to take that burden. With my mind made up, I made my way to the Frostvile Central Station. The air buzzed with the rhythmic sound of magical trains known as [Aetherrail] arriving and departing. Each train looked like a masterpiece, sleek and glistering with frost along its surface. Unlike conventional trains, the [Aetherrail] doesn¡¯t rely on tracks, it hovers and move along invisible air currents, the design of the train combines modern technology and ancient magical frost rune¨Cengraved into its undercarriage. I approached the counter, where a bored attendant looked up from her magazine. ¡°I ticket to Honeyford,¡± I said. She typed on a glowing panel and handed me the ticket. ¡°Platform 7. Departure in 20 minutes.¡± As I made my way through the crowded terminal, where passengers bustled with energy, lugging their belongings while children ran around chasing enchanted snowballs. It was nostalgic, this blend of chaos and joy. Arriving at Platform 7, I noticed a young boy and his mother sitting on a bench. The boy held a small [Ice Fox] in his lap, its tiny body shimmering with faint [Frost Elemental] as it wagged its fluffy tail. The sight brought a faint smile to my lips. I boarded the train and settled into my seat by the window. As the train began to move, I stared out, watching Frostvile Mountain¡¯s snowy landscape blur into motion. The train whizzed past towering pine tree forest coated in snow, glittering lakes reflecting the sun light, and small villages nested like jewels in the white wide space. It had been three years since I last saw Honeyford. My heart felt a strange mix of anticipation and anxiety. Would anything has changed? The train¡¯s speaker announcing the next station: ¡°Next Station¨CHoneyford¡±. I adjusted my coat and glanced at my reflection in the window. The person staring back at me was someone I barely recognized¨Ca shadow of the man I once was. The reflection was cold, stiff, with silver eyes that carried battles fought in silence. My hair, darker than I remembered, fell over my forehead, and my lips, once quick to smile, pressed together in a line that betrays my unease. Would they recognize me? Would my old life be waiting for me? As I stepped off, breathing in the familiar scent of pine and snow. Honeyford was a quiet town, its charm deep rooted in simplicity. The scent of fresh snow mingled with the aroma of fresh strawberries, and the cozy homes and small shops, looked almost untouched by time. ¨CIt was exactly as I remembered. As I entered the town square, my eyes were drawn to a familiar building: my parent¡¯s caf¨¦. It¡¯s warm, inviting glow stood out even amidst the cozy town. The wooden sign above the door, engraved with the name ¡®Skylark Caf¨¦¡¯, Swayed gentle by the breeze. As I approached, I hesitated at the door, my heart pounding. It had been three years since I last saw them. Would they recognize me? Did they think I was dead? The very answer terrifies me, but I couldn¡¯t stay away from it any longer. ¨CSigh! Breath in¡­Breath Out¡­Breath in¡­Breath Out¡­ Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the door. The bell above jingled softly, and the warmth of the caf¨¦ engulfed me. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries hit me, bringing back a flood of memories. For a brief moment I forgot all my worries. Behind the counter stood a woman with gentle features and dark, wavy hair tied in a loose bun. She was serving a customer, her movements gracefully, carefully and yet elegant. ¡®She hasn¡¯t changed a bit.¡¯ ¡°Welcome to Skylark Caf¨¦!¡± she said cheerfully, her head bowed as she finished wrapping up an order. When she looked up¨Cas she saw me completely, her smile faded, replaced by a look of stunned disbelief. I felt my throat tightened and an aching pain run through my throat, as I took a step forward. ¡°Hello, ¡­Mother,¡± I said, my voice trembling. Her eyes widened, and the tray she was holding fell off her hands clattering near the counter. For a moment, there was only silence. Then she rushed around the counter, her hands covering her mouth as tears streamed down her face. ¡°Zane¡­¡± she whispered, her voice breaking. ¡°Is¡­ it really¡­ you?¡± I nodded, unable to utter a word. My vision blurred as she reached me, pulling me into her tight embrace. Her warmth, her scent¨Cit was everything I had missed. ¡°You are¡­ alive¨Cyou are alive! ¨Cyou are alive!,¡± she sobbed, her voice filled with both relief and pain. ¡°My baby boy¡­ my Zane¡­¡± I clung to her like a lifeline, my own tears falling freely, soaking her Sholder wet. For the first time in years, I felt like a son ¨C and not like a Rank¨C1 Hero. And in that moment, all the pain, sorrow, suffering, betrayal, and fear melted away. ¡°Mom, I am home.¡± I was home. End of Chapter 4. Homecoming The words hung in the air¨C ¡°Mom, I am home.¡± They felt unreal even to me. But it was real. All too real. My mother clung to me like I might disappear at any moment, her sobs filling the caf¨¦. ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± she repeated, her voice trembling with disbelief and overwhelming joy. ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± Her grip on me tightened. Her cries where loud¨Cloud enough to draw attention from the caf¨¦¡¯s customers. Conversations halted. Chair scraped against the floor as they turned towards us, their expressions raging with confusion to concern. Some whispered to one another, but I couldn¡¯t hear them over the sound of my mother¡¯s weeping. From the kitchen, a man emerged, wiping his hands on a towel. He was tall and had broad¨Cshouldered, his dark hair with streaks of grey. His eyes, weary from years of hard work, froze for a moment as he saw us. The towel slipped from his hand as he rushed toward the scene. ¡°Eleanor, what¡¯s going on!?¡± His voice was steady, his steps halted as his gaze landed on me. As he stopped in his tracks, his face pale and eyes wide with disbelief. My mother finally loosened her grip enough to move turn toward him¨Cstill hugging me, her face wet with all the tears. ¡°L-Leonard¡­ It¡¯s Zane. Our Zane. He¡¯s alive¡­ See? What did I tell you for all this time¡­ My baby boy¡­ He is alive...¡± He didn¡¯t move. For a long moment, he simply stood there, staring at me with disbelief as if I were a ghost. His lips opened and closed like a fish, as if trying to say something, but no words came out. The caf¨¦ grew even quieter, the onlookers holding their breath, as if they too were awaiting his reaction. Finally, my father broke free from his shock, taking a slow, unsteady steps toward me. His eyes teared, and his voice cracked as he spoke. ¡°How¡­ How is this possible? Is it really you¡­ Zane?¡± I nodded, my throat tight as I replied. ¡°It¡¯s me, Dad. I¡¯m Home.¡± His hands trembled as he reached out his hand to touch my shoulder, as if afraid I might vanish under his fingers. When he felt the solidity of my presence, he hurriedly pilled me into an embrace. It was firm strong¨Cthe embrace of father who had longed for his son every day for three years. ¡°You are alive,¡± he whispered, his voice breaking. ¡°My boy¡­My Zane¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m¡­ here,¡± I said, my own voice breaking, my tears falling. ¡°I¡¯m here, Dad.¡± As the tears and the embrace between the three continued, a sweet voice suddenly came from the staircase. Her voice shaky, A little hesitant. ¡°What¡­ What¡¯s going on? Dad, Mom¨C¡± My heart clenched. There she was¨CMy older sister, standing frozen at the top of the stairs. She looks exactly like younger version of my mother. Her long black hair falls of her shoulders reaching her waist. Her usually composed demeanour crumbles as she stared me, her pale hands trembled. ¡°¡­Zane?¡± Her voice barely audible. Tears already streaming, I took a step forward. ¡°Hey, Elise¡­ It¡¯s me.¡± ¡°Uh¨C¡± She gasps, her legs giving way for moment, as if her body couldn¡¯t handle the flood of emotions hitting her all at once. But then without any hesitation, she rushed down the stairs, nearly tripping in her toes as she throws herself at my arms. Her voice cracking as she sobs uncontrollably, gripping me so tightly it almost hurts. ¡°Zane! It¡¯s you¨Cit¡¯s really you! I thought I¡¯d never see you¨C¡­I thought I¡¯ve lost you forever!¡± Holding her tightly, feeling her shaking in my arms, My voice cracks. ¡°I¡¯m here, Sis. I¡¯m here. I¡¯m sorry for leaving you¡­ I¡¯m so sorry.¡± For a moment it was just the four of us¨Cmy sister quietly sobs, my mother and father silently tears, and me, sandwiched between them. The caf¨¦ faded away. Nothing else mattered. Eventually, my father pulled back slightly, his hands still on my shoulders. His eyes searched mine, as such looking for a proof that this wasn¡¯t some kind of illusion. ¡°Where have you been for all those years? We thought¡­ we thought we lost you in that explosion.¡± I took a deep breath, bracing myself for the lies I have rehearsed on my way here. ¡°I survived, but barely,¡± I said, my voice low and steady. ¡°The explosion on Frostvile Museum threw me far away, and I was in a coma for the past three years.¡± It wasn¡¯t completely a lie. I couldn¡¯t blame them for thinking I was dead. That day at Frostville Museum, my parents had taken me for a tour when an unexpected explosion killed nearly a hundred civilians. I was caught in the blast and barely survived. The Hero Association found me and took me in, claiming I had some kind of bizarre powers. For at least a year I was trained like a dog¨Cfor the sole purpose of being the greatest weapon they possess. Later on, I became everyone¡¯s symbol of hope, and they named me [Hope]. For at least a year I was trained like a dog¨Cfor the sole purpose of being the greatest weapon they possess. Later on, I became everyone¡¯s symbol of hope, and they named me [Hope].If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. My real Identity as ¡®Zane Skylark¡¯ remained hidden, even from them, I had signed a contract that stated revealing of my identity would bring them doom at my own hands. Thus, even the upper-echelon members of the Hero Association didn¡¯t know who I truly was. ¡°A coma?¡± my mother repeated, her voice trembling¨Cworrying, as her soft hand squeezing mine. I nodded. ¡°I woke up only a few months ago. It took me time to recover enough to travel back here.¡± I lowered my gaze, feeling shame. ¡°I wanted to come back sooner, but I couldn¡¯t. I am sorry.¡± My father¡¯s hand moved to my cheek, his touch was gentle. ¡°You have nothing to apologize for, son. You¡¯re alive¨Cthat¡¯s all that matters.¡± My mother wiped her tears with the edge of her apron, her smile radiant despite her teary face. ¡°Let¡¯s close the caf¨¦ for the day. My son travelled for an entire day. You must be hungry.¡± ¡°Very hungry.¡± ¡°Come on, Zane,¡± she said softly, her voice thick with tears, ¡°Let¡¯s go upstairs.¡± Our house is a two-story building of first floor being the caf¨¦ and the second floor being our home, as I my sister took me to the second floor which held our home, I noticed, neatly potted plants lining in the balcony spoke of my mother¡¯s flawless care, while the slight creak n the wooden staircase hinted at my father¡¯s stubborn refusal to replace anything that still had character. It wasn¡¯t any thing grand or luxurious, but it was ours. Every inch of the house held memories¨Csome cherished, some painful, but all part of me. Later, as I stood in the steaming bathroom, I heard a faint sound outside the door. I opened it slightly to find Elise sitting on the floor, her back against the wall. ¡°Elise?¡± I asked, surprised from the other side of the door. ¡°I just¡­ I can¡¯t leave. What if you disappear again?¡± she said softly. I crouched down, resting my back against the door. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t understand. For three years, I lived every day thinking you were gone. And now you are here, but¡­ it feels like a dream. What if I wake up and you¡¯re gone again?¡± I swallowed hard, her voice cutting deep. ¡°I¡¯m here,¡± I said firmly. ¡°And I¡¯ll prove it to you every day if I have to.¡± ¡°You better.¡± For the past fifteen minutes, Elise had been chatting non-stop. My older sister¨Cjust eleven months older than me¨Cwas on verge of turning eighteen, she didn¡¯t even pause her chatter while I was in the bath, as if afraid I might vanish the moment she stopped talking. When I finally emerged, we made our way to the dinner table together. It was laden with all my favourite dishes: spiced venison stew, perfectly glazed carrots, and a golden, flaky apple pie that filled the room with its sweet, comforting aroma. As I took my first bite, the tension in the room seemed to melt away. My parents and Elise watched me, their faces a mixture of joy and relief, as though seeing me eat was proof that I was really here¡ªthat I was truly back. The flavours hit me like a wave, rich and comforting, a perfect harmony of spices and warmth. The tender meat, the fresh vegetables, the subtle hit of herbs¨Cit was perfect. Too perfect. My jaw stilled as I swallowed as I felt an unfamiliar creeping up in my chest, spreading into my eyes. The tears flowed down my cheek before I even realized. My fork clattered softly against the bowl as I wiped my face, but the tears wouldn¡¯t stop. They rolled down my cheeks, hot and continuously. My sister, sitting across from me, leaned forward, her brows knitting together in concern. ¡°Zane, why are you crying?¡± I shook my head, trying to smile, ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I added. ¡°Maybe¡­ because it¡¯s been so long since I felt this. Since I felt¡­ home.¡± ¡°Idiot. You are crying because you¡¯re happy. And now you are making me cry.¡± We all laughed, the sound breaking through the emotional tension. For the first time in years, the house was filled warmth and laughter. As the conversation turned to lighter topics, Elise proudly pulled out her [NOVA] ID card, her name displayed along side her rank as a five-digit hero. [NOVA] is the pinnacle of hero education, an institute renowned for producing the finest rankers. Located in the heart of [Frostvile] Kingdom, it¡¯s more that just a school, it¡¯s a place where only the most determined and capable individuals rise to become the ultimate protecters of society. ¡°I¡¯m training to become a hero, just like [Hope],¡± she said, her eyes sparkling. I chuckled, the irony almost too much. ¡°You¡¯re doing great, Elise,¡± I said, ruffling her hair. ¡°Hey stop that! I¡¯m the older.¡± My sister said as she proceeds to pat my head. The atmosphere was lighter now, I couldn¡¯t help but watch my family as they spoke¨Cmy mother pouring another bowl of stew, my mother grumbling about the customers, and my sister, beamed with joy as she shared stories about her time at [NOVA]. ¡°[NOVA] huh? I didn¡¯t realize you enrolled.¡± ¡°Of course, I did! I wanted to make mom and dad proud. After you¡­¡± Her voice faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered. ¡°After everything that happened, I realized I wanted to protect people, just like all other Heroes.¡± Heros¡­Could I be one day going back to that¨C I had left that life behind and gone into laying low from the Hero Association. But now, hearing the excitement in my sister¡¯s voice as she spoke of [NOVA], I couldn¡¯t help but feel a spark of the old fire. I once was a Rank¨C1 Hero, feared by many. But now¡­ Was that really all? The days of glory seemed distant, blurred by the pain and confusion that had followed me since that ¡®thing¡¯ took my life. I wasn¡¯t the same anymore. How could I be? My body has changed, my powers had evolved, but had my purpose? I looked at my sister¨Cmy brave, optimistic sister¨Cand a part of me wanted to smile, to reach out and encourage her. She was already a hero to her own right, and to see her admiring someone like [Hope] made me proud. She didn¡¯t know the true weight of being a hero, the cost of that title¨Cthe losses, the sacrifices. I had lived that, and I didn¡¯t know if I could ever go back to it. I didn¡¯t know if I wanted to. She was still full of hope, still looking up to [Hope] who had fought so fiercely, so selflessly. She believed in me. And maybe, just maybe, I could still be that for her. Maybe I could help her avoid the darkness I had fallen into. ¡°Zane...¡± Her voice brought me back to the moment. ¡°Why don¡¯t you come to NOVA with me, who knows maybe you could replace [Hope] and be my next hero.¡± The words hit me harder than I expected. A Hero. Maybe I can be that hero again. Maybe this time, I can do it differently. I looked at her, at that girl who had always looked up to [Hope]¡ªto me, and for the first time I saw the path ahead clearly. I had to grow stronger¨Cnot just for me, but for her, for my parents, for the world that has unknown threats lingering around. A weight seemed to settled in my chest, but it was different¨CThis time, It wasn¡¯t my anger or fear. It was my resolve. I¡¯ll go back. Not as [Hope], but as Zane Skylark. I¡¯ll become even stronger¨CNo even strongest. So strong that even the gods will tremble with the very name of Zane Skylark. End of chapter 5. The Decision *Warning: This chapter contains graphic violence, which may not be suitable for some readers* The sunlight filtered through the white curtains, casting a golden streak across the wooden floor of my old room. The faint chirping of birds greeted me as I got out from the bed. It was a rare moment of peace. Something that I hadn¡¯t experience in years. ¡°Zane! Breakfast!¡± Elise¡¯s voice cut through my thoughts; het tone far too energetic for someone who had likely been up since dawn. I rubbed my eyes, as I made my way towards the mirror, a faint smile appeared at my face. What¡¯s reflected back was me smiling so brightly that it made me question myself¨Cif it¡¯s actually me. It felt like I could actually let my guard down. At least for now. After washing my face, I made my ways to our caf¨¦ where, my mother, bustling around the kitchen, and my father chatted with the caf¨¦ customers, while Elise setting a table for me as she lined plates of spiced omelets, buttered toast, and freshly brewed coffee. ¡°Why are you just standing there? Come and eat.¡± Elise¡¯s voice had a usual mix of joy and affection, her hands busy pouring coffee into a mug. I walked over, my steps slow and deliberate, as if enjoying every moment. ¡°Good morning, Zane!¡± my father greeted, looking up from a cheerful conversation with one of the customers. ¡°You¡¯re up early?¡± I shrugged, sitting down at the table Elise had set for me. ¡°Thought I¡¯d surprise you.¡± I picked up my fork and cut into the omelet. The first bite hit my tongue, and I couldn¡¯t suppress the small sigh of satisfaction. Warm, perfectly spiced, and with just the right amount of salt. She caught on my expression and grinned proudly. ¡°Good, right?¡± Delicious! ¡°Decent,¡± I said with a straight face, though the twinkle in my eyes gave me away. ¡°Decent?¡± she gasped, hands on her hip. ¡°I slaved over the omelet! You¡¯re lucky I don¡¯t¨C¡± ¡°Elise,¡± my mother interrupted from the kitchen, her voice calm but firm. ¡°Let him eat in peace.¡± Elise muttered something under her breath but didn¡¯t repeat it further. Instead, she grabbed her own plate and joined me at the table. ¡°So,¡± she said, her fork pointing at me, ¡°I¡¯ve taken a day off from [NOVA] to show you around the town.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you have hero training or something?¡± ¡°Please, as if anything is more important than my baby brother¡¯s homecoming.¡± ¡°I¡¯m just eleven months younger than you.¡± She smirked. ¡°Details. Now. Hurry. Up!¡± Elise¡¯s declaration left no room for argument. Before I could protest¨Cor even finish my coffee¨Cshe had already darted off to grab her jacket. My parents exchanged amused glances, clearly enjoying the rare sight. ¡°Go on,¡± my father said with a chuckle. ¡°You know she won¡¯t give in easily.¡± With a resigned sigh, I pushed my chair and stood. ¡°Fine. But if she starts dragging me into every shop, I¡¯m blaming you both.¡± My mother smiled knowingly as she handed me my coat. ¡°You¡¯ll survive.¡± Elise appeared, practically bouncing on her toes. ¡°Ready? Let¡¯s Go!¡± She grabbed my arm and tugged me toward the door, barely giving me time to put on my coat. ¡­ The street of Honeyford buzzed with life as Elise dragged me out of the caf¨¦ and into the heart of the town. The ice-crystal streets were warm underfoot, catching the sunlight delicate glow. Stalls lined the road on both sides, each spilling over with goods. Vendors called out to passing crowds, their voices merging into a harmonious rhythm. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, spiced meats, and honey-glazed pastries blended with the tanginess of sea salt carried in from the distant coast. A woman with fiery red hair, her scarf fluttering in the wind, managed a stall brimming with forged volcanic glass¨CCleary imported form [Pyrestone]. Nearby, a man with silver hair showcased small wind-powered gadgets from [Stormshade], there propellers spinning lazily in the gentle breeze. Elise stopped at a stall selling necklaces made of aquamarine beads. ¡°What do you think?¡± she asked, holding one up to the light. I glanced at it, noting how the polished stones seemed to shimmer with the faintest trace of [Aquadore] water essence. ¡°It¡¯s nice,¡± I said. ¡°Nice? Zane, it¡¯s stunning!¡± She tossed a few coins to the vendor, who, with his cyan hair and soft features, was unmistakably from [Aquadore]. She slipped the necklace into her bag and turned to me with a grin. ¡°Alright, next stop!¡± She grabbed my arm again, dragging me toward the corner of the marketplace where performers had gathered. My eyes wandered as we moved, taking in every little detail of Honeyford. This place felt like a living extraordinary world¡ªa blend of all the five great kingdoms. The five kingdoms each thrived on their respective [Elemental] essence, their lands rich with it, their people shaped by it. [Frostvile], my homeland, was cold and harsh, its landscapes glistening with eternal ice and snow. It gave birth to those of us who possessed [Ice Essence], a power that pulsed within our veins and resonated with the world around us. But that was just one corner of the world. [Pyrestone] was the opposite¡ªa kingdom of roaring flames and searing heat. Its people, red-haired, wielded the [Fire Essence] with unmatched precision. [Terranova], on the other hand, was grounded¡ªliterally. A kingdom of vast plains and towering mountains, its blond-haired citizens harnessed the stability of [Earth Essence]. [Stormshade] silver-haired people were the masters of [Wind Essence], living in a kingdom of perpetual storms and high-altitude peaks.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. And then there was [Aquadore], a realm of endless water and serenity. The cyan-haired inhabitants, their [Water Essence] flowing as fluidly as the tides that shaped their coastline. The [Elemental Essence] was deeply tied to each kingdom¡¯s geography and culture. But there was a catch. If a person left their homeland and moved to another kingdom, their connection to their [Elemental Essence] would weaken. It wasn¡¯t immediate, nor was it fatal, but over time, the lack of resonance with the land¡¯s essence would drain them. That¡¯s why most people didn¡¯t stray far from home. We¡¯re the prisoners of our own essence¡­ But I was different, after that explosion when the Hero Association took me in, I found out that I can use all the [Elemental Essence] and leaving my home doesn¡¯t affect me no matter how far I go. Even if I left [Frostvile] and settled in [Pyrestone] then instead of [Ice Essence], the [Fire Essence] will provide me strength, sure enough my [Ice elemental] will be weaken but my [Fire Elemental] will become even stronger. This is the power I possess, and I think that¡¯s the reason, why none of the Heroes from Hero Association can come even close to rival me. Because my [Essence] will never be weakened. I¡¯m the only one in this world who is loved by all the [Elementals]. ¡°Zane, are you even listening?¡± Elise¡¯s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. ¡°Huh?¡± I blinked, realizing we had stopped in front of a small stall selling grilled meat skewers. She shoved one into my hand. ¡°Try this.¡± The aroma hit me first¡ªsmoky and rich. I bit into it, the flavour exploding on my tongue. ¡°This is... amazing.¡± ¡°Told you!¡± she said, grinning triumphantly. I took another bite, savouring the moment¨Cthen I saw them¡ªa group of four red-haired individuals, their movements too deliberate, too calculated. A girl with crimson hair, around my age, her delicate frame being dragged into a narrow alley by one of the men. Her wide, terrified eyes darted around, seeking for help, but the bustling crowd seemed to un-notice. ¡®A kidnapping? In a broad day light?¡¯ ¡°Elise, I need to¡­¡± I paused, searching for an excuse. ¡°I need to use the restroom. Be right back.¡± She raised an eyebrow. ¡°Don¡¯t take forever. I¡¯m timing you.¡± ¡­ I slipped into the shadows, my movements were quick and silent. The narrow alley reeked of damp stone and decay. The girl struggled against one of the men, her voice muffled by a gloved hand. ¡°Let her go,¡± I said, my voice cold and commanding. ¡° ¡± ¡° ¡± ¡° ¡± ¡° ¡± The group turned. Their expressions shifting from surprise to amusement. The man holding the girl sneered. ¡°Look what we have here. A little rat trying to play hero.¡± I stepped forward, my gaze locked onto his. ¡°You have no idea who you¡¯re dealing with.¡± The woman to his left chuckled, drawing a sword. ¡°Oh, we¡¯ll see about that.¡± She proceeds to unleash her [Essence], ¡°Sorry, to break it to you kid, as you can see, I¡¯m from [Pyrestone], a worst nightmare for your [Frostvile] kind¨C [Flame Bullet]¡± ¡°[Distortion].¡± I said with no emotions. Unleashing my [Essence] the moment she activated hers. Causing the [Elemental] flow in the area to waver. The kidnappers¡¯ weapons and powers halted, as they stumble in confusion. ¡°What the¨C? My fire isn¡¯t working!¡± ¡°Hey brat!! What did you d¨C¡± ¨CClick! Swoosh! Before the man finished his sentence, I took the katana from my [Inventory Ring], As my hand moved with lightning speed¨Cmy strike sliced vertically at the man causing him to split in half¨Cfrom his head down to his crouch. Blood sprayed everywhere as his guts began to spill out from the cut. His brownish brain-matter dropped making a ¡®splash¡¯ sound as it lays flat on the ground. The very scene makes other three question their very decision as they trembled with uneasiness. I smirk. ¡°Didn¡¯t I warn you? You¡¯re in my territory now.¡± ¡°Wh-Who are you?! That was triple digit Hero, A brat like you¡­ that easily¡­¡± The woman said in disbelieved as she pointed her sword at me, with her trembling hand. ¨CClick! I once again drew the katana from its sheath and slashed, severing both of the woman¡¯s hands. Blood gushed from the wounds, revealing jagged red veins, torn flesh, and the sickening sight of yellowish-red bone marrow glistening in the light. Swoosh! ¡°Wh¨C!! AAAAAAAGGHH¨C¡± Before she finished her scream, I cut down her mouth with a fine slice of my blade. Her teeth and tongue laid bare dangled from her torn opened mouth. She fell to her knees, as I proceed to push the tip of my katana to one of her eye socket¨CAfter inserting my blade to her eye¨CI made my wrist twist as to rotate my entire blade while it¡¯s in her head. As I pulled it back red colour blood began to flow out from her once called¨Ceye with a slight mixture of light brownish colour liquid. The other two onlookers held their breath as they witness this gruesome scene. They both hesitantly backed away as they began to run away. But before they could, I made an arc in the air with my blade¨CSwoosh! which caused their leg to leave behind, as their entire body fell forward missing both of their legs. ¡°AAAAGG!!!¡± ¡°Please!! Don¡¯t kill m¨C¡± They both said in unison, but before they finished, I made a final slice with my blade removing the top one-fourth portion of their head. Both the bodies fell forward as their half brains began to flow out¨Cstill slightly beating for the last time. Then my eyes finally focused on the crimson-haired girl as she witnessing all this with a face of disbelief, disgust and fear. As I looked at her¨Cshe began to backed away a bit. ¡°I mean no harm to you.¡± I said, assuring her safety. ¡° ¡± She staired at me like a ghost, but before she even reacts, a man hiding on roof of a house tried to attack her¨C ¡°[Fire Bull¨C]¡± ¡°[Fire Bullet].¡± I said cutting his words, pointing my katana at him¨C the tip of my katana glowed with red flame concentrating as it formed a tiny dot¨Cwhich I shot right through that man¡¯s head which took his life. ¡°You are safe now. There¡¯s no any threat.¡± I said, once again assuring her safety¨Cfor real this time. ¡°W¨CWho are you?¡± Stammered she asked. I hesitate for a moment, taking in her appearance. She¡¯s not a threat¨Cthat much is clear. But the question lingers in the air, wrapping itself around me like a tightening rope. Who was I now? As I offer her my hand. ¡°Just someone passing by.¡± My voice is calm, even, as if brushing off the gravity of the situation. She hesitates briefly before taking my hand, her fingers cold but steady. ¡°You looked like you could¡¯ve handled it eventually,¡± I said, though my tone carries a hint of teasing. She smiles faintly, though the tension in her shoulders still remains. ¡°I¡¯m Anna¡­ Anna Ashborne.¡± Ashborne¡ªa prominent noble family, known for its influence in [Pyrestone]. Their crimson-haired tales were practically legends. I remember reading about them once. ¡°You¡¯re a long way from [Pyrestone], Anna,¡± I remarked. Her smile faded. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ complicated,¡± she admits, looking down for a moment. ¡°My family¡¯s caught up in a rivalry with another noble. I thought I could handle it on my own, but clearly¡­¡± Her voice trails off, and she gestures to the silent battlefield. ¨CSigh I exhaled slowly, pushing my own thoughts aside. ¡°Next time, don¡¯t make it so easy for them.¡± She nods, her crimson hair falling over her face, ¡°I¡¯ll remember that.¡± There¡¯s a pause¡ªa fragile silence that hangs between us. Then Anna looked up to me, her amber eyes shining with curiosity. ¡°What about you?¡± she asks. ¡°You haven¡¯t told me your name yet.¡± ¡®This could be the first step, A small one, but a step nonetheless.¡¯ ¡°Zane, My name¡¯s Zane. But keep it to yourself, alright?¡± Anna blinks, surprised by my sudden response. ¡°Zane,¡± She repeated, as if trying the name out for herself. Her lips curve into a small smile. ¡°Thank you again, Zane. Truly. If there¡¯s ever anything I can do to repay you¨C¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need. Just¡­ keep it to yourself, alright?¡± ¡°Of course. If that¡¯s what you want. Um¡­ If it¡¯s ok, can I ask you something?¡± ¡°Go ahead.¡± ¡°How can you able to use¡­ [Fire Bullet]¡­ I mean, you have black hair¨Cclearly, you¡¯re a [Frostvile] citizen¡­ It basically defies the known theory¨C¡± ¡°That¡¯s also a secret. Keep it to yourself, kay?¡± ¡°¡­alright.¡± ¡°It¡¯s time for me to go, take care. Anna.¡± With that I vanished to the roof of a nearby building, watching Anna one last time before meeting with my sister. ¡­ When I returned to the stall, Elise was waiting, arms crossed. ¡°Twenty-one minutes and forty-seven seconds,¡± she declared. ¡°What took you so long? Were you building the restroom or something?¡± I smirked. ¡°Let¡¯s just say I got¡­ distracted.¡± She rolled her eyes, laughing. ¡°You¡¯re impossible.¡± As we walked back home, her laughter echoing in the streets. I made my decision. And with that I declared it to my sister. ¡°I will join [NOVA].¡± End of Chapter. 6. Processing Admission [NOVA] Academy. To truly embody power and skill, a person needs some level of education in their respective domain. It wasn¡¯t enough to simply have natural talent or raw ability, knowledge and learning were essential to refine those gifts. As the institute that stands before me in the heart of the [Frostvile] Kingdom, where I hail from, [NOVA] is the dream of many people who aims for the top, And here I am, standing before the very gates of such a prestigious place. The large gate leading to the Academy, with its gleaming, crystalline white surface, stood as a castle on its own. Behind it, the towering structure of [NOVA] reached skyward almost resembling Frostvile Mountain, as if daring to touch the clouds, its imposing presence made people around awe-inspiring even for someone like me. As the crowd of students ahead of me buzzed with nervous excitement. I, on the other hand, had a simpler goal¨CLaying low. When I crossed few passing students as I overheard murmurs among the them. ¡°New batches have already started just two days ago,¡± someone said. ¡°They wanted to fill out the remaining seats at last minutes.¡± ¡°Typical [NOVA] move.¡± Someone added. It wasn¡¯t long before I reached the registration desk, where a stern-looking proctor sat with a clipboard on a desk. ¡°Name?¡± ¡°Zane Skylark,¡± I replied, keeping my tone neutral. At the sound of my name, a few heads turned. I could hear whispers behind me. ¡®¨CIt¡¯s because of Elise¡¯s reputation.¡¯ ¡°Skylark? Is he related to Elise Skylark?¡± ¡°Wait¡­ you mean the Elise Skylark? That prodigy second year?¡± I ignored them, though their stares still fixed on me. The proctor stamped my registration form without looking up and handed me a card bearing my application number: #128. The admission test will be processed in three different phases. First the Elemental Affinity Test following with practical test and lastly a written test. Candidates have to clear all the phases to get accepted in [NOVA]. ¡°Proceed to the Elemental Testing Hall!¡± one of the proctors shouted. After making my ways to the Affinity Testing Hass, which was massive, a dome-shaped room with walls made of shimmering crystal. At its centre stood a pedestal holding a glowing diamond slab, radiating mixture of all five Elemental Essence. ¡°Candidate number 1¡­ Place you hand above the slab.¡± The slab analysed their [Essence], displaying their [Elemental] affinity, compatibility, and potential as glowing screen above the pedestal. A tall, silver-haired boy stepped forward. His silver-hair suggested he hailed from [Stormshade], a region known for producing Wind-affinity elites. He placed his hand on the slab, and the numbers appeared: Affinity: Wind Compatibility: 82% Potential: High The room almost instantly buzzed with admiration. ¡°An 82% compatibility? Incredible!¡± Next, a fiery red-haired boy from [Pyrestone] approached. He exerted a sense of confidence as he placed his hand on the slab, and his results didn¡¯t disappoint: Affinity: Fire Compatibility: 79% Potential: High When my name was called, the murmurs returned. From the corner of my eye as I noticed a group of seniors observing me from the balcony. Their sharp gazes made my pulse quicken. No doubt they were comparing me to Elise Skylark, the ¡®prodigious¡¯ "model student" of [NOVA]. I approached the slab, steadying my breath. As I placed my hand on its cool surface, I quickly manipulated the surrounding Elemental Essence, masking my Essence as only [Ice] and potential to my desire. As my hand touched the slab, a faint frost shimmered across its surface, masking the chaotic energy beneath. Only Ice¨Cnothing else. The number flashed: Affinity: Ice Compatibility: 57% Potential: Average The crowd and the seniors from the balcony made their face displeased, which was exactly what I wanted. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ not bad.¡± ¡°For Elise Skylark¡¯s brother, it¡¯s a bit underwhelming.¡± As I ignored the comments and stares, making way towards the Practical Hall. The practical test was held in an outdoor arena filled with stationary and moving targets attached toa drone. Candidates were required to demonstrate control over their Elemental affinity and combat skill.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°Candidate number 32 come forward,¡± said one of the proctors. A girl with cyan-hair clearly from [Aquadore] made her way to the stage, as she stands in front of the stationary target extending her hand. ¡°[Water Bullets],¡± The water particles gather on her palm as she shots it towards the target, destroying it completely. ¡®Hmm¡­? Did she just¨C cast her spell without absorbing the Water Essence?¡¯ For casting a spell, let say¨Ca [Fire Bullet] one has to make contact with its surrounding [Fire Essence], by completely absorbing it into one¡¯s body, then by concentrating at single point one can able to perfectly cast the spell. But that girl just righteously skipped the absorbing process, she directly manipulated the [Water Essence] around as and gathered it to her palm, then just shot the target. I don¡¯t think anyone noticed it, as [Elemental Essence] are not visible to anyone unless you are one of the single-ranked Hero. ¡®That what quite interesting.¡¯ ¡°Candidate number 128.¡± When my turn came, I focused solely on my [Ice Essence], ensuring my other abilities remained hidden. ¡°[Ice Arrow],¡± I conjured spears of ice, shooting them at the stationary targets with pinpoint accuracy. ¡°[Ice Field],¡± For the final challenge, I froze the entire moving drone mid-air, shattering it completely alongside the target. ¡®I hope they don¡¯t charge me for the drone.¡¯ The proctors and the candidates nodded in approval. while my performance wasn¡¯t flashy, it was calculated and effective. Just like I wanted it to be. As the new batch already started two days ago there are only few seats remained, and to claim one of those seats I have to somehow get into top five scorer. The murmurs died down instantly as we made our ways for the final written test. The written exam was held in a grand hall with long rows of wooden desks. The question ranged from monsters¡¯ anatomy to various theories in Essence. I have to get all the questions correct to get a top five rank in written test or else I won¡¯t get selected in [NOVA], as the proctors handed the question paper to me, I couldn¡¯t help but to smirked slightly as I read though the paper. ¡®They are all easy.¡¯ There are a total of three questions, and the time constrain is only two hours. As I read the first question ¡®What are the origin of creature called [Howls]? What is their Elemental Essence?¡¯, The first question seems pretty easy, it only took me 5 minutes to answer it, I wrote a detailed description of three pages defining [Howls], it¡¯s Elemental Essence, its origin, it¡¯s relation with other Elementals. I wrote everything I knew of them¨Cof course I didn¡¯t include some information which only the Hero Association and the top Heroes know. Moving on to the second question: ¡®What are Elemental Essence? How would one Interact with it?¡¯, I answered it, a total of two pages defining what actually Elemental Essence is to the different Elemental Essence, and how would one interact with it. Till now all the questions they have asked, I have answered it without any problem. I looked around from my desk, analysing others as some made nervous face, some scribbling like crazy, and some writing with calm and composed face. Third question: ¡®Why does five kingdoms, have different flow of Elemental Essence in its Atmosphere? Justify your answer.¡¯ ¡®What a strange thing to ask.¡¯ The last question was a bit too much to ask in an admission test, this should be more towards research oriented. Any ways the good point is, this question is only asking candidates their thoughts and possible answers. As such I have my own theory regarding it¨Cand there¡¯s actually not one but ¡®six¡¯ different theories I have come up with. There are multiple factors which affects a kingdom¡¯s [Elemental Essence]. But the short and simple answer to the question would be ¡®Quantum entanglement.¡¯ And¨Cyou know what¡¯s the fun part in all this is? ¨C ¡®You can even alter your kingdoms Elemental Essence.¡¯, if my theory is to be proven correct. Let us proceed with an example, suppose there exist a world, and that world contains only two [Elemental Essence] the ¡®The light Essence and ¡®The shadow Essence¡¯, now the two kingdoms possessing each differ in functionality due to ¡®quantum entanglement¡¯-like connection that binds their world but also creating a contrasting state of balance and influence. This entanglement causes the [Essence] in each kingdom to mirror, oppose, or influence each other, resulting in their unique natures and roles. Now, the question arises. Why do the [Essence] exist in such a manner? The two kingdoms are entangled on a ¡®quantum¡¯ level, meaning that the sate of one kingdom influences the other. This interconnection creates a ¡®dualistic nature¡¯ for the Elemental Essences, creating an opposite reflection of one already existing [Essence]. It took me a whole twenty minutes to complete my written test. After finished writing, I make a quick scan before calling out to the proctor. ¡°I¡¯m done.¡± The whole classroom looked at me, as I made my way toward one of the proctors to submit my answer-sheet. ¡°Are you sure? You still have more than half time left.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± After the test, I headed to the cafeteria where my sister Elise told me come after getting over with the tests. The smell of the food was tempting, the students sitting and chatting joyfully within groups as they enjoed their food. I spotted Elise almost immediately. She was sitting with her group of friends. After noticing me walking towards her, ¡°Zane!¡± Elise waved me over, her face beaming with joy. I approached, trying not to feel self-conscious. Her friends were all older. ¡°How¡¯d the tests go?¡± Elise asked, her tone casual but curious. ¡°Decent.¡± I spoke. ¡°Nothing too crazy.¡± ¡°Huh! What does that mean?¡± ¡°Pfttt¨C Hello. I am Aria thronewood, ¡± One of her friends, a blond-haired clearly from [Terranova] chuckled. ¡°So, you¡¯re Elise¡¯s little brother? I¡¯m Albert Ashborne.¡± Lifting his hand Albert with crimson-red hair greeted me. ¡®Ashborne?¡¯ ¡°I¡¯m Lyra Llyrwyn, ~Nice to meet you.¡± Lyra with cyan-hair greeted me. ¡°Celestria Hearth. Nice¡­ to meet¡­ you,¡± Celestria said making a surprised face as she scanning me from head to toe. ¡®Did I meet her somewhere?¡¯ ¡°I¡¯m Zane Skylark, thanks for taking care of my sister.¡± I replied. ¡°Elise never shuts up talking about you, you know. she says you¡¯re her cute baby brother.¡± Lyra said, laughing, pointing at my sister. ¡°I¡¯m only Eleven months younge¨C¡± ¡°Here it is!¡± someone shouted. The results were in. The ranks appeared one by one, and my heart pounded as I searched for my name. When I finally founded it, I froze. Elemental Essence Test: Rank 300 [57 points] Practical Exam: Rank 102 [81 points] Written Test: Rank 1 [100 points] ¡®Fuck. Just my rotten luck¡¯ ¡°You got a perfect score!?¡± Elise said, looking stunned, her voice loud enough to draw attention. ¡°Then that means¡­ you got the last answer correct?¡± I shrugged, trying to look modest. ¡°It wasn¡¯t that hard.¡± ¡°Not that hard?¡± Albert leaned forward, his expression bewildered. ¡°Do you even know what that last question was? It repeated every year, and most of us¨CNo none ever got it correct.¡± Not only Alber but even Aria, Lyra and Celestria seemed surprised. I looked at my sister for her help. ¡°Um¡­¡± The questions kept coming, and I did my best to deflect them. Elise, to her credit looked half proud and half curious herself. Finally, she held her helping hands. ¡°Alright everyone, give him a break. Zane, we¡¯re talking about this later.¡± As the excitement died down, I let myself relax. Today had been a success. My admission in NOVA was official. End of Chapter. 7. NOVA [1] I stood infront of the mirror, adjusting the collar of my black shirt. The uniform of NOVA was simple yet elegant¡ªBlack from head to toe, from the fitted shirt and pants to the belt at my waist where a small dimension pouch was securely attached. On my wrist, a sleek looking Wrist band embedded with micro computer, its surface engraved with complex designs. And finally, a Black trench coat having NOVA¡¯s Emblem engraved on its left chest, symbolizing my status as a NOVA Academy student. All the accessories are enchanted. I ran a hand through my dark hair, tilting my head to study my reflection. The uniform wasn¡¯t bad¡ªbut there was something off. Maybe it was the way the dark color made my already pale complexion seem even more crisp. I couldn¡¯t quite tell. ¡°You look ridiculous,¡± I muttered to my reflection before smirking faintly. ¡°Well, better get used to it.¡± I grabbed my bag and headed downstairs. The aroma of freshly baked bread spread through the air as I entered our caf¨¦. My parents were serving the customers at their table, chatting about something I didn¡¯t bother to catch. ¡°Morning, Mom. Morning, Dad.¡± I greeted both of them, taking on an empty table. ¡°Morning, Zane,¡± my father greeted. ¡°Morning,¡± my mother said, placing a plate of eggs and toast in front of me. ¡°Elise already left; second year classes starts earlier than yours.¡± ¡®That¡¯s why it¡¯s quite today.¡¯ I nodded, keeping my focus on my food. Breakfast was delicious as always¡ªjust the usual chatter. My mind was already racing ahead to what lay ahead me. Todays marks my very first day as an official NOVA student. . . . The train station was bustling with people, but it seems even amidst the crowd, I stood out. Or rather the uniform did. I could feel the stares of pass byres as I walked down the platform. ¡°Look, he¡¯s from NOVA,¡± someone murmured. ¡°He must be a genius. And he is kinda hot!¡± some girl said to her group of friends. ¡°Oh! He looked at me.¡± I kept my gaze forward, pretending not to notice. NOVA has its benefits and one of them is all the transportation are free of cost for their students. The [Aetherail] to Frostvile City was smooth. Outside the window, the snowy landscape stretched endlessly. Frostvile City was the main capital of the Frostvile Kingdom, the city was a sight to behold. Keeping a check on time, I arrived at the campus of NOVA, The academy looked more like a fortress than a school, its stone walls streched with glowing runes. Checking my Watch which displayed: First Year ¨C Class A. After cross checking the info on the bulletin board I made my way toward my classroom. The students passing by wore similar black outfit as mine, the uniform was same even for the opposite gender. You can¡¯t even tell the difference. Standing infront of the classroom was a gigantic wooden door, as I can hear faint chatter sound from the opposite end. Pushing open the door, I made my way in. All the chartered halted, everyone¡¯s eye landed on me as I walked past the front row. The classroom was your typical lecture hall seating arranged on a climbed stairs. The interiors were all wooden furnished which gives quite the aesthetic look to the classroom. After scanning the area, I found a quiet seat at the very back, But there¡¯s already a girl seating, looking outside the window. ¡°Is the seat taken? Can I sit he¡ª¡± And then , our eyes met. Shocked. Crimson hair framed her face, It took me a second to recognize her¡ªAnna Ashborne. The girl I have saved from those kidnapper not too long ago. ¡®Just my rotten luck.¡¯This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. ¡°You!¡± She recognized me too, her lips parted, I quickly looked away pretending not to notice. ¡°You¡¯re¨C Hey! Wait! Why are you leaving. ¡± Due to her loud remark all the gazes earlier intensified as murmur began to spread. ¡®No time running I suppose.¡¯ ¡°Miss can I sit here?¡± ¡°huh? Umm¡­ yeah! Please.¡± Anna said moving slightly. ¡°Umm? Wh¡ª¡± ¡°The class¡¯s starting, we can talk later.¡± I whispered to her lightly. She hesitated, then nodded. But the brief exchange seemed to spark even more whispers. I ignored them. The teacher entered the room shortly after, her presence commanding intense attention. ¡°Alright Class, quiet down.¡± She began, ¡°I¡¯m your History of Elemental teacher as well as your homeroom teacher for the entire four year you will spend at the academy. My name is Monica Montessa.¡± She was a silver-haired lady in her late thirties, her sharp blue gaze swiping across the class as if memorizing every face. ¡°Due to the late admission process to fill the empty seats, we¡¯ve had a few individuals join us recently. As a result, today¡¯s class will be a recap of the material we¡¯ve covered over the past two days.¡± Without wasting any minute, she began her teaching, I stayed quiet, observing my surroundings and listening to her, The material she covered was undoubtedly fascinating, but it was nothing new to me¡ªI had already mastered this knowledge. Anna however, was entirely focused in the lesson scribbling down every words Miss Monica says. ¡°Now,¡± Miss Monica said, pausing to survey the room, ¡°tell me this: Is it possible and if so, What would happen if a kingdom were to lose its Elemental Essence completely?¡± The question hung in the air, few raised their hands Anna including. ¡®Interesting question¡­¡¯ I thought leaning against my seat. ¡°With the right answer,¡± Miss Monica added, her lips curling into a faint smile, ¡°you¡¯ll earn credit points.¡± "Julius, you may speak." At Miss Monica''s prompt, Julius¡ªwhose jet-black hair mirrored my own¡ªstood up with a smug expression. ¡°With all due respect, Professor Monica, it¡¯s entirely impossible for a kingdom to suddenly lose its Elemental Essence, at least according to known theories.¡± His smirk widened as he continued, ¡°And even if it were to happen, such a kingdom would lose all its value. The people would eventually perish, as a kingdom¡¯s Elemental Essence is directly tied to its living creatures. In the end, only the four great kingdoms would remain standing.¡± ¡®What a shitty answer.¡¯ I thought unimpressed. Miss Monica too seemed unpleased. ¡°Well Julius you hypothesis is full of loop holes. You may sit. Anyone else?¡± All the hands that had eagerly shot up moments ago, now hung limply by their owners'' sides. ¡°You with the black hair,¡± Miss Monica said, her sharp gaze locking onto mine, a faint smile appeared on her lips. ¡°Care to share your answer?¡± ¡®Just my rotten luck.¡¯ I stood up glancing at her. Miss Monica intrigued me. She seemed more like a genuine researcher than just a teacher, someone with a solid grasp of her field. Her teachings held a certain depth, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pull to share my knowledge with her, to exchange thoughts on Elementals with her. Let just go for it. Raising my head with confidence in my voice I explained, ¡°The short and simple answer your question is: ¡®The whole world would perish.¡¯¡± A heavy silence fell over the room. Miss Monica¡¯s brows arched slightly, her interest clearly piqued. ¡°And what makes you say that, Mr¡­?¡± ¡°Zane Skylark,¡± I said without hesitation. ¡°According to my hypothesis, the Elemental Essence of one kingdom is closely connected to that of the others. If one were to collapse, the balance dictated by the laws of equivalence would cause the others to fall as well.¡± I was preparing to present the full breadth of my theory, but Miss Monica quickly interrupted me, holding up a hand. ¡°S¨CStop stop! Tell me Mr. Skylark, are you the one who got a full marks in his written examination?¡± The classroom erupted into a flurry of murmurs. ¡°Is she serious? Did he actually answer the final question?¡± someone whispered. ¡°Even professors struggle with that one!¡± ¡°Silence, class!¡± Miss Monica commanded, bringing the chatter to a halt. ¡°Yes,¡± I replied calmly. ¡°Hmm¡­¡± She studied me for a moment before nodding. ¡°It seems we¡¯re out of time. Mr. Skylark, if you¡¯re available, I¡¯d like to discuss your hypothesis further one day.¡± ¡°I would love to have your opinion on my theories Miss Monica.¡± I said, offering her a small smile. As the bell rang, the classroom roared into bigger murmur, I ignored them gathering my things, as the class room door burst opened. A man dressed in a butler¡¯s uniform stepped inside, his gaze sweeping the room before landing on mine. ¡°Zane Skylark,¡± he announced, his voice formal. ¡°The Headmistress requests your presence in her office.¡± The murmurs grew louder as I stood, my confusion mirrored in my curious faces. ¡®Why would the Headmistress want to see me?¡¯ Walking down the academy¡¯s wooden corridors, I mulled over the possibilities. The interior of NOVA was elegant, its craftsmanship a testament to the academy¡¯s prestige. Standing before the massive wooden door of the Headmistress¡¯s office, I felt my mind race. Was it about the written test? Maybe I shouldn¡¯t have answered that last question¡­ but I couldn¡¯t help myself. The moment I saw an unsolved question about the world¡¯s Elemental Essence, my curiosity had taken over. Knock. Knock. ¡°Come in.¡± A sweet voice called from the other end. The Headmistress¡¯s office was as grand as I¡¯d expected. Shelves lined with books and artifacts filled the space, a large desk sat in the center, framed by a massive window that overlooked the academy grounds. Behind the desk stood a woman looking outside the window as if overlooking the entire NOVA. She was tall, with sharp features and a confident posture. Her crimson hair, a shade darker than Anna¡¯s, fell in loose waves down her back. She was a beauty no less around her late twenties. ¡®Is this the Headmistress?¡¯ I wondered. She seemed far too young, likely in her late twenties, to hold such a position. With a quick glance I could tell that she is strong¡ªfar too strong, if I have to point out how strong? Then without a doubt I could say: Currently in NOVA no one can come close to her. Excluding me of course. ¡°Zane Skylark,¡± She said, turning around, her voice smooth and commanding. ¡°Or should I call you¡­ Hope.¡± My blood froze. End of chapter 7. 8. NOVA [2] ¡°Hope,¡± the headmistress repeated, her voice carries a mix of familiarity and authority. She turned to face me fully, her crimson-hair shines brightly catching the light streaming from the large window behind her. Every muscle in my body tensed as I instinctively reached for my katana, summoning from my dimension pouch on my belt. The black blade appeared on my hand, I shifted into a battle stance, my sharp gaze looked into her. ¡°How do you know that name,¡± I demanded, my voice cold and cautious. A storm of thoughts surged into my mind. ¡®Was it a guess? Or does she actually know who I am?¡¯ The Headmistress¡ªno, this woman¡ªstood their unfazed, a small, amused smile curling on her lips. As she raised her hands in a gesture of peace, her expression was calm. "Relax, Zane," she said lightly, her voice carrying a strange familiarity. "Don¡¯t you recognize me?" I stiffened, my grip tightening on the katana. My mind raced, searching for any possible connection. ¡®Her voice¡­ I think I heard it before. But where exactly?¡¯ Seeing my confusion, she chuckled softly and reached into the ring on her finger¡ªa dimension ring. From it, she withdrew a simple white mask and placed it over her face. ¡°Now,¡± she said, her voice slightly muffled by the mask. ¡°Do you recognize me?¡± The sight of that mask hit me like a lightning bolt. I took a step back, lowering my blade but not letting go of it. ¡°Pride?¡± The words escaped my mouth before I could stop it. Her smile widened as she pulled her mask back off, revealing her sharp feature. ¡°Took you long enough,¡± she said. Hero name [Pride]. The Rank 7 Hero of the Hero Association. My training companion. My comrade. My friend. ¡°You¡¯re¡­ the Headmistress?¡± My voice was filled with disbelief. ¡°Ruby Oliver, at your service,¡± she replied with a mocking bow like a curtain call. ¡°Surprised?¡± ¡®Surprised? Like hell!¡¯ Surprised didn¡¯t even begin to describe it. Pride¡ªor rather, Ruby¡ªhad been one of the very few who knew my identity. Back in the Hero Association, some heroes altered their features for anonymity, while others wore masks. I had done both. For extra precaution. But [Pride] had always known. She, along with ¡®our¡¯ master, had been aware of the truth beneath my facade. My thoughts spiraled further as I stared at her. Back then, when the Association found me after the explosion my hair had turned silver for some unknown reasons, but as I gained control over my Elemental Essence, it had gradually reverted to its natural black. For the sake of privacy, though, I had kept it silver the entire time I was [Hope]. Despite the changes, Ruby had recognized me in an instant. ¡°How?¡± I managed to ask. ¡°I¡¯d recognize you anywhere,¡± she said with a teasing voice, folding her arms.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. ¡°But that¡¯s not the question we should be discussing right now, is it? What I want to know is¡ªwhat happened to you? Why are you hiding from the Hero Association? And who is there a new Hope taking your place?¡± Her questions cut through me, each one hitting a nerve. For a moment I was hesitated¡ªunsure of if I should reveal everything. I had known her for the past three years. We were in the same boat, enduring that painful year of harsh training together. She was my companion through it all¡ªthe one who consoled me when I broke down from the strain. She had always been someone I trusted, someone who had walked the same grueling path as I, If there was anyone in the entire Hero Association I could confide in, it was her. Sigh¡­ Taking a deep breath. I began. I told her everything. The ambush. The mysterious figure with golden blood who had killed me. My skill Immortality. The Hero Association¡¯s betrayal. The new Hope they had put in my place. Every detail spilled out, and with each word, the weight on my chest grew lighter. I felt revived. Ruby listened to every my word, her expression growing darker with each revelation. By the time I finished, her fists were clenched, her crimson eyes blazing with fury. ¡°They betrayed you,¡± she said, her voice low but beaming with anger. ¡°How dare they! Those bastard¡­¡± Her reaction was enough to reassure me that I had made the right choice. The right choice that she was a trustworthy friend. ¡°Immortality you say?¡± ¡°Yeah, it was there when I woke up and I don¡¯t even know what it actually does.¡± ¡°Hmm, before we know what that skill is, don¡¯t you dare use it, who knows it might be connected to that golden blood entity.¡± ¡°Sure, thanks for the warning.¡± ¡°And you don¡¯t have to worry,¡± Ruby said after a moment, her voice softening. ¡°Your safe with me. I¡¯ll make sure no one at NOVA learns the truth and I promise you that no one from Hero Association will ever gets to know about you.¡± ¡°Thanks Pri¡ªRuby.¡± ¡°It¡¯s Headmaster Ruby to you. You are at NOVA, Now, get back to your class before anyone gets suspicious.¡± ¡°Yeah, Headmistress Ruby.¡± I nodded again and turned my back to leave¡ªsuddenly Ruby hugged me from behind, her soft cheeks pressing onto mine. It made me feel really happy. ¡°I¡¯m glad you are safe. I will keep you safe. Don¡¯t do everything on your own, you can really on me. And¡­ I am sorry¡­ sniff..sniff¡­ I am so sorry. ¡­Sniff¡­ I didn¡¯t come to your aid. ¡­Sniff..sniff¡­ for¡­for two whole months you were in that dark place¡­you must be scared, really scared!... You were always scared of the dark¡­.¡± Ruby faintly whispered, clinging to me sobbing like a little girl. It makes my heart ached. ¡°Yeah¡­ I was scared¡­ scared of not able seeing the faces of people I love.¡± ¡°Mmhmm¡­ ok.. now¡­ go back, your classes are about to start.¡± Wiping her tears, her face blushing. As I walked out of her office, I realized that I was smiling like crazy. I felt a little lighter. I don¡¯t want to see her cry again. ¡®To protect her smile, to keep everyone safe. I have to get stronger.¡¯ And when that mysterious entity appears again, I will make sure, It knows¡ªwhat actually Zane Skylark is. I will let it know what fear actually is. I will let it know what pain is. I promised myself. ¡­ Checking my watch, I got to know the second class was ¡®Weapon Mastery¡¯ and it¡¯s held on training ground. As I entered the training hall, a hush fell over the students. Conversations that once buzzed through the air died down, replaced by the whispers and side long glances in my direction. "Isn''t that the guy the headmistress called over?" "Yeah. What do you think it was about?" "Maybe he¡¯s in trouble¡­ or maybe he¡¯s someone important?" I on the other hand kept my expression neutral, my footsteps steady as I made my way to a corner of the hall. I could feel their eyes on me, but I chose to ignore the murmurs, leaning against the wall I waited for the class to begin. However, the silence didn¡¯t last long. A group of three students broke away from the crowd, their gazes locked on to me. They walked with a cocky swagger, their smirks betraying their intentions. ¡®I don¡¯t wanna deal with it now.¡¯ The leader of the group, a tall blond-haired boy who looked like he came straight from Terranova, stepped forward. "Hey, you," he called out, his tone sharp and mocking. I glanced at him but said nothing. The blond boy¡¯s smirk widened as he came closer, sides by his two companions. "So, what did the headmistress want with you, huh?" My eyes narrowed slightly, but I remained calm. "That¡¯s none of your business," I replied coolly. The blond boy¡¯s smirk halted, replaced by a flash of annoyance. "None of my business, huh? Don¡¯t act all high and mighty just because Miss Monica said something nice about you. That doesn¡¯t make you special, you bookworm¡ª" "What do you think you¡¯re doing?" Anna who was looking from the side stepped forward, her presence commanding enough to make the group hesitate. Her fiery red hair seemed to glow under the training hall¡¯s light as she glared at the blond boy. ¡°Tsk. Let¡¯s go, my mood is ruined.¡± The boy said as he walked toward the other classmates. "I didn¡¯t need the help, but¡­ thanks." I spoke. ¡°I know, I was worrying about them, any ways, why did you come to NOVA?¡± ¡°Umm¡­ To train and get stronger I guess.¡± ¡°Eh? Strong you? Do you want to take over the planet or something?¡± ¡°Pfttt¡­ Hahahaha!¡± without any realization I began to laugh. ¡°!¡± ¡®Beside Ruby, none ever made me laugh before.¡¯ As I thought that, Ruby¡¯s crying face appeared in my mind. Ruby''s sobs echoed in my mind. I couldn''t let anyone else carry my burdens¡ªnot her, not anyone. It was my fight. And I will make sure I keep my promise. End of chapter 8. 9. Hidden Intentions NOVA training hall. ¡°Hey! Hey! Everyone¡¯s watching, why did you suddenly burst out like that?¡± Anna said, her voice was a bit shaky. ¡°You really have a knack for making people laugh, don¡¯t you?¡± I said, still chuckling after Anna¡¯s absurd comment that I wanted to take over the planet. Anna crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. ¡°Well, excuse me for trying to be funny. But you still haven¡¯t answered my question. Why did you come to NOVA?¡± ¡°To train and get stronger of course,¡± I replied. ¡°Stronger, huh?¡± she muttered, raising her eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯re already strong enough to save me from four triple-ranked kidnapper, so what¡¯s the deal?¡± ¡°Nothi¡ª¡± Before I could respond, the massive door of training hall creaked open, silencing every whisper and chatter. A tall man with cyan hair walked into the room, making his way to the podium. His aquamarine eyes scanned the crowd, and his voice boomed across the hall. ¡°Students, I am Lucas Vayne, your instructor for Weapon Mastery.¡± At the mention of his name the hall erupted into murmurs. ¡°Wait, that¡¯s Lucas Vayne?!¡± ¡°He¡¯s the 176 th ranked hero!¡± ¡°I once heard he stopped a tidal wave with nothing but a spear!¡± ¡°No! He stopped the wave with his bare hands.¡± ¡°You all are wrong! He stopped it with just his pinky.¡± ¡°I once heard he can swim like a fish!¡± ¡°No, you idiot! He is the fish!¡± ¡°SILENCE!!!!¡± Professor Lucas shouted, rubbing his temples, ¡°sigh¡­¡±. ¡®What am I witnessing here¡­ sigh.¡¯ I ignored the noise, though I couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of admiration. Lucas Vayne was no ordinary hero. A 176 th rank might not sound impressive, but when there are tens of thousands of registered heroes, it¡¯s no small feat and I mean it. Addressing the hall Lucas instructed. ¡°Today, you¡¯ll choose your weapon¡ªthe weapon that will define you as a future hero. Approach the weapon racks, make your choice, and register it with your wristband. Once registered, it will be recorded as your official weapon. Choose wisely. As it will become your life time companion.¡± With that I made my ways inside the weaponry room. Rows of weapon racks lined the walls, showcasing every imaginable type of weapon. My gaze drifted over swords, spears, bows, daggers, and even to the weird weapons like scythes and chakras. I have to made my choice. ¡®Ok Zane, Focus. What do you want?¡¯ The answer was obvious. My eyes landed on a sleek looking Katana with a black sheath and silver accents. I walked toward it, my fingers brushing against the hilt. ¡®Ah, katana. . . The embodiment of elegance and lethality. How could I not pick one?¡¯ A sly grin formed at my lips as I lifted the blade. ¡®Alright, I admit it. I have a thing for katanas. They¡¯re sharp, they¡¯re cool, and let¡¯s be honest¡ªevery badass in history has wielded one at some point.¡¯ Picking it up, I scanned the katana with my wristband, watching as a holographic display projected the registration details. Zane Skylark. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Weapon: Katana - Registered. Besides me Anna picked up a sleek Swiss Saber registering it with her wrist band. ¡°A saber huh? Not bad,¡± I commented. ¡°What? Are you the only one who¡¯s allows to pick something stylish?¡± She shot back with a smirk. Once everyone finished registering their weapon, Professor Lucas addressed the class. ¡°Weapon Master is not just about welding a weapon. It''s about understanding it¡¯s essence and making it a extension of yourself. Now make a pair of two and begin your practice, That will be it for today.¡± The students quickly paired off. Anna hesitated for a moment before turning to me, ¡°Wanna pair up? ¡± ¡°Sure.¡± We both moved to the side of the hall, giving each other some space. ¡°Ready when you are.¡± I asked. As we began, I couldn¡¯t help but notice her form was slightly off balance. ¡°Your grip is too tight, and you are leaning way too much.¡± I said, stepping closer. ¡°Loosen it a bit, or you¡¯ll tire yourself out too quickly.¡± Anna frowned but adjusted her stance. ¡°How do you know so much? You just the same age as me.¡± I smiled, reflecting her questions. ¡°Just normal practice. ¡± ¡°And, how do you able to use all the Elementals? That¡¯s not normal at all.¡± Her questions caught me off guard, ¡°Lucky genes, I guess.¡± ¡°[ ]¡± For the entire time Anna interviewed me, I was successfully able to dodge all her questions, and with that, the class ended soon after, as I packed up, I headed towards the cafeteria, Anna followed me behind. ¡°Mind if I join you?¡± she asked. ¡®I guess she¡¯s the type who, doesn¡¯t have any friends.¡¯ I glanced at her, ¡°Sure.¡± We together made our ways to the cafeteria. Anna walking beside me was getting a lot of gazes from the other students. We grabbed trays and picked up our food ¡ª meat, rice, salad and some sauce, before finding a seat. ¡°So,¡± Anna began, ¡°do you live in the dorms or are you a local?¡± ¡°I live in Honeyford, with both my parents and my sister.¡± I said talking a bite. ¡°Wait,¡± Anna said, her eyes narrowing. ¡°Your sister?... Is Elise Skylark your sister?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± I said, surprised she knew. As if summoned, Elise walked into the canteen and beside her was Albert Ashborne. She spotted me immediately and waved, her grin widening as she make a run towards us. ¡°Hello, my dear Baby Brother,¡± she said clinging onto me, her eyes darting to Anna. ¡°Who¡¯s this? Your friend? Or¡ªdon¡¯t tell me¡ªyour girlfriend? But today is your first day¡­ you player.¡± Cough!... cough!¡­.cough!.. Both Anna and I nearly choked on our food. ¡°She¡¯s not¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m not¡ª¡± ¡°Pfttt! Hahaha!¡± Elise burst into laughter. ¡°Relax, I¡¯m just teasing. So, what¡¯s your name?¡± ¡°Anna Ashborne, Nice to meet you.¡± ¡°~Oh my, Anna what a cute name, I have heard so much about you from Albert, thanks for being friends with my brother.¡± Before I could retort, Albert appeared behind her, his expression as stern as ever. His eyes landed on Anna for a moment before he turned to Elise. ¡®Ashborne¡­. well, they are related.¡¯ ¡°We don¡¯t have time for this,¡± Albert said. ¡°We need to make preparation.¡± ¡°For what?¡± I asked without thinking. Elise hesitated before whispering enough for us to hear. ¡°It¡¯s a secret, but. . . the Rank 3 Hero is visiting NOVA soon!¡± ¡°!¡± ¡®Why would he be coming here!? Did they find out!? . . . No that¡¯s not possible, right?¡¯ ¡°Elise, you shouldn¡¯t have said that,¡± Albert scolded her, dragging her away. ¡°Bye, Zane! Bye, Anna!¡± Elise called out as they left. The Rank 3 Hero. . . My mind was already racing. ¡®If it¡¯s not because of me. . . Then, for what? Or for who?¡¯ Hero Association HQ- In a clean spotless office, two figures faced each other in silence. The first figure was Marcus, the president of the Hero Association, seating in his sleek leather chair with his fingers interlocked. His calculating eyes watched the figure standing before him: Rank- 3 Hero [Glory]. Glory¡¯s status as a Rank ¨C 3 Hero was nothing in front of this man named Marcus, an undeniably powerful Man. His piercing gaze never lost as Marcus slid a crisp sheet of paper across the polished desk. On the paper was a report, complete with a photo of a striking women around her early twenties, with crimson hair¡ªIt¡¯s none other than Ruby Oliver. ¡°Keep an eye on Ruby Oliver,¡± Markus ordered, his voice as cold as the room¡¯s temperature. ¡°Why? Isn¡¯t she the headmistress of NOVA?¡± Glory raised an eyebrow, he is not currently wearing a mask in front of Markus unlike other heroes, ¡°Why does this puny task require the need of someone like me.¡± The question was not out of the line, why would the Hero Association need him, a Rank 3 hero to keep an eye out for a headmistress of NOVA. It''s like catching a butterfly with a jet plane. ¡°Read the whole report.¡± Markus snapped. ¡°And do as you are told,¡± After completely scanning the report and the information in it, Glory was surprised, genuinely surprised. ¡°My god! ¡®She¡¯ is [Pride]¡ªthat pride! The rank-7 hero.¡± Now he understands why Markus needs the assist of him¡ªUsing fire to control fire. ¡°I want every move she makes reported back directly to me¡ªevery action, every word. No matter how insignificant it seems. It¡¯s a confidential mission, do not disclose it, or else¡­¡± Glory¡¯s lips tightened into a thin line. He appears very submissive in front of Markus. The silence tightened between them, taut with tension, before Glory finally gave a nod. ¡°Understood.¡± Once the door clicked shut, Marcus smirked, speaking to the empty air. ¡°What do you think of him?¡± A shadow shifted in the corner, and from the darkness emerged a figure cloaked in mystery. The figure¡¯s appearance was abnormally resembled to that of the former Rank 1 Hero, Hope. The same silver hair gleamed under the light, and the black mask hid his cold eyes. ¡°He¡¯ll do,¡± the new Hope said, his voice contains no warmth or emotions. Marcus¡¯s smirk widened as he tapped his finger on his tab, information about NOVA appeared on its display, his eyes gleaming with excitement. ¡°Let¡¯s see how it goes.¡± End of chapter. 10. Finding Answers The lunch break ended, both Anna and I moved to our classroom talking our seats. The third period was Monster Analysis. The classroom buzzed with light chatter until the sound of heels clicking against the floor silenced everyone. The door creaked open a women with blond hair entered the classroom¡ªher aura was breathtaking, her sapphire blue eyes that seems to hold the depth of a starry sky scanned the faces of every students, Her features were flawless, and despite being in her early thirties she radiated the beauty of a princess straight from the fairy tales. All the students both male and female stared at her, likely captivated by her elegance. I was no exception, blankly staring at her my mouth hanged open, she was genuinely that gorgeous. Smack! ¡°Hey, you has a weird grin on your face, it¡¯s creepy,¡± smacking me to the shoulder Anna whispered, freeing me from my dreams. My cheeks flushed as I turned back to my notes, ¡°Yeah, sorry about that.¡± Feeling foolish. "Good afternoon, class. I am Ms. Angelica Rainfield, your instructor for Monster Analysis," she introduced, her sweet honey like voice in a voice took my breath. ¡®Oh dear God¡­¡¯ The lecture began with her explaining the various types of monsters that roamed the world¡ª[Wraths], [Hounds], [Howls], and other species which comes in different ranks and power that posed a constant threat to our world. Their origins were still unknown, though no one truly knew where the monsters first appeared or how do they spread so rapidly. What everyone did know, however, was their devastating impact on the world. And among all the monsters the [Fallen] was the most dangerous and powerful monsters known till date. A single Fallen was a calamity beyond imagination. Their features are of similar to humans, they looked quite a bit like humans, they posses white wings similar to that of an angle from the old fairy tales. ¡°It requires about two Single Ranked heroes to defeat one,¡± The whole class gasped as Ms. Rainfield described their destructive capabilities. ¡®Two Single Rankers, huh? Well it¡¯s true,¡¯ I thought, suppressing a smirk. ¡®If it¡¯s just one Fallen, I can handle it all by myself.¡¯ As Ms. Rainfield continued her lecture, I found myself a little difficult to stay engaged. Monsters? I had fought and killed nearly all of them. This was not anything news to me. While the rest of the students scribbled notes and listened to her lecture, I leaned back in my seat, letting my thoughts drift. ¡®Why is [Glory] coming to NOVA?¡¯ I had worked with Glory on few missions. As a Rank-3 hero, he was undoubtedly strong and deserved his title. And the things I knew of him are, he is Born into a noble family, he carried himself with a prideful air, a certain arrogance can be seen in his face but above all, He had the skills to back it up. I began piecing together the puzzle in my mind. Glory wasn¡¯t the type to visit NOVA without a purpose, and knowing the Hero Association, this wasn¡¯t just a casual check-in. Deploying a single ranker even to a seminar, hid a deeper meaning. My chest tightened as I clenched my fists under the desk. The Hero Association is planning something, they won¡¯t use a Rank ¨C 3 powerhouse like Glory unless there is someone of equally powerful as him. And if it¡¯s not me then¡ª ¡®Ruby Oliver. . .¡¯ The thought struck me, It has to be her. The headmistress of NOVA had to be the target. She was hiding something, and the Hero Association had likely sent their "dog" to uncover it. ¡®But why?¡¯ I considered the possibilities. Ruby could be involved in something dangerous, something that the Hero Association finds difficult to ignore. Or perhaps they viewed her as a threat to their control. Either way, one fact was clear: The Hero Association wanted her monitored. If all that¡¯s true. ¡®Then I had to make my move quickly.¡¯ Let this be their first taste of my revenge¡ª They won''t even realize what will struck them. I need to act in this behind the scenes, ensuring no one close to me got caught in the crossfire. Glory, despite his strength, was no match for me. If eliminating him was the only way to protect those I cared about and disrupt Association¡¯s schemes, then so be it.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The bell rang, snapping me back to the reality. ¡°And that¡¯s all for today,¡± Ms. Rainfield declared. ¡°Review today¡¯s lecture and prepare for the next class.¡± And with that the fourth and last class for today started, the fourth period was an open elective. Students has to choose from one of the four subjects. Clicking on the display of my wrist watch a blue transparent holographic display appeared, I browsed through the information about open elective: [Open Elective-
  1. Basic of Enchantment
  2. Elemental Science
  3. World History
  4. Skill Nourishment]
Anna turned to me with a curious look, ¡°So, what¡¯s your choice?¡± ¡°Hmm, I am thing of Elemental Science.¡± ¡°Figures. By the way I am going for the skill nourishment.¡± ¡°That make sense,¡± I nodded. Skill Nourishment was a hands on subject for first years to choose, this subject mainly focuses on refining skills, for someone like Anna and most other first year it was without a doubt a stable choice. We walked together towards the corridor, ¡°I heard that many students failed to pass Elemental Science but knowing you. . . I think you will do just fine.¡± Anna warned. According to me Elemental Science wasn¡¯t just a subject¡ªit was the fundamental principles of this world. My interest in this subject stemmed from my personal philosophy: everything in this world is interconnected, bound together through quantum entanglement¡ªwith Elemental Essence serving as the core force driving these connections. "Good luck with your class," Anna said with a small wave. "You too," I replied. "See you later." With that, I headed toward my classroom. The classroom was tucked away in a quiet corner of the building, as I entered I noticed how less populated it was. There were only about twenty students scattered across the room. It made sense¡ªElemental Science was primarily theoretical and mostly a challenging subject. I chose a seat in the last row, where I observe the room without drawing too much attention to myself. As I scanned the space, I spotted a few familiar faces from my own class, 1A, and some unfamiliar ones¡ªlikely students from other sections. With around 500 first-year students, the sections are divided into ten classes (1A to 1J), the low attendance for this subject wasn¡¯t surprising. Most students probably opted for the more hands-on or general electives like Skill Nourishment or World History. I leaned back in my chair, waiting for the lecture to begin. As the minutes ticked by, my thoughts drifted. ¡°E¨CExcuse me? C¨Ccan I sit here.¡± A sweet voice called out to me. Looking up from my seat I saw a familiar girl with her cyan hair dropping to her forehead which touched her rounded black framed glasses, She was the one who has casted a spell without absorbing the Elemental Essence during entrance examination. ¡°Yeah, go ahead,¡± moving to the corner I offered her space. ¡°T¨CThank you,¡± Smiling at her I nodded, ¡°No problem.¡± ¡°. . .¡± ¡®Why is she staring at me like that?¡¯ ¡°Can I help you,¡± I asked, startling her as she blushed hiding her forehead even more with her shiny cyan bangs. ¡°N-No! it¡¯s just t¨Cthat your Essence, it¡¯s a b¨Cbit strange.¡± ¡®Interesting¡­¡¯ ¡°How come?¡± I asked maintaining a curious face. ¡°I d¨Cdon¡¯t know, they are a bit aggressive around you.¡± ¡®They?¡¯ ¡°What do you see¡ª" But before I finished the classroom doors creaked open, and my attention snapped toward it. A black-haired woman entered, her presence caught everyone¡¯s eye present in that room in an instant. She looked to be in her late 50s, with sharp eyes that seemed to pierce through your thoughts. The wrinkles on her face weren¡¯t just signs of age¡ªthey told a story of years of immersed research and hard work. She stood on the podium, her gaze sweeping across the class as if sizing each of us. ¡°Good afternoon, everyone. I¡¯m Professor Wilma Whitlock. Let¡¯s begin.¡± ¡®Wilma Whitlock, I know her.¡¯ I have read the books and research of her when I was in Hero Association, and to be honest her research was the reason I got hooked in to Elemental Science. I leaned back in my seat, watching as she began the lecture. Her voice was calm but carried a certain weight, the kind that held your attention whether you wanted it or not. ¡°The Elementals,¡± she started, ¡°are the core of all existence. They aren¡¯t just forces of nature¡ªthey are alive, intertwined with every aspect of the world. They sustain life, balance ecosystems, and even influence the very skills we wield.¡± Her words had my full attention. Finally, a class worth listening to. Her hypothesis aligned very close to my own theories about Elemental Essence. She spoke of their influence on life and their connection to nature, but she hadn¡¯t yet touched on the connection I suspected¡ªhow Elementals might directly interact with skills. I couldn¡¯t resist. Raising my hand I asked, ¡°Professor, do Elementals and skills share a direct connection? And if so how does it affect ones skill.¡± Her sharp eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment, I felt as though she was studying me. Then, a small smile tugged at her lips. ¡°An excellent question,¡± she said, her voice filled with warmth. ¡°However, I must admit I don¡¯t have a profound answer. While I do suspect there is a link, my research hasn¡¯t yet uncovered concrete evidence.¡± The room fell silent for a moment before whispers broke out among the students. I could hear the surprise in their murmurs. Professor Whitlock was a legend, known across all five kingdoms for her groundbreaking research on Elemental. For someone of her status to openly admit like that¡ªit was rare, to say the least. She chuckled softly, raising her hand to quiet the noise. Then, her eyes found me again. ¡°You must be Zane Skylark.¡± I blinked, caught off guard. ¡°How do you know me?¡± ¡°I was the one who set the written examination paper for your entrance test. Your answers were extraordinary, especially the final one. It was insightful, well-structured, and thought-provoking. You rarely see that level of understanding from someone your age. It was worthy of full marks.¡± I nodded, unsure of how to respond. While I didn¡¯t care much for validation, but hearing it from her made me really proud. We exchanged a few more theories about Elementals. She encouraged me to continue exploring the subject, which, coming from her, almost felt like a challenge. As the class ended, I made my way out, as I passed by the bulletin board in the hallway. A brightly colored pamphlet caught my eye. ¡°Rank ¨C 3 Hero, [Glory], to Visit NOVA for a Seminar in Two Days.¡± ¡®The clock is ticking.¡¯ My hear pounded. I clenched my fists as the pieces of my plan formed in my mind. If I wanted to eliminate Glory and make my move against the Hero Association, it had to be soon. But I couldn¡¯t do this alone. I needed Ruby¡¯s assist for this plan to work. Meeting her during the day wasn¡¯t an option¡ªit would draw too much attention. ¡°Midnight,¡± I decided. That¡¯s when I¡¯ll meet her. As I walked away from the board, my thoughts racing. There was no turning back now. Every move I made from here on out had to be perfect. End of chapter. 11. Meeting What do normal people do at midnight? Sleep? Well yeah, only if you¡¯re an adult or if your mom scolds you to. Study? Yeah, If you got your exams tomorrow. Gaming or binge watch your favorite show? That too, if you live alone. But here I am, trying to sneaking inside my academy¡¯s campus. Why you ask? To sneak into my headmistress room obviously! Now don¡¯t judge me, I have my reasons. Tapping on the sleek surface of my wristwatch, I found a familiar holographic window appeared above it. 12:00 a.m. Friday. The current time displayed on it, closing it, I looked around me. ¡®It¡¯s Dark alright.¡¯ The sky above me was pitch black, My cloths are all black, both my shoes are black and the katana in my dimension ring also black. Perfect for sneaking around. Ok, I admit it, I am obsessed with the color black. Why? Because black things matter!! My gaze shifted to the towering structure before me¡ªthe Horizon Building, a fifty-story giant nestled to the sides of the NOVA Academy campus. This was where the professors, and most importantly, the headmistress, live. My destination. Ruby Oliver¡¯s room. I activated my skill [Elemental Sense]. A skill that allows me to see, hear and feel almost every thing around fifty kilometers radius. Skills come naturally to people when they are a new born, we don¡¯t know yet what causes it. But we do know one thing, that skills are necessary for surviving in this world. Every living beings at least posses one skill, the greater their powers and effects are ¡ª the more lethal there would be the side effects of it. A faint ripple coursed through the air around me. My ability wasn¡¯t just a sensory skill¡ªit was a manifestation of Elemental Essence, the fundamental fabric of this very world. Every single object, Every single living or non-living, radiated Essence, a unique energy that connected everything. As I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath to steady my focus. The world around me blurred, and then it came alive inside my mind. A distorted, glowing map of the entire area took shape. Tiny particles of energy flowed through every structure, every tree, and every living being, forming a vivid blueprint that covered across a fifty-kilometer radius. It wasn¡¯t a perfect¡ªimage, it was blurry and distorted like a painting on water¡ªbut it was enough for me. Amidst the vast map of glowing auras, I locked in the Horizon Building. The outlines of its fifty stories became clear, and within, I sensed the 257 individuals scattered throughout. Every person emitted their own signature, unique and distinguishable like a fingerprint. And then I saw her¡ªRuby Oliver. Her Essence burned like a bright red flame, vibrant and intense, almost impossible to miss. It was radiating from the top floor. ¡°Found you,¡± I muttered under my breath. I opened my eyes, the map was fading from my mind as though pulling back to reality. But there was one more thing to do. I activated [Elemental Sense] again, this time concentrating on the building¡¯s ground and interior corridors. The distorted image returned, revealing the positions of 35 guards¡ªboth inside and outside the building.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. I smirked. ¡®This would be easy.¡¯ They moved in predictable patterns, their paths was intersecting each other but they never once overlapped. Moving inside, I snuck in the shadows, my footsteps silent against the white floors. My every step was calculated, every pause was precise. The guards movements were nothing more than obstacles in this game, easily bypassing them as I witnessed their positions in real-time, I stayed out of their sight. By the time I reached the top floor, my breathing was steady. The hallway was quiet and lit only by dim overhead lights. Only a single metallic door stood in this floor. A biometric scanner and door cam were mounted on its surface, and the name Ruby Oliver was engraved in bold letters across the name plate. I stopped in front of the door, my hands hovering on the door bell. ¡®Should I press the bell? No, that would be too formal.¡¯ I decided to knock lightly, the sound was barely audible but enough for Ruby to hear. A second later I heard the faint buzz of the door cam activating. I stood still, letting Ruby to get a good look at me. The door creaked open slightly, as Ruby peeked her head out. Her crimson red hair was tied in a messy bun, and her sharp eyes were filled with surprise and worry. ¡°Zane?¡± she whispered, her voice was soft but ringed with concern. ¡°What happened? At this hour? Are you okay?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s talk inside.¡± She hesitated for a moment, then nodding she moved aside letting me in. Ruby was dressed casually¡ªa loose T-shirt and pajama shorts. It caught me off guard. ¡°. . .¡± ¡°So?¡± ¡°I have something to discuss.¡± I said with a straight face. ¡°is this about Glory?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Sitting on the sofa, I leaned forward, resting my elbows on my knees as I laid out the details of my plan to Ruby. Her eyes stayed locked on mine, I didn¡¯t hold back¡ªI told her everything. Every move Glory will possibly make, every calculated risk I will take to counter him, and every step of the strategy I had devised to ensure he will dealt with. ¡°. . .¡± By the time I finished, silence filled the room. Ruby leaned back, her arms crossed as she processed what I just said. Finally, she broke the silence. ¡°That¡¯s . . . flawless,¡± she said, her crimson eyes stared at me. ¡°Zane, how did you even come up with this? And how far ahead have you seen through his plan?¡± A faint smile appeared in my face, ¡°Far enough to know even his next few moves before even he does. I¡¯ve worked with him in a quite a mission¡ªhis habits, his alliances, his false fa?ade. Glory¡¯s overconfident. He thinks he¡¯s untouchable, but that¡¯s his greatest weakness.¡± ¡°And you¡¯re sure this will work? That it¡¯ll keep me or NOVA or even you out of the Hero Association¡¯s suspicion?¡± ¡°It will,¡± I said firmly. ¡°If everything goes as planned, Glory will be eliminated without the Association having any reason to point their fingers at you or NOVA. But. . .¡± I hesitated, staring her expression. ¡°I¡¯ll need your help to pull it off.¡± Ruby¡¯s eyes softened, and for a moment, she looked a bit uncertain. Then she exhaled deeply, her shoulders relaxing as she gave me a small nod. ¡°If it¡¯s you, Zane, then I¡¯ll help.¡± I knew what I was asking from her, and the risks involved weren¡¯t something I could ignore. ¡°Its fine, I¡¯ll do anything to help you.¡± Ruby reached out taking my hands in hers. Her touch was warm, melting me in the moment. She rested her head lightly on my shoulder, her voice was a soft murmur. ¡°Promise me something, Zane.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t do anything dangerous,¡± she said, her tone carrying a heavy weight I couldn¡¯t ignore. ¡°I believe in you¡ªI always have. I know you¡¯re powerful, probably the strongest person I¡¯ve ever met. But going against the Hero Association¡­ that¡¯s not something you can take lightly. They¡¯ll come after you eventually, Zane. They¡¯ll do everything in their power to harm you. And I¡ª¡± Her voice wavered for a fraction of second. ¡°I don¡¯t have any family, you are the one I have and. . . I don¡¯t want to loose you.¡± Her words hit harder than I expected, my chest ached, and the way she clung to me as if I might just disappear if she let go. For a moment, I couldn¡¯t speak. What could I say? Ruby Oliver was a strong girl, despite her age only being three years older to mine. And unlike me she tackled every hardship people thrown at her, without any complain she did her job confidently. But above all she had always been there for me, even when no one else was. She was the one who hugged me when I came to her, broken and crying after I killed for the very first time in my mission. She was the one who worried about me, even when I didn¡¯t deserve it. I owed her everything. And I would do anything to protect her. If it came to it, I wouldn¡¯t just eliminate Glory. I would destroy anyone who dares to harm her¡ªbe it the Hero Association, or even an entire kingdom. I turned to her, my voice quiet but steady. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll be careful. But Ruby¡­ I can¡¯t let this go. Not when someone threatens you. You mean. . . so much to me.¡± Her head tilted up slightly, her crimson eyes searching mine. She didn¡¯t say anything, but a faintest smile tugged at her lips, hiding her blushing cheeks within my shoulders as she squeezed my hand gently. That was enough for now. ¡°Its getting late, I should move out.¡± But before I stood up Ruby held me back, her fingers tightened slightly around mine, as she looked up to me, ¡°It¡¯s late, why don¡¯t you. . . spend the night.¡± ¡°. . .¡± End of chapter.