《Chaistream Eclipse》


 A friendly bout

    In an open plain of soft green grass, the gentle rays of an early afternoon sun beamed down upon it and it''s sparse Red Cedar wood trees which casted shadows in a western direction. Within this plain are two men locked in a sparring session. "Hah!, is that all you got Romerix?" Jeremiah said with a deep and rough voice. "You got to do better then that boy!" Jeremiah standing at six foot, two inches, his skin is dawned with that of an olive complexion, short spikey black hair, adorned in an ancient Spartan like attire and an facial expression of like one who is agitated or annoyed. "I''ll show you exactly what I can do uncle!" Romerix shouted with a tone lingering more onto the deeper side then the higher side. He was a young adolescent standing at five foot, seven inches, long and black was his flowing hair, a complexion of olive to his skin pallet like Jeremiah''s, and he also adorned an ancient Spartan attire, his facial expression shrouded in seriousness. With a swift motion, Romerix pushed a right fist into the direction of a haymaker towards Jeremiah, being able to react to something considered slow to Jeremiah, a far quicker swatting motion was used by Jeremiah to swiftly deflect the incoming haymaker. After deflecting Romerix''s haymaker, Jeremiah responded with a fluid and agile combination of strikes by his fists, each strike would be missed within the blink of an eye as they each hit with the force of a sledgehammer against a brick wall upon contact with Romerix''s face, sharp and piercing jolts of pain like a zap of electricity dispersed throughout his jaw bone. Taking a few steps backwards and dropping down onto one knee, now bleeding from a split lip, Romerix is taken aback by this sudden release of strikes that struck him. "G-gah w-what the hell was that!?" Romerix said with shock to his tone. "it''s called a punch that hurts." Jeremiah said sarcastically. "Tch I''ll show you a punch that hurts uncle." Romerix responded agitated. Annoyed and agitated, Romerix stood to his feet, charging towards Jeremiah with determination to win this sparring match. Upon reaching Jeremiah, Romerix sent towards him a fast paced and quick flurry of fists, aiming for his face. With each strike upon the flurry of many, Jeremiah would both block with fast precision and dodge with elegant movements with an expression one would call annoyed. "your punches are becoming sloppy boy, you are letting your emotions control your actions" Jeremiah said with a sigh to his tone as the final strike Romerix sent towards his face was caught by Jeremiah by his right hand with a grip one would say like a vice. Upon gripping his tightly clenched fist, Jeremiah responded with a counter punch straight to Romerix''s lower abdomen in the location of his stomach. "GUAHH!" Romerix said contorted in pain, the wind knocked out of his lungs and the feeling only made his stomach feels as if someone was twisting it in two different ways. Once again Romerix took a few steps back, hands upon where his stomach was located. "*Cough* g-give me *cough* a moment t-that hurt alot ghh!" Romerix said gasping for air and coughing, the pain only intensified with each passing second. "Oh come on" Jeremiah scoffed "it wasn''t even that hard of a punch Romerix, I was holding back as much as I needed to" "you were holding back!?" He responded in disbelief. It feels like a Antullo rammed it''s head into me." Romerix responded in complaint. "Quit your whining boy if you think on your journey in life people are going to pull back their punches like i just did, then sorry to break it to you they won''t". Jeremiah spoke with sternness and a raised tone, his expression had anger written all over it. "They will hit you, beat you, break you, try any dirty trick in the book to win and kill you if they have to. I am merely giving you a taste of what the world will bring you. Jeremiah crossed his arms above his chest as he continued to give Romerix a pep talk about why he can''t be soft. "it does not care if you can not handle a mere strike or if you complain about anything. If you are soft and weak the world will use it against you to it''s advantage without a second thought, understand Romerix?" "Yes I understand uncle. "Romerix responded with a disheartened look, he never really liked when Jeremiah spoke to him in such a way as it made him feel as if he wasn''t doing good enough. "I may be a hard arse Romerix but it''s for your own good, there will come a time when you''ll look back onto this conversation and see I was right." Jeremiah spoke in a calm and reassuring manner to bring Romerix''s spirits back up. "I appreciate pep talk uncle now can we get back to training?" Romerix asked "I think that''s for the best now try and hit me like you mean it" Jeremiah responded, lowering his arms down to his sides. Romerix taking a couple steps forward, once again began to attack Jeremiah with a fast paced set of clean and precise flurry of strikes towards his abdomen and face. Jeremiah in return responded with taking a couple steps back, using both his forearms and hands to block and deflect the flurry Romerix is sending his way. "Good you are doing better then before I can actually feel a tingling sensation within my hands and arms" Jeremiah said, his expression lighting up. "This isn''t all I can do uncle!" Romerix shouted with an angered expression. As he planted his feet firmly on the rich soil of the ground, bending his body to the right and cocking his right arm as far back as his body abled him to. A soft and gentle glow of gold energy similar to that of oil enveloped around the fist and lower forearm of Romerix''s right arm. "HAAAHHH!" Romerix shouted with everything his lungs had and as loud as his voice box allowed sound to escape from his vocal cords. With a fast paced frontal motion and movement of his right side and right arm, Romerix brought a powerful and mighty Fist infused with Tahor Chai directly in contact with Jeremiah''s sternum. With feet planted firmly upon the ground, the force behind such a punch was strong enough to cause Jeremiah to move backwards as if someone would be pushing him as he came to a halt from the motion inflicting his body. He began to feel a high level of discomfort within his chest, the pain was a small infliction like if he was to bump into a wall, Rubbing his sternum Jeremiah smiled at Romerix''s effort. "Well well boy you actually managed to hit me and cause a small amount of pain, you impressed me." Jeremiah said, his expression slightly happy. "Hehe well you did tell me to hit you like i meant it" Romerix Responded smugly.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

 Not on the list

    From a distance between two large cedar red trees, an spiralling indigo blue flame that was seven feet high formed and from within a woman with long flowing blonde hair, crystal blue eyes, Olive complexion, her hourglass frame is adorned in a Brown leather corset with lower open dress combo, an white button long sleeve shirt underneath the corset, an pair of brown tight pants and a pair of black leather boots that came halfway up her shins, the pants being tucked under the boots. "oh there those two are" the woman said with a gentle feminine tone. Upon the twirling flame dissipating then vanishing the woman placed her hands behind her back as she walked over two both Romerix and Jeremiah who at this very moment are still locker within a sparring session.


    The sound of still damp leaves and soft grass scrunching underneath her boots. As she reached both Romerix and Jeremiah, Jeremiah sent a spin kick that would be easily missed within the blink of an eye, making contact with Romerix''s left side. The force and power behind such a kick blasted through Romerix''s torso, near his ribcage like a sharp sting from a Bull wasp. A type of pain that is both sharp whilst pulsating with the area feeling like someone placed hot coals within that area. The force itself was enough to cause Romerix to hit the surface of soil, with a sliding motion the sound of scraping dirt was underneath him as he came to a slow halt, now holding his side in a groan of pain.


    The woman''s name was revealed to be Abilene Apostolis, older sister of her younger twin brother Jeremiah and mother of Romerix. "I see you two are having fun Jeremiah" she spoke with a gentle tone. Jeremiah turned his head to the left towards Abilene who is now standing next to him, she is a couple inches taller then him. "Oh hey Abilene, yeah Romerix is doing better then I thought he would be doing, he was actually able to make contact a couple times" Jeremiah responded with a stern expression. With a soft smile Abilene ran her fingers through Jeremiah''s hair, ruffling it up to annoy him before walking towards Romerix.


    "You know I hate when you touch my hair" Jeremiah Spoke with annoyance to his tone and expression. Abilene rolled her eyes. "Big cry baby" upon reaching Romerix she kneeled down to his side, Romerix slowly sitting up, wincing in pain sees Abilene and his expression turns from in pain to happy. "Owowow oh hey mum when did you get here?" she gently ran her fingers through his hair, stroking the top of his cranium in a soothing manner. "I arrived about two minutes ago Romerix" she responded gently. "Lets get you all fixed up" She gently placed her hands upon Romerix side, Romerix jolts in pain as the area is now rather sore.


    A soft baby blue glow emitted from her hands. The pain from Romerix''s side began to dissipate and subside, Abilene has removed the pain from his side, now standing up with Romerix who is now rubbing his side. "Huh...the pain is gone thanks mum" he said with a surprised and happy expression. "You are welcome Romerix, I''m glad I got rid of the pain." Jeremiah stands beside Abilene with his arms folded over his chest. "Well done in today''s session Romerix you are getting better at holding your own" Jeremiah stated. "Thanks uncle I feel like I''m getting better" Romerix responded with a happy expression whilst rubbing the back of his head. Abilene spoke up to ask Jeremiah a question. "Hey brother?" she asked.


    "what?" Jeremiah responded. "I am planning to head down to the markets to get some things for dinner tonight, do you want to join me and Romerix?" she asked again. Jeremiah ponders the question for a moment before responding back. " I don''t see why not sure." With a happy expression and soft smile she would pat Jeremiah upon his left shoulder. "Thanks brother I''m glad you''ll be joining us" "Well I will see you two a little bit later, I must now go speak with an old friend about something " he stated, turning around and walking away from them, both Romerix and Abilene wave Jeremiah farewell for now. "See you later tonight uncle." Romerix shouted with a wave. "Farewell brother see you soon." Abilene also shouted. Upon leaving Jeremiah, Abilene and Romerix left the open plain to a dirt road that would take them to the nearby markets, the sound of dirt and small rocks scrunching beneath their feet.


    Romerix with his hands behind his head started to softly chuckle, Abilene confused with a raised brow. "What do you find funny Romerix?" she asked with curiosity. "Oh it''s just I''m thinking about food right now hehe" He responded with an upbeat tone. Abilene sighs with a roll to her eyes. "Of course you are Romerix." Romerix makes a remark back. "Hey, it''s not my fault you make the best grub in the world.'' With her eyes closed and a smug expression about her. "Why yes I do make the best food in the world, though your uncle won''t admit it he loves my cooking." With soft scrunching of dirt and rocks underneath their feet, they now happen to be walking upon cobblestone patching which created a soft tap with each step.


    Walking through a gateway, the sign above that hangs from the gateway would read Welcome to Rastacor markets. Within the markets are Rastacorians going about their day. A couple are setting up a stall to sell fresh produce, some stall owners are selling seafood and meats, others are selling fruits and vegetables with a couple selling livestock. Coming in and out of the markets are a couple Rastacorians who own horse and cart, full of items to sell at the market and to deliver elsewhere, each one inspected by guards who stood by the gate on each side. "Place is rather busy today" Romerix remarked.


    "well it is the afternoon so it usually is rather busy this time of day." Abilene responded. While Abilene is purchasing a couple ingredients from a local fresh produce stall, Romerix decides to wonder off to see the rest of the market, the soft tap of cobblestone under his feet, the multiple conversations people are having blurred into one confusing noise. "I wonder how much tahluns this place makes a day?'' He thought to himself. Making his way through more of the markets, Romerix''s ears perked up to the noise of a woman screaming, he turned his head to the left to witness a man trying to steal from an elderly lady who runs a stall. Romerix with quick haste ran over to the stall to confront the man as no one else was trying to intervene in what was happening. "Hey leave that lady alone!" Romerix shouted towards the man as he approached this man.


    The man stopped trying to rob the lady and glared directly at Romerix. ''Stay out of this kid before you regret being an idiot. The man snarled. "well if you weren''t stealing from this lady I wouldn''t have too. Romerix responded sternly. "Oh a smartarse huh I hate smartarses. The man responded seeming to only get more aggressive as time went on. "You looking for a death wish kid!" the man shouted, charging at Romerix in anger. "This idiot" Romerix remarked, the man throwing a sloppy right hook at Romerix who in return caught the fist with a timely grip of the fist. Bending the man''s arm outwards then with a quick motion placed his free hand unto the back of the mans head, using one foot to take a lunging step forward he brought the man''s face crashing down into the cobblestone with a decent sounding thud.


    "GRAGHH LITTLE BASTARD!" the man shouted in a rage unable to move, blood pouring from his broken nose. "You decided to charge at me you fool and this is what you get for attacking me" Romerix responded rather annoyed. The next thing to happen was someone grabbing Romerix by his shoulders then proceeding to slam him directly into the hard cobblestone ground, pinning him down. It was a couple guards, holding them both down. "Do not move kid, there is no fighting within these markets'' one of the guards said sternly. "That little bastard broke my nose!" the man shouted whilst being now pinned down by a guard.


    "Only after you tried stealing from that lady you moron!" Romerix responded with agitation. "Enough the both of you, you are both in trouble" the other guardsmen said sternly with annoyance. The elderly lady with who was clearly upset slowly made her way over to the two guards men. "E-excuse me good guardsmen, that young man is right he did indeed tried stealing my fresh produce, a-and then tried to attack him when this young man intervened to stop him." The elderly lady stated with a strain to her tone. "Yeah she''s right he did!" one man purchasing apples next to the elderly ladies stall spoke up.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "That young man did nothing wrong except try to help an old lady!" a younger woman spoke out too. The guardsmen pinning Romerix down, let him go then proceeded to help him up. "You did a good thing today kid, but for next time let us handle it understand?" the guardsmen sternly told Romerix off, the other guards men picking up the thief. "Yes sir I understand." Romerix responded accepting what the guardsmen was telling him. The guardmens left with the highly aggressive and now vulgar speaking man, the elderly lady walked up to Romerix, she was about a foot and a half shorter then Romerix, she gently held his hands, looking directly up at him with a gentle smile any grandmother would give their grandchild.


    "Thank you dear you are such a sweet boy in helping me." She said with a tone that made Romerix feel jittery inside. "W-well you are welcome ma''am, I couldn''t let him steal from you and it''s how my mother raised me to be" he responded with an embarrassed expression. Abilene with a sack cloth bag full of groceries is walking down the same cobblestone path as Romerix and the elderly lady are standing in. She sees him and in a normal walking pace made her way to him. "Oh there you are I''ve been looking for you for the past five minutes Romerix." Abilene said with slight annoyance. "Oh sorry mum I got curious and wanted to check the rest of the markets out and thank Numen I did because this elderly lady was being robbed" he responded with a smile. Abilene is taken aback by this, surprised this has happened. "Oh really? And are you alright ma''am?" She asked the elderly lady. The lady responded with a smile and happiness.


    "Why yes I am now, thanks to this beautiful boy of yours." The lady responded with a gentle and strained voice, Romerix only becoming more embarrassed. "W-well my mum here wouldn''t particularly be happy if I stood idly by and not help you, so did what I believe was the right thing to do ma''am." Romerix responded with a smile. "Yes I wouldn''t be too happy about it if you didn''t help Romerix" Abilene stated with a tone of approval. "well thank you very much again young man but I must be heading back to my stall it seems I have a couple customers as of right now." The elderly lady slowly turned around and walked back to her stall to tend to her customers, her aged body didn''t allow her to move like any young person would be able to. Abilene turns her frame to the left to face Romerix directly. "Well Romerix I have everything I need, it is time for us to head home, your uncle should be just about done with whatever he is doing."


    She spoke with a gentle tone as she placed the sack cloth bags handles over her arm and onto her shoulder, the bag itself now hangs from her shoulder. "Alright mum, cant wait for your grub tonight it''s gonna taste so good!" Romerix spoke highly upbeat whilist looking forward to dinner tonight. The sky now adorned with a beautiful and vibrant orange from the dusk of the sun. Now having made it back to the residence both Romerix and Abilene reside within, the exterior building itself was a small house with cobblestone walls, a furnished red cedar tree trim, with a tiled roof and chimney.


    Abilene headed straight to the kitchen to prepare tonight''s dinner while Romerix headed to his room to change into something more comfortable. The interior of the building was made of beautiful rich cedar red floorboards, the living room has a skin pelt rug of dark grey fur from a mammal similar to that of a wolf. The kitchen countertops made of the same wood as the floorboards, the counter bases were also made of cobblestone, utensils hang from the wall and right beside a spice rack. Romerix has left his room, his feet softly tapping against the floorboards as he enters into the kitchen. His attire is now a type of white tunic with brown shorts. "Go wait for livingroom Romerix, it will take a little while." Abilene stated with happiness as she can tell Romerix on the other side of the counter while she has already begun cooking.


    "Yes mum" Romerix accepted what he was being told to do, making his way from the kitchen to the living room, his ears would perk up to the sound of someone knocking upon the front door, Romerix walked over to the front and upon opening the front door a smile grew upon his face. It was his Jeremiah with the usual stern expression, his attire had change to of a custom made Toga that instead of it being long and coming down to his feet it came down to the top of his knee caps with the addition of sandals with leather straps coiling up his shins. "Uncle Jeremiah''s here mum!" Romerix shouted out to Abilene. "well let him in Romerix I''m busy cooking!" Abilene responded with a shout. Romerix made way for Jeremiah to enter the house, closing the door behind him, the sound of Jeremiah''s sandals made a gentle thud against the furnished cedar red floor.


    Making his way to the kitchen. Jeremiahs nose was met with the scent of fresh cooked Antullo steaks, Boarull chops, the sweet aroma of both vanilla bean and citrus coming from lemon and vanilla pound cake. Then his nosed picked up on his favourite type of food, roasted potato and corn cobs glazed in a savoury and salty butter, with little garnish of pepper corns on-top of the roasted vegetables. "You have outdone yourself today sister, what an amazing looking and smelling spread you have made" Jeremiah stated with satisfaction.


    Abilene would be moving to the dining room table and back to the kitchen, placing the different assortments of foods ready to be eaten. "Well you two seem to have bottomless stomachs so it''s only natural for me to cook a large spread of food." She responded happily. Romerix and Jeremiah took a seat at the table, pulling out the chairs caused a soft scrapping against the floorboards. "well dont just sit there waiting, dig in you dummies" Abilene said with a smile.


    Upon hearing those words, Romerix and Jeremiah started taking what they wanted for their first meal, scoffing down food as if they had not eaten in weeks, Abilene would sit down on the other side of the table, placing a small amount of food upon her plate, using utensils to eat while Romerix and Jeremiah ate with their hands. "Slow down there is enough to go around boys." She said with a laugh. "Hands off the corn boy." Jeremiah said muffled from a mouth full of food. "There is a dozen cobs here, you are not going to miss one corn cob." Romerix responded muffled from a mouth full of food too. Abilene would be slowly eating, using a fork and knife to eat her food.


    Upon finishing her mouth full she looked towards Jeremiah. "So who is the old friend you were speaking too?" She asked him. "Huh?, oh yeah it was Bruticus our old teacher, he wants Romerix to join the academy in Ruachaim and I didn''t have a problem with that" Jeremiah responded his voice somewhat muffled from Antullo meat he is eating. "Academy in Ruachaim?" Romerix questioned. "Yes the academy in Ruachaim is where I and your uncle learned to harness our chai and become the people we are today, they will teach you the way of Chai, how to harness it and better yourself" Abilene responded to Romerix''s question.


    "A boat will be ready for him in the morning to take him to the city of Ruachaim as two days time from now is the opening day for the academy to take upon new students and you''ll become one Romerix." Jeremiah stated while looking towards Romerix. Romerix expression became excited and eager. "Oh man I can''t wait I get to meet your old teacher and learn more about Chai, this is freaking sweet." Abilene was happy to see Romerix excited, Jeremiah had a slight smirk before reverting back to his usual stern demeanour. "thank you for the meal sister but i must be going, bring Romerix to the harbour first thing in the morning." Jeremiah pulled his chair out, standing up in a slow motion then placing his chair in, heading to the front door. "Very well brother thank you for stopping by."


    She responded with a gentle smile. "Bye uncle see you tomorrow" Romerix spoke up, waving Jeremiah goodbye. Jeremiah left the residence, door behind him, Abilene left her chair, putting it back under the table as she began to clean up the table of all the now empty dishes. "Best you head to bed young man it''ll be a big day for you tomorrow." Abilene said with a motherly tone. "Yes mum I''ll see you in the morning, good night and love you." Romerix responded, standing up from the table, putting the chair in then heading to his room for a goods night rest to be up early in the morning. "Hopefully Bruticus isn''t way to harsh on him." Abilene said to herself.

 The journey begins

    The next morning, the sky clear of any clouds, the cool sea breeze blows across the harbour like a soft blow from someone''s mouth, at the Harbour of Rastacor, Jeremiah, Abilene and Romerix are standing upon the middle of the three docks that connect to the harbour, a couple small fishing boats are tied to the far right dock. To the far left dock a larger fishing boat, twice the size of the others is tied to that dock. Fishermen are grabbing what they need to charter out to the sea to get fish.


    The middle dock has a frigate class transport ship, sailors boarding the ship and people disembarking from it. "Soo this is the ship that will take me too the city of Ruachaim?" Romerix questioned. "yes it is Romerix, a man who goes by the name of Peg leg will be taking you there." Jeremiah responded. "Who''s Peg leg?" Romerix questioned again as a burly looking man with a scruffy long brown beard stepped onto the plank, his peg leg making a loud tapping sound onto the plank.


    The burly man had a black tricorne hat with gold trim to it, curly black locks that came out from underneath the hat, a decent sized tooth hanging from his neck, an sailor captains attire with a black cloak to match and brown leather boots. Placing his hands upon his waist with enthusiasm he spoke. "I be Peg Leg lad, the captain of this Sea barnacle as er name be." His accent was foreign to Romerix having never heard someone speak in such a way. With a wobble Captain Peg Leg walked off the plank and onto the dock the others are standing upon. "Arrgh this wee lad be Romerix?" peg leg questioned. "Yes this is Romerix and you will be taking him to Ruachaim."


    Abilene stated with a frown while folding her arms over her chest. "And you''ll make sure Romerix who is precious cargo does not get hurt at all Nicholas." Her tone became protective. "Arghh ye don''t have to worry there Abilene the lads and I will make ye sure this young lad is not harmed." Peg Leg Responded with reassurance. "well lad climb aboard and we shall set sail for Ruachaim post haste" Peg leg spoke with a large smile that revealed a couple missing teeth. Peg leg turned around and with a wobble walked up the plank unto the deck of the sea barnacle. Romerix looked towards Abilene and Jeremiah with a smile. "Well wish me luck, it''s time for me to go I love you both." Abilene pulled Romerix into a gentle embrace to hug him. "Stay safe Romerix I know


    you''ll will do great at the academy." She placed a kiss upon Romerix''s forehead then released him from her embrace. Jeremiah placed his hand upon Romerix''s right shoulder, looking towards Romerix with sternness. "Be careful Romerix, give it all you got Abilene and i both know the day will come where you''ll become something great." Romerix smiled with a nod towards Jeremiah. "Thanks uncle I''ll give it my all." He responded with appreciation. And with that Romerix turned around, walking towards the boarding plank then up it onto the vessels deck.


    Looking back with a smile, Romerix waved goodbye to Abilene and Jeremiah who in return also waved good bye. "Ill make you both proud." He thought to himself filled with excitement as to what the academy of Ruachaim will bring him. Peg Leg barked orders to his crew to get the Sea Barnacle ready to set sail. "Bring in the plank!, Hoist the main sail!, loosen those lines lads we set off for Ruachaim!" with an cheerful shout the men got to work, the Sea Barnacle pulling away from the harbour of Rastacor. It''s destination the city of Ruachaim. Peg Leg at the helm brought the Sea Barnacle out to open


    sea, Romerix with his hands upon the vanished side railing of the deck, gazed out onto the open water, taking in a deep breath with a smile upon his face. The sea softly churned, gullies flying over head, gliding with their four wings "So this is what the ocean is like, it''s peaceful." Romerix stated as he walked over to Peg leg, the sound of wood tapping underneath his feet. "Aye lad she be a sight to behold, now the trusty Sea Barnacle will sail herself for the time bein, let me introduce ya to the rest of me crew." Peg leg yelled out to his crew who quickly scurried over to him, the shuffling of feet is heard. His crew is of different heights and sizes and consisted of five others. "This be me crew, Crew this be Romerix introduce yaselves.'' He ordered. The first to introduce them self is a athletic man aboutDid you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    a foot shorter then Romerix, he has stripped sailors attire, a black left eye patch, an bandana and a curly brown moustache and a hazelnut brown eye "Aye I be Shortstack, this crews watcher." He spoke with a raspy tone and a grin to his features. The second of the five was a lanky man a foot and a half taller then Romerix, he has a white sailors attire without uppershirt, a light brown beard , an anchor tattoo on his chest and dark brown eyes . "The names Sky Tower the navigator" his expression was comfortable and his tone deep. The third was of an adolescent boy around the same age as Romerix and same height.


    He has blond hair, light blue eyes, blue sailors attire with a lean frame. "I''m Young Bird, the captain be teaching me how to be a sailor. He had a smile about him with a confident expression upon him.The fourth was a older man, his hair silver with a tinge of grey, brown sailors attire, goatee and a hook replacing his led hand. "I be Samuel but everybody calls me Hookhand on account of me hookhand hahahaaah!" His expression was a lively one and his tone softer with a slight strain to it. Last but not least was a woman with a petite frame about her.


    Her hair was a vibrant brown and flowed down to her shoulders, her eyes dawned the colour of emerald green, her features were as stunning as an early morning sunrise and her attire was a black sailors with a brown leather cloak. "my name be Luciana or Lucie for short, I help the captain keep this here vessel flying true" Her tone was bubbly and her expression came with a smirk. Romerix smiled, happy to meet everyone of Peg legs crew. To


    him they seemed rather friendly and witty. "Its nice to meet you all" he said. Peg leg placed his arm around Romerix''s shoulders his face lit up with pride for his crew. "They be the best lads I''ve ever known me boy and I be proud to fly the Sea Barnacle with em." His crew stood differently a couple with their hands on their hips the rest with their arms folded over their chests, large smiles creeped onto their faces. "Now lads Romerix here be precious cargo so you lot take good care of me boy or ye be clearing barnacles off the belly of er ya hear!" Peg leg spoke in a stern manner, his expression serious. His crew saluted their


    captain and spoke in unison. "Ay at captain!" they said with respect for their captain. "Now back to ye stations lads Ruachaim be our next stop!" after telling his crew of the situation they scurried back to their positions to keep the Sea Barnacle going. Peg leg removed his arm from Romerix''s shoulders heading back to the wheel his vessel with a wobble. Romerix curious turned around to look at peg leg and asked him a question. "Uh I''m curious as to how you losthalf of your leg Captain Peg leg?" he asked. Peg leg cackled at Romerix


    question seemingly happy he asked. "HAHAHAAAH Me boy I knew ye be askin that ol question so I''ll tell ya." Romerix would listen intently his full focus upon Peg leg, curious as to what he might tell him. "It all starts on a fine day like this here ye day, the sky clear of white fluffies as far as these weary eyes can see. The sea erself was the calmest I ever laid these eyes upon." Romerix interest was peaked so he sat down on one of the stairs that''s bring peg leg up to the wheel of the sea barnacle to hear more.


    "This be before I had this ol girl under me command but back to the story. I took me lil boat out to go catch suppah for that fine night later on, I took me lil boat out to the big water which ye be callin the sea lad and out of nowhere this beauty of a sharca which be a mighty beast of the sea tipped me boat over, castin me into the briny deep itself." Peg legs expression went from upbeat to a serious one with Romerix asking him a follow up question. "Then what happened?" Romerix question, Peg Leg looked towards Romerix his body movements acting out what he did at the time. "I came


    up to the big water''s surface to get me self a nice heapin lot of air lad, then next thing I feel is the jaws of this mighty beast slam shut onto me right leg, pullin me down into her briny embrace, I had to act fast or that day be me last. I pull out me trusty blade and stab that beast directly into its fierce eye and PLUCKED it right out of that mighty beasts noggin, she let me go but at the cost of me leg lad." Romerix''s expression was one of a kid being told a story as with what he was being told would change his expression from surprise to shock


    to one of excitement. "Wow it sounds like you were lucky to be alive, that creature sounds dangerous." He said with awe on his face. "Aye lad she be a dangerous beauty, after letting me go and I swimming up to the big water''s surface she be tryin again, this time I be thinkin I wouldn''t last but then as she be bleedin and be comin me way, somethin be catchin er eye and she left me be and what that be was Laccie ol girl, she came to me aid and brought me back to the closest shore


    bless her beautiful big ol heart." Peg leg smiled as he thought back on the creature who saved him with Romerix looking up at the clear blue sky with a smile, amazed at the story of how Nicholas got the name Peg leg. "Thanks for the story Captain Peg Leg." He said with appreciation to his tone. "You be welcome me boy." Peg Leg responded with a smile, both now looking out to the open sea, the gentle sea breeze blowing through Romerix''s hair making it move as if it was alive.

 Illuminous Night

    Some time has


    passed upon the Sea Barnacle, the sky dawning a beautiful orange dusk from the


    sun starting to come pass the horizon line. The Sea Barnacles sails full of wind,


    pushing it ever closer to its destination. "so lad what do ye expect when you


    reach Ruachaim?" Peg Leg asked Romerix. "Oh uhh I''m not really to sure to be


    honest, I''ve never really left Rastacor before ahhah." Romerix seemed to be


    nervous not really knowing what to expect from Ruachaim or what it has to offer


    exactly.


    Seeing he was nervous captain Peg Leg thought and pondered for a moment to think of something to say in return to bring his spirits back up, then he remembered how of a night time the Sea looked more beautiful then anything Peg legs eyes laid upon like a starry night sky full of jewels. "AHAH Romerix me boy I be showin ya


    beauties ye eyes never seen before, a few moments from now when the sun leave


    this sky to sleep, what ye witness will leave ya be speechless me boy." Romerix with


    a confused frown looked directly at Peg Leg, having no idea what exactly he


    could be talking about or what he means.


    "What....exactly do you mean?" Romerix


    asked becoming more confused as time went on. "Just ye wait and watch the sun


    go past the horizon line me boy" Peg Leg stated with a smile.  Romerix more


    then confused gazed out towards the sun as it finally went past the horizon line. The sky free of the sun and its golden light dawned the gentle black of a night sky, one after another were the stars bright and flickering through out the night sky, more then can possibly be counted. The moon in its crescent stage and the colour it dawned was a bright white.


    Romerix stood up from where he was sitting and stared up at the sky, shocked at the beauty he saw the night sky bring.


    "I had no idea the sky out here looked so beautiful, I.. I can''t even count how many


    stars there is. so many of them wow." Peg leg released the wheel from his grasp, walking with a wobble to the side railing of the Sea Barnacle, placing his hands onto the side railing, his eyes gazing onto the sea itself. "If ye think the twinklers are beauties then ye may want to look over here me boy."


    Romerix walks


    over to Peg Leg and stands beside him, placing his hands upon the railing and


    looking over the side of the Sea Barnacle. What he saw was an array of fish of


    all different sizes which dawned beautiful and vibrant luminous colours which


    ranged from reds, greens, blues, purples and gold. Some of the Luminescent fish


    have streaks that go down from head to tail fin, the streaks themselves softly


    pulsate, others had spots or blotches across their bodies that would flash brightly.


    Romerix was in absolute awe of what he was witnessing he had never seen such gorgeous fish in his entire life. "Whoaaa! I''ve never seen fish that look like those before they look beautiful, what type of fish are they?" Romerix asked in absolute


    awe, Peg Leg having a big smile explained what they are. "These here fish lad are


    able to make these here colours come from within them, the locals be callin em


    the jewels of Ruachaim which also be meanin we just came into the waters around Ruachaim." Romerix was surprised to hear such a response from Peg Leg, staring at the fish then directly at towards Peg Leg with wide eyes.


    "Wait..are you saying we are nearly


    there?" Peg leg returned a look with a wide smile, placing his hands onto his


    hips. "Aye lad we be there in the mornin lad at the latest me boy." Romerix


    threw his hands up into the air with a cheer. "Alright awesome!, can''t wait to


    get there heheh." Romerix had a cheeky smile about him. Peg Leg


    released a loud cackle of pure happiness bringing his hand up to his left eye


    and wiping a tear away. "Hahahah you be a lively one lad."


    Romerix rubbed the back of his head embarrassed of himself. "Ahah sorry bout that I''m just excited is all." He said a little nervous. Peg Leg placed his left hand upon Romerix''s right shoulder, both proceeding to walk down the stairs leading to the wheel, to the entrance way that would lead to the cabins within the hull of the Sea Barnacle. "Well ye be gettin some rest me boy, spend some time with the lads then get some sleep, we be at Ruachaim before ye know it."


    Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.Romerix nods in agreement with Peg Leg then heads down the wooden stairs that lead into the cabins. Upon entering the cabins he would see short stack playing a harmonica.


    Hook hand laying on a make shift hemic, Sky tower is sitting upon a wooden rum


    barrel, Young bird is laying on his back


    with his legs up against the side of the hull and Luciana is whistling along with the tune of the harmonica. With a smile Romerix spoke up. "Hey guys"


    They notice Romerix after he spoke up, smiles coming across their faces as they were rather happy to see him. "Hey its Romerix"  Luciana stated while smirking. "Having a grand ol time with the captain


    ay Romerix? Hahah" Short stack questioned with a teeth showing smile. High tower pulled out another wooden rum barrel, the metal trim of the barrel


    scrapping against the wood.


    "Come sit Romerix, Join us." Hightower asked with a stern expression. Romerix sat down upon the wooden rum barrel a smile upon his face, surprised how inviting everyone was being. "Heh I''m surprised ye haven''t thrown up yet Romerix I thought ye be a sea dog the entire trip." Hook hand remarked with a grin. "I''m surprised too honestly it is my first time upon a ship of any kind actually." Romerix responded to Hook Hands question. Hook hands lit up with surprise then he dawned a large smile.


    "Shall we make the lads first time on this here vessel one to remember Friends?" Hook hand asked the rest of his crew, there faces dawning a smile besides High tower who kept the usual stern frown.


    Luciana placed her foot upon the side of a trunk, kicking it over to the crew, Short stack lifted the lid to the trunk and within was an assortment of different instruments with the crew proceeding to go up to the trunk and pull a different instrument out of it, short stack with the fiddle, Hook hand the harmonica, high tower the accordion, Young bird with the flute and Luciana with the banjo. Romerix had a confused smile, wondering what they are doing.


    Before he was possibly able to ask the crew they began to play the instruments in sync. Luciana and Short Stack began to tap their foot against the wooden floor boards of the Sea Barnacles hull, Young Bird and Hook Hand moving their bodies with the upbeat and catchy tune and High Tower bopping his head to the beat. Romerix starting to enjoy the instrumental


    began to tap his hand against the trim of the wooden rum barrel he was sitting upon. "This is so cool" Romerix thought to himself, really getting into the beat. The beat would change from fast paced and upbeat to slow paced and catch over the course of a couple minutes with the finale being dragged out a bit with the beat finally coming to a end.


    Romerix clapped his hands amazed at how the crew was able to play such instruments together. "Wow that was amazing guys, I really enjoyed that. Thank you for making my day better then it already was." With high appreciation for what they did he thanked each one of them for going out of their ways to make his trip to Ruachaim more enjoyable then it already is. "It be no trouble on our part lad" Short stack said with a teeth showing smile. "glad ye enjoyed that little melody there Romerix." Hook hand responded with a smirk about him. "We always love to play a catchy tune on any voyage we be takin lad."


    High Tower stated with the usual stern frown. "As long as ye be havin a jolly time there it be no trouble to us." Luciana said with a smile about her. Young bird covered his mouth with his left hand, releasing a soft yawn. "It be getting late time we hit the sacks crew." Young bird said through a long yawn. Everyone in agreement got up from where they where sitting or moved from where they were standing and


    headed for the bunks within the cabins, Luciana showed Romerix a spare hammock he can sleep in, having thanked her he climbed into the hammock with eyes getting heavy and released a long yawn. "Time for some shut eye, finally going to be at Ruachaim in the morning."


    Romerix thought to himself as he placed his hands onto his chest, the sound of softly churning waves, and the cool sea breeze and the gentle rocking of the Sea Barnacle brought the young adolescent


    into a slow drift of peaceful and comfortable sleep.

 New Friends

    The night skywas met with the rising of the early dawn sun, rays of crimson orange spreadacross the sky, the rays hitting the side of the Sea Barnacle, casting a beautiful crimson orange onto the vessels hull. Peg Leg is upon the deck of the Sea Barnacle, leaning upon the railing while puffing upon a tobacco pipe, heexhaled smoke out of his nose with a content sigh.


    "such a sight for me weary eyes, it be a sight of beauty."  Peg Leg moved away from the railing and turned around seeing Romerix stretching upon the deck. "Mornin lad, didn''t think ya be up at dawn." He said with surprise. Romerix walks over to Peg Leg yawning while rotating his right arm. "My uncle taught me how to be disciplined and always would make sure I''m up early for training." He responded to Peg leg.


    With a slight lift upwards of his head, Peg Leg now understood why Romerix is up so early, taking a long drag of his tobacco pipe then exhaling the smoke out his mouth. "Ahh that explains it, well we be at the Harbour in the next couple hours me boy." Romerix gave Peg Leg a wide smile, placing his hands onto the back of his head.


    "Man this is gonna be fun, I can''t wait to see what is in store for me Heh."  Peg Leg held his pipe with his right hand taking a long drag of his pipe, causing the burned tobacco within to glow a bright ember orange. He brought the pipe down from his mouth, exhaling smoke from within his lungs, now cleaning out the tobacco piece


    of ash to be ready when he wants to use it again. "Ye be fine lad, ye be doin great this noggin be knowin ye be achievin any task handed to ya me boy." Peg Leg said with enthusiasm and a smile. Romerix walked over to an wooden barrel sitting next to the main mast of the Sea Barnacle, planting himself onto the wooden barrel to sit down.


    He looks towards Peg Leg with appreciation. "Thanks Peg Leg I appreciate the kind words you are bestowing upon me all I hope is to make my mum and uncle proud of me." Peg Leg looked directly at Romerix with an assuring expression. "Me boy they be already proud of ye, Wether ye fail or succeed they be wanting what be best for you, don''t ye forget that me boy."


    Romerix felt as if Peg Leg spoke with truth and was highly appreciative of the reassurance he was given. His motivation and drive to do the best he possibly can only increased, Romerix will do what it takes to be as strong as both his mother and uncle. "Heh you probably are right Peg Leg I''m going to surprise the both of them."


    Peg Leg


    walked over to Romerix with a wobble giving him a pat on the shoulder and a teeth showing smile. "Show em all ye got what it takes me boy, and if any scallywag tries to be putting ye down, prove em wrong lad." With those words Romerix gave a nod in return. "got it."


    Two hours went by like a blink of the eye, the morning sun beaming bright in a clear blue sky, it''s golden rays shone across the water of the ocean. The Sea Barnacle had finally made it to Port, docking at the Harbour of Ruachaim, the harbour is filled with boats varying in different sizes from small to large, some fishing vessels and others cargo transportation vessels. Romerix was looking out from the Sea


    Barnacle toward the harbour. "We are finally here..Wow I can''t believe it we are here."  Peg Leg had his hand on Romerix''s shoulder, a smile upon his face as he too looked out towards the harbour. "Aye lad we be at Ruachaim now, until we meet again me boy." Romerix and Peg Leg walked over to the board walk, Romerix turns around to look at Peg Leg while raising his hand to shake Peg Legs. "Thanks Peg Leg


    best of luck with your vessel and your crew, our paths will meet again I''m sure of it." With a smile and confidence, Romerix walked down the board walk, taking his first steps into Ruachaim.  Romerix took in a large inhale of oxygen, releasing it in an exhaled sigh. "This is where it begins, we got this Romerix." He said to himself as he walked into the harbour, He asked someone who worked at the Harbour which way to the academy.


    They pointed towards the markets that leads to the cities town square. "Go that way through the markets, and you will find the town square someone there will help you with what you''re looking for. They said abruptly. "Oh ok thank you sir." Romerix responded.  Romerix followed the directions the man told him to go, going through the Sea food markets that are behind the harbour, Looking around Romerix saw buildings like


    he had never seen before they seemed to be more fancy then the ones at Rastacor. The people wore Robed attires made of fine white silk and linen. Upon reaching the centre of the city, his eyes laid upon a large statue around the height of ten meters of a figure shrouded in a hooded cloak which covered the figures entire body, its hands cusped together in prayer.


    Romerix walked over to the stature, the sound of multitude of people walking all around him, the stature was beautifully carved from white stone with an engraving which read "IN NUMEN WE TRUST" confused at first he then remembered his mother talking about him. "that''s the one mum was telling me about growing up who is the one in all things." Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Having finished looking upon the statue in amazement Romerix turned around to walk away from the fine statue as he physically came into contact with two adolescent''s, who are around a three quarters of a foot shorter then him, accidentally colliding with both of them. One male and the other female. The two adolescents turn around with annoyance on their faces. "Hey watch where you''re going!"


    the adolescent male said sternly. Romerix somewhat embarrassed from not paying attention. "O-oh sorry about that I wasn''t paying attention."  The adolescent female with a huff walked right up to Romerix with a slight stomp about her and her fists being clenched. "You better be sorry or Zacharias is gonna


    beat you up!" the adolescent woman revealed the adolescent males name to be Zacharias within a feisty tone. Zacharias let out a sigh of annoyance. "I''m not going to beat him up Lunai geez you got to stop trying to get me to fight everyone. The adolescent female is revealed to be Lunai.


    Unsure what to do and somewhat nervous Romerix placed his hands in front of his chest. "Again I apologise I didn''t see either of you, I was just looking at the statue please forgive me." He gave a nervous smile. Lunai squints suspicious of Romerix while Zacharias pulls her away from Romerix. "Don''t worry about it was clearly a mistake Right Lunai?" "Hmph i guess you''re right Zacharias."


    Lunai is a young adolescent female with long flowing dark blonde locks, deep blue eyes with flecks of green and a feisty expression about her, her frame is petite dawned with an tanned complexion and her attire is a blue like Robed dress with brown leather calceis upon her feet.


    Zacharias has short dark blonde hair with rich brown hazelnut eyes, his expression was annoyed with how Lunai is acting, his skin is dawned with a tanned complexion as well. His attire consisted of a fine white cotton short tunic, Spartan like skirt combo and his feet were within short strapped sandals. "Sorry about her she can be weird sometimes, she means no harm." Zacharias reassured Romerix.


    Lunai gave an pouting expression. "Shut up Zacharias." Romerix rubbed the back of his head still somewhat nervous from the encounter. "She does seem rather feisty ahah uhh anyway I''m looking for the Academy here in Ruachaim, you two wouldn''t happen to know where it is by any chance?" he asked curious if they''d know.


    Zacharias is about to tell him where it is but Lunai cuts him off before he has a chance to say anything. "Oh yes it i-" "Oh the academy we are heading there for the opening day so just follow us." She said overtalking Zacharias who responded with a simple sigh. "Oh that''s great thank you." Romerix said with a smile. Lunai pointed a finger towards Romerix and spoke with a feisty and assertive tone.


    "But on the condition you become our friend you got that dumbface."  Unsure what to do, Romerix simply agrees to her terms, Zacharias sighs once again using a finger and thumb to rub his closed eyes. "O-oh Uhm sure and uhh it''s Romerix...not dumbface." Lunai huff and turns around walking off in a storm, clearly annoyed from her own doing. Zacharias with a wave of his hand for Romerix to Follow, walks with Romerix.


    "She''ll be fine we both live in Ruachaim and she knows where the academy is." Zacharias spoke with reassurance and a smile. "Oh uh right." Romerix responded with a nod "So it''s Romerix huh...where are you from exactly?" Zacharias asked Romerix abruptly who was not expecting that question. "Oh uh I''m from a town called Rastacor near the southern coast of Drudonia, have you heard of it?"


    Romerix responded to his answer with a question. "Rastacor...hmm no I don''t think I have but it''s nice to meet someone not from the city ." Zacharias gave a cheeky smile happy to meet an outsider. After a couple minutes they finally caught up with an even more annoyed Lunai who was groaning from impatience. "Ughhh you two walk like old people can''t you hurry up geez."


    Zacharias responded with the same feisty attitude and annoyed expression as he in return talked back towards Lunai. "Well if you didn''t storm off like a damn child we wouldn''t of taken so long Lunai." Lunai folded her arms over her bust and turned her head to not look at either of the two. "Hmph whatever idiot."


    Zacharias and Lunai are clearly annoyed at each other with Romerix watching the both of them bicker in confusion. "This uh must be how people from Ruachaim are..I guess." He thought to himself then a question popped into his head to ask the both of them. "Uhmm are you two like siblings...or an angry couple?" Lunai became flustered at the question


    as she spoke in a more louder and angered tone. "No we are just friends you idiot!" "I have known Lunai since we were little kids, this is how she always has been." Zacharias looked towards Romerix, stating to inform him of the situation between them both. "Oh ok thank you for telling me." Romerix responded.  The three now walking together with Lunai taking the lead,


    they headed down through the city streets from left to rights until they finally came to a clearing from the buildings. What Romerix saw was a massive bridge made from obsidian with the pathway being white marble with gold throughout the marble like lightning. At the end of the bridge his eyes saw a massive citadel made also from white marble.


    It''s four towering pillars of whitemarble dawned draping gold flags with the symbol of Ruachaim a mixture of the Omega symbol and an winged creature like an eagle. The pillars and building itself had stained blue glass at different parts of building. A beautiful front garden with a variety of plants and flowers.


    The front gate and surrounding fence are made from the mixture of two metals which were Copper and bronze and the tips like spears. At the front gates are two large statues of knights in armour on each side of the gate, their sheer size is enough to intimidate anyone. "Whoaa...that''s the academy its HUUGE!" Romerix stated in awe of such a piece of architecture.


    Zacharias smiled at Romerix''s remark but Lunai still wasn''t happy about earlier. "Yep that''s the Academy Romerix it''s one of the best academies in all of Limuria." Zacharias stated proudly. "Come on you two let''s go already." Lunai was getting rather impatient just standing at the bridge that takes them to the Academy. Zacharias responded


    to Lunai to hopefully shut her complaints up. "Alright alright Lunai geez we are going."  And with that Romerix and his new friends who Lunai forced upon him, set out across the bridge to the golden front gates of the Ruachaim academy.

 Thus it begins

    Romerix, Lunai and Zacharias walked up to the large golden front gates where a multitude of fellow adolescents were waiting, they were chatting amongst themselves some happened to be laughing and others having a friendly chat. Romerix and Lunai Feld their arms over their chests while Zacharias placed his hands upon his waist. "Lot of people here." Zacharias said with surprise.


    "Well duh it''s opening day Zacharias." Lunai responded with an sarcastic attitude towards him.  "Come on Lunai Lighten up a little we are finally here I''m sure you could be happy about that right?" Romerix spoke to Lunai with a softer tone and a smile towards her, Lunai slowly looked towards Romerix with an annoyed frown which slowly faded away to a slight smile. "hmph Yeah...I guess you are right Romerix."


    "Look at all these idiots thinking they''ll be something so pathetic it''s hilarious."  Said an male adolescent with a smug expression and snarky and egotistical tone. Romerix''s ears perked up to how he was speaking as he was not too particularly fond of someone acting better then everyone else. From hearing those words his head would turn to the right to stare at the adolescent who spoke in such a way.


    "Who''s that guy there?" the other two being confused looked into the direction Romerix was speaking of, Lunai looked in disgust while Zacharias looked bothered. "Eugh why is that idiot here?" she questioned.  "That''s Markarius Romerix... his father Obsidinite runs majority of the businesses here in Ruachaim so he thinks he''s better then everyone because he''s the richest guy her." Zacharias informed Romerix of who Markarius is, Romerix taking in the information without saying a word but simply staring at Markarius.


    Markarius is the same age as Romerix at twenty years of age, curly auburn red hair, bright lime green hues. His frame is athletic with muscular definition and his attire made from finest linen and brown leather that can be found in Ruachaim. Markarius noticed Romerix was staring directly at him with a frown so in return he gave Romerix a smug expression. "What are you staring at huh got a problem?" he said to Romerix with attitude.


    Romerix looked away from Markarius as to ignore him and not interact with him. And with that Markarius gave out a loud mocking scoff. Everyone''s attention then was brought towards the golden front gate, it began to swing open with an audible creaking noise. Behind the opening gate is a rather tall and lean woman her eyes a piercing bright red, hair long and black with an aggressive scowl upon her features.


    She is dawned with a black armour with gold trim and the symbol of the academy upon the breast plate.


    Her piercing gaze scanned those at the front gate noticing how most were intimidated by her gaze. "Welcome to Ruachaim Academy, I am Solaria now follow me." She spoke sternly and assertive. Hesitation met most of those at the gates, those who were not hesitant walked through the gates, the first two through were Markarius and Romerix followed by Lunai and Zacharias then the rest followed suit.


    "Here we will teach you the way of chai and how to harness it to use against any and all threats and for daily life." Solaria stated. While walking through the front gardens of the academy everyone who was with solaria saw students talking amongst themselves, beautiful flowers of all sorts and a majestic fountain in the garden centre. Upon reaching the marble steps leading to two massive wooden doors, solaria stopped walking and turned around.


    "We will be heading to the main hall to wait for the gentlemen who will be helping with your physical training, in the mean time speak with students or have a look around the main hall but DONT LEAVE." She emphasised the last two words to show she is being highly serious.


    With that she and everyone with her walked up the steps to the massive doors, the multitude of stepping being highly audible. Solaria opened the doors which lead to the main hall, the doors clunked and create loudly upon opening.


    The main hall revealed a twenty meter high by ten meter wide room with beautifully stained black marble flooring, large white marble pillars for support beams for the ceiling, red carpet that goes from the centre of the main hall and splits into two going up two stair wells that leads up to another door way, four large golden chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.


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    Everyone is looking in awe of its beauty, Romerix''s attention is drawn elsewhere, Lunai and Zacharias talk with a couple students from the academy,.


    Markarius being snobby doesn''t talk to anyone as he thinks himself to good to speak to commoners. The marble made an audible echo with each step underneath Romerix as he is drawn to a large statue at the front of the two stair wells. The statue was made from white marble that has some cracks throughout it. It was a statue of a male figure kneeling down onto one knee, holding a sword in front of him by the handle with the blade within the base of the statue.


    The male figure adorned in an ancient armour of what could be classified as metal  and a cape connected to the figures shoulders, drooping to the ground. "...I wonder who you are or were..." Romerix said to himself while solaria has stood beside him. Curious as to who this statue pays homage to?" She asked curiously. Romerix stared at the statue and gave her a nod, she softened her tone to one respectful and less stern as she too stared at the statue.


    "This is Ozoroth, one of the seven Chosen ones of Numen, the greatest to live amongst us all. According to the legend Numen brought them into existence to defend Limuria from creatures formed from Tumah chai an purely evil and wicked form of chai that came from an ancient being of pure evil who sought to consume the entire world''s chai and the chai stream itself.


    The legend does not speak of who this ancient evil was but whatever it was, it was strong to defeat Ozoroth and the other Chosen Ones but at the fall of its own demise and from then on the world has not seen this ancient evil or the children of numen." Solaria looked towards Romerix with an stern expression. "Some people say they still roam upon the world others say they no longer exist then their are those who believe they have witnessed them in dreams and visions."


    Romerix placed his gaze upon Solaria with curiosity. "what''s Tumah and Tahor chai?" he asked. "You will learn more in the chai classes, until then wait with everyone else."  Romerix looked towards Solaria and nodded. "Yes ma''am." Solaria with a swift motion turned to the left and walked away from Romerix to meet up with Bruticus, Romerix having finished gazing at the statue decided it would be best to return back to Lunai and Zacharias and await for Solaria and the other teacher.


    He noticed they were locked in a conversation with students so he decided not to disturb them. A door to the left swung wide open with a audible thud which caught everyone''s attention.  Within the opening of the door was a large and fairly tall man who was bald with a deep black beard and moustache, he wore the same type of armour as Solaria did but more bulky, his expression was like one that has been through many battles.


    With each step into the main hall was followed with a echoing thud and clunking of the armour he wore. Solaria following close behind. "I am Bruticus Sorion" He spoke with a deep and loud voice. "I will be teaching you the art of combat and how to destroy your enemy in battle, you have already met Solaria she will be if, you have not been told teaching you how use the chai within your bodies for combat."


    Markarius simply scoffed through his nose, Lunai and Zacharias showed signs of nervousness at the sheer size of Bruticus, Romerix was rather excited as he knew at this moment he would become as strong as his uncle. The others mumbled amongst themselves which agitated Bruticus greatly. "BE QUIET YOU DO NOT MUMBLE IN MY PRESENCE !" His voice bellowed throughout the main hall like thunder after lightning and his expression spoke many unspoken words of anger.


    "you will all follow me to the registration station to get your new attire and which rooms you''ll be staying in and if I here any more mumbling coming from any of you, ALL OF YOU will do ten thousand push-ups do I make myself clear." The now new students nod their heads nervously as they followed Bruticus and Solaria to the registration station, each one was given a cloth sleeveless tunic and cloth pants to wear then they were separated by gender to change into the training attire. Then they are told by Solaria which rooms or dorms they will be staying in.


    After changing into their new training attires and told the rooms or dorms they will be staying within, they follow Bruticus and Solaria to the courtyard grounds. "This is were you lot will be training those pathetic and weak bodies of yours to become physically, emotionally and mentally stronger." Bruticus said sternly as he glared with a dagger like stare. "NOW LINE UP AND DO NOT MAKE ME TELL YOU AGAIN." With a shout he ordered the new students to line up as they did nervously their were three rows of ten new students in each row.


    Romerix, Lunai and Zacharias stood next to one another with Lunai and Zacharias rather nervous and intimidated, Romerix had a smile upon his face as this reminded him of the time of how Jeremiah taught him. Markarius stood in line unhappy he was being told what to do but accepted what was happening none the less. Bruticus stood before them with his arms behind his back with a stance that was strong and powerful compared to everyone else. He was ready to put them through hell.

 Ways of the Limurite soldier

    Bruticus with a stern gaze observed the new students before him, taking a moment to look at each one. "Right now all I see is a bunch of weak minded children who have everything done for them by their parents, well sorry to burst your bubble of safety but your parents aren''t here right now I AM and what I say goes, from this moment on all I want to hear out of your worthless mouths is "sir yes sir" or "sir no sir", DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR!" Bruticus spoke like a drill Sargent speaking to new cadets.


    Those in line said sir yes sir not loud enough to Bruticus''s liking which brought annoyance to him. "I CAN NOT HEAR YOU SPEAK UP" he barked the new students screaming as loud as they can sir yes sir, Bruticus nodded his head slightly accepting that is as loud as they can scream. "there are some mental rules you ALL will live by and I shall tell you them all right now these rules will turn you from soft and weak to mighty and hardened for what''s to come"


    Bruticus walked from left to right in a slow pace, his armour thudding and clanking with each step. "The greatest shame for a Limurite soldier is to return home alive from a lost and failed battle so too. DO NOT return from a challenge without having given everything."


    Bruticus walked over to a couple of the new students who are heavier then the rest, staring directly at them with a stern gaze. "Only consume the plainest of foods and never fill yourselves to the point of satisfaction. Not only will this bring forth a leanness for battle but also bring mental fortitude." Those couple heavier students shouted sir yes sir with nervousness to their tones.


    Bruticus slowly walked into the second line of new students, going from left to right his eyes glaring directly onto each of the new students who are clearly intimidated by his sheer size and tone. "Every Limurite soldier is demanded to take part of the right of passage, an physical or mental trial. Upon completion you are born anew better then ever."


    Within the final row of new students Bruticus''s gaze met the smallest of the new students, their face was shrouded in dread and fear. Bruticus slowly strolled over to the terrified new student, his gaze cold like ice upon the new student who is too terrified to look upon Bruticus. "Accepting that you will die will allow you to live a life of courage, it unburdens the mind from the limitations of fear, bringing forth your true potential." He spoke coldly.


    Within the final row of new students, Markarius rolled his eyes with a mocking scoff that was accompanied by a smug smirk. Bruticus taking note of this brought his hands down to his sides slowly with agitation. His armour clunking with each movement and thudding with each step as he stood before Markarius. "You must be Obsidinite''s child." He said with a scowl. "Yeah what of it?" Markarius responded with disrespect.


    Next thing Markarius knew was Bruticus sent his fist into his stomach, the power behind it was strong enough to drop him down to his feet, the pain Markarius felt was a pain he had never felt before, the feeling was deep through his abdomen like a searing fire blazing hot. Upon the ground Markarius began to cough and wheeze from the pain that was inflected upon him.


    "YOU WILL NOT BE DISRESPECTFUL SON OF OBSIDINITE, YOU WILL LEARN TO BE RESPECTFUL OR ILL MAKE YOUR TIME HERE ABSOLUTE HELL DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME CHILD!" Bruticus shouted with a snarl. Markarius slowly stood up, with a hand on his lower abdomen, his face contorted in pain. "S-sir yes *Cough* Sir." Markarius responded with strain.


    Bruticus replaced his hands behind his back, turning to the left and slowly walking over to where Zacharias is in the back line, Zacharias more nervous from what he just witnessed. He stood straight filled with fear. "Fight for a good and righteous cause and use every fibre of your being to push that cause further and do not be afraid to defend it."


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    Zacharias was frozen in fear and intimidation unable to move an inch of his muscles, sweat falling down his face. Bruticus moved over to Lunai who stood beside Zacharias, his icey cold gaze staring down at her, his tone stern. "Surround yourself with those who are ruthlessly devoted to making themselves better." She too was frozen in intimidation of Bruticus unable to move an inch.


    Bruticus again moved over to Romerix who stood beside Lunai, Bruticus saw Romerix stand firmly with his arms by his side, his expression shrouded in seriousness and his gaze staring directly at Bruticus with no sign of external fear. He stood before Romerix for a couple seconds in silence then spoke up with stern authority. "A true leader does not watch on safely behind the rear and in addition continually introduce oneself to sufferable situations where you are either forced to sink or swim, a Limurite soldier must be able to quickly adapt."


    "SIR YES SIR!" Romerix shouted with everything his vocal cords could allow him to release out. Bruticus was impressed that Romerix showed no sign of fear towards him and found respect out of it. "You must be Romerix, son of Abilene Apostolis." Bruticus asked, Romerix nodded in response. "YES SIR I AM." He shouted towards Bruticus who then gave him a nod in acknowledgement. "Do not disappoint me Romerix." Bruticus spoke sternly with expectation from Romerix.


    Bruticus slowly walked back to in front of the new students, standing beside Solaria, his armour clanking with each step. "Now I want you lot to run a thousand laps around this court yard so MOVE IT. Bruticus barked, the new students shouting sir yes sir, the sound of multiple feet audible like a stampede of animals. "IF ANY OF YOU FALL BEHIND YOU''LL BE DOING DOUBLE DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR!" Bruticus barked with a bellow like thunder, the new students shouting sir yes sir.


    "Seems you''ve got this lot under your thumb Bruticus." Solaria stated as she watched the students jogging around the courtyard. "it''s not difficult Solaria, you are more lenient with students then I am." Bruticus responded with the usual stern scowl. Markarius Jogging around with the rest of the students, sweat rolled down his face, his breathing becoming heavier as he was exerting himself.


    "Any words about Obsidinite''s son?" Solaria asked with displease upon her features, Bruticus''s tone became rather displeased. "Arrogant and foolish just like his father at his age but it won''t last for long as I''ll rid him of that disrespectful nature like his father before him. Bruticus responded.


    Romerix was at the front of the pack at a set jogging pace, a smile spread across his features and sweat falling down his face. "what of Abilene''s son? He seems to be more determined then all the others." Solaria asked, Bruticus stayed silent for a couple seconds before responding. "It is too early to say for sure about him all I will say is I have very high expectations from that boy being apart of the Apostolis tribe." He responded while observing the students jogging around the courtyard.


    After some time had passed the students reached the last few laps, their jogging speeds have slowed down as some were having difficulty keeping up others have stopped not being able to keep up including Lunai and Zacharias, the only two in front of the pack still keeping the same pace are Markarius and Romerix. "I *Huff* won''t let *Huff* someone be better then me!" Markarius said through an exhausted tone. "Heh *Huff* You''ll *Huff* to do better *Huff* to keep up then* Romerix responded also exhausted.


    Markarius and Romerix finish the final lap of a thousand, both exhausted and full out of breath, Romerix put his hands onto the back of his head breathing heavily, sweat trickling down his face and building up onto his chin. Markarius put his hands onto his knees also breathing heavily. "Hah *Huff* I beat *Huff* you Markarius" Romerix said triumphant with a smile. "S-Shut *Huff* up Romerix *Huff* it was only *Huff* by a second." Markarius Responded annoyed with sweat trickling down his face and falling to the dirt underneath him.


    "Well done you two, you actually completed the thousand laps and your reward for completing such a task is a thousand push ups so GET TO IT NOW." Bruticus said sternly. "Oh come on man that''s not fair." Markarius complained, dropping to his hands to begin the thousand set of push-ups. "SIR YES SIR!" Romerix shouted, though exhausted he didn''t want to let Bruticus down and with that both Markarius and Romerix began the gruelling struggle of a thousand push-ups while Bruticus got everyone else to do five hundred push ups.

 Hell of a day

    Markarius and Romerix began to push themselves into doing the one thousand push-ups with sweat trickling down their faces and I to a small puddle underneath them. Both young men had a face red like a tomato with each push up they completed the next became harder and harder for both the young men.


    Their muscles begun to tire, their chests heating up from every push up they complete. Bruticus stood before them with a stern expression, fully expecting them both to finish the full one thousand push ups. Solaria was with Lunai, Zacharias and the other students who were performing the five hundred push-ups. She would make sure they all were performing the push-ups correctly and giving them a quick fifth teen second break every now and then.


    Bruticus on the other hand did not give Markarius or Romerix a singular break as he wanted to make sure they pushed themselves harder then they both have ever done before. He would make sure each push up was slightly slower then the last and when they came down to the ground to hold the push up for five seconds at minimum. Around half an hour had passed by and Markarius and Romerix were still continuing the one thousand push up set with Bruticus observing their performance.


    Solaria being far more lenient then Bruticus is allowed the students she is observing to stop doing push ups for a couple minutes to rest and catch their breaths which they were thankful for. Both Markarius and Romerix were at the point of their arms beginning to shake and the sweat from their brows producing far more then before, even their bodies itself was producing a decent amount of sweat with their training attire being drenched in sweat from specific places. Their bodies were tiring from the sheer amount of push ups they were tasked with completing.


    All the other students along with Solaria, Lunai and Zacharias watched Markarius and Romerix push through the soreness and pain inflicting their tired and worn out bodies. Bruticus with his arms folded over the other continued to observe their progress impressed that these two before him have no given up or asked for a break what drives both these young men to complete the thousand was very different, Markarius who was full of ego and pride could not allow someone to beat him in anything and it drove him to push harder then he ever had before. He though "This guy is not going to be better then me I will beat him and ANYONE else who thinks they are better them me!"


    Romerix who wanted to not let down his mother, uncle and his teachers down strove to push through his tiring body and pain from the push up. He would push through the pain the soreness the exhaustion and sweat to better himself and this only strived him further then he has ever gone. He thought "This is more difficult then uncles training but I will not stop I must continue going, I cannot fail them"


    Both Young men with two very different drives pushed through the final stretch of painful thousand push ups. "Fifty more you two then you can rest." Bruticus said while impressed with the two young men. The passing of a couple minutes brought Romerix and Markarius to the final five push ups, their bodies barely able to lift themselves up, the struggle was like an large boulder was placed on their backs. The heat they felt was immense, the pain their bodies were going through was throbbing and their muscles were twitching at the sheer amount .


    With one fine struggling push, Markarius and Romerix had completed the one thousand push ups that were tasked to them. Both young men fell onto their faces, out of breath and severely exhausted. "I am indeed impressed Romerix and Markarius you two were able to complete the full one thousand push ups."


    With a hard struggle both young men lifted themselves off the ground and onto the feet with their tired and rather sore arms dangling infant of them. "I-i can''t feel my arms. Markarius said catching his breath. "T-that was intense sir pheeew I''m kinda glad it''s over" Romerix said with a smile and soft chuckle.


    On the inside Bruticus was happy to see these two passing the thousand laps and thousand push ups, but his stern demeanour would not show anything of the sort. "You two are now rewarded with a break go clean yourselves up then meet the others within the dining hall to eat." Bruticus walked passed them both and over to Solaria, telling her to take the students to the dining hall so they may eat after they have changed out of their attires. With that she had the students follow her out of the courtyard, leaving Bruticus alone with Markarius and Romerix.


    "You two follow me" Bruticus said without looking at them both, Markarius and Romerix followed closely behind Bruticus who took them out of the courtyard and through a hall way that was situated off the main hall to an large bathroom that had benches, hooks for hanging towels, and a large steam heated bath. "Here you''ll wash up then meet the rest of your fellow students at the dining hall, do not take too long." Bruticus said sternly as he took his leave to head to the dining hall.


    Romerix eagerly removed his items of clothing, hopping into the large steam heated bath, submerging his sore body into the refreshing hot water. Markarius also removed his items of clothing hopping into the steam heated bath on the other side. " Ahh that feels great on my sore muscles" Romerix said with satisfaction.


    "Hmph...yeah your right it does feel nice. Markarius reluctantly agreed. The two young meet sat on the opposite ends of the bath, Markarius had his arms resting upon the side while Romerix had his hands behind his head. "can I ask you a question Markarius?" Romerix asked. Markarius looked at Romerix with a frown. "No you can''t" he said bluntly as he didn''t want to talk to Romerix who didn''t listen to him and asked anyway. "Why do you think your better then everyone?"


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    Romerix''s question got onto Markarius''s nerves causing his tone to be somewhat agitated. "I''m not talking to you idiot I don''t need to answer any of your questions." Romerix responded with a serene smile. "Alright alright no need to get agitated it was just a question." Markarius closed his eyes annoyed, as right now he wants to enjoy the heat emitting from the water on his sore body and not be interrupted by anyone especially Romerix.


    Both Romerix and Markarius would sit in silence enjoying the heat emitting from the water in their own way. A couple minutes have gone by with both young men getting out the large bath to different parts of the room to dry off and change into spare attires that are within large cabinet with a sign that says "Spare uniforms please wear after bathing" they both found one that would fit them. The uniform is a red linen short sleeved shirt and black linen pants.


    Having finished changing, Romerix and Markarius would leave the bath room, turning left and heading down the hallway that lead from the bathroom. They both would follow students that been their a while longer then them to the dining hall. Upon entering the final hall they both saw it filled with new and older students of the sort all seated at long tables of mahogany with a spread of varieties ranging from meats and sea food to fruits and vegetables. Chandeliers hanging from the ceiling with two to each table.


    The room was filled with a multitude of conversation that audibly sounded like a loud mumble. Markarius left Romerix alone as he found a spot to sit down while Lunai and Zacharias waved at Romerix as they have saved a spot for him to sit beside them. Romerix notice this and scuffled his way over to his friends and sat down at Zacharias''s right.


    Some of the youngest students that were at training with Romerix started praising him saying that it was cool watching him train or that they were shocked to see him and Markarius be able to hold out as long as they did and wanted to know how he was able to. He told them that growing up his uncle would train so that''s why he had an edge above the rest.


    The shortest girl that was sitting close by with them and was at training today was staring directly at Romerix without saying a word, her cheeks flustered. When Romerix looked towards her she quickly turned to look away from Romerix to embarrassed to look at him. He was confused as to why she is acting the way she is.


    Lunai who was upon Romerix''s left side gently gave him a nudge with her elbow and a smirk across her features. "hehe someone likes you Romerix." Cheekily she said. Romerix looked at Lunai from the nudge then over at the girl who was staring at him. She looked back at Romerix who gave her a smile and a quick wave causing the flustered girl to cover her face with her hands as she was full of embarrassment.


    Zacharias was too busy stuffing his face full of different delicacies to notice what was going on as his primary goal right now was to fill his stomach from training. "Anyway let''s eat!" happily Lunai said. Romerix liked that idea began to eat and while eating he remembered one of the rules Bruticus told him on not to eat to satisfaction and with this remembrance of the rule he would make sure not to eat too much to were he would be satisfied. Like Zacharias, Lunai would be stuffing her face of all the delicacies .


    Bruticus and Solaria were at the front table where the teaches sit with an older gentlemen who had the title of headmaster and a man around the same age as Bruticus and Solaria with a large ear and to ear teeth showing grin plastered on his face. The head master stood up and spoke with a loud and clear tone. "Your attention please students." The students would stop conversing as they all looked over at the head Master. "I was given word by Master Bruticus that we have a new assortment of students and I would like to welcome them to the Academy. I am headmaster Velocitarius."


    Velocities was older then Bruticus or Solar by a good ten years, he wore a type of robe that covered his entire body. Upon the front of the robe was the insignia of the Ruachaim Academy. The robe itself was dark grey with a black trim. His eyes had the hues of an indigo blue sheen and his hair was a vibrant shade of mocha. His complexion was a dark tan and his face held a smile of serenity.


    "For those of you who don''t know within the next two months are the Ruachaim Trials. These trials are an assortment of challenges and difficulties. New students will put their abilities to the test infant of their peers and these peers will be your very own family members."


    Markarius was anxious from hearing that while the rest of the new students were rather excited to show their families what they would have learned up to that point. Zacharias and Lunai were cheering together and Romerix had a smile, looking forward to making his mother and uncle proud, especially Jeremiah.


    "Alright young ones settle down." Velocitarius said with a chuckle. "I can understand why you lot are excited so please, study well, train hard and get plenty of rest and once you are done eating your meals for tonight please head to your dorms so you may get started tomorrow."


    All the students within the dining hall started to converse amongst themselves. The head master sat back down within his chair with a great big smile plastered upon his face. Bruticus with his usual stern demeanour was biting into the leg of a cooked fowl, Solaria was enjoying roasted vegetables with satisfaction upon her face.


    Little by little students began to leave the dining hall to head to their dorms. Markarius upon finishing his meal left to head to his dorm he would be staying in at the academy then Romerix and his friends followed after to head to their own dorms. To Romerix and Zacharias surprise they were placed into the exact same dorm room while Lunai was within another dorm room.


    Zacharias jumped onto his bed with a thud, settling into the softness of the material of the bed. Romerix sat down on his bed looked out of the clear window that was situated near his bed. "Man this is great Romerix the first day was tough but we both got through it." Zacharias said with his eyes closed and his hands behind his head upon the pillow. Romerix would smile. "You said it Zacharias, cant wait to see what tomorrow has in store for us." He said with an upbeat tone.


    Romerix''s eyes were looking out to the clear night sky filled with stars and a crescent pearl toned moon. He couldn''t believe he was at the academy and couldn''t wait for tomorrow or the tournament that is to come.

 Lesson in Chai

    The next day arrived with a blue sky clear of clouds and the sun beaming its golden rays down upon the Academy and the city of Ruachaim. New students were filling the lecture seats to a class room. Once seated the students began to converse amongst themselves, Romerix was seated in the front row, Markarius within the back row and Lunai and Zacharias within the second row.


    At the front of the classroom was a desk that was completely bare upon the top except for an apple, a ruler, and a pencil. The desk was made of a fine vibrant mahogany. And behind the desk was a wooden chair of the same mahogany. Solaria stepped forward, commanding attention with ease. She raised a hand, and the cacophony vanished like mist. "Alright, quiet down,"


    she responded in a harsh but gentle tone. "Class is in session." The students stayed still, facing forward in their chairs. Anticipation flooded the room as her bright red hues examined the faces in front of her. She didn''t spend any time. "Today, we''ll look at Chai, the life force found in all living things. Can you tell me what Chai is?" The room fell silent with the enormity of her question.


    The room tensed up with the enormity of her question. A few people exchanged nervous glances with uncertainty whether to speak. Sera Auricles finally lifted her right hand. A subtle pink hue tinted her delicate features, from her species. "Chai is... "The animating force in all living creatures," she replied, steady but quiet. Solaria''s expression showed a hint of softness.


    "Good," she said with a nod. "But can you tell me where this life force comes from?" Sera blinked. Her confidence, once high, faltered. "I¡ªI don''t know, Miss Solaria," she admitted, looking down as if the floor might offer answers.Her classmates shifted in their seats, unwilling to meet Solaria''s gaze.


    Romerix broke the silence, his hand shooting up with eager enthusiasm. "It comes from the Chai Stream!" He declared, a smile spreading across his face. "That''s correct," Solaria said. For a brief moment, a proud gleam touched her eyes. With a fluid motion, she waved her hand, and glowing, swirling lights filled the air. Ethereal shapes, trees, animals and rivers floated around the classroom.


    They drew gasps of wonder.Students leaned forward, entranced. Everyone except Markarius, who slouched and rolled his eyes. "There are two forms of Chai," Solaria continued, her voice cutting through the awe. "Tahor and Tumah. "Who can tell me the difference?" An uneasy silence followed.


    The students exchanged puzzled looks. Finally, Markarius let out a loud sigh, crossing his arms. Not possible to remove the adverb. Can we skip to the part where we learn how to use it?" His tone dripped with impatience. Solaria''s sharp gaze turned to him, unflinching.


    "Understanding is the foundation of mastery," she said, her voice firm. "It''s not about using Chai; it''s about respecting what you wield. Markarius arched a brow, unfazed. "Respect for something so vague? I want to learn to use it in a fight." Before Solaria could respond, Zacharias leaned back, his eyes meeting Markarius . "Come on, man. It''s all connected. "If you don''t understand it, how can you control it?" "Exactly," Sera said, her shyness replaced by conviction.


    "Chai isn''t power. It''s connection. "To everything, creatures, plants, even the air we breathe." Romerix nodded, his earlier confidence now tempered with thought. "Yeah, if you don''t know how it flows, you''re swinging around raw energy. That''s dangerous." Markarius frowned, his posture softening a fraction."whatever" he muttered, though scepticism lingered in his tone.


    "But I''d still rather skip the lectures and get to the practical stuff." Solaria''s lips curved into a faint smile, a mix of patience and challenge. "That''s the spirit of inquiry," she said. "But remember, you build every practical skill on a foundation of understanding. "Observe with attention." She raised her hands. The glowing shapes formed into men luminous figure cloaked in light.


    "This is Numen," Solaria explained, her voice low with reverence. "The source of the Chai Stream. From Numen''s hands, life flowed into existence. "The room was spellbound. Even Markarius sat up straighter, his scepticism giving way to curiosity. The figure of Numen extended its arms. Streams of light poured forth.


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    They wove into delicate strings of light, pulsating like the veins of any living thing.  "Numen created seven beings," Solaria continued, her tone rich with purpose. She gestured. Seven radiant forms appeared beside Numen. Each was distinct in shape and aura. "These are the Chosen Ones of Numen. "They wielded Chai with unmatched skill, shaping our world."


    Markarius leaned forward, his indifference replaced by interest. "Can they teach us?" Solaria''s smile deepened. "They can inspire you," she said. "But Chai is not about imitation. Each of you has the potential to connect with it in your own way. "Learn from the past, but forge your own path." The classroom buzzed with energy as students whispered.


    Zacharias leaned toward Lunai, his voice low but excited. "If learning this lets me do even a fraction of what they did, I''m in." Lunai nodded, her deep blue eyes fixed on the swirling forms. "It''s incredible. Imagine creating all this... by connecting to it."Solaria glanced around the room, her gaze softening as she took in their wonder. "Chai


    is not just simply a power you weild," she said, her voice quiet but firm. "It is life itself. "To wield it is to honour it. Through that, you will find strength beyond your imagination." For the first time, Markarius allowed a small smile. The earlier tension gave way to a sense of possibility. For the first time, the students felt the true weight of their lesson.


    Lunai raised her right hand full of curiosity for a question she hopes to ask Solaria. "Miss Stratterstar you have a question I presume?" She questioned. "Yes i do" Lunai declared. what exactly happened to Numen''s Chosen?" She asked curious to know the answer to her question. "That question will be answered within the next section miss Stratterstar."


    Solaria responded with a gentle wave of her hand which caused the glowing shapes to dawn a dark luminous light that pulsated violently and sporadic with a gentle hum emitting from within "To answer miss Stratterstar''s question we must dive into what is known as Tumah chai. Her voice firm. "Tumah Chai is a vile and wicked imitation of Tahor Chai, it consumes and corrupts one''s being with an immense and volatile amount of Chai.


    She continued. "Someone or something created this mockery of Tahor chai and used it against Numen''s Chosen and one by one they fell to the abomination of Tumah Chai and since that fateful day no one has seen them since."The classroom fell silent, students exchanged glances of uncertainty not knowing if they should speak or if they should hold their tongue. Romerix glanced around seeing no one wanted to ask Solaria another question.


    Breaking the silence he spoke up full of enthusiasm. "Where are they now exactly?"Gently Solaria waved her hand and the illuminated glowing shapes dissipated into nothing. Her tone firm but gentle. "No one knows Romerix they just simply vanished after that fateful day." Romerix pondered in thought for the time being, his face riddled in confusion wondering what has come of them.


    Sera shot her right hand up catching Solaria''s gaze. "Did they happen to have names? Miss Solaria?"Sara had asked with curiosity about her. The faces of the fellow students also lit up with curiosity to know the answer to the question being now asked. "Yes they did indeed have names.


    Which over the course of your time being here you will learn about each one of them. For example tomorrow''s lesson will be on Elicia." Solaria said in statement. Sera responded with a simple nod of understanding, The classroom again filled with muttering conversation


    which could be made out from i wonder what tomorrow''s lesson will be to they sound cool. Markarius had his head resting on his hand in full boredom of the lesson, letting out a sigh of impatience.  Zacharias and Lunai were talking to one another about how they would of loved to meet them and what they could learn from them.


    Romerix got a weird indescribable feeling. It wasn''t a bad feeling that was for sure but more one that made his stomach feel tingly. Something far deep within the bottom of his core, Something within the bottom pits of that core was nagging at him to learn more about these seven. And not just from within the classes he will be attending but from within the library if the academy did so have one.


    "For now that includes our session on Chai Theory for now, follow me and we will begin the practical side of things." Solaria said briskly. Now Markarius was interested into the lesson as he thought finally i can learn to use chai and I''ll be the greatest chai user this world has ever seen.


    Lunai and Zacharias were rather happy with what they''ve learned and excited for the practical that is to come from the next part of the lesson. Romerix''s train of thought was halted from his blank staring into nothing to now paying attention to what''s happening. The students got out of their lecture seats and followed Solaria out of the class room.