《Realm of time》


 Truth of den

    Time never comes back, but history repeats itself. We are in a big war. I don''t even know what''s happening anymore. Just a few days ago, the clans, who were friends, started fighting each other. But that fight was nothing compared to this one. Now, I can''t even tell who is my friend and who is my enemy. The Upper Four Demons have joined the war, and everything is a mess. Everywhere, demons and people are killing each other. Half the country is destroyed.


    The Upper Four Demons came to the war for a reason. After the last person from the Kshatra family died, everything became chaotic. Because of bad rumors about demons, the clans started fighting each other. In the middle of this, a group started by the students of the Kshatra founders tried to fight back. They fought the demons, but the battlefield was already like a graveyard.


    In front of me, everyone was dying. My eyes were blurry¡ªlights flashed, and places were destroyed. I couldn''t see who was killing whom. Somehow, I was still alive, sometimes awake, sometimes not.


    When I opened my eyes again,


    I saw a man¡ªhis body was broken, he was kneeling on the ground, screaming in pain. His whole body started glowing, and his scream shook the battlefield. Was he trying to take revenge for his dead friends?


    Standing in front of him were the Upper Four Demons, their bodies hurt, they looked very tired. Then, in a moment, the fight started. One man against four demons¡ªthe fight was so strong that everything was destroyed. I could see only flashes of light, with each attack the ground was shaking.my eyes getting open wide but suddenly , a broken building fell on my head. And then¡ªdarkness.


    I woke up again. My body was hurting, but I was used to the pain.


    Oh, I forgot to tell you my name. My name is Eran. I don¡¯t know which clan I belong to¡ªI never seen my parents basically i am orphan, and there is no one left to tell me. But my body is... different. I heal very fast. No matter how bad the cut, I get better.


    Two years have passed since that war. I am nine years old now. The demons have stopped attacking, and only a few people are still alive. But the silence doesn¡¯t bring peace¡ªit brings more questions.


    Why did the demons attack? What were they fighting for? Was the war worth it if no one remembers the people who fought... if no one who saw it is alive?


    After some time, I started living with an old man who had many books. I asked him many questions, but he didn¡¯t say much. He only told me, "This war... is nothing compared to the war before it." Then, he gave me books to read, as if the answers were in them.


    One day, I found an old, torn book¡ªits cover was worn, and many pages in the middle were missing. It was written by one of the founders of an old group called Kshatra. As I read the pages that were left, I read about a time when ten Upper Demons were traveling the world, looking for a key. They destroyed many clans, and their attacks became stronger every day.


    To fight them, three men came together and started Kshatra. They trained strong warriors to fight the demons. In that war, even magical animals fought with the heroes. It was a fight of demons against the whole world.


    When it was over, six of the Upper Demons were killed. But the victory had a big cost¡ªtwo of the Kshatra founders died too.


    And I started looking for the missing pages. I read many pages and found an answer to one of my big questions. A book written by nature. At first, I was shocked. Is it possible? But for a nine-year-old orphan, it was like finding my way. Reading that book, I wanted to become a great warrior. Here are some phrases from that book:


    (NATURE''S DAIRY


    "I do not remember when I was born, but I have witnessed the creation and destruction of galaxies beyond count. I have watched over this world since the first light kissed its surface. I have felt every storm rage, every leaf tremble, and every heartbeat falter. I have whispered through the winds, shaped the rivers, and carried the weight of every soul that has ever lived.


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    But she¡ªshe is beyond even me.


    I do not say she created me, only that she is older, purer. Even I, Nature, dare not touch her. It would be a violation, an unthinkable act of disrespect. Light itself refuses to touch her, as if the universe conspires to keep her untouched, untainted. When she walks upon the earth, a thin, transparent layer forms beneath her feet¡ªan unspoken decree from existence itself, shielding her from the world. She moves where unseen souls gather, yet no path remembers her steps. The sky weeps when she mourns, and the wind holds its breath in her silence.


    I feel both blessed and burdened, for I, who have given names to rivers, stars, and beasts, cannot name her. I know her name, but I cannot write it. Some things are too sacred for words.


    Yet, in her boundless grace, she has accepted my only gift¡ªweather crafted for her alone. A season that exists not for mortals, not for time, but for her and those she holds dear. It arrives with neither warning nor farewell, a silent blessing for the forgotten. Those who have fought for a world that never remembered them¡ªthose misunderstood, abandoned, or erased by history¡ªshe remembers them all. Their souls, unseen by the living, find solace in her presence. Even in death, they are not lost. They rest in the warmth of her embrace, as if they have returned to a mother¡¯s lap.


    She does not speak in words, yet all who see her understand. She does not promise paradise, yet her mere presence is enough. In the fleeting moment before their souls fade, they are given one final gift¡ªlove, warmth, and a happiness they had never known in life.


    And in that moment, even death feels like home.


    She walks through battlefields long after the dust has settled, where blades once clashed and warriors once stood unshaken. To the world, they are mere echoes of history, but to her, they are children who never stopped fighting for something greater than themselves. She kneels where they fell, and in her silence, she speaks the words they longed to hear:


    "You were not forgotten."


    The scars they bore, the burdens they carried, the sacrifices they made¡ªthey were never in vain. The world may move forward without them, but she carries their memories in a place where time cannot reach.


    Even demons, those who have known only rage and despair, tremble in her presence. For even they, in their final moments, feel the touch of something they never believed existed¡ªan unspoken forgiveness, a love beyond judgment. And in that fleeting moment, they are not demons, not monsters, not forsaken souls.


    They are simply beings, longing to rest.


    She is neither salvation nor vengeance. She does not alter fate, nor does she interfere in the battles of the living. She is merely there, watching, waiting, offering the only gift that can never be taken away¡ªa place where the forgotten are finally seen.


    And so, as long as the stars burn, as long as the rivers flow, as long as the wind carries the whispers of those who came before¡ªshe will be there.


    Not to be touched. Not to be worshiped. But to remind the universe that even the smallest, most forgotten soul was once loved."


    Now, at 23 years old, my grandfather is gone. He passed away peacefully, leaving behind his books, his wisdom, and the unanswered questions that still haunt me. For years, I¡¯ve been searching for the missing pages of that ancient book, hoping to uncover the full truth it once held. But time has a way of burying things¡ªmemories, histories, even entire wars.


    Despite my search, life had to move forward. I became a teacher, training two children¡ªAkriya and Ryoshi. They remind me of the warriors I once read about, full of untapped potential and questions of their own. I see pieces of my younger self in them, the same curiosity, the same hunger to understand the world beyond their reach.)


    Now, at 23 years old, my grandfather is gone. He died peacefully, leaving his books, his wisdom, and the questions that still bother me. For years, I have been looking for the missing pages of that old book, hoping to find the whole truth. But time hides things¡ªmemories, stories, even wars.


    Even though I was searching, life had to go on. I became a teacher, training two children¡ªAkriya and Ryoshi. They remind me of the warriors I read about, full of hope and questions. I see parts of myself in them, the same curiosity, the same desire to understand the world.


    It has been 14 years since the war, long enough for most people to forget the bad things that happened. But today, a demon has come back. It attacked the family of my friend, a warrior much stronger than me. I know he can handle it, but I can¡¯t ignore it. I won¡¯t.


    I am not going to fight without thinking, but I am going. Some things can¡¯t be ignored. And as I go, I remember her words, "You were not forgotten."

 Protagonist

    Writting perspective change from eran to protagonist


    "Hours ago, I was laughing with my father, tossing stones by the river, the water glinting gold in the sun, when demons tore through the silence, claws gleaming as they lunged at us. I thought it was nothing¡ªFather¡¯s strength was unshakable, his axe a blur¡ªbut the fight turned brutal. The air stung with sulfur as demons fell, their blood soaking the dirt, yet my parents crumpled too, shielding me with their last breaths. I collapsed before their bodies, sobs choking me, the ground cold under my knees, until a demon¡¯s roar snapped me back¡ªits jagged fangs aimed for my throat. I froze, helpless, certain I¡¯d die too, but as its claws slashed again, a mark on my neck flared hot¡ªscorching, alive. Power surged through me, fearless and wild, like I¡¯d never known. My hand twisted, folding into a blade of shimmering paper, and I struck¡ªfaster than light, a blur of rage. The demon crumpled, lifeless, at my feet. I dropped to my knees, vision flickering, chest heaving, as a towering six-foot figure strode toward me through the haze. Then darkness swallowed me whole.


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    When I opened my eyes, a dim room greeted me, a lone candle flickering in the corner, casting jagged shadows on the stone

 Battle between comrades

    Since Eran told us to prepare for the mission, I cornered Ryoshi the next morning, my curiosity burning. ¡°What¡¯s this mountain den thing about?¡± I asked, kicking a pebble across the training ground. She frowned, her dark hair catching the sunlight, and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know much,¡± she admitted, her voice soft but steady. ¡°Eran says we have to go on that exact date¡ªsomething about the den gates only opening once every ten years.¡± I opened my mouth to ask why, but she kept going, her eyes lighting up. ¡°He told me there are magical weapons hidden inside, ones that can help us fight demons.¡± That shut me up. Demons¡ªthose monsters that stole my parents¡ªwere all I could think about. I didn¡¯t care what it took; if those weapons could help me hunt them down, I was in. I nodded, my jaw tight, and didn¡¯t press her further.The next day at training, I saw things that made my stomach drop. Akriya wasn¡¯t just messing with plants like his tree prank¡ªhe could sense every movement around him, his red eyes glinting as he dodged a thrown rock without even looking. That was nothing compared to Ryoshi. She stepped into the sparring ring, and the air around her shimmered, slowing everything in a wide circle¡ªdust hung mid-fall, leaves froze in the breeze¡ªwhile she moved like a blur, her speed doubled. She was only 13, same as me, but she¡¯d already mastered a dozen weapons: daggers, staffs, even a bow she pulled from the ground like it was nothing. I gripped my own hands, feeling the paper magic hum under my skin, and swallowed hard. I felt so small, so weak, next to them.Days passed in a blur of sweat and sore muscles, the mission date creeping closer like a storm on the horizon.


    One morning, Eran gathered us on the training ground, his voice gruff. ¡°One-on-one battles today,¡± he said, arms crossed. ¡°I need to see if you¡¯re worthy of the mission.¡± My heart sank¡ªfirst up was me against Akriya. I was nervous, a cold sweat prickling my neck, and yeah, a little scared. But I trusted my training, my techniques. I¡¯d been practicing every night, folding my hands into paper blades until they moved like a part of me. I could do this.


    The battle started fast. I lunged, my arms shimmering as they flattened into paper blades, sharp and white, slashing at Akriya with quick, slicing arcs. He smirked, red eyes glinting, and raised a hand¡ªtrees sprouted around him, their branches weaving into a thick shield, blocking every strike with a dull thud. Vines erupted from the ground, snaking toward me, their tips sharp as needles. I darted back, my speed kicking in, and sliced through them with my hand-turned-sword, the vines falling in shredded heaps. I thought I had him¡ªuntil a tree shot up right under my feet, its trunk aiming for my leg. I¡¯d seen him pull that trick before, so I jumped back just in time, my heart pounding. For a surprise attack, I scrambled up the tree, using its branches like a ladder, my paper blades digging in for grip.I forgot one thing in my rush¡ªAkriya could sense everything. Spiky vines sprouted from the tree, lashing at me like whips, their thorns glinting. I dodged, twisting mid-air, and slashed them apart, but Akriya upped his game. More spikes came faster, too many to track, and one grazed my arm, then another sliced my thigh. Hot pain flared, blood trickling down my leg, but I gritted my teeth. I wasn¡¯t losing¡ªnot to him, not to anyone. I had a technique I¡¯d been saving, one I didn¡¯t want to use in a normal fight, but I had no choice. I couldn¡¯t lose.¡°Art of Dispersion!¡± I shouted, my body shimmering as it broke apart into a thousand paper shards, scattering into the sky like a flock of white birds. I could only hold it for five seconds¡ªfive heartbeats to make it count. I reappeared behind Akriya, the shards snapping back into my form, my hand already a paper sword aimed at his back. I swung, so close to winning¡ªbut I froze. Vines wrapped my arms, my legs, pinning me in place, their grip tight as iron. Akriya turned, smirking. ¡°Captured,¡± he said, his voice smug. I gaped, shock icing my veins. ¡°How? Why?¡± I stammered, my mind a mess. He laughed, red eyes gleaming. ¡°I can sense everything around me¡ªalways.¡±My head spun, my chest heaving.


    I didn¡¯t want to lose¡ªnot to him, not after everything. The thought of failing, of being too weak to hunt demons, clawed at me. Eran¡¯s voice cut through the haze. ¡°How¡¯d you split your body like that?¡± he asked, stepping closer, his tone sharp with interest. ¡°That¡¯s a damn good technique.¡± I blinked, still tangled in vines, and managed a shaky reply. ¡°I¡­ I learned it from my father.¡± The words stung, a fresh wave of grief hitting me, but I stood a little taller, even as Akriya¡¯s vines finally let me go.


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    I barely had time to catch my breath, still stinging from my loss, when Eran called akriya are you tired or you can fight with ryoshi. He replies i am not a bit tired it is like normal training. I am feeling hell with his every words but then eran toldthe next fight


    . ¡°Ryoshi versus Akriya,¡± he said, his voice cutting through the murmurs on the training ground. I shuffled to the side, my arm throbbing where Akriya¡¯s spikes had grazed me, and watched as the two stepped into the ring. Ryoshi¡¯s calm, steady gaze locked onto Akriya, her dark hair tied back, a wooden staff gripped loosely in her hands.


    Akriya cracked his knuckles, his red eyes glinting with that same smug confidence he¡¯d used against me. My stomach twisted¡ªI wanted to see him taken down, but Ryoshi¡­ could she really handle him?The fight exploded into motion. Akriya struck first, slamming his foot into the dirt¡ªvines shot up like spears, their tips gleaming with thorns, aiming straight for Ryoshi. She didn¡¯t flinch. The air around her shimmered, a faint ripple spreading out, and time itself seemed to slow. The vines crawled forward at a snail¡¯s pace, their tips frozen mid-strike, while Ryoshi moved like a gust of wind, her staff spinning in her hands. She smashed through the vines with a single swing, the wood cracking them apart like glass, and charged Akriya, her speed a blur I could barely follow. He smirked, sensing her every step, and raised a hand¡ªtrees erupted around him, their branches weaving into a dome, shielding him from her attack.Ryoshi skidded to a stop, her time bubble fading, and the world snapped back to normal speed. Leaves rained down as Akriya¡¯s dome tightened, the branches creaking like a living cage. ¡°You¡¯ll have to do better than that,¡± he taunted, his voice muffled but sharp. I clenched my fists¡ªhis cockiness made my blood boil. Ryoshi¡¯s eyes narrowed, and she swapped her staff for a pair of daggers from her belt, their blades glinting in the sunlight. She darted around the dome, her movements precise, testing for an opening. Akriya laughed, and the ground beneath her rumbled¡ªspiky roots burst up, aiming for her legs, but she was ready. She leaped, twisting mid-air, and threw one dagger¡ªit sliced through a root like butter, pinning it to the ground.I held my breath, my heart pounding. Ryoshi landed lightly, her time power shimmering again. The roots slowed, their spikes inching toward her, but she was already gone, moving faster than I¡¯d ever seen. She slashed at the dome with her remaining dagger, carving through branches with surgical precision, wood chips flying like confetti. Akriya¡¯s smirk faltered¡ªI could see it through the gaps¡ªbut he wasn¡¯t done. Vines lashed out from the dome¡¯s core, faster this time, their thorns longer and sharper, aiming for her back. She sensed them somehow, spinning just in time, but one grazed her shoulder, drawing a thin line of blood. She didn¡¯t even wince.¡°You¡¯re fast,¡± Akriya called, his voice tighter now, ¡°but I can feel every move you make!¡± He thrust both hands down, and the ground erupted¡ªtrees shot up in a circle around Ryoshi, their branches snapping shut like a trap, caging her in. My chest tightened¡ªshe was stuck, just like I¡¯d been. But Ryoshi didn¡¯t panic. She dropped her dagger, pulled a short bow from her back, and nocked an arrow in one fluid motion. Her time bubble flared brighter than before, slowing the branches to a crawl, giving her a split second to aim. The arrow flew, glowing faintly with her magic, and pierced straight through the dome¡¯s heart, right where Akriya stood.A sharp crack echoed as the dome shattered, branches falling in a heap. Akriya stumbled back, the arrow grazing his cheek, a thin red line blooming on his skin. He froze, red eyes wide, as Ryoshi stepped forward, her bow still raised, another arrow ready. ¡°Yield,¡± she said, her voice cold and steady. Akriya¡¯s jaw tightened, but he raised his hands, vines retreating into the ground. ¡°Fine,¡± he muttered, wiping the blood from his cheek. The training ground went silent, then Eran clapped once, his gruff voice breaking the tension. ¡°Good. Ryoshi wins.¡±I stared, my mouth dry. Ryoshi¡¯s power, her precision¡ªit was unreal. She was 13, just like me, but she fought like a warrior born for it. I glanced at my hands, the paper magic humming faintly under my skin, and felt that same ache I¡¯d felt before. I wasn¡¯t enough¡ªnot yet. But watching her, I knew one thing: I had to get stronger, no matter what.


    Just as the tension from Ryoshi¡¯s victory settled, a sharp voice cut through the air. We all turned as Offlia rushed onto the training ground, her expression grim.


    ''Eran,'' she said, breathless. ''Sunshine Academy¡­ it¡¯s been destroyed by demons. They need our help.''


    A heavy silence fell. Even Eran, always composed, seemed unsettled. He exchanged a glance with Offlia before motioning for a private conversation. Moments later, he turned to us. ''Get ready. We leave tomorrow.''


    For the first time, I saw Eran look¡­ nervous

 Attack of demons

    The next day, we stood on the training ground, the morning air sharp with the scent of pine, waiting for Eran. I shifted on my feet, my arm still sore from yesterday''s fight, when a gust of wind whipped past us¡ªEran appeared out of nowhere, standing right in front of us, his cloak barely settling. I blinked, my heart skipping a beat. I''d noticed it before: we never saw him coming or going, like he just melted into the air. Curiosity got the better of me this time, and I blurted, "How do you do that? Appear and disappear like that?" He raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "It''s not magic," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Just speed. You''re not trained enough to catch movements this fast, so it feels like magic to you." My jaw dropped, a shiver running down my spine. Speed like that¡ªwas it even possible? I''d seen my father move the same way once, a blur of motion I couldn''t track, but I''d never asked him about it. Now, I wished I had.I couldn''t help but compare Eran to Ryoshi. I''d seen her speed in training, her time manipulation making her a streak of light while everything else slowed to a crawl. But even that¡ªher fastest¡ªwas maybe a fifth of Eran''s pace. My head spun with the thought, my hands clenching at my sides. If Eran was this fast, what about the demons? Eran''s voice cut through my daze, low and serious. "Some demons are even faster than me," he said, his eyes locking onto mine. "You''ll need to be stronger to hunt them down." The word demons hit me like a punch, my temper flaring hot in my chest, the memory of my parents'' blood staining the riverbank flashing in my mind. I gritted my teeth, my voice a growl. "I will."


    Now we are ready to go offlia wishes us good luck.


    we finally stepped out of the academy, the heavy wooden gates creaking shut behind us. I couldn''t help but grin, a weight lifting off my shoulders¡ªfreedom, at last. The sky stretched wide above, a crisp blue, and the dirt path crunched under my boots as we walked. Eran led the way, his voice droning on about manners and regulations, stuff like "don''t stray from the group" and "follow my orders." I tried to listen, but my mind wandered, boredom creeping in. Instead, I let my eyes drift to the nature around us¡ªgolden fields swaying in the breeze, birds darting between trees, their wings flashing in the sunlight. It was peaceful, almost too peaceful, and for a moment, I forgot about demons, about training, about everything.Then Eran''s voice boomed, sharp and loud, snapping me back.


    "Everyone, be careful!" he barked, his tone slicing through the calm. "The forest starts here¡ªand we might run into demons." My stomach dropped, my hand instinctively brushing the spot where my paper magic hummed under my skin. The trees ahead loomed tall and dark, their shadows stretching like claws across the path.


    I swallowed hard, my earlier excitement replaced by a cold, creeping dread.We''d barely stepped into the forest, the air growing thick with the scent of damp moss, when a low growl rumbled through the trees.


    My heart jumped to my throat¡ªdemons. Three of them burst from the undergrowth, their bodies twisted and black, claws glinting like knives, eyes glowing a sickly yellow. They were smaller , but their snarls sent a chill down my spine. Eran didn''t hesitate. "Form up!" he shouted, drawing a blade that gleamed like ice. Ryoshi pulled her daggers, her time bubble shimmering, while Akriya raised a hand, vines snaking up to shield us.I lunged forward, my arms flattening into paper blades, sharp and white, slashing at the nearest demon. It screeched, dodging with a speed that made my stomach lurch, but I was faster. My blade sliced through its arm, black blood spraying, and it crumpled with a howl. Beside me, Ryoshi moved like a blur, her daggers carving through another demon''s chest, while Akriya''s vines wrapped a third, crushing it until it stopped thrashing. The fight was over in seconds, these are weak ones.


    the forest falling silent again, but my chest heaved, adrenaline burning through me. "Weak ones," Eran muttered, sheathing his blade. "But stay sharp¡ªthere''ll be more."The tension lingered as we pressed on, but by midday, the forest thinned,


    We increase our speed after this then suddenly  "Watch this," akriya said, grinning, and waved a hand. A vine shot up, snatching my water flask right out of my bag, dangling it just out of reach. "Give it back!" I snapped, jumping for it, but he laughed, making the vine swing higher.


    Ryoshi rolled her eyes, but a smirk tugged at her lips. "You''re such a kid, Akriya," she said, then flicked her wrist¡ªher time bubble slowed the vine, and I snatched my flask mid-air, landing with a triumphant grin. "Got it!" I crowed, but Akriya just smirked, sprouting a tiny flower on my head. "Looks good on you," he teased, and even Eran chuckled. I swatted it off, my face burning, but I couldn''t help laughing too¡ªit felt good to breathe, even just for a moment.


    Sunshine Academy came into view by dusk, its golden spires glowing against the setting sun. It looked peaceful, a safe haven after the forest, but something felt off¡ªthe gates were wide open, the courtyard too quiet. Eran''s face darkened. "Stay close," he whispered, drawing his blade.


    We barely stepped inside when the ground shook¡ªa massive demon, twice Eran''s height, erupted from the courtyard, its body a writhing mass of black tendrils, eyes blazing red. Smaller demons poured in behind it, their screeches echoing off the walls. "Scatter!" Eran roared as the big demon''s tendrils lashed out, smashing the gates to splinters.I dove behind a pillar, my heart slamming against my ribs, as the group scattered¡ªRyoshi''s time bubble shimmered across the courtyard, Eran vanished into the chaos, and Akriya''s vines whipped through the air.


    We were separated, chaos erupting around us, and I was alone.


    Two smaller demons lunged from the shadows, their claws slashing, eyes glowing a sickly yellow. I rolled, my paper magic flaring, and slashed back with a paper blade, cutting one down, black blood spraying. But the other was faster¡ªit pinned me against the pillar, its claws inches from my throat, its hot breath reeking of decay. I am little, panic surging, and I gritted my teeth, shouting, "Art of Dispersion!" My body scattered into a thousand paper shards, reforming behind the demon. I drove my hand, now a paper sword, through its back, black blood pooling at my feet as it collapsed with a screech.


    I barely had time to catch my breath when the ground beneath me rumbled, cracks splitting the stone, and a massive demon burst from the soil,


    its body a writhing mass of black scales and jagged spines, eyes glowing a sickly green. It towered over me, twice my height, its claws dripping with a dark, oozing venom. My stomach twisted¡ªI was nervous because everything going too fast this is first time for me,


    my hands trembling as I backed up, my boots slipping on the rubble. The fight with the smaller demons had shaken me, and now this? The demon roared, a sound that shook my bones, and launched a magical orb at me, a sphere of crackling green energy that burned the air as it flew.I froze, my mind blank with panic, but a wall of wood shot up in front of me, the orb smashing into it with a deafening boom, splinters flying.


    "What are you doing, fool?"


    a voice snapped¡ªAkriya, his red eyes glinting as he stepped beside me, his hands raised, vines curling around his arms. "This isn''t the time to panic!" I swallowed hard, my face burning with shame, but I was still scared, my thoughts spiraling. I''m weak¡ªhow can I handle a demon like this? The memory of my parents'' blood, the demons that took them, clawed at me, and I gripped my hands, feeling the paper magic hum under my skin. I had to fight¡ªI had to.


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    Akriya didn''t wait. He thrust his hands forward, and vines erupted from the ground, thick and thorny, wrapping around the demon''s legs, trying to pin it down. The demon snarled, its scales shimmering, and the vines withered, turning to ash as if they were nothing¡ªit was adapting, fast.


    I shook off my fear, my jaw clenching, and raised my arms. "Let''s see how you handle this!" I shouted, my voice cracking but fierce. My paper magic flared, and hundreds of paper swords formed in the air, white and sharp, glinting like glass. I threw them forward, a storm of blades raining down on the demon, slicing into its scales with wet thunks. But the demon''s body shimmered again, the swords sinking into its flesh¡ªand then it absorbed them, its scales growing thicker, its body swelling larger with every second.


    My heart sank. We were in big trouble.The demon roared, now even bigger, its spines lengthening, and launched another magical orb, this one aimed at both of us. I reacted on instinct, shouting, "paper wall protection" my hands convert into paper wall infront of me . Akriya, faster than I expected, raised a dome of wood around himself, the orb exploding against it in a shower of green sparks. We were safe¡ªfor now. But my protecting papers burn and drop of orb touch me. my left hand start burning i shift my position rapid. And see demon..


    the demon''s body kept growing, its scales cracking as it expanded, its claws raking the ground. We charged together, Akriya''s vines forming a spear to stab its side while I slashed with my paper sword, cutting into its flesh with quick, desperate strikes. Black blood sprayed, but the demon''s wounds closed almost instantly, its body still growing, towering over us like a nightmare.


    I gritted my teeth, sweat stinging my eyes, and then it hit me¡ªan idea, a desperate one. "Akriya, keep it busy!" I yelled, dodging a swipe of its claws. He nodded, his vines lashing out, wrapping around the demon''s arms, slowing it just enough. I focused, on my power.


    "Art of Paper Recovery." The hundreds of paper swords the demon had absorbed¡ªthey were still mine. I felt them inside its body, and I called them back. The swords moved, tearing through the demon''s flesh from the inside, slicing through scales and muscle as they burst out in a spray of black blood. The paper shards flew back to me, reattaching to my arms, forming a larger, jagged blade. The demon''s body collapsed, its segments scattering across the ground in wet, twitching chunks.We stood there, panting, a flicker of relief washing over me¡ªuntil the pieces started to move, writhing together, trying to recombine.


    My eyes widened, panic surging again, but Akriya was already on it. "Not this time," he growled, slamming his hands into the dirt. Wooden boxes sprouted from the ground, each one capturing a piece of the demon''s body, sealing them tight with thorny vines. The pieces thrashed inside, but the boxes held, the demon''s growls fading to silence. I let out a shaky breath, my legs wobbling, and glanced at Akriya. He wiped sweat from his brow, his smirk returning. "Not bad, Vitrit," he said, and for once, I didn''t mind his smugness.


    Meanwhile, Eran darted through the chaos of Sunshine Academy, his blade drawn, his senses sharp as he searched for us¡ªhis students scattered in the demon attack. The courtyard was a maze of rubble and shadows, the air thick with the stench of blood and dark magic. He moved like a phantom, his speed a blur, but something felt wrong. The same broken pillar, the same shattered spire¡ªhe was passing them again and again, his boots treading the same cracked stone. At first, he thought he''d misjudged the path, his mind clouded by the battle''s intensity. But then it hit him, a cold realization that made his blood run cold:


    he was trapped in a demon''s domain,


    a twisted loop of space designed to ensnare its prey.The air grew heavier, a low hum vibrating through the ground, and the walls of the courtyard¡ªjagged stone and splintered wood¡ªbegan to shift, closing in with a grinding screech. Eran''s eyes narrowed, his grip tightening on his blade. He slashed at the nearest wall, his sword a streak of silver, the strike sending sparks flying, but the stone didn''t budge, its surface rippling like liquid before reforming. He attacked again, faster, harder, each blow a thunderclap, but the walls kept coming, their edges now mere feet apart, the space shrinking with every second. He could end this¡ªhe knew he could¡ªwith a single, powerful attack, a strike that would shatter the domain entirely. But his jaw clenched, hesitation gripping him. If any of his students were trapped in this same domain, his attack would kill them too, their bodies torn apart by the force. He couldn''t risk it¡ªnot yet.Eran''s mind raced, his heart pounding, but he didn''t panic. He moved, his speed defying reason, a thousand laps around the shrinking loop in just five seconds, his cloak a streak of black as he searched for any sign of us. The walls groaned, closer now, the air so tight he could barely breathe, but he sensed nothing¡ªno footsteps, no cries, no trace of his students. His resolve hardened; if no one else was here, he''d end this now. He raised his blade, its edge glowing with a fierce, icy light, ready to unleash his most powerful attack¡ªa strike that would obliterate the domain and the demon controlling it. But then, a scream pierced the air, sharp and desperate. "anybody here" It was Ryoshi''s voice, trembling with strain, and he froze, shock rooting him in place.


    The walls were nearly touching now, their jagged edges scraping his shoulders, but they slowed, their movement sluggish, as if caught in a web. Eran''s eyes widened¡ªhe knew this power. Ryoshi''s time manipulation, her bubble of slowed time, was fighting the domain''s pull, buying them precious seconds. "I can''t hold it much longer!" Ryoshi screamed, her voice cracking, and a sickening crunch echoed from the far end of the loop¡ªthe walls there had started crushing inward, the stone grinding to dust. Eran closed his eyes, his senses sharpening, and pinpointed her voice¡ªright behind him, just beyond the nearest wall. He spun, his blade flashing, and unleashed his attack, a single, devastating strike that roared like a storm. The front wall exploded outward, shards of stone and dark energy erupting in a blinding blast, the domain shattering like glass.


    Eran stumbled out into the open courtyard, Ryoshi collapsing beside him, her face pale, her breath ragged from the strain of her power. But the danger wasn''t over. A guttural roar shook the ground, and from the rubble of the shattered domain, a massive demon emerged¡ªtwice Eran''s height, its body a writhing mass of black tendrils, eyes blazing red with malice. It had been controlling the domain, and now it lunged, its tendrils whipping toward them like spears. Eran''s eyes narrowed, his speed a blur as he dodged, the tendrils smashing the ground where he''d stood. Ryoshi, still weak, tried to stand, her daggers trembling in her hands, but Eran raised a hand. "Stay back," he ordered, his voice steady.The demon''s tendrils lashed out again, faster this time, matching Eran''s movements, but he was ready. He darted forward, his blade glowing brighter, and weaved through the tendrils, each step a calculated risk. The demon roared, its core¡ªa pulsing red crystal in its chest¡ªexposed for a split second. Eran seized the moment, his speed peaking as he drove his blade straight into the core with a force that echoed like thunder. The demon let out a deafening screech, its tendrils thrashing wildly before its body collapsed, the ground shaking as it fell, black ichor pooling around its remains.


    Eran pulled his blade free, his chest heaving, and glanced at Ryoshi. "You okay?" he asked, his tone softer now. She nodded, still shaky, and managed a weak smile.Across the courtyard, Vitrit and Akriya heard the thunderous destruction, the wave of Eran''s powerful magic rippling through the air, and they ran toward it, their footsteps pounding on the broken stone. "Eran!" Vitrit shouted, his voice hoarse, as he and Akriya burst through the rubble, their faces smeared with blood and dirt. They stopped short, seeing Eran and Ryoshi, and for a moment, we were together again, the four of us standing amidst the wreckage, our breaths heavy but alive.The victory felt hollow. The academy was a wreck¡ªbuildings crumbled, bodies of students and teachers scattered across the courtyard, their blood staining the golden stone. A lone survivor, a boy my age, had been calling for help from the rubble, but as we reached him, his eyes went dull¡ªhe was gone too. Sunshine Academy was destroyed, no one left alive.Eran stood amidst the wreckage, his face pale, his voice a low growl. "Why are the attacks coming so fast?" he muttered, almost to himself. "Even the powerful demons are active now¡ªsomething''s wrong." I clenched my fist.


    Some shouting sound of boys come from right. We don''t say anything just start running in direction

 Shadow beneath the academy

    The sound led us to a crumbling structure on the edge of the academy¡¯s grounds, a half-collapsed building I hadn¡¯t noticed before, its walls scorched and broken. The cries were coming from below, muffled but unmistakable, and as we skidded to a stop, I spotted a trapdoor in the ground, its edges glowing faintly with a shimmering blue light¡ªa magical shield, but it was weak, flickering like a dying flame, cracks spiderwebbing across its surface.


    ¡°A basement,¡± Ryoshi said, her voice tense, and I realized what the cries meant. ¡°Students,¡± I breathed, my chest tightening. ¡°They must be from the academy¡ªsurvivors!¡±Eran didn¡¯t hesitate.


    He raised his blade, and I saw it glow with a strange, crackling energy¡ªred lightning arcing along the edge, the air around it humming with power. I¡¯d never seen magic like that before, and my eyes widened, a shiver running down my spine. What kind of magic was this? With a single, swift slash, Eran struck the shield, the red lightning exploding against it in a burst of sparks. The shield shattered like glass, the blue light fading, and the trapdoor groaned as Eran kicked it open, revealing a dark staircase descending into the basement.


    We rushed down the steps, the air growing colder, thicker, the cries now mixed with snarls and the clash of steel. My heart pounded as we reached the bottom, and the sight before me made my blood run cold.


    The basement was a scene of chaos¡ªdozens of students, some my age, some younger, lay scattered across the stone floor, their bodies bloodied and broken, some still, their eyes staring blankly at the ceiling. Others were alive but hurt, huddled in corners, their faces streaked with tears. In the center of the room, five students were still standing, fighting desperately against a pack of demons¡ªsmaller than the ones we¡¯d faced in the courtyard, but vicious, their claws slashing, their eyes glowing a sickly yellow. The students wielded swords and makeshift weapons, but they were weak, their movements sluggish, their faces pale with exhaustion. They were losing¡ªbadly.


    The moment they saw us, their eyes widened, and one of them¡ªa boy with a gash across his cheek¡ªlunged toward us, his sword raised, his face twisted with fear and desperation. ¡°Stay back!¡± he shouted, his voice cracking, but Eran moved faster, his blade flashing as he blocked the strike with ease. ¡°I¡¯m with you,¡± Eran said, his voice calm but firm, his eyes locking onto the boy¡¯s. ¡°I¡¯m Eran¡ªI¡¯m here to protect you.¡± The boy hesitated, his sword trembling, and then he lowered it, tears welling in his eyes as he stumbled back, the other students gathering behind him, their weapons dropping in relief.There was no time to say more.


    The demons turned on us, their snarls echoing off the stone walls, and Ryoshi stepped forward, her hands raised. ¡°Stay close,¡± she whispered, and I felt the air shift, a familiar shimmer spreading through the basement as her time bubble flared to life. Everything slowed¡ª the demons¡¯ claws froze mid-swipe, the students¡¯ shaky breaths stretched into long, drawn-out gasps, and even my own movements felt sluggish, my paper magic humming slower in my veins.


    But Ryoshi and Eran were unaffected, eran may be affected but his movement is still very fast ,their speed a blur as they moved through the slowed time, a deadly dance of steel and precision.Eran¡¯s blade glowed with that same red lightning, each strike a burst of light that cut through the demons like paper, black blood spraying across the stone. Ryoshi¡¯s daggers flashed, her movements a streak of silver as she darted between the demons, her time bubble giving her the edge to strike their weak spots¡ªeyes, throats, hearts. In seconds, the basement was clear, the demons¡¯ bodies collapsing into piles of ash, the air thick with the stench of their blood.


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    Ryoshi released her bubble, and time snapped back to normal, my head spinning as I stumbled forward, Akriya catching my arm to steady me. ¡°Show-off,¡± he muttered, but his voice was tight, his eyes wide as he looked at the carnage.Eran sheathed his blade, his expression darkening as he turned to the five surviving students, their faces pale and bruised, their clothes torn.


    ¡°Who made the shield up there?¡± he asked, his voice low, urgent. ¡°That type of shield¡ªit¡¯s only used by the Kazuragi Clan.¡± The boy with the gash on his cheek stepped forward, his voice trembling. ¡°It was Teacher Tenzaki,¡± he said, his eyes dropping to the floor. ¡°But¡­ when he died, the shield got weak. It broke in so many places¡ªthe demons got through.¡± Eran¡¯s face went pale, his eyes widening, and he whispered, ¡°Tenzaki¡­ this isn¡¯t possible.¡± I didn¡¯t understand why he looked so shaken, but the name sent a chill through me, and I saw Ryoshi and Akriya exchange a glance, their expressions uneasy.


    Eran shook his head, his voice steadying as he spoke again. ¡°Tenzaki told us to rescue any students who were still alive,¡± he said, his tone firm. ¡°Only five of you made it.¡± He scanned the group, his gaze locking onto a boy in the corner, slumped against the wall, his body trembling.


    The boy¡¯s skin was covered in black marks¡ªunique patterns that glowed faintly, pulsing like a heartbeat across his arms, his neck, his face. Eran pointed at him, his voice sharp.Now i understand why tenzaki separated his shield from body to this basement ¡°Take him first¡ªhe¡¯s coming with us.¡± I wanted to ask why, to demand answers about the marks, about Tenzaki, about everything.but situation stops me.


    After rescuing all the students, we returned to our academy, the weight of the day pressing down on us. The students were too hurt to even speak properly, their voices weak and broken, their eyes dull with pain. Offlia treated them, her hands gentle but her face tight with worry, while the boy with the glowing patterns on his body was kept in a separate room, tended to by Eran himself.


    Hours passed before Eran emerged, his expression unreadable, his cloak stained with sweat. Ryoshi stepped forward, her silver hair catching the dim light, her voice sharp with curiosity. ¡°Who is this boy, Eran? You¡¯re treating him like he¡¯s someone special.¡± Eran¡¯s eyes flicked to her, but he shook his head, his tone clipped. ¡°I¡¯m in a hurry right now. I¡¯ll tell you about him tomorrow.¡± With that, he walked away, leaving us in tense silence.


    The day passed, and night fell, the moon hanging high overhead, its pale light casting long shadows. I felt awkward, a heavy ache in my chest, like I might cry any second. I couldn¡¯t stay inside, so I slipped away to the terrace, sitting between the moon and stars, their cold light washing over me. My thoughts spiraled, dark and heavy, circling around death.


    In just a few months, I¡¯d seen so much blood, so much brutality¡ªfirst my parents, now the students at Sunshine Academy. What happens after death? Why are demons our enemies? I hugged my knees, my neck mark tingling, the questions swirling in my mind like a storm.A soft voice broke through my thoughts, gentle but firm.


    ¡°What are you thinking, Vitrit? You look sad¡ªyour eyes are wet.¡± I turned, startled, to see Eran standing there, his cloak fluttering in the night breeze. He sat beside me, his presence steady, and I swallowed hard, my voice trembling. ¡°I¡¯m thinking about my parents¡¯ death.


    They didn¡¯t cry when they died. I didn¡¯t see their whole fight¡ªI was unconscious. But when I woke up, they were living their last few seconds, and they were smiling, like they¡¯d gotten everything they wanted.¡± I wiped my eyes, the memory burning. ¡°After seeing that, I try to be happy, but¡­ after seeing the students die today, I feel unwell.


    What happens after death, Eran? Where do they go?¡±Eran sighed, his voice soft.


    ¡°Death¡­¡± Eran exhaled, his gaze fixed on the distant stars. ¡°It¡¯s different for everyone. But for those who die protecting their loved ones? It¡¯s not an end¡ªit¡¯s the happiest moment of their life.¡±


    I frowned, my voice small. ¡°Then why do people run from death?¡± Eran¡¯s gaze turned distant, his tone thoughtful. ¡°Mortals want to defeat death for many reasons. First, their loved ones. Second, they don¡¯t know what happens after death. Third, and most important, our ego. If we defeat death, we become stronger than before¡ªwe feel proud of ourselves.¡± I opened my mouth to reply, my voice barely a whisper. ¡°But I want to ¡­ but after


    ¡ª¡± Before I could finish, Offlia¡¯s voice cut through the night, urgent. ¡°Eran, the boy¡¯s conscious!¡± Eran disappeared in a flash, leaving me alone on the terrace. I sat there, the ache in my chest lighter now, feeling a strange sense of calm after our talk.


    But now, my thoughts drifted to that boy¡ªwhy was he so important to Eran? Lost in these questions, I eventually fell asleep on the terrace, beneath the stars.

 Shadows and laughter

    The next morning, we gathered in the small, dimly lit room where Lucior was being treated, the air thick with the scent of healing herbs and a tension that made my chest tight. My heart thudded as I stared at him¡ª


    his body no longer glowed, the black marks on his skin now faint, like faded scars whispering secrets I couldn''t understand. Eran stood at the foot of the bed, his arms crossed, his icy gaze fixed on Lucior, who still looked pale, his hands trembling slightly.


    "His name is Lucior," Eran announced, his voice slicing through the silence like a blade. "He''s fine now¡ªand he''s your comrade from this moment on.


    " Akriya''s red eyes narrowed, his voice sharp with suspicion. "Wait a second¡ªwhy was his body glowing before? And where''d those black marks go?"


    Eran''s expression softened, but his tone carried a weight, a sharp, burning reminder of the danger we were all in. "He''s from the Lightrix Clan, also known as the Thunder Gods, descendants of one of humanity''s greatest saviors. In their clan, some special boys go through three awakening periods. After each awakening, their body grows stronger, more powerful, but during the awakening, their body radiates, their skin and bones weaken, and they can''t use their power. It usually lasts 20 to 24 hours."


    He paused, his voice dropping lower, almost a growl, his eyes darkening with something I couldn''t place¡ªfear, maybe? "And Lucior is a descendant of a founding member of Kshatra. We have to protect him.


    "Ryoshi''s silver hair glinted as she tilted her head, her voice sharp with curiosity. "Who are the Kshatra?


    " Eran''s jaw tightened, his eyes flashing with a warning. "You don''t need to know more right now," he snapped, his tone final, leaving no room for argument. "Just know they''re an organization that protects humans from demons."


    He turned back to Lucior, his voice softer but laced with suspicion. "I think this is your first awakening." Lucior sat up, his pale face set with determination, his voice steady despite the faint tremble in it. "No, it''s my second." Eran''s eyes widened, a rare flash of shock crossing his face, and I felt my stomach twist, a cold dread creeping up my spine.


    "What''s your age, Lucior?" he asked, his voice tight. "Sixteen," Lucior replied, his gaze steady, unflinching. Eran''s shock deepened, his voice a low murmur, almost to himself. "At this early age, you''ve awakened twice? That''s¡­ strange.


    "Lucior''s hands clenched the edge of the bed, his knuckles white, his voice shaking as he spoke. "When I was five, my clan collapsed¡ªI was in my first awakening during the battle. That''s when Teacher Tenzaki adopted me. He became like my father, training me, guiding me. And now, after 11 years, I''m in my second awakening." Eran''s face paled, a flicker of nervousness in his eyes, and he fell silent, his gaze distant, like he was piecing together a puzzle that scared him. I wanted to ask what was wrong, but the words stuck in my throat, heavy and useless.


    Ryoshi''s voice cut through the tension, sharp and demanding. "Why was your academy attacked by demons?


    " Lucior''s expression darkened, his voice bitter, almost a snarl. "Demons don''t need a reason to attack."His hands trembled as he continued, his voice cracking with every word, each one hitting me like a punch. "Yesterday, my body went into awakening, and Teacher Tenzaki was out on a mission. The other teachers told me to hide in the basement with my friends, with security guarding the door. My body hurt so much, like it was burning from the inside, so I tried to nap. But then I heard it¡ªchaos, destruction, shouting, screams echoing through the walls. We got careful, waiting, but the demons reached the basement, killing the security. They were about to attack us when Tenzaki returned¡ªhe killed every demon in the basement. I couldn''t even move, my body too weak. But more demons came. They couldn''t touch Tenzaki, so they turned on us instead. Tenzaki killed them all, then removed the shield from his own body and placed it on the basement, leaving to save the academy. But an hour later, the shield started breaking, and demons poured in. My friends tried to stop them, but they weren''t strong enough. So many were killed right in front of me, their screams filling the air, and I couldn''t do anything!" Lucior''s voice broke, tears streaming down his face as he buried his face in his hands, his shoulders shaking with sobs.


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    My throat tightened, my eyes stinging as I remembered my own parents'' deaths, the blood, the screams¡ªI knew exactly how he felt.


    "Then you all came to save us," he whispered, his voice barely audible.Eran held up a hand, his icy gaze softening as he looked at Lucior. "No more questions for Lucior," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "He needs rest."  twisted as Eran spoke, his tone heavy with urgency, we will meet tomorrow in training ground "Only a few days left for the mountain den mission," he said, his eyes scanning us like he was searching for weakness. "I''m going to increase academy security¡ªthese days, one wrong move could get us in trouble. I also need to find out why the demons are more active lately." His words sent a chill down my spine, the memory of Sunshine Academy''s destruction flashing in my mind¡ªthose lifeless bodies, the blood staining the golden stone. Before I could ask anything, Eran disappeared in a blur, leaving a gust of wind in his wake, my hair whipping across my face.


    Offlia stepped forward, her soft voice breaking the silence, a small smile on her lips that felt like a warm hug after Eran''s cold warning. "You''re all free today, so why don''t you help me?" she asked, her hands clasped in front of her. Ryoshi tilted her head, her silver hair catching the sunlight, her voice eager. "Tell us¡ªwe''ll help you." Offlia''s smile widened, but her eyes were serious as she pulled out an old, leather-bound book, flipping it open to a page with a detailed drawing of a spiky plant with purple leaves. "I need to make a medicine, but I''m missing one herb," she said, pointing at the picture. "Search for it and bring it to me." I squinted at the drawing, my heart sinking¡ªI''d never seen that herb before, and I already knew this was going to be harder than it sounded. But Akriya grinned, his red eyes glinting with mischief, and Ryoshi nodded, her focus already sharpening. "OKKK!" we all shouted together, our voices echoing across the training ground, a spark of excitement cutting through the heavy morning air.


    Akriya, Ryoshi, and I headed to the academy''s garden, the sun warm on my skin, the air buzzing with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth. We were searching for that spiky little plant with purple leaves, but I''d barely paid attention to the picture in Offlia''s book, my eyes half-open, still groggy from the morning. Now, as I poked through the bushes, I squinted at every plant, muttering, "Is this it? Nope¡­ this one? Ugh, no." They all looked the same to me, a jumble of green and purple that made my head spin. Ryoshi was a few steps ahead, her silver hair glinting in the sunlight, her sharp eyes scanning the ground with that intense focus she always had, like she could spot the herb from a mile away.


    Akriya was beside me, lazily kicking at a patch of grass, his red eyes glinting with boredom, clearly not taking this as seriously as Ryoshi.I glanced at him, a mischievous idea bubbling up, and I grinned, nudging him with my elbow. "Hey, Akriya," I whispered, keeping my voice low so Ryoshi wouldn''t hear. "Let''s mess with Ryoshi¡ªshe''s way too serious right now. But let''s make it big." Akriya''s smirk spread wide, his vines twitching at his fingertips, ready for trouble. "Oh, I''m in," he whispered back, his voice dripping with mischief.


    I pointed at a massive, tangled vine hanging from a nearby tree, its leaves thick and heavy, swaying in the breeze. "On three," I mouthed, holding up my fingers. "We''ll use your vines to pull that down and drop it on her¡ªit''ll look like a giant monster attack!" Akriya''s eyes lit up, his vines slithering silently toward the tree, wrapping around the heavy vine with a soft rustle.


    My heart raced with excitement, a giggle threatening to escape as I counted down¡ªone¡­ two¡­¡ªbut Ryoshi suddenly turned, her eyes narrowing, a sly smile tugging at her lips. She''d read our plan somehow, her time-bubble senses catching our sneaky whispers. Before I could react, she flicked her wrist, her time bubble shimmering just enough to slow us down. Akriya''s vines yanked the massive vine down, but Ryoshi darted aside, and the tangled mess crashed right over us instead, leaves and branches tangling around me and Akriya with a loud thud. I yelped, flailing as the vines wrapped around my arms, pinning me to the ground, while Akriya groaned beside me, his own vines caught in the mess, leaves sticking to his hair.Ryoshi burst out laughing, her voice ringing through the garden, her hands on her hips as she doubled over. "You two are ridiculous!" she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement. I glared at her, my face burning, struggling to free myself from the leafy trap, but I couldn''t help grinning¡ªshe''d got us good.


    Then, as she straightened up, still chuckling, her gaze landed on a spiky purple plant half-hidden under a bush. "Oh, look¡ªthe herb!" she said, plucking it with a triumphant smirk, holding it up like a trophy. Akriya and I were still tangled in the vines, leaves in our hair, dirt smudged on our faces, completely defeate<i></i>d in the grass,

 Vitrit secret power

    In the night sky shimmered with stars like scattered diamonds, and a full moon glowed bright, its silver light spilling over the terrace where I lay, staring up at the moon. I always come here on nights like this, and when I''m alone, I talk to myself¡ªloud, like the sky''s listening.


    "What happens if we kill all the demons?" I shouted in the quite night, my voice bouncing off the stillness. "Will the world finally be beautiful?"


    A cold whisper hissed in my ear, making me flinch.


    "Kill them all first, then you''ll see."


    I shot up, glaring into the shadows. "Who''s there?" I yelled, my heart racing. A gust of wind whipped around me, and Eran appeared, his cloak flapping, his icy eyes glinting in the moonlight.


    I jumped, my face heating up, suddenly nervous. "When did you get here, Teacher?" I mumbled, scratching my neck.


    "A few seconds ago," Eran said, his voice sharp, cutting through the night.


    I frowned, my stomach twisting. "Is something up? Why''re you here so suddenly?"


    Eran''s gaze locked onto me, heavy and serious. "No, but I need to ask you something important."


    I swallowed, my hands fidgeting. "What?"


    Eran stepped closer, his tone low and urgent. "I don''t want to bring up your past, but I''ve increased academy security and still can''t figure out why the demons are so active lately. It all started with the attack on your parents. They were stronger than me¡ªway stronger¡ªbut they were killed. Did you feel anything¡­ strange when it happened?"


    My throat tightened, flashes of that day hitting me¡ªblood everywhere, my parents'' last breaths.


    "I don''t know much," I said, my voice shaky. "I was unconscious most of the fight. When I woke up, my parents were¡­ almost gone. One demon attacked me, and I killed it. The rest were already dead¡ªmy parents got them."


    Eran''s eyes narrowed, his voice dropping. "I saw that demon''s body, Vitrit. Its bones grew unnaturally, bursting out, tearing it apart. Did you do that?"


    My heart pounded, and I shifted on my feet, nervous. I couldn''t hide it anymore. "I¡­ I''ve been hiding something," I admitted, my voice trembling.


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    Eran stayed silent, his stare intense.


    "My mom was from the Origami Clan, and my dad¡­ he was from the Vermillion Clan. I''m one of the rare kids who got both their powers. I can manipulate blood, too¡ªif I touch someone''s blood and they''re within 20 meters, I can control their organs. But only when my neck mark starts burning."


    Eran''s eyes widened, shock flashing across his face. "Only a few have dual powers like that," he said, his voice tight. "The first Kshatra founder was one of them. Why didn''t you tell me sooner?"


    I looked away, my hands clenching. "I didn''t trust anyone at first," I muttered.


    Eran''s expression softened. "I get it¡ªit''s hard to trust after what you''ve been through," he said quietly. "But what makes your mark burn?"


    I shook my head. "I don''t know¡­ it''s rare, but it happens in moments like when I was crying over my parents'' bodies, and that demon attacked. My neck mark burned, and I felt¡­ stronger, like energy was surging through me."


    A foul stench hit the air, and a demon lunged from the shadows, claws gleaming, eyes glowing yellow.


    My neck mark flared, a rare, searing burn that made me gasp, the power igniting inside me. I stood, my hands morphing into paper swords, their edges glinting in the moonlight.


    I dashed at the demon, moving like a blur, my blade slicing its arm, its blood soaking my hand. The power took over¡ªI used my blood manipulation, and the demon''s bones shot out, bursting through its skin with a sickening crack, its body exploding in a mess of blood and bone.


    I gasped, my vision blurring, and then everything went dark as I collapsed, the moonlight fading away.


    Eran stared at my neck mark, his eyes narrowing with a mix of concern and curiosity. "I need to find out more about this mark," he said, his voice firm. "But the mission date is close, and I don''t have time to research right now. We''ll hold off on that."


    He looked at me, his expression softening. "Good night, Vitrit. Let''s meet tomorrow on the training ground."


    I nodded, still shaky from the demon attack. "Good night!" I called after him as he vanished into the wind.


    I didn''t bother going back to my room¡ªI just curled up on the terrace, the cool stone under me, and fell asleep under the stars.


    The next morning, we gathered on the training ground, the air crisp with the scent of dew and pine. Lucior was there too, standing a little apart, his pale face set with determination.


    I couldn''t help staring at him¡ªI wanted to know more about this new guy. Eran noticed and turned to him, his voice steady.


    "Are you feeling okay, Lucior? Strong enough to train with us?"


    Lucior nodded, his voice calm but confident. "Yes, I''m fine. My body feels stronger than before." He paused, glancing around at us. "I''ve got a question¡ªwhat''s this mission everyone''s talking about?"


    Eran crossed his arms, his gaze sharp but trusting. "After Tenzaki''s death, you''ve been with us, so I can trust you. In 15 days, the gate of Crimsonfang Mountain Den will open."


    Lucior''s eyes lit up, and he stepped forward, his voice eager. "Me and Tenzaki were training for that same mission¡ªto get weapons from the den. Can I join you?"


    Eran hesitated, his brow furrowing. "This mission is risky, but if you want to, you can join us. I trust Tenzaki''s judgment."


    Lucior gave a small nod, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes.


    Training started a few minutes later, the clang of weapons and shouts filling the air. Eran paired us up for sparring, and I watched as Lucior faced off against a wooden dummy, his movements sharp and precise.


    Sparks of lightning crackled around his fists, a faint glow of energy rippling through his body¡ªhis Lightrix Clan powers in action. He punched the dummy with a loud crack, sending it flying back, splinters scattering across the ground.


    I blinked, impressed¡ªhe was fast, way faster than I expected, and the raw power in his strikes made the air hum with electricity.


    But then Ryoshi stepped up to spar with him, her silver hair glinting as she raised her sword, ready to test his skills.


    Lucior''s face twisted, his eyes narrowing with clear disdain. "I don''t fight girls," he snapped, his voice cold, turning away from her.


    Ryoshi''s jaw tightened, but she didn''t back down. "Scared you''ll lose?" she shot back, her tone sharp.


    Lucior ignored her, walking off to train alone, leaving Ryoshi glaring at his back.


    I frowned, not sure why he was acting like that¡ªit didn''t make sense to me, especially since Ryoshi was so strong.


    By the time training ended, the sun was a deep red, sinking low, painting the sky in fiery hues.


    I''d noticed a lot about Lucior during the session¡ªhe seemed to really dislike girls, acting cold and rude to Ryoshi, barely hiding his disdain, but he was polite to me and the other guys.


    I didn''t know why he was like that, and it didn''t sit right with me, but I didn''t ask him about it.


    We all headed back to our rooms, the day''s exhaustion settling into my bones.

 The mountains edege: a shielded horizon

    The mission''s creeping closer, and our training''s been going better than I ever imagined. I can feel the excitement buzzing in my chest, a wild energy that makes my hands itch for action.


    But there''s one thing that keeps nagging at me¡ªI can''t figure out Lucior. He''s always off on his own, training alone, his face blank like he''s hiding a whole world of secrets. I want to know more, but he doesn''t give me a chance to even ask.


    Eran gathered us yesterday and said we''re leaving the academy three days before the mission to hit the perfect timing for the Den''s gate opening. I couldn''t help but ask why three days exactly.


    "The mountain''s massive, Vitrit," he said, his voice steady but heavy with warning. "And demons guard the Den to keep warriors out." I scrunched my nose, still curious. "Why not go seven or eight days early, then?" Eran''s icy eyes locked onto mine, sharp as a blade. "Waiting outside the gate that long is just begging for death," he snapped. My stomach dropped, a cold shiver running down my spine, and I shut my mouth.


    A few days ago, during training, Eran handed each of us a sword, its blade glinting under the sun like it was forged from starlight. "These were crafted for Kshatra members," he said, his voice brimming with pride as he held one up. "They channel your energy perfectly and are unbreakable. They''re called Kswords." I gripped mine, feeling a surge of power as my energy flowed into it, the sword humming like it was alive, an extension of me. We trained hard, and everything clicked¡ªour movements sharper, our strikes stronger, the air ringing with the clash of blades.


    Today''s the second-to-last day before we leave. Four days from now, the Den gate opens. Training went smoothly, but at the end, Eran pulled me aside. "Meet me in my room, Vitrit. Alone," he said, his tone low and serious. My heart skipped a beat, a nervous flutter in my chest, and I nodded.


    When I stepped into his room, the air felt thick, charged with a strange energy that made my skin prickle. Eran stood by his desk, holding a red glowing book¡ªThe Arcane Ledger, its title pulsing like a heartbeat, casting faint crimson light across the room. He waved me over. "Come closer," he said, his voice calm but firm. I shuffled to his side, my eyes darting to the book. He asked for a paper from my body. I didn''t hesitate¡ªmy Origami Clan power hummed as I focused, my right arm shimmering and folding into a delicate paper flower, its petals soft and glowing faintly. I plucked a single petal from the flower and handed it to him, the paper warm in my palm.


    Eran set the book down, picked up a quill, and drew a strange symbol on the petal with red glowing ink that seemed to writhe on the surface, alive with power. "Put it back on your body," he instructed. I pressed the petal against my skin, feeling it melt into me, a warm tingle spreading through my arm.Then, pain exploded inside me. I gasped, my body transforming into paper, scattering into the air like a blizzard of white flakes, each piece shimmering with a faint red glow. An enchantment surged through them, binding them together, a searing heat coursing through every fragment. My vision blurred, my heart pounding, and then¡ªafter what felt like an eternity¡ªmy body reformed with a sharp snap.


    I stumbled, catching my breath, my skin feeling lighter, stronger, like I was made of steel. "What¡­ what just happened?" I stammered, my voice trembling. Eran''s eyes glinted with a mix of pride and caution. "That was the Adamant Tome," he said. "A rare Origami Clan enchantment to harden your paper body. Now your paper can cut through mountains¡ªif you have the energy to wield it." I clenched my fists, the new strength coursing through me. I felt unbreakable, like I could face anything.


    The next morning after meeting offlia she wished good luck and adviced to trust on each other we leave the academy.


    Eran , me, ryoshi, akriya , and lucior  stood at the base of Crimsonfang Mountain, its jagged peak piercing the sky like a blade. The air was crisp, and my teammates'' eyes sparkled with excitement, their Kswords gleaming at their sides. I felt it too¡ªa fire in my chest, ready to take on whatever this mountain threw at us. Our training had boosted our confidence, and we were ready.


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    If I had to rank us by power, Lucior''s the strongest after Eran. He doesn''t train with us, but I''ve seen him practicing alone¡ªhis dash is a blur, lightning crackling around him, and his thunder attack hits with a boom that shakes the ground, sparks flying like a storm. It''s incredible, but it makes me wonder why he keeps his distance.


    Eran stepped forward, his cloak billowing in the wind, and began explaining the climb. "This mountain is 16 kilometers high," he said, his voice cutting through the morning chill. "The first four kilometers are safe¡ªpeople can visit for necessities.


    The next eight kilometers belong to the tribes. They don''t let outsiders in, and their area is protected by a special shield, a technique only they know. Normal demons can''t enter, but the upper four demons¡ªancient beings that existed before the Den''s creation¡ªcan. They''ve been inactive since the Second Human-Demonic War 25 years ago, though.


    "He paused, his gaze sweeping over us.


    "Every 10 years, the tribes perform a ritual with an ancient book, the day before the Den opens. It''s to thank their goddess for protection and life, a sacred tradition tied to the Den''s origins¡ªtheir ritual channels the goddess''s power to unlock the Den''s gate, a pact which is written in a book that they use for ritual.


    That''s the only day they allow warriors into their area to reach the Den for weapons to protect humanity. Their shielded region is the safest place to rest at night¡ªno normal demons can get in.


    " He pointed higher, his expression darkening. "Beyond those eight kilometers lies the Dark Forest¡ªthe most dangerous area. That''s where the demons live, hunting warriors to protect the Den''s weapons." I tightened my grip on my Ksword, the weight of his words sinking in, my heart racing with a mix of fear and determination.


    We set off up Crimsonfang Mountain, the first four kilometers stretching ahead of us like a warm-up. Eran led the way, his steps steady, while the rest of us followed, Kswords strapped to our sides, the morning sun filtering through the dense trees.


    The air was cool, filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the path was wide enough for us to walk side by side. It felt almost peaceful, like a hike with friends, but I knew better¡ªthis was just the calm before the storm. Still, my new strength from the Adamant Tome made me feel lighter, like I could take on anything, and I couldn''t help but grin as I glanced at my teammates.


    As we climbed higher, a rustling in the bushes made my heart jump. I froze, my hand flying to my Ksword, my eyes darting to the shadows. "Did you hear that?" I whispered, my voice tight. Ryoshi turned to me, raising an eyebrow. "Hear what, Vitrit?" I swallowed hard, my pulse racing. "I¡­ I think something''s following us. Like a demon or something." akriya snorted, not even looking at me, his voice cold. "You''re imagining things, vitrit." I glared at him, my cheeks burning, but the rustling came again¡ªcloser this time. I spun around, ready to summon a paper blade, but¡­ nothing. Just a rabbit darting up a tree, its tiny claws scratching the bark.


    I let out a shaky laugh, my shoulders slumping. "Okay, maybe I''m just jumpy," I muttered, but I couldn''t shake the feeling of eyes on my back. I spotted a tree heavy with bright red fruits, their skins glistening in the sunlight. "Hey, let''s grab some of those!" I called, already jogging over. Ryoshi smirked, following me. "Only if I get the biggest one," he said, his tone teasing. We started climbing the tree, laughing as we tossed fruits down to the others. I used my Origami Clan power to fold a paper hand, stretching it up to pluck a fruit from a high branch, and tossed it to Eran, who caught it with a rare smile.Then I noticed Akriya standing a few steps away, his hands glowing with a soft green light. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a small tree from the ground, its branches sprouting rapidly, heavy with fruits. He stepped onto a branch, plucking several at once with a quiet chuckle, tossing them down to us with ease. I stared, wide-eyed¡ªhis power was amazing! Even Lucior joined in, though he stayed on the ground, slicing a fruit in half with a quick flash of lightning from his hand, the air crackling with his power. "Show-off," Ryoshi muttered under his breath, loud enough for Lucior to hear. Lucior''s eyes narrowed, a spark of electricity flickering at his fingertips. "Say that again, time boy," he growled, stepping closer. Ryoshi''s hand twitched toward his own Ksword, his jaw tight. "I said, you''re a show-off," he repeated, his voice icy. I jumped down between them, holding up my hands. "Guys, come on! We''re supposed to be a team!" They glared at each other for a moment longer before Lucior turned away, muttering something I couldn''t hear, and Ryoshi scoffed, biting into his fruit.We kept moving, the tension between Ryoshi and Lucior simmering like a storm waiting to break. The first four kilometers passed quickly, the path winding through the forest, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves keeping us company. I munched on my fruit, the sweet juice dripping down my chin, but my eyes kept scanning the shadows, still half-expecting a demon to leap out.


    Nothing came, though, and as we reached the four-kilometer mark, I caught my breath at the sight ahead¡ªthe tribes'' shielded region shimmered just in front of us, a faint golden barrier rippling in the air like a mirage, marking the edge of their territory. A mix of relief and anticipation surged through me. We''d made it through the easy part, but the real challenge was about to begin.

 The ritual and unknown threat.

    The evening sky was a beautiful blend of colors, the sun sinking on the horizon while a faint moon loomed above, casting a soft glow. Birds whispered their final songs of the day as the cool breeze brushed against our faces. The fading sunlight filtered through the thick branches of the trees, creating patterns of golden light on the ground.


    We stepped inside the shield, its energy tingling against our skin. As soon as we entered, several tribal warriors ran toward us, their expressions stern and unreadable. One of them, a man with deep scars on his arms, spoke first.


    ¡°Are you here for the journey to the den?¡± his voice was rough but filled with curiosity.


    Eran stepped forward and responded, ¡°Yes, and these are my students.¡±


    I grinned and shouted, ¡°I am Vitrit!¡± expecting some reaction, but the tribesmen barely acknowledged me. Their attention remained fixed on Eran, treating us like mere followers.


    ¡°Follow us,¡± one of the warriors instructed, turning away. As we walked, he continued, ¡°Do not use your magic unless it is absolutely necessary. If you do, we will consider you a threat.¡±


    Eran nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll be careful.¡±


    ¡°One more thing,¡± the warrior added, glancing at each of us. ¡°Once you have entered our land, you will not be allowed to leave until the ritual is complete.¡±


    The seriousness in his tone made me uneasy. What kind of ritual required outsiders to stay trapped here?


    As we followed them deeper into the village, the scene around us became clearer. The ground was filled with warriors¡ªsome sharpening their weapons, others eating, while a few sat in groups, engaged in hushed conversations. Their eyes turned to us, their gazes intense and judging.


    A large man with a scarred face sneered at us. ¡°Children? What are they doing here?¡±


    The murmurs spread among the warriors, but the tribesmen guiding us ignored them and led us toward a shaded area.


    I leaned toward Eran and whispered, ¡°Is this mission supposed to be secret?¡±


    Eran¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I¡¯m surprised, too. The Upper Four were supposed to be here, but with no sign of them, it seems others have taken an interest in this journey.¡±


    We settled down under a large tree while Eran remained alert, observing every movement around us. Akriya approached cautiously.


    ¡°None of the tribal members are watching us. Should I create a wooden house for shelter?¡± Akriya suggested.


    Eran shot him a sharp look. ¡°Don¡¯t do anything reckless. If they consider it suspicious, we¡¯ll be in deep trouble.¡±


    Instead, we sat beneath the tree, discussing the situation while keeping an eye on the warriors around us. As night fell, Eran set up a night watch rotation. ¡°One person will stay awake for four hours, then wake the next one. We need to be careful.¡±


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    The night passed peacefully, though tension remained in the air.


    The Ritual Begins


    At dawn, a group of tribal members arrived and ordered us to follow them. We walked through narrow paths surrounded by towering trees until we reached a vast clearing. The ground was covered with soft grass, but the sunlight barely reached through the thick canopy of leaves above, creating an eerie, dim atmosphere.


    In the center of the clearing, the tribe¡¯s leader stood tall, his long robes swaying in the breeze. He raised his hand, and a great bonfire was lit. The flames roared to life, their golden light dancing against the surrounding trees.


    The ritual began. Tribal members moved in unison, circling the fire while chanting an ancient song. Their voices echoed through the clearing, a haunting yet beautiful melody.


    I tried to understand the words, but they made no sense. I turned to Eran and whispered, ¡°I can¡¯t understand their song. What are they saying?¡±


    Eran shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s an ancient tongue. Just stay quiet and observe.¡±


    The ritual continued, the chanting growing more intense. I felt uneasy, as if something unseen was shifting around us.


    ¡°I need to use the toilet,¡± I muttered to Eran.


    ¡°Come back quickly,¡± he warned.


    Akriya decided to come along. As we stepped away from the ceremony, curiosity got the better of us. We wandered through the village, exploring the surroundings.


    That¡¯s when we saw something unusual.


    Behind a stone house, three warriors stood, arguing intensely with a lone figure. Their voices were low but aggressive. Before we could react, the lone man moved with blinding speed¡ªhis blade flashed, and in the blink of an eye, all three warriors were dead.


    Blood splattered onto the ground as their heads rolled, their bodies collapsing like lifeless dolls.


    I gasped. My eyes had barely caught the movement. It happened so fast that my brain struggled to process it.


    Akriya grabbed my arm. ¡°We have to tell Eran!¡±


    Before we could move, the man who had just executed the warriors vanished into thin air, and the bodies disappeared as well. The ground looked untouched, as if nothing had happened.


    Then, a hand clamped down on my shoulder.


    I spun around, sword in hand, heart pounding. A tribal member stood there, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°What are you both doing here?¡± he asked, his tone firm.


    Akriya quickly responded, ¡°We just came here to¡­ use the toilet. We¡¯re going back now.¡±


    The warrior narrowed his eyes. ¡°Do not move. The chief and leader are coming here. Bow your heads in respect.¡±


    I wanted to protest, but then I saw them¡ªapproaching from the other side of the stone house was a man wearing a crown, flanked by several warriors.


    The warrior beside us immediately bowed his head, so Akriya and I followed his lead.


    The Leader¡¯s Ritual


    The leader stepped in front of the stone house. He unsheathed a blade and sliced his palm, letting blood drip onto his other hand. With a steady motion, he began drawing strange symbols onto the stone with his blood.


    A low rumbling sound filled the air. The ground trembled slightly as the symbols on the stone began to glow. Then, with a deep groan, the stone shifted, revealing a hidden doorway. A brilliant blue light seeped from within.


    My heart pounded. What was this place? What was behind that door?


    The chief stepped forward and presented a key to the leader, bowing deeply. The leader took the key and inserted it into the lock. As soon as it clicked open, the door creaked, unleashing a powerful gust of cold wind.


    Just then, everything changed.


    A man and a woman appeared out of nowhere, dressed in dark robes, their eyes gleaming with malice. They moved with terrifying speed, cutting down guards in mere seconds.


    Shouts erupted as warriors tried to fight back, but the intruders were too fast. Blood splattered the ground as bodies fell one after another.


    The tribal warrior beside us ran to join the fight. Akriya and I hesitated for a moment, then exchanged a determined glance. ¡°We have to protect him,¡± I said.


    Suddenly, I saw Eran, Ryoshi, and Lucior approaching, their weapons drawn.


    ¡°Are you both safe?¡± Eran asked urgently.


    "Then suddenly Eran shouted, "Protect the door!" He vanished into the chaos, fighting to protect the people. Akriya quickly grew a giant tree to block the stone house¡¯s entrance, shielding it from the attackers.


    As the battle raged on, chaos consumed the once peaceful ground. Warriors clashed, steel against steel, as the sky darkened with the intensity of the fight. Then suddenly, a black lightning-covered hand tore through the massive tree Akriya had grown to protect the stone house. The sheer force shattered the thick trunk, sending splinters flying like deadly arrows. Akriya stumbled back, shocked at how effortlessly his barrier was destroyed.


    The leader emerged from the house, his expression a mix of confusion and fury. "What is happening here?" he shouted over the noise.


    I immediately yelled back, "Stop! Don¡¯t come out of the house!" and sprinted toward him. When I reached him, he grabbed my arm, his eyes demanding an explanation.


    "I don¡¯t know exactly what¡¯s going on," I admitted, breathing heavily. "But most of the warriors are betrayers! They are killing the tribe and targeting this house. This attack is on you.


    The leader''s eyes darkened with understanding. "I see¡­No this attack is not on me, This has happened before. Every time the den¡¯s gate opening ritual is performed, an attack occurs. They want what is inside this house¡­ the book." He clenched his fists. "If they are this aggressive, then the Upper Four Demons may be here."


    Just as he spoke those words, a bright blue light flashed in the air. My eyes widened as I saw Lucior hurling his electrified sword straight at the leader!

 Vergh(shadow manuplator) vs ryoshi

    Lucior hurled his sword toward the leader and shouted, "Bend!" The leader swiftly ducked, and the electrified blade soared past him, striking an enemy directly in the head.who is going to attack on leader.


    Suddenly, Eran appeared. "Complete the ritual! We can''t miss this chance to obtain the weapon from the den!" he commanded.


    Without hesitation, Akriya, Vitrit, and Ryoshi took position around the leader, forming a defensive perimeter around him and the sacred book. Meanwhile, Lucior and I held the front line, fending off the enemy forces with the aid of a few warriors on our side.


    "Got it!" Ryoshi affirmed.


    The leader rushed into the stone house, retrieved the ancient book, and stepped back outside. As we guarded him, a piercing blue light spread through the forest, illuminating the battlefield in an eerie glow.


    We escorted him to the ritual ground, where a bonfire crackled with intensity. The leader placed the book before the flames and sat down, preparing for the ceremony. To shield him from incoming attacks, Akriya swiftly raised a wooden dome around him.


    Then, a chilling voice rang out from the enemy ranks.


    "Vergh! Stop the ritual and seize the book!"


    Suddenly, hundreds of swords came hurtling toward us. We weren''t prepared for such an overwhelming attack¡ªbut Ryoshi was.


    Activating her power, she slowed down the incoming weapons, then, in a blur of motion, sliced through them all within seconds using her Ksword.


    Just as we caught our breath, a figure emerged from the shadow of a tree behind Ryoshi, his sword raised high, ready to strike her down.


    Akriya''s sharp eyes caught the movement. Without hesitation, he lashed out with his vines, wrapping around the attacker''s body. But before the vines could fully restrain him, the man vanished back into the shadows like a phantom.


    Ryoshi''s eyes narrowed. "I will handle him. I''m taking him away from the ritual ground."


    Ryoshi locked eyes with Vergh and challenged him to a fight. Without hesitation, she sprinted deeper into the forest, luring him away from the ritual ground. After some time Vergh emerged from the shadows behind her, but she was ready and away from ritual ground.


    In an instant, she dashed behind him, anticipating his next move. As expected, he vanished into the shadows and reappeared behind her. Ryoshi reacted quickly, dashing behind him once again. This exchange repeated twice, both warriors testing each other''s speed and reflexes.


    Then, as Vergh appeared behind her once more, Ryoshi switched tactics. She drew a knife and slashed at his neck, but he dodged at the last second, leaping onto a tree branch. Without giving him a moment to breathe, she unsheathed her Ksword and lunged at him. Their blades clashed at blinding speed, their movements too fast for the naked eye to follow. Sparks flew as their weapons met, illuminating the dim forest. Birds took flight in panic, disturbed by the intensity of the battle.


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    Vergh suddenly summoned shadow tendrils from the ground, trying to ensnare Ryoshi while attacking from the front. Noticing the trap, she jumped high into the air, but the tendrils stretched after her, their reach extending beyond the tree branches. Thinking fast, she released her Ksword mid-air, stepping on it for leverage to propel herself even higher. In mere fractions of a second, she flipped, caught her Ksword, and escaped the tendrils'' grasp. However, before she could regain her footing, she spotted Vergh soaring toward her, sword aimed straight at her heart.


    She activated her power, slowing Vergh''s movements just enough to dash past him and reposition herself mid-air. The moment she landed, she hid behind a tree, breathing heavily. Sweat dripped down her forehead as she processed the fight so far."due to trees he is managing hide himself after using my power, i have to do something early"Suddenly, she felt a sharp sting on her neck. Before she could react, Vergh materialized behind her, his sword inches from her throat. Ryoshi barely managed to jerk away, but his blade left a thin scar on her skin. As she dashed away from him, a terrible realization hit her¡ªher body was slowly growing numb. Poison.


    Ryoshi staggered as the poison spread through her body, throwing off her balance. Vergh pressed his advantage, launching relentless attacks. She barely managed to dodge, her movements sluggish, each strike of her Ksword against his blade growing weaker.


    Meanwhile, back at the ritual ground, Lucior and Eran arrived, scanning the battlefield. "Is everyone safe?" Eran asked, then quickly noticed Ryoshi was missing. "Wait¡ªwhere is Ryoshi?"


    I an still fighting enemies, responded, "She went into the forest after an enemy. I''m worried about her. She''s been gone too long."


    Eran nodded. "Go help her, but be careful!"


    Without wasting a second, I sprinted into the forest, guided by flashes of light in the distance. When he arrived, he saw Ryoshi struggling¡ªher movements slowing, her attacks weakening. Vergh pressed the advantage, relentlessly slashing at her. She barely dodged, her breathing ragged, the poison clearly taking effect.


    When I arrived, I saw Ryoshi struggling¡ªher movements were slowing, and Vergh''s relentless attacks were overwhelming her. I knew I had to intervene, but there was no clear opening to step into the fight.


    Without hesitation, I launched a paper blade from above, aiming straight for Vergh. He reacted instantly, raising a wall of shadow to block the attack. The impact sent a ripple through the air, but it didn''t break through.


    Ryoshi caught sight of me, and something in her eyes changed. A surge of determination reignited her strength, and her strikes became sharper, more forceful. But I could tell¡ªher body was growing heavier, the poison sapping her energy.


    "I have to do something now," she muttered under her breath. Then, with a sudden burst of resolve, she shouted, "Vitrit! Clear the trees around us¡ªnow!"


    Trusting her instincts, Vitrit didn''t hesitate. "Paper Blade: Ultimate Attack!" he roared. Thousands of paper blades materialized in the air, launching in every direction. The surrounding trees were sliced apart, eliminating Vergh''s shadows.


    Ryoshi suddenly broke away from the fight, sprinting across a nearby tree branch. Vergh''s blade sliced through the empty air where she had just been. His eyes narrowed as he watched her move¡ªswift but unsteady. The poison was taking its toll.


    She landed on another branch, gripping her ksword tightly. Her breath was ragged, but she steadied herself. "I can''t let this slow me down," she muttered.


    Ryoshi seized the moment. "Time Dismantle: Super Slash!" she shouted. Her Ksword glowed brightly as Vergh''s movements slowed drastically. Though her body was on the verge of collapse, she pushed forward, unleashing a devastating slash. Her Ksword cut through Vergh''s neck in one swift motion.


    For the first time, Vergh couldn''t disappear into the shadows¡ªhis power had failed. His head fell to the ground, his body collapsing soon after.


    Ryoshi stood still for a moment, then crumpled to the ground, her body trembling from exhaustion and the spreading poison. Vitrit caught her before she hit the earth, panic setting in as he noticed her skin turning green.


    She tried to say something but lost consciousness in his arms. Without wasting another second, Vitrit lifted her and sprinted back toward the ritual ground, hoping they weren''t too late to save her.

 Akriya vs krik ( the wind controller)

    I sprint towards ritual ground, clutching Ryoshi tightly in my arms. Her body feels cold, her breathing shallow. When I reach the ritual ground, I see Akriya reinforcing the entire area with thick trees and sprawling vines. Enemies are relentlessly hacking through, their blades slashing at the living barrier. Suddenly, a deafening thunderstorm erupts, sending bolts of electricity surging through the battlefield, clearing a path by obliterating several attackers.


    I scan the area frantically and find Lucior amidst the chaos. "Where''s Eran? Ryoshi''s been poisoned!" I shout over the raging storm.


    Lucior, parrying two enemy blades at once, barely spares me a glance. "I don''t know! He''s fighting¡ª" His words are cut off as another opponent lunges at him, forcing him to engage in battle.


    Out of the corner of my eye, I spot an enemy raising his blade toward me, but before he can strike, Akriya''s vine slams him away.


    "Vitrit!" a deep voice calls from behind. I turn sharply and see the tribal chief standing firm despite the chaos. His presence is reassuring.


    "She''s poisoned," I gasp, my voice laced with desperation. "Her body''s turning green¡ªplease, do something!"


    The chief examines Ryoshi briefly, his expression grim. After a moment of hesitation, he nods. "In the middle of war¡­ fine. Follow me!"


    Without wasting a second, we dash toward the forest, weaving through fallen bodies and burning patches of land. The air is thick with the metallic scent of blood and the lingering crackle of Lucior''s lightning. My arms ache from carrying Ryoshi, but I push forward.


    Soon, an enormous tree looms ahead, its thick roots twisting like ancient serpents. A network of wooden houses is nestled among its branches. The chief gestures upward. "Climb!"


    I scale the rough bark, my grip tightening around Ryoshi as I hoist us both onto a wide platform. As soon as I land, a cluster of tribal women rushes forward, eyes widening in shock.


    "Who is he? What''s happening at the ritual ground?" they ask, panic evident in their voices.


    The chief raises a hand, silencing them. "No time for questions. She''s been poisoned in battle. Treat her¡ªnow. These warriors are fighting for our side."


    The women swiftly take Ryoshi from my arms and rush her into one of the treehouses. My hands, now empty, feel strangely weightless as I watch them disappear behind a wooden door. One of the women, the one who carried Ryoshi, urgently calls for an elderly lady inside. The door shuts behind them, leaving me outside, exhausted.


    Sweat drips down my forehead as I struggle to catch my breath. My limbs ache, but despite my fatigue, I turn to the chief and ask between deep breaths, "Why are all the women hidden here?"


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    The chief exhales heavily, his gaze firm. "It is the leader''s command. Every time the ritual is performed, an attack is inevitable. Our enemies seek to steal the ritual book, so we shelter all the women here for their safety."


    I wipe the sweat from my brow, frowning. "If you knew an attack was coming, why didn''t you prepare a plan to stop it?"


    The chief''s expression darkens. "We don''t have a large enough army to counter them directly. And trust¡­ trust is scarce in times like these." He glances toward the battlefield below. "That''s why we delayed the warriors heading for the den mission¡ªuntil the ritual was complete. We couldn''t risk giving them information."


    His words sink in, but something still feels off. I narrow my eyes. "Then how did this attack happen? You thought delaying them would be enough?"


    The chief clenches his fists. "We never expected the attack to come from within¡­ disguised as warriors."


    Before the chief can respond, the door to the treehouse creaks open, and a woman steps out. I immediately halt my conversation and turn to her, my heart pounding.


    "Is Ryoshi okay?" I ask urgently.


    The woman shakes her head, her expression grim. "Her condition is not well. The poison is spreading fast. I''m going to prepare a medicine, but don''t worry¡ªshe will survive."


    Her words bring little relief. My fists tighten. I want to stay by Ryoshi''s side, but my mind is also consumed by thoughts of my friends still fighting at the ritual ground. I take a deep breath and turn to the chief.


    "Chief, stay here and protect these people," I say firmly. "I need to return to the battlefield. My friends might need me." I lock eyes with him, my voice steady but urgent. "I''m trusting you¡ªdon''t break my trust."


    The chief nods solemnly. Without another word, I turn and sprint toward the ritual ground, my legs moving before my thoughts can catch up. The weight of responsibility presses on my chest, but I push forward. I have no time to hesitate.


    The sun blazes overhead as I reach the ritual ground, sweat dripping down my forehead. My eyes scan the battlefield¡ªAkriya''s wooden tomb, built to protect the leader and the ritual, now lies shattered. Most of the enemies are either slain or retreating. Amidst the chaos, I spot Eran, his red-glowing sword slicing clean through an enemy''s neck.


    Then, above us, two figures¡ªa man and a woman, the ones who orchestrated this entire attack¡ªstand on a tree branch. Their gazes burn with cold determination.


    "Don''t think this is over," the woman warns, her voice cutting through the heavy air. "We''ll return."


    Before anyone can react, they dissolve into the wind, vanishing like ghosts.


    Eran and Lucior remain on guard, watching the empty space where the enemies disappeared. But something feels off. That''s when I realize¡ªAkriya is missing.


    "Where''s Akriya?" I ask urgently, scanning the battlefield.


    Lucior''s voice comes from behind me. I turn to face him.


    "I saw him half an hour ago," Lucior replies. "He was fighting against an enemy who wielded wind magic. But after that... I lost sight of him."


    Eran''s eyes narrow. "Lucior, go and search for Akriya."


    I step forward. "Should I come too, Eran-teacher?"


    He thinks for a moment, then shakes his head. "No. Stay here and protect the ritual and the leader. We can''t ignore their warning." His expression darkens. "I have something important to take care of."


    Without another word, they dash off in opposite directions, leaving me behind. I clench my fists, frustration bubbling inside me. Now, all I can do is wait... and hope they return safely.


    Akriya stands firm on a thick tree branch near the border of the tribal area and the dark forest. The golden, electrified shield flickers behind him, humming with energy¡ªa fragile wall keeping the demons at bay. Beyond it, monstrous figures shift restlessly in the dark forest, their guttural roars sending shivers through the trees.


    Just in front of him, on the peak of another tree, stands Krik¡ªthe wind controller. The air around him is alive, swirling with unnatural force as if the very wind bows to his will. His long coat flutters violently, his piercing gaze locked onto Akriya with cold determination. A smirk creeps onto his lips.


    "Boy, this is your last day!" Krik shouts, his voice slicing through the howling wind.


    Akriya doesn''t react immediately. Instead, he takes a slow breath, his eyes unwavering. He raises a single finger.


    "Take a deep breath," he murmurs, voice calm. "And wait until it ends."


    In that moment, the tree beneath him rumbles and comes alive. Its trunk stretches skyward, towering above the battlefield as branches expand like a titan awakening. Leaves rustle with newfound vigor, and vines slither down like serpents preparing to strike. With the faintest movement of his hand, Akriya commands the forest itself.


    Krik remains unmoved, standing atop his own tree, his grin never fading. The wind howls around him,