《Cycle of Fate-Hope Side》


 Chapter 1-Death

    The clash of steel reverberated through the throne room, the air thick with tension. At its center stood a lone figure wreathed in darkness, a palpable aura of malice radiating from him. Around him, a circle of warriors fought with fierce determination, their blades and spells colliding with an enemy who refused to yield.


    Noah¡¯s heart pounded in time with the battle. His younger brother, Isaac, stood at the forefront, swinging twin greatswords in punishing arcs, his wounds knitting shut almost as soon as they formed. A pink-haired archer loosed flaming arrows, each scorching projectile forcing their foe to twist and dodge. Another ally darted in and out of the fray, orange hair flashing, cursing and binding their enemy¡¯s every move with calculated strikes. Across the battlefield, lightning flared from a vampiric figure¡¯s fingertips, crackling across stone and paralyzing their adversary just long enough for another blow to land. Meanwhile, a white-haired priest moved among them, weaving healing magic that sealed wounds and restored strength.


    Noah gripped his sword, the weapon pulsing with a strange light. With a battle cry, he lunged. His blade was a hair¡¯s breadth from striking the dark figure¡¯s heart when everything dissolved into splinters of reality.


    He jolted awake, breath ragged, head pounding. The vivid dream fled from his mind like vapor, leaving behind an ache of longing he could not place. Rubbing his temples, he tried to grasp the fragments of what he¡¯d seen, only to feel them slip further away, leaving him with the hollow certainty that something crucial had vanished.


    Noah rose from the bed with a groan, limbs heavy and vision swimming. Each step sent a dull ache through his body, but he dragged himself toward the mirror. The reflection offered no comfort: messy black hair, pale skin marred by dark splotches that pulsed with pain, and two white, spiraled horns perched on his head. A hacking cough seized him, splattering blood against the glass. He wiped it away with a trembling sleeve, his emerald eyes clouded with fatigue. For fifteen, he felt dangerously close to collapsing under his own weight.


    He stumbled into the hallway, gripping the banister for balance. A sudden kick to the back of his leg nearly sent him tumbling.


    ¡°You know, a responsible older brother would actually check on his sick sister,¡± came Isaac¡¯s voice.


    Noah glanced over his shoulder. Eight-year-old Isaac stood there, arms crossed. His stark white hair and black horns set him apart from Noah¡¯s darker features, and his mismatched eyes¡ªone blood-red, one emerald green with a peculiar symbol¡ªshone with impatience.


    Noah rubbed his throbbing leg. ¡°I¡¯m not exactly in great shape myself, you know.¡±


    Isaac scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re always sick. Isabelle¡¯s hardly moved in a week. You¡¯re supposed to be the older brother.¡±


    Pressing a hand to his temple, Noah sighed. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    He shuffled to Isabelle¡¯s room, feeling every step like a weight he could barely lift. Inside, the space was modest but warm, two beds close together¡ªone unoccupied, the other holding a small, frail figure. Isabelle lay curled beneath the blankets, white hair spilling across the pillow, the same horns as Isaac curling delicately atop her head. Glasses rested untouched on the nearby table, a reminder of days spent too weak to wear them.


    Noah knelt beside her, heart sinking at how small and pale she looked. When Isabelle¡¯s eyes flickered open¡ªone blood-red with an X-shaped mark, the other emerald¡ªhe forced a comforting smile.


    ¡°Hey,¡± he whispered, trying to mask the concern in his voice.


    She managed a faint exhale. ¡°Noah¡­ I¡¯m so tired.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be back on your feet soon,¡± he murmured, tucking the blanket around her shoulders. ¡°You¡¯re strong.¡±


    Isabelle¡¯s eyes fluttered closed, each shallow breath underscoring her frailty. Noah sat there for a moment, heart twisting with helplessness. From the doorway, Isaac¡¯s concern hung in the air.


    ¡°She¡¯ll be okay, right?¡± Isaac asked, his earlier sharpness replaced by worry.


    Noah hesitated. He brushed a stray lock of hair from Isabelle¡¯s forehead. ¡°Yeah¡­ she will.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a terrible liar,¡± Isaac murmured, turning sharply and heading downstairs. The sting of his words made Noah¡¯s chest tighten. He lingered a moment longer, watching Isabelle¡¯s still form, before quietly following.


    Downstairs, the family had gathered for breakfast, the aroma of homemade dishes filling the room. Despite their noble status, their mother always insisted on cooking. She offered Noah a gentle smile as he entered, though concern flickered in her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m skipping breakfast,¡± Noah said, lifting the sword from its wall mount. The polished hilt glinted in the morning light. ¡°I¡¯ll be training in the forest.¡±


    His father, seated at the head of the table, frowned. ¡°Don¡¯t push yourself too hard. You¡¯re already a worthy heir to this family¡ªstrength isn¡¯t everything.¡±


    Noah¡¯s grip tightened on the sword. The word heir felt like a burden he couldn¡¯t shake. ¡°I need to get stronger,¡± he said, frustration threading through his voice. ¡°The Aegis Academy exams are soon, and I intend to pass.¡±


    Silence settled. They all understood Noah¡¯s determination¡ªand his limitations. Finally, his mother spoke, her tone kind yet unyielding. ¡°All right. But visit Ava before you go. She¡¯ll want to see you.¡±


    Noah forced a small, reassuring smile. ¡°I will.¡±


    He shouldered his sword and stepped out of the manor, letting the cool morning breeze wash over him. But the moment his feet touched the cobblestones, the whispers began¡ªquiet, yet impossible to ignore. The townsfolk were talking again. They always did.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t look well¡­¡±


    ¡°Poor health for so long¡ªhow can he ever lead?¡±


    ¡°What will happen when his father passes soon? Can he even take the mantle?¡±


    Some spoke softly, with genuine concern, while others¡¯ words cut sharper.


    ¡°Maybe it would be better if Isaac took his place.¡±


    ¡°Can you imagine him as ruler? He can barely stand on his own most days.¡±


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    Noah clenched his jaw, heart aching as he walked through the village. He knew exactly how they saw him, the sickly heir, a constant disappointment. They might acknowledge his intellect and care for the people, but it was never enough. Strength was what truly mattered, and his body failed him at every turn.


    Some even whispered that they wished for his death¡ªnot from cruelty, but because they believed Isaac, strong and healthy, would make a better ruler. The weight of their expectations pressed heavily on Noah¡¯s shoulders, each step feeling more burdensome than the last.


    Still, he pressed on, determined to prove them all wrong¡ªand himself. Approaching the forest of ¨¢lfheimr, he thought about its four ruling families. His own¡ªthe Fafnirs¡ªgoverned a diverse population, welcoming many races. The Starbells, meanwhile, ruled elves and fairies; his fianc¨¦e, Ava, came from that lineage, and their betrothal had strengthened ties between their two realms. The reminder of her eased his tension, if only for a moment.


    His thoughts turned grim when he recalled Eldenwood, once a proud demi-human territory now lying in ruins after a criminal onslaught. Its survivors had fled to the Fafnirs for refuge. Then there was the Black Witch¡¯s domain¡ªa segment of the forest claimed by a being so formidable no one dared question her sovereignty.


    Towering trees cast long shadows as Noah gripped his sword, every doubt and expectation weighing down on him. He had to prove himself¡ªnot just to his family or the townsfolk, but to the part of him that still believed he could succeed.


    Venturing deeper, even mundane creatures like boars and slimes tested him, each swing of his blade draining more of his strength than it should. Still, he refused to turn back empty-handed. Pushing onward, he glimpsed a gathering through the foliage.


    He ducked behind a tree, heart hammering. Four figures stood in hushed conversation. One wore a black cloak, red gloves, and a sinister plague doctor¡¯s mask. Beside him was a young girl¡ªno older than Isaac¡ªher small frame mostly hidden by a brown cloak and a steampunk mask. Another, with dirty blonde hair, had a fox mask and rested a katana at his side. The last was clad in armor, neon-green hair glinting in the gloom, orange eyes alert.


    Noah swallowed hard. He recognized the mask, that plague doctor¡¯s mask belonged to the leader of The Crows¡ªa criminal group whispered to herald the next apocalypse.


    The most disturbing rumor tied to them involved a man dressed in all white, who had been present in every recorded apocalypse in history. Seven apocalypses had already scarred the world, each one led by an individual who sought to bring about destruction. And now, standing before him, was one of the very people responsible for the attack on the Eldenwood territory.


    The leader¡¯s voice was steady, cutting through the silence. ¡°It seems we have a visitor. Faker, deal with him.¡±


    Noah¡¯s heart slammed against his ribs as the neon-haired man¡ªFaker¡ªturned, a cruel smile twisting his lips. In a blur of speed, Faker lunged, his sword flaring with emerald light. He cleaved the tree Noah hid behind cleanly in two, the blade missing Noah¡¯s head by inches. Splinters rained down, a testament to Faker¡¯s ferocious power.


    ¡°So this is the failed son of the Fafnir family,¡± Faker sneered, stepping closer. ¡°Hey, boss, we¡¯re here for the brother, right? Mind if I kill this one?¡±


    Unmoved, the black-cloaked leader gave a dismissive nod. ¡°He¡¯s not even worth feeding to Lupin. Inari, Labyrinth¡ªcome.¡±


    Noah froze at the gravity of the situation. He was alone, outmatched, facing one of the deadliest members of The Crows. He could barely handle common beasts; how could he stand against this?


    Faker¡¯s grin broadened as he drew his sword, its green glow intensifying. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll deal with your family, too. You¡¯ll all meet again soon enough, on the other side.¡± His orange eyes gleamed with sadistic delight. ¡°But I¡¯m feeling generous. I¡¯ll give you one chance¡ªtry to kill me.¡±


    Noah¡¯s hands trembled around his hilt, every breath ragged. Pain thrummed through his body, but the thought of giving in was unbearable. He forced himself upright, funneling what little strength he had into his weapon.


    Faker¡¯s laugh echoed through the trees. ¡°Come on then. Show me what the ¡®failed son¡¯ can do.¡±


    Noah¡¯s heart pounded like a war drum in his chest, his breath shallow and ragged as adrenaline coursed through his veins. He had one shot, one opportunity. To seize what he wanted, in that one moment.  He would make sure to capture it, he wouldn''t let it slip.


    Noah¡¯s vision blurred as he steadied his blade, its weight nearly too much for his trembling hands. His body screamed for him to stop, but his will refused to yield. Letting out a roar of defiance, he lunged forward.


    Everything seemed to slow. Each step felt like trudging through mud, but he fought past the fatigue, slashing with every last scrap of strength. For an instant, he thought he¡¯d succeeded¡ªhis sword sliced cleanly through Faker¡¯s neck.


    Faker¡¯s head hit the ground with a heavy thud, rolling to Noah¡¯s feet. Hope flared inside him¡ªhad he actually won?


    Then the horror began.


    The headless body didn¡¯t collapse. Instead, the torso lifted its hands and began to clap, the sound of flesh meeting flesh echoing through the forest. On the ground, the severed head writhed and tore itself into crawling maggots. They slithered over Faker¡¯s legs and torso, piecing themselves back together until his face reformed in a sickening display. His cruel smile appeared as though nothing had happened.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to inform you,¡± Faker said lightly, ¡°no matter how many times this vessel falls apart, you¡¯ll never kill me.¡±


    Dread twisted in Noah¡¯s chest. Still, he refused to stand down. With a ragged cry, he swung again and again, each blow barely scratching Faker¡¯s shifting flesh. Every wound healed the moment it opened. Before long, Noah¡¯s strikes weakened, reduced to desperate taps.


    ¡°Pathetic,¡± Faker sneered. ¡°Stop flailing around. A wretch without an ability should learn when to give up.¡± He raised his sword, emerald light dancing across its length. ¡°Ability: Enchanter.¡±


    In one swift motion, Faker swung. Green light flashed, and Noah gaped as the blade of his own sword clattered to the ground, severed cleanly from its hilt.


    Faker tilted his head, wearing a sadistic grin. ¡°Any last words?¡±


    Noah¡¯s mind whirled. He was out of strength and options, his sword destroyed, yet he couldn¡¯t surrender. His family needed him. Summoning what little resolve he had left, he lifted his eyes, a small flame of defiance still burning.


    ¡°Damn you,¡± Noah hissed, forcing the words through clenched teeth. ¡°I refuse to giv¡ª¡±


    He never finished. A blinding surge of pain tore through his chest. Numb disbelief crept over him as he glanced down, seeing Faker¡¯s hand buried deep in his torso, fingers curled around his heart. Time seemed to slow, every second stretching into an eternity of horror.


    ¡°Ironic, isn¡¯t it?¡± Faker murmured, his breath hot against Noah¡¯s ear. His grip tightened on the thudding organ. ¡°The so-called heir of the Fafnir family, killed so easily.¡±


    With a chilling crack, Faker crushed Noah¡¯s heart. The agony was unimaginable, a fire that devoured his senses. Noah collapsed to the ground in a heap, his vision already fading at the edges. A coppery taste filled his mouth, and he watched his blood spatter across the forest floor.


    ¡°Rest in peace, failed son of the Fafnir family,¡± Faker said, flicking the blood from his hand as though Noah were nothing more than a stain. Then he turned and vanished, his footsteps slowly disappearing into the hush of the trees.


    Noah¡¯s world blurred, sound and color draining away. A single thought remained, echoing in the lonely darkness closing in.


    I wasn¡¯t strong enough¡­


    Hours passed in the hush of the forest, moonlight filtering through towering branches to illuminate the gnarled roots where Noah¡¯s still form lay. His face was pale, eyes closed, blood dried against torn clothing¡ªsilent proof of the violence that had taken place.


    Footsteps broke the quiet. A child, cloaked in black robes, stepped forward. His skin was as pale as starlight, and golden-blonde hair fell in soft waves around the mask that concealed the upper half of his face. Small, feathery wings extended from his back, catching the faint light and giving him an unearthly, angelic presence.


    He paused over Noah¡¯s body, tilting his head in mild curiosity¡ªlike an art collector appraising a rare piece. ¡°A shame¡­¡± His voice was gentle, tinged with melancholy. ¡°You weren¡¯t the one I intended to make a hero. But I suppose you¡¯ll have to do.¡±


    Raising one hand, he murmured, ¡°Ability activate¡­ Miracle.¡±


    From the tips of his fingers, a single droplet of liquid gold formed, shimmering with divine radiance. It hovered in the air for an instant before descending onto Noah¡¯s forehead. As it sank into his skin, a faint glow spread across Noah¡¯s body. A moment later, his eyes fluttered open, bewilderment, and a flicker of hope stirring in their depths as he stared into the dim forest.

 Chapter 2-God of Monsters

    Noah jolted upright, hand flying to his chest. The gaping wound he¡¯d suffered was gone, replaced by a strange hollowness. Before he could grapple with this relief, a more horrifying sight drew his attention: his home, once his sanctuary, now consumed by spiraling flames.


    ¡°No, no¡­¡± he choked out, scrambling to his feet as heat battered against his skin. Panic and disbelief warred inside him, the world spinning with ruin.


    A soft, mocking voice cut through the crackling inferno. ¡°Don¡¯t bother, young Fafnir.¡± A boy stood amid the flames, his robe shimmering like liquid starlight. ¡°Your parents are dead, and Isaac is long gone. There¡¯s nothing left for you to save.¡±


    Noah stiffened, grief mingling with fury. ¡°Who are you?¡± he demanded, voice unsteady yet determined.


    An enigmatic smile curved the boy¡¯s lips. ¡°You may call me Lux¡ªthe God of Hope. And you, Noah, are destined to be this era¡¯s hero, the one who will stand against the coming apocalypse.¡±


    Despite the chaotic blaze, Lux¡¯s presence felt oddly serene, offering a small glow in the darkness. Yet his next words held a teasing edge. ¡°How blasphemous! I don¡¯t see a cross around your neck,¡± Lux lamented, his tone dripping with mock disappointment. ¡°I¡¯m the only god with an established church, and you, of all heroes, are the first not actively to worship me. I must admit, it saddens me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Noah replied, his voice strained, ¡°but I didn¡¯t think to wear it while hunting. I didn¡¯t want it to get dirty.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I take no offense to my emblem getting sullied. Hope shines brightest when cloaked in despair,¡± Lux mused, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes.


    Noah frowned, still reeling from the surrounding devastation. ¡°Why choose me? I¡¯m sick and powerless. I don¡¯t even have an ability.¡±


    ¡°Of course you do,¡± Lux replied, stepping closer. He brushed his fingertips against the dark splotches on Noah¡¯s arm. ¡°It¡¯s called The Ladybug. It absorbs the suffering of those around you, storing that burden in your own body. Your land prospered because of it¡ªat the cost of your health.¡±


    Tears blurred Noah¡¯s vision. ¡°So, I¡¯ve been helping everyone this entire time¡­I¡¯m glad I could be of use.¡±


    Lux¡¯s tone softened into admiration. ¡°You¡¯re proving to be the perfect candidate. But I¡¯ve made a small adjustment to your ability so it won¡¯t kill you outright. Now, hold out your arm and focus your mana into those spots.¡±


    Swallowing his apprehension, Noah obeyed. A surge of darkness crackled from his arm, tearing through the air and pulverizing a distant tree in a splintering explosion.


    ¡°I¡ªI did that?¡± Noah stammered, equal parts awe and longing twisting in his chest. If he¡¯d only possessed such power earlier¡­


    Lux caught the shift in his expression. ¡°Don¡¯t flatter yourself. Even now, you wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against The Crows. Mastering this ability requires time and training. But at least you¡¯re no longer entirely useless,¡± he added, a touch of pride coloring his voice.


    Tears blurred Noah¡¯s vision as he recalled the massacre of his family¡¯s home. ¡°I can¡¯t let it end like this,¡± he whispered, forcing himself to his feet despite the lingering fatigue.


    Lux gave a theatrical sigh. ¡°What a troublesome hero I¡¯ve chosen. I¡¯ll keep watch¡ªno point in letting you die again so soon.¡±


    Meanwhile, beyond the forest, Inari trudged back toward Blank, head bowed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir,¡± he muttered. ¡°The kid escaped.¡±


    Blank¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I should¡¯ve brought every commander. This was crucial.¡±


    ¡°They each have their¡­quirks,¡± Inari offered, attempting to ease the tension. ¡°You¡¯re lucky Faker cooperated as much as he did.¡±


    Blank exhaled, nodding. ¡°True enough. At least we stopped that god from getting a new hero. That alone is worth something.¡±


    A faint smirk crossed Inari¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯ll check on Labyrinth. I bet she¡¯s on the verge of tears over that corpse.¡±


    He left, finding Faker sitting outside, bored and idly running his fingers through the grass while Labyrinth hovered nearby, her tears reflecting off the lifeless body of Noah¡¯s father before her. Moments later, Blank joined them, carrying the unconscious form of Isabelle in his arms.


    ¡°It¡¯s time to move,¡± Blank ordered, his gaze sweeping the scene with cool finality. ¡°Faker, grab the corpse. Lupin will appreciate his new meal.¡±


    A bolt of darkness ripped through the air, striking Blank¡¯s leg and severing it with a sickening crack. He staggered, irritation twisting his features as the wound healed in an instant.


    ¡°Who dares¡ª?¡± he snarled, scanning the ruins, fury igniting in his eyes.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you get away!¡± Noah shouted, raw emotion fueling a crackling mass of dark energy in his palms. Memories of his own helplessness burned like an open wound, driving his attack.


    Blank sneered, yanking Isabelle forward to use her as a human shield. ¡°One more move, and your sister suffers. I¡¯d hate to damage the merchandise.¡±


    ¡°No! You bastard!¡± Noah cried, voice thick with anguish. Fury tore at his chest, each ragged breath a reminder of what he¡¯d lost.


    Blank¡¯s tone hardened into icy disinterest. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to kill a brat who¡¯s already died once. Nor to face one of the five primordial gods. Let¡¯s end this now. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll meet again¡­ Fafnir¡¯s failure.¡±


    He gestured for Labyrinth to open a portal. Despite her trembling, she summoned a swirling vortex. One by one, the Crows vanished into its depths.


    At the threshold, Blank glanced back. ¡°I look forward to your second death.¡±


    ¡°No matter where you go, I¡¯ll hunt you down to the ends of the world!¡± Noah yelled, his voice breaking with emotion, raw and unyielding. ¡°I¡¯ll kill each and every one of you! I promise you that!¡± But as Blank and his crows vanished into the portal, Noah felt a hollowness settle within him, the weight of his words almost too much to bear.


    ¡°Mom, I need to check on Mom!¡± Noah cried out, desperation clawing at his throat as he raced back into the house, fear propelling him forward.


    ¡°That boy¡­ so full of energy,¡± Lux murmured, shaking his head with a hint of admiration tinged with sadness.


    Inside, Noah collapsed by his mother¡¯s body, tears carving paths down his cheeks. The stench of smoke and blood choked the air.


    ¡°Lux? I have a question,¡± Noah''s voice trembled as he looked up, eyes glistening with grief and fury. ¡°Is it wrong for a hero to be filled with such an intense desire to kill? An even greater desire than to save others?¡±


    Lux placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. ¡°Your rage is natural. Let it fuel you. Remember what they¡¯ve taken.¡±


    Noah¡¯s nails dug into his palms, the pain grounding him. ¡°I will,¡± he vowed, voice rough with sorrow and determination. ¡°I¡¯ll never forget.¡±


    Noah sat on the floor, fists clenched, eyes distant and hollow. The destruction around him felt surreal, yet the devastation was all too real. Lux leaned against a cracked wall, elegant despite the wreckage. His hair fell over a face that held both calculation and a startling hint of gentleness. Slowly, he drew a silver watch from his pocket, the steady ticking echoing through the heavy silence.


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    ¡°We need to move,¡± Lux said, voice quiet but resolute. ¡°We have people to meet. However, I¡¯ll help you bury the dead first.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Noah whispered, meeting Lux¡¯s gaze with grief-ridden eyes.


    Lux snapped his fingers, releasing a gentle glow. One by one, the bodies vanished, reappearing outside in newly formed graves. Stepping into the open air, Lux bowed his head. ¡°May the Lord of the Spirit Realm welcome you into his embrace.¡±


    ¡°A god praying to another god?¡± Noah murmured, surprise creeping into his voice.


    Lux offered a small, thoughtful smile. ¡°It¡¯s just respect. He¡¯s a close friend of mine.¡± A fleeting solemnity crossed his features, allowing Noah a glimpse of the complexities beneath his calm demeanor.


    Drawing in a steadying breath, Noah rose, renewed resolve flickering in his eyes. ¡°Thank you¡­for everything.¡±


    Lux waved off the thanks. ¡°There¡¯s a journey ahead. We can¡¯t stay here.¡±


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Noah asked, bracing himself.


    ¡°The Starbell territory,¡± Lux replied. ¡°We¡¯ll meet an ally on the way. If all goes well, it should help us both.¡±


    Noah¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Ava might be there,¡± he said, voice tinged with cautious hope. ¡°It¡¯s been too long.¡±


    Lux arched an eyebrow. ¡°For an arranged marriage, you seem quite invested.¡±


    A faint blush touched Noah¡¯s cheeks. ¡°It was the one arrangement I never had to force myself to accept.¡±


    Lux pushed away from the wall. ¡°Then let¡¯s not waste time. Your path¡ªtwisted as it may be¡ªis only beginning.¡±


    ¡°Allow me to explain a few things, young hero,¡± Lux began, his tone both instructive and measured. ¡°In this world, there are countless lesser gods¡ªfigures who achieved divinity through great feats and earned the people''s adoration. But beyond them are five primordials, the origin gods, distinct from the old-world deities. Besides the old-world deities, we are the oldest, having existed since the beginning of this world.


    ¡°First is the God of Hope, myself. Next, the Lord of the Spirit Realm. He rules over the afterlife. Then comes The End, the very embodiment of death. After him stands our enemy, known to you mortals as the Man in White¡ªthe God of Survival, whose sole ambition is to be the last survivor, to erase all life, and to obliterate the Game Master. The Game Master is the fifth primordial, the most ancient of all. Both he and the Man in White have existed since the era of the old gods¡ªI can''t say what truly transpired back then.¡±


    Noah¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Is it even possible to kill him?¡±


    Lux sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice. ¡°I¡¯ve tried, but I haven¡¯t succeeded. His power isn¡¯t meant for combat. So by thwarting each era¡¯s apocalypse, we can at least hold him at bay for a while.¡±


    Noah¡¯s grip tightened, resolve blazing in his gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll be the one to finally stop him¡ªI promise.¡±


    A wry smile tugged at Lux¡¯s lips as he teased, ¡°Nearly every hero has said that. Besides the Emperor, they¡¯re all six feet under.¡±


    The forest air was thick with tension as Noah and Lux moved silently through the shadows. Every step was deliberate, every strike precise¡ªNoah¡¯s sword flashed with dark energy as he cleaved through monstrous foes. Slimes exploded into wisps of shadow, while insectoid creatures writhed in their final moments beneath his relentless assault. With each swing, the dark power surged within him, fueling his strength and sharpening his reflexes.


    ¡°The more I channel this energy, the lighter I feel,¡± Noah remarked, a thrill of excitement threading through his voice as he dispatched yet another foe.


    Lux leaned casually against a gnarled tree, his eyes following Noah¡¯s fluid movements with mild interest. ¡°Enjoy it while you can,¡± he warned. ¡°Your dark energy is not infinite¡ªit drains with each use. You can replenish it by absorbing the misfortune of others, but that comes at a cost,¡± he added, nodding toward the fading black spots on Noah¡¯s arm.


    Undeterred, Noah pressed on, his swordsmanship growing sharper and more confident. Just as he prepared to strike down another slime, it paused, its gelatinous form rippling. Slowly, it coalesced into the shape of a young man: eyes blazing crimson like a lion¡¯s glare, silver hair cascading over his shoulders, and three bold, dark markings etched on each cheek. A regal red coat trimmed with fur completed his formidable appearance.


    With a graceful gesture, the figure raised his hand, halting Noah¡¯s blade mid-swing. His face, contorted with simmering anger, bore a piercing glare.


    ¡°Such audacity,¡± he snarled in a low, menacing growl. ¡°An insolent human, slashing my creatures as if they were mere obstacles.¡±


    Startled, Noah staggered back, his heart pounding. ¡°Who¡­ who are you?¡± he managed, tightening his grip on his sword.


    The silver-haired figure¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°I am Sicil¡ªthe God of Monsters, the true lord of this forest,¡± he declared with cold contempt. Leaning in, his fierce gaze locked onto Noah¡¯s. ¡°You¡¯ve invaded my realm, slaughtering my subjects without a second thought.¡±


    Noah gritted his teeth, his body taut with tension. ¡°They attacked first. I¡¯m not here to start trouble,¡± he insisted, though his voice wavered between resolve and fear.


    Sicil scoffed, fury blazing in his eyes. ¡°In my forest, no creature is disposable¡ªthey¡¯re all under my protection.¡± With a swift motion, he shoved Noah¡¯s sword aside, sending him stumbling backward.


    ¡°Then what of the Crows who ravaged my family and decimated the Eldenwood territory? Where was your divine retribution?¡± Noah demanded.


    Sicil¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°You¡¯re right¡ªI should have dealt with those invaders. But that hunt is for another day.¡±


    At that moment, Lux stepped forward, his calm presence a stark counterpoint to the mounting tension. Meeting Sicil¡¯s hostile stare with a faint, knowing smile, he said, ¡°Sicil, it¡¯s been a while since I¡­ helped you kill your mother. I¡¯d like to collect on that favor.¡±


    Sicil¡¯s crimson eyes narrowed further, his tone dripping venom. ¡°You forced me to do that, Lux¡ªso I wouldn¡¯t die.¡±


    Lux¡¯s smile widened, unfazed by the fury in Sicil¡¯s voice. ¡°True, I did. But come now, Sicil¡ªcould you not have resisted, like your sibling Oz did? And look, Oz is still alive. What¡¯s done is done. You¡¯re stronger for it, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Sicil¡¯s voice dropped to a dangerous edge. ¡°I despise you, you bastard. You forced me to kill my own mother, and now you act as if it were a favor?¡±


    Lux¡¯s gaze remained steady. ¡°She was an Apocalypse¡ªan entity destined to bring ruin. Her death was necessary for this world¡¯s survival. Remember your place, Sicil. You¡¯re a lesser god; I am primordial. The disparity in power is vast, so choose your battles wisely.¡±


    Sicil clenched his jaw, then, after a long, tense pause, he finally asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Lux glanced at Noah, dismissing Sicil¡¯s bitter tone. ¡°This kid needs a trainer. He has promise, but frankly, he¡¯s the weakest hero I¡¯ve taken on. As part of your debt, I want you to whip him into shape.¡±


    Sicil let out a short, mirthless laugh. ¡°Train him? Lux, I¡¯m busy keeping the Crows and the Black Witch¡¯s schemes in check. She¡¯s crowned herself queen over those wretched creatures, the black mist¡ªshe¡¯s no easy opponent.¡± He fixed his gaze on Noah, his eyebrow arching in appraisal. ¡°Listen up, kid: your first assignment is to go hunt the Black Witch. Survive that, and maybe you¡¯ll earn my respect.¡±


    Noah blinked, stunned. ¡°That¡¯s my training?¡±


    Lux chuckled, an amused glint in his eyes. ¡°Good enough for me. She¡¯ll be a formidable foe¡ªif you don¡¯t mind risking your life.¡±


    Sicil muttered, ¡°I¡¯d suggest finding allies first,¡± casting Noah a dubious glance.


    ¡°Oh, and do try to live, would you?¡± Lux added with a smirk, clearly unfazed by the trepidation in Noah¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°How am I supposed to fight an enemy even a god can¡¯t defeat?¡± Noah asked, frustration lacing his tone.


    Sicil shook his head and sighed. ¡°It¡¯s not that I can¡¯t kill her, Noah. The real problem is her territory¡ªshe¡¯s erected a barrier designed specifically to keep even me at bay.¡±


    Noah¡¯s brow furrowed as he searched for answers. ¡°You mentioned the Crows¡­ is she working with them?¡±


    Sicil¡¯s gaze darkened. ¡°More than that. They¡¯re business partners, tangled in a blood trade that only makes her stronger. She commands creatures called the Black Mist¡ªvicious, almost living slime that feasts on blood and reproduces from it. For most, they¡¯re deadly. But some¡­ they¡¯re what we call King¡¯s Candidates. Right now, she¡¯s the most powerful among them, ruling her brood like a twisted queen.¡±


    Noah¡¯s expression twisted in disgust. ¡°And the Crows? What¡¯s their role in all this?¡±


    ¡°They supply her with corpses,¡± Sicil replied, his voice a blend of anger and resignation. ¡°More bodies mean more nourishment for her creatures, more soldiers at her command. Each body delivered to her fortress strengthens her power.¡±


    Noah¡¯s fists clenched, determination igniting in his eyes. ¡°They¡¯re monsters, both of them. I¡¯ll stop them¡ªno matter what it takes.¡±


    Sicil¡¯s expression softened ever so slightly, almost impressed. ¡°Bold words for a new hero. Good luck with that, newbie.¡±


    Noah then turned to Lux, purpose flickering in his gaze. ¡°Lux, let¡¯s head to town. I¡¯d like to see Ava before I start this.¡±


    Lux smirked and folded his arms as he leaned casually against a tree. ¡°Ah, one last kiss with your lover before you charge into certain doom. How poetic.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me,¡± Noah muttered, cheeks flushing despite his resolve.


    With a playful chuckle, Lux straightened up. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go see your lady. After all, every hero¡¯s journey deserves a proper send-off.¡±


    Noah navigated the winding paths until they arrived in Marim¡ªthe vibrant heart of Starbell territory¡ªwhere his destiny awaited.

 Chapter 3-Weak Hero

    Noah stepped into Marim, a town seemingly grown from the forest itself. Ancient oaks and sturdy cedars served as the foundations for homes and shops, their branches woven into rooftops, while vines and wildflowers formed vibrant accents along doors and windows. It was difficult to tell where the forest ended and the town began. Lanterns dangled from high boughs overhead, promising gentle illumination after dusk.


    On the cobbled streets below, shopkeepers sold bundles of herbs, and the rhythmic clang of blacksmiths rang through the mild morning air. A comforting scent of fresh bread drifted from a nearby bakery, mingling with the earthy aroma of pine. Children¡¯s laughter wove between the wide trunks, while elders carved small wooden figurines at impromptu stalls. At the center of Marim rose a colossal, centuries-old tree holding a platform used for festivals and gatherings¡ªa living heart that pulsed with the town¡¯s spirit.


    Lux observed this bustling scene with polite disinterest. By contrast, Noah felt a calming resonance with the forest¡¯s quiet rhythm; its tranquil energy offered a rare moment of peace in the wake of his recent tragedy.


    That peace was cut short when a woman with lime-green hair, threaded with delicate blue flowers, suddenly threw her arms around him. Ava clung to him, tears in her golden eyes.


    ¡°Noah, I was terrified,¡± she choked out, pressing her face to his chest. ¡°Survivors from your territory reached us here. We learned bits and pieces¡­ I couldn¡¯t stop worrying. I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re alive.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m alright, really,¡± Noah assured her, wriggling awkwardly in her embrace. ¡°But¡ªcould I get a little breathing room?¡±


    Ava¡¯s tearful expression flickered with mischief. A soft yellow glow danced over her hand, and a moment later, Noah felt his limbs lock in place. ¡°Don¡¯t think you¡¯re escaping that easily,¡± she teased. She held him for a few extra heartbeats before finally releasing him.


    Noah exhaled in relief. ¡°Your ability always feels stranger each time you use it.¡±


    Ava¡¯s playful smile faded, replaced by concern. ¡°But¡­ is it really just you here in Marim, Noah?¡±


    His expression fell. ¡°My parents¡­they didn¡¯t make it. And Isabelle, my sister, was taken by the Crows. As for Isaac, I¡­I don¡¯t know. He vanished. He could be anywhere.¡±


    Her grip on his hand tightened gently. ¡°We¡¯ll find them. We¡¯ll bring them home,¡± Ava promised, voice tender. ¡°You won¡¯t have to do it alone.¡±


    Noah¡¯s shoulders sagged with relief. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Behind him, Lux cleared his throat. ¡°Pardon me, newbie hero, but we do have a mission. Let¡¯s not dawdle.¡±


    Ava turned a sharp glare on Lux. ¡°Mission? What mission?¡±


    Noah took a breath, steeling himself. ¡°I¡¯m¡­apparently the hero chosen for this era,¡± he explained, ¡°and this is Lux, the God of Hope. My first task is to take down the Black Witch.¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes widened, then flashed with anger. In a blur, she caught Lux by the collar, shaking him with unexpected force. ¡°You¡¯re sending Noah on that kind of suicide mission? Are you insane?!¡±


    ¡°H-hey!¡± Lux protested, trying to brace himself against her grip. ¡°Show some respect¡ªI¡¯m a god¡ªNoah, do something!¡±


    Noah merely shrugged. ¡°I¡¯d help you, Lux, but I know better than to get between Ava and her temper.¡±


    Eventually, Ava let Lux go, though her glare remained fierce. ¡°I¡¯m coming with you, Noah.¡±


    ¡°What? Ava, no. It¡¯s too dangerous,¡± Noah argued.


    Lux smirked, brushing himself off. ¡°She does have the spirit for a Berserker.¡±


    Ava¡¯s glare shifted to him. ¡°For your information, you clueless deity, my class is assassin.¡±


    Undeterred, Lux nodded approvingly. ¡°Even better. As for you, Noah, I imagine you¡¯ll develop into a paladin role with your healing potential and front-line magic.¡±


    Noah pursed his lips thoughtfully. ¡°If we¡¯re really doing this, it¡¯d help to have a ranger. I can handle healing and melee damage, but we need more ranged firepower.¡±


    Ava agreed. ¡°I¡¯m decent with a bow, but my Regalia is optimized for stealth. A true ranger would be invaluable.¡±


    Lux gave a curt nod. ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll need at least four people or someone exceptionally skilled with long-range combat.¡±


    Noah glanced at Lux. ¡°Can¡¯t you just fight in our place? You are a primordial god.¡±


    Lux shrugged, avoiding Ava¡¯s lingering glare. ¡°I used a huge amount of my divine power bringing you back after you were killed, remember? Also, the Black Witch¡¯s barrier will shut me out.¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes darted from Lux to Noah. ¡°Killed? What happened out there?¡±


    Noah inhaled slowly, gaze distant. ¡°One of the Crows¡¯ commanders overwhelmed me. I really did die. Lux resurrected me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s putting it mildly,¡± Lux added, trying to sound nonchalant. ¡°It was a case of rotten luck on your part¡ªfacing one of the Seven Wings with zero preparation.¡±


    Ava clenched her fists. ¡°Tell me who did it. I¡¯ll rip him limb from limb.¡±


    Noah placed a calming hand on her shoulder, showing her his shirt¡ªtorn and stained, but the lethal wound now healed. ¡°Look, I¡¯m okay.¡±


    Relief flickered across Ava¡¯s features. She turned to Lux, voice trembling with earnest gratitude. ¡°Thank you for saving him.¡±


    Lux lifted his chin, feigning indifference. ¡°I only did it because he was¡­useful.¡±


    Ava let out a soft, shaky laugh. Then she seemed to remember something. ¡°Actually, I heard about a strange doctor who arrived here recently. He¡¯s apparently come to hunt the Black Witch too, and rumors say his ability uses ice.¡±


    Lux perked up. ¡°Ice? That¡¯s perfect. The Black Mist that witch commands is highly susceptible to cold. This doctor could be exactly what we need.¡±


    Determination lit Noah¡¯s eyes. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s see if we can recruit him.¡±


    They made their way to the Starlight Inn, a cozy lodge built into the thick trunk of a massive tree. Lanterns along the wooden walls cast a warm glow on the oak tables and stone hearth, while light from stained-glass windows painted the floors in patches of green, gold, and blue. Groups of adventurers and travelers mingled, some resting from their journeys, others trading stories or quietly honing weapons. Survivors of the recent attack on Fafnir¡¯s territory sat in hushed corners, mustering hope through shared tales of survival.


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    A pair of knights disappeared into a private room, their armor clinking with each step. Meanwhile, a loud cluster of adventurers clanked tankards at a corner table. Amidst this rustic bustle stood a tall man in a spotless white lab coat¡ªstrikingly out of place. Cyan hair fell across his forehead, and two curved horns rose proudly from his head. One eye glowed with a deep purple hue; the other shone cyan, marked by a faint, ticking clock symbol.


    Ava strode over. ¡°Are you the doctor who wants to hunt the Black Witch?¡±


    He inclined his head. ¡°I am. My name is Cyrus Sanguine. And yes, Vanitas Sanguine¡ªthe Seventh Apocalypse, sometimes called the Apocalypse of Calamity¡ªwas my father.¡±


    A tense hush fell over the table as Lux pinned Cyrus with a cold stare. ¡°So that¡¯s where you get your filthy blood. Should we even bother, or should I dispose of you now?¡±


    Rage flashed across Cyrus¡¯s features. ¡°I remember you, Lux. My mother told me everything about the monster who forced my uncle to kill my father. You had that same smug look back then.¡±


    Noah¡¯s jaw tightened as he turned to Lux. ¡°How many families have you shattered, Lux? How many times have you manipulated people into killing their own blood?¡±


    Lux shrugged with a dismissive smile. ¡°I pitted the First Apocalypse against her children, the Sixth Hero was forced to face his sister, and the Seventh Hero fought his brother¡ªso I¡¯ve used the ¡®family against family¡¯ trick three times, more or less. It¡¯s proven¡­efficient.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes darkened, and an inky substance spiraled down his arm, shaping itself into a claw that clamped around Lux¡¯s throat. He pulled Lux close, voice dripping lethal intent. ¡°You¡¯re lucky I have more pressing priorities, or I¡¯d snap your neck right here, god or not.¡±


    He released Lux with a shove, and Lux stumbled back, lips curving into a disturbingly amused grin. ¡°Such spirit,¡± he remarked, sounding almost¡­pleased. ¡°So, Cyrus, how about we set aside old resentments and form a truce to handle the Black Witch?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s glare was ice. ¡°I¡¯m not killing her unless she refuses to hand over what I need. After that, do what you want.¡±


    Lux nodded, extending his hand as if sealing a business deal. ¡°So be it. Allies, for now.¡±


    Cyrus hesitated¡ªdisdain mingling with his own sense of necessity¡ªbefore he finally clasped Lux¡¯s hand in a quick, tense shake. ¡°But understand, if you betray me or hamper my mission in any way, I¡¯ll kill you. No second chances.¡±


    Lux smirked. ¡°You¡¯re welcome to try. Truly.¡±


    A strained silence followed until Noah cleared his throat. ¡°Um, hi. I¡¯m Noah. And this is Ava.¡± He gestured to her. ¡°So¡­yeah, this is all pretty awkward.¡±


    Ava gave Cyrus a polite nod. ¡°I¡¯m his fianc¨¦e¡ªAva. Thanks for hearing us out, even if this arrangement is tense.¡±


    Cyrus inclined his head in return, still visibly guarded. ¡°I can tolerate a temporary partnership if it serves my goal.¡±


    Noah rested his hand on the hilt of his sword. ¡°So¡­why are you after the Black Witch?¡±


    Shadows flickered in Cyrus¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯ve been researching the black mist for years. My brother was almost consumed by it after a failed experiment. He isn¡¯t a King¡¯s Candidate, so it nearly devoured him. I managed to keep him alive¡ªbarely¡ªbut to truly save him, I need a tome the Black Witch possesses. That book has the ability to purify the black mist.¡±


    Noah nodded, empathy touching his eyes. ¡°I see. That¡¯s¡­honorable. Are you a King¡¯s Candidate yourself?¡±


    Cyrus gave a curt nod. ¡°Yes. I¡¯ve learned its weaknesses intimately. If we work together, our odds of surviving¡ªand succeeding¡ªgo up.¡±


    Noah exhaled, a faint smile forming. ¡°I had a good feeling about you. Looks like I was right.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s lips curved slightly in response. ¡°I can appreciate good instincts. However, I¡¯d like to see your skills firsthand. Let¡¯s have a friendly duel to gauge your combat capabilities.¡±


    Noah¡¯s eyes lit with determination. ¡°Sure. I need to see what you can do, too.¡±


    They ventured to a quiet clearing on Marim¡¯s outskirts. Tall trees ringed a grassy field, and a sudden breeze carried the hush of distant birds. Ava and Lux stood by, watching as Noah and Cyrus took positions several strides apart.


    ¡°Ready?¡± Noah asked, shifting into a defensive stance.


    Without a word, a black fluid slithered over Cyrus¡¯s pristine lab coat, enveloping it in an obsidian sheen. Obsidian blades extended from his sleeves, and a raven-feathered plague doctor mask took shape over his face. Its crimson lenses glowed with eerie malevolence, the short beak parted slightly in a sinister grin.


    At the sight of the plague mask, Noah felt a stab of apprehension¡ªit recalled the ominous garb of the Crows¡¯ leader. Yet Cyrus wore it with a distinct aura of control, not cruelty. This was his power, refined for battle.


    He leveled one blade at Noah. ¡°Come on, ¡®hero.¡¯ Show me what you can do.¡±


    Noah tightened his grip on his sword, dark energy pulsing faintly along the blade. His draconic eyes locked on Cyrus, who stood with arms folded and a dismissive smirk.


    ¡°You¡¯d better summon your regalia,¡± Cyrus remarked. ¡°A basic weapon won¡¯t last long against me.¡±


    Noah¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°I don¡¯t have one.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s scoff cut the air. ¡°A hero without a regalia? How¡­unfortunate.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Noah lunged, channeling his frustration into swift strikes. Yet Cyrus flowed around each swing, his movements smooth and effortless.


    In a blur, Cyrus conjured an ice mallet. He brought it crashing into Noah with brutal force, sending him skidding across the clearing. Ava rushed to his side, horror etched on her face.


    ¡°Noah, are you alright?¡± she asked, voice trembling.


    He coughed, forcing himself upright. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just¡ªdon¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°What the hell was that for?¡± Ava snapped, eyes flashing.


    Cyrus shrugged, unrepentant. ¡°He¡¯ll never stand a chance against the Black Witch if he¡¯s coddled. The truth is, he¡¯s weak.¡±


    Noah¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°Why am I always too weak?!¡± he yelled, tears brimming. ¡°I can¡¯t do anything¡ªnever could. Everyone¡¯s lapped me three times over, and I¡¯m still stuck at the starting line!¡±


    A painful hush followed, broken only by Noah¡¯s labored breathing. Then he raised his head, eyes aflame with resolve. ¡°But I won¡¯t give up. Knock me down a thousand times, I¡¯ll stand up a thousand and one.¡±


    As if responding to his resolve, the dark spots on Noah¡¯s skin began to pulse, absorbing the misfortune of those around him. Wounds healed all over town, aches vanished¡ªyet Noah shuddered, blood trickling from his mouth. Still, he channeled the stolen despair into his sword, black lightning crackling along the blade.


    ¡°You hear me?¡± he shouted, voice echoing. ¡°I may be weak, but I¡¯m the hero. I¡¯ll turn every misery in this world into hope¡ªand I won¡¯t back down!¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes flickered with something like respect. ¡°Impressive talk for a pretender hero. Show me your strength.¡±


    Noah lunged again, blade awash in black lightning. Cyrus sidestepped, countering with a whirling scythe of ice that clashed against Noah¡¯s sword, sending tremors of frost and crackling darkness across the clearing.


    They broke apart, breathing hard. Cyrus conjured a volley of ice shards, but Noah deflected them with a surge of dark power. The two exchanged blows in a dizzying dance of steel and magic¡ªCyrus¡¯s icy precision pitted against Noah¡¯s raw, desperate force.


    ¡°You rely too much on brute strength,¡± Cyrus scolded. He transformed his scythe into an ice whip, snapping it around Noah¡¯s arm. Noah gasped at the freezing bite, but black lightning rippled through him, shattering the whip. In a burst of momentum, he charged Cyrus with rapid strikes, backing the doctor into a corner.


    Cyrus retaliated with a gust of frigid wind, trying to freeze Noah in place. Fighting through numbing cold, Noah slammed his blade into the ground, sending a dark shockwave that forced Cyrus to leap away.


    When Cyrus landed, he channeled his power into a final swing, his scythe¡¯s ice blade shattering Noah¡¯s sword. Yet before Cyrus could lower his guard, Noah lunged forward, fists charged with dark energy.


    ¡°Clench your teeth,¡± Noah growled, draconic eyes burning.


    His uppercut caught Cyrus under the jaw, cracking the plague doctor mask and staggering him. Cyrus wiped his mouth, a grin forming despite the blow. ¡°Well done, Noah. Let¡¯s call it a draw before we both go too far.¡±


    But Noah had already hit his limit. He swayed, muttered, ¡°I¡¯m counting this as a win¡­¡± and collapsed into unconsciousness. Ava rushed in, cradling his head gently.


    ¡°That idiot,¡± she sighed with a wry smile. ¡°He always pushes himself too hard.¡± A hint of affection shone in her eyes as she brushed his hair aside. ¡°He¡¯s cute when he refuses to give up, though.¡±


    Cyrus chuckled, stepping back to let her tend to Noah. ¡°Take him to recover. We¡¯ll plan our raid tomorrow. He¡¯ll need the rest.¡±


    Ava nodded and lifted Noah, heading off into Marim¡¯s settling twilight. Tomorrow, she thought, we fight again. But for now, Noah would have at least a moment¡¯s peace before the battles ahead.

 Chapter 4-A Hero Who Makes the Impossible, Possible

    Noah awoke to a gentle glow of morning light spilling through gauzy curtains, illuminating the room in a warm, golden haze. He inhaled deeply, catching a subtle blend of herbs and pinewood layered over the faint mustiness of old parchment. Thick blankets, embroidered with forest-green and gold thread, weighed reassuringly across his limbs¡ªan unfamiliar luxury compared to his family¡¯s now-devastated estate.


    A quiet knock and the creak of the door broke the stillness. A guard stepped inside, offering a slight bow. ¡°Good morning, sir,¡± he said kindly. ¡°Apologies for the watch¡ªMiss Ava tried sneaking in last night¡­¡­.multiple times.¡± He gave a conspiratorial smile before straightening. ¡°Fresh clothes are in the dresser. When you¡¯re ready, the elder awaits in the council room.¡±


    Once the guard withdrew, Noah rose and dressed in a black tunic and dark green trousers, surprisingly well-fitted. Catching his reflection in a nearby mirror, he saw that most of the black splotches from yesterday¡¯s battle had receded; only a few lingered on his forearms, reminders of the power he drew upon. A small pang of apprehension twisted in his stomach at the thought of testing those limits again.


    Leaving the bedroom, Noah navigated the manor¡¯s hushed corridors. Polished wooden floors and subtle wall carvings¡ªdepicting nature spirits and forest growth¡ªhinted at the Starbell family¡¯s reverence for ¨¢lfheimr¡¯s greenery. Eventually, he entered a spacious council room softly lit by overhead lanterns and morning sun filtering through stained-glass panels. Rows of bookshelves lined the walls, while a large, circular table commanded the center.


    Seated at one side was Ava¡¯s father, Orist¡ªhis short blond hair and piercing emerald eyes giving him a stern, formidable air. Across from him, Ava¡¯s mother, Elanor, radiated a gentle grace that matched her lime-green hair and warm golden gaze. Elder Novis, head of this household, occupied the seat of honor¡ªan imposing figure with silver hair, broad shoulders, and crimson eyes that conveyed both wisdom and power.


    Ava herself sat near her mother, breaking into a radiant smile the moment Noah entered. Lux, perched lazily in a corner, looked half-interested at best, though a subtle inclination of his head acknowledged Noah¡¯s arrival.


    ¡°Please,¡± Elder Novis said, his deep voice resonating against the wooden walls, ¡°join us. We have much to discuss.¡±


    Noah settled into an empty chair, sensing the tension that permeated the room. He could feel the weight of multiple gazes¡ªsome apprehensive, others quietly measuring his resolve.


    Novis broke the silence. ¡°So the rumors are true,¡± he said gravely, eyes flicking toward Lux. ¡°You¡¯ve taken up the hero¡¯s mantle for this era.¡±


    He let the words settle before continuing, his voice gathering a steeled edge. ¡°I have a request, Noah. Break off your engagement to my granddaughter.¡±


    Ava shot to her feet, face pale. ¡°Grandpa, no!¡± she cried, only to wilt under his reproachful glare.


    ¡°Sit down,¡± Novis ordered. Though his tone was stern, he exhaled softly once Ava obeyed. Turning back to Noah, he spoke more gently, ¡°This has nothing to do with the tragedy your family suffered. I hold you in high regard. I¡¯ve treated you all these years as if you were my own blood, and I will continue to do so. But a hero¡¯s path¡ªespecially one who would defy the Black Witch¡ªis strewn with danger. I refuse to let Ava be caught in that storm.¡±


    Orist leaned forward, his voice like flint striking steel. ¡°If you truly intend to hunt the Black Witch, you¡¯ll face enemies far beyond your current strength. How can you protect Ava when you¡¯re struggling just to survive?¡±


    Elanor cut in, her tone resolute despite its softness. ¡°Love can be as powerful a shield as any, Orist. Pushing them apart doesn¡¯t guarantee she¡¯ll be safe.¡±


    Orist scowled. ¡°You¡¯re blinded by sentiment, Elanor. Hero or not, he can¡¯t guarantee her safety.¡±


    Noah felt a surge of heat flare in his chest. Slamming a fist on the table, he locked eyes with Orist. ¡°I will protect her,¡± he said, voice low with conviction. ¡°I won¡¯t let anyone take that from me.¡±


    Elder Novis regarded Noah with a spark of interest. ¡°If you¡¯re so confident, prove it. Challenge Orist here and now¡ªwithout regalia on his side. Win, and your engagement stands. Lose, and the matter ends.¡±


    A humorless chuckle escaped Orist¡¯s lips. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve had to remind someone how outmatched they are.¡± He settled back, arms folded, eyeing Noah with cool dismissal.


    Noah returned the stare unflinchingly. ¡°I accept,¡± he said quietly, though every syllable throbbed with fierce resolve. ¡°I won¡¯t lose. Not to you. Not to anyone.¡±


    They followed the winding stone corridors until they emerged into a vast training hall built from dark granite and polished marble. Torchlight flickered across walls adorned with ornate banners¡ªeach bearing the Starbell family¡¯s crest, an emerald apple entwined with thorns, proud symbols of a lineage forged through countless battles.


    Faint scuff marks and spiderweb cracks mottled the polished floor, silent witnesses to long-past victories and defeats. One side of the chamber bristled with gleaming weaponry¡ªswords, axes, spears¡ªeach meticulously maintained. Targets lined the opposite wall: straw dummies, weathered mannequins in dented armor, and bullseyes streaked with the scars of combat.


    An elevated platform ringed the arena, already crowded with onlookers. Knights in shining plate leaned over the railings, their faces a blend of amusement and hushed respect. At the forefront stood Ava¡¯s family. Orist casually crossed his arms, shoulders rolling in anticipation¡ªclearly relishing the prospect of this duel. Ava herself looked torn between pride and worry, her gaze locked on Noah as if urging him to stand firm. Even Lux had taken a seat, lounging with that trademark detachment, though a flicker of curiosity danced in his eyes.


    Noah stepped into the center of the arena, mirroring Orist¡¯s approach. The older man¡¯s posture radiated lethal confidence¡ªfluid yet coiled, like a serpent waiting to strike. With a dismissive glance at Noah, Orist let a faint, predatory grin curl his lips.


    ¡°This is your last chance to back out, boy,¡± he said, tone rich with mock concern. ¡°No one expects much from you¡ªwhy disappoint them further?¡±


    Noah offered no reply, only a silent step forward. His eyes, gleaming with draconic resolve, said all he needed to.


    At a signal from one of the knights, Orist sank into a deceptively relaxed stance. A trickle of metallic light shimmered around him, solidifying into ghostly chains that hovered like restless serpents.


    ¡°My ability, Prison Master, drains energy from anyone bound by these chains,¡± Orist announced, knuckles cracking. ¡°Once you¡¯re caught, you¡¯ll feel your strength bleed away. Then I can hammer you with as many blows as I like.¡±


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    Noah¡¯s grip on his sword tightened, face set in fierce determination. ¡°You can try.¡±


    A tense hush gripped the hall. Even the torch flames seemed to flicker less brightly, as if waiting for the first strike.


    With a sudden burst of speed, Noah lunged, sword flashing toward Orist¡¯s flank. In a display of effortless skill, Orist sidestepped, driving his fist into Noah¡¯s ribs with punishing force and sending him staggering backward.


    The chains reacted instantly¡ªlancing forward in a metallic rattle. Noah slashed through the first few links, sparks flying, but more emerged, weaving around him like a steel-web trap. Orist pressed the advantage, each punch forcing Noah further off-balance, while fresh chains slithered closer.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, ¡®hero¡¯?¡± Orist taunted, voice echoing with cruel amusement. ¡°Can¡¯t handle a real fight?¡±


    Despite Noah¡¯s desperate defenses, one chain finally snaked around his arm, its iron links squeezing tight. Immediately, an overwhelming fatigue crashed over him, sapping his strength in waves. Orist yanked Noah forward by the chain, landing a fist into his stomach with brutal precision. Noah gasped, doubling over, lungs burning for air.


    Orist sneered, reeling back for the next blow. ¡°Is that it? Pathetic, you can¡¯t protect my daughter like this.¡±


    Doubling over, Noah fought to remain upright, pain and exhaustion battling the fierce determination in his eyes. But he refused to yield. The flickering flames reflected off his sword¡ªstill raised, despite the odds¡ªand in that moment, the crowd held its collective breath, waiting to see if the so-called hero had anything left to give.


    The chains coiled tighter, pinning Noah¡¯s arms and legs as Orist circled like a predator savoring his prey. A sneer twisted Orist¡¯s lips, and though Noah¡¯s face was drawn with pain, a fierce spark remained in his eyes.


    ¡°Still standing? Impressive,¡± Orist mocked, yanking one of the chains so hard that Noah toppled to his knees. ¡°Let¡¯s see how stubborn you are after I¡¯ve beaten every last bit of strength out of you.¡±


    He punctuated his threat with a bone-jarring punch to Noah¡¯s face, drawing a trickle of blood that slid across Noah¡¯s cheek. A few knights murmured in uneasy tones, while others traded grim looks¡ªthey¡¯d seen heroes crumble under less.


    But Noah actually smiled, defiance tugging at his lips. The black markings along his arms began to pulse and spread, dark energy flowing beneath his skin. He opened himself to the charged atmosphere, tapping into the weight of emotions that everyone tried to bury: the knights¡¯ collective fatigue, their private envy and self-doubt, and above all else, Ava¡¯s intense, unwavering worry¡ªthe love behind it embracing him like a bittersweet warmth.


    Inhaling shakily, Noah felt those burdens fuse into a searing current of raw strength. Dark circles expanded over his skin, a heavy testament to the negative energy he was channeling. It hurt¡ªabsorbing all that pent-up frustration and fear¡ªbut it also ignited something deep within him.


    ¡°Ava,¡± he whispered, letting her concern anchor him. ¡°I can feel your faith in me. I won¡¯t lose. Not now, not ever.¡±


    From the sidelines, Ava¡¯s face lit up, her initial worry giving way to a radiant grin. She cupped her hands around her mouth, voice echoing through the hall. ¡°Alright, Noah¡ªkick his ass! Make him look so bad Mom won¡¯t even kiss him anymore!¡±


    Orist¡¯s expression tightened, though a flicker of reluctant admiration crossed his gaze. ¡°You¡¯ve certainly won her heart. But don¡¯t think for a second I¡¯ll hold back from protecting her¡ªespecially from you.¡±


    Energy surged within Noah until his muscles trembled with power. It was as if every heartbreak, every doubt, every scrap of hidden anguish in the room coalesced around him, turning his limbs into conduits of dark, unstoppable force. The weight of it pressed against his mind, yet it also steadied him, fueling his determination.


    Meanwhile, Orist¡¯s chains rattled like metallic vipers, weaving closer with lethal intent. His hands flexed, and the air around him crackled with the promise of more punishment. ¡°Show me,¡± Orist demanded, eyes glinting. ¡°Show me what love and resolve can really do.¡±


    Noah set his jaw, eyes blazing as the black markings crept across his neck. A storm of conflicting emotions coursed through him¡ªpain, hope, and unwavering devotion. He would bear all of it if it meant seizing victory and keeping Ava by his side.


    His grip on his sword tightened, and he dug his heels into the blood-stained floor, refusing to give an inch. If Orist wanted proof of his worth, Noah would shatter every chain, every doubt, and rise stronger than ever.


    Noah stood, blood trickling from his nose, defiance burning in his eyes. A wild grin tugged at his lips. ¡°I¡¯m about to give everyone a show,¡± he declared, sweeping his arms wide. ¡°Watch closely¡ªyour captain is about to be beaten to a bloody pulp.¡±


    Orist scoffed, crossing his arms as metal chains coiled protectively around him. ¡°Bold talk. It won¡¯t matter; provocation only works if you¡¯re near my level. I can see right through your little act.¡±


    Noah rolled his eyes. ¡°Act? I¡¯m not trying to rile you¡ªI just wanted the audience to pay attention.¡± He nodded at the onlookers, from the gathered knights to Ava, who watched with tense anticipation. ¡°A hero¡¯s words are meant to move hearts, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    Without warning, Noah charged forward, dark energy crackling along his sword. The clash of steel on chains rang out, sparks bursting from the impact. Orist¡¯s features remained impassive.


    ¡°Enthusiasm is nice,¡± he said wryly, ¡°but raw force alone won¡¯t get you far.¡±


    Noah felt Orist¡¯s strength pushing back against his blade. He could practically taste the crowd¡¯s tension, and he drew on it like fuel. Muscles burning with fresh energy, he shoved Orist¡¯s chains back a fraction of an inch¡ªenough to stir murmurs of surprise. Noah¡¯s eyes lit with a fierce resolve.


    ¡°Remember this moment,¡± he announced, voice echoing through the hall. ¡°A real hero doesn¡¯t just fight¡ªhe makes the impossible possible.¡±


    Orist¡¯s reply came with another lash of his chains, sweeping in a wide arc to pin Noah in place. But Noah darted aside, barely evading the links as they slammed into the floor. His blade pulsed with that ominous darkness as he launched a swift overhead slash.


    Orist met the strike smoothly, twisting his chains around Noah¡¯s sword. The brutal torque nearly wrenched the weapon from Noah¡¯s hands, forcing him to stagger back. Quick as a viper, Orist slammed a chain against Noah¡¯s flank, sending a jolt of pain through his body.


    ¡°Reckless energy only carries you so far,¡± Orist taunted, his tone cool.


    Noah gritted his teeth and pressed the attack anyway, spinning and feinting to find an opening. But each strike was foiled by Orist¡¯s unerring defense, honed by years of experience. Finally, in a single ruthless motion, Orist looped his chain around Noah¡¯s sword. With a sharp yank, the blade clattered across the floor, far out of reach.


    Panic fluttered in Noah¡¯s chest. Weaponless and exhausted, he stood on shaking legs, bruises throbbing. But he refused to surrender. He felt a cough rising¡ªthe one he¡¯d been suppressing since the fight began. A violent spasm rocked him, and a spray of blood spattered across Orist¡¯s face, catching the captain off-guard.


    ¡°Damn it¡ª!¡± Orist cursed, blinking furiously against the sudden sting in his eye.


    Noah seized the moment, delivering a powerful kick behind Orist¡¯s knee. Orist toppled, chains rattling in a clatter of metal. The entire room fell silent, stunned that Noah had managed to bring the captain down.


    Orist¡¯s voice rumbled with grudging respect as he stood up. ¡°You scrappy little brat. I don¡¯t care what underhanded tricks you use or how close you come to killing yourself. Just never let my daughter come to harm. If you do, I will kill you.¡±


    He extended a calloused hand. Noah, battered and struggling for breath, accepted the gesture and found himself hoisted upright.


    ¡°I promise,¡± Noah rasped. ¡°I¡¯ll protect her with everything I have.¡±


    A squeal of triumph rang out before Ava barreled into Noah, wrapping him in an exuberant hug. ¡°You did it!¡± she shouted, eyes brimming with joy. ¡°That means Grandpa has no excuse now.¡±


    Elder Novis, overseeing from a high vantage, sighed but conceded with a nod. ¡°I¡¯ll allow the engagement to stand. Well done, young hero.¡±


    From the sidelines, Lux leaned against the wall, letting out an exasperated mutter. ¡°Cyrus isn¡¯t going to like this. Guess we¡¯re postponing our next move till tomorrow¡­¡±