《Master of Masters : The age of heroes》 Chapter: 0 - The Last Stand of Helius Chapter 0: The Last Stand of Helius 37 Years Ago ¨C Sipro Star System, Planet Chox The battlefield was silent. The chaos of war had faded, leaving only one man standing¡ªa lone figure amidst a sea of broken bodies and shattered machines. Helius Vithathnam, the Fifth Rebellion King, had fought for three days and nights without rest. His golden eyes, once blazing with unyielding fire, now dimmed with exhaustion. Blood soaked his battle-worn armor, dripping onto the blackened soil beneath him. Yet, even now, he smiled. A deep hum echoed across the sky as a colossal warship descended. Its metallic hull gleamed coldly in the dying sunlight, bearing the jagged insignia of the Drewauge Clan¡ªthe second-strongest rebellion among the five thousand clans scattered across the galaxies. The ship''s doors hissed open, releasing a wave of heated air. A shadow fell across the battlefield as a towering figure emerged. Robinson Drewauge. A warrior who had once ruled the battlefield himself. 154 years old, yet his sheer presence still made the ground seem to tremble. His pink-hued skin bore the scars of a hundred battles, and his gaze¡ªsteeled by centuries of bloodshed¡ªsoftened at the sight of his fallen student. His deep voice trembled.¡°...Damn it, kid.¡± Helius wavered but did not fall. Three days of relentless battle had not brought him to his knees¡ªonly betrayal had. A blade, meant for his enemies, had found his back instead. Blood seeped from the fatal wound, but his spirit refused to yield. Robinson clenched his fists, his voice laced with sorrow and frustration. ¡°I am a big believer in Ankrit. And you, Helius... you led a war without taking a single life. You enforced justice without bloodshed.¡± His voice grew heavier. ¡°But is that why the gods have given up on us?¡± Helius coughed, crimson staining his lips. Yet, he smiled¡ªa weary, knowing smile. His breath came in slow, shallow gasps, but he gathered the last of his strength. ¡°The gods¡­ they were never here to begin with.¡± His voice was a whisper, yet it carried across the silent battlefield. ¡°No gods are needed. Only warriors¡­ warriors with the will to change.¡± He swallowed, his voice faltering, but the fire in his words remained. ¡°If there¡¯s no hope... we must become it. If there¡¯s no peace... we must forge it. And if there¡¯s no future...¡± His golden eyes flickered one last time. ¡°We must seize it with our own hands.¡± For a moment, he stood against death itself. Then, his strength gave out. Helius collapsed, his head resting on his master¡¯s lap. His body stilled. His breathing ceased. Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. His smile never faded. And once more, the battlefield fell silent. Hours Later... The sky darkened as warships from every corner of the galaxy arrived. Their engines hummed softly¡ªa dirge for a fallen legend. From their hulls stepped the galaxy¡¯s mightiest leaders, drawn by the death of a man who had defied fate itself. Three figures emerged first¡ªeach one a force capable of shaping entire worlds. The first, Justice Kotu, leader of the Dharma Army. His silver skin gleamed under the blood-red sky, his presence heavy with the unyielding weight of law and order. Beside him stood Domain, Director of the Space Cops¡ªonce Helius¡¯ equal in battle. His prosthetic leg clanked softly against the metal ground¡ªa permanent reminder of the war they had fought side by side. He, too, was an S+ warrior, one of the twelve living legends who had shaped history. And then, the air grew cold. A third figure approached. Bright Adam. First Commander of the Vir Empire, and a high-ranking member of the Adam Clan¡ªthe most ruthless rulers across twenty-five galaxies. His face, smooth and pale, betrayed no emotion. Robinson¡¯s voice was sharp and cold. ¡°You don¡¯t belong here, Bright.¡± Bright Adam stopped a few steps away. His expression remained unreadable, but when his gaze fell upon Helius¡¯ still body, something flickered behind his eyes. ¡°...Even I have to pay my respects.¡± Justice Kotu scoffed. ¡°An Adam Clan dog showing respect? Spare us the insult.¡± Domain shook his head. ¡°Enough. We¡¯re here for Helius. Nothing else matters.¡± Robinson brushed a trembling hand through his apprentice¡¯s blood-matted hair. His voice, though quiet, was like steel beneath the grief. ¡°I¡¯ll take him to the place he chose long ago.¡± Domain nodded solemnly. ¡°We¡¯ll see to the others. No warrior should be forgotten.¡± Bright Adam lingered a moment longer. In his gloved hand, unseen by the others, he clutched a small, worn coin¡ªa relic of a promise made long ago. Without another word, he turned and vanished into the dark. A Week Later ¨C An Unnamed World Beneath the towering obsidian trees, Robinson stood alone. At his feet lay Helius'' grave¡ªa towering, 15-foot stone statue carved in his image. His sword, immortalized in stone, pointed toward the heavens he had once fought to protect. Robinson knelt, placing a rough, calloused hand on the cold monument. ¡°I¡¯ve lived through too many wars,¡± he murmured. ¡°I¡¯ve buried friends... rivals... even enemies. But you, Helius...¡± His voice faltered. ¡°You were different.¡± A cold wind stirred the leaves, as if the world itself mourned his loss. ¡°In fifty years, you never took a single life,¡± Robinson whispered. ¡°You believed the strongest warrior is the one who saves¡ªnot destroys.¡± Behind him, Domain stepped forward quietly. His face, once stern, seemed older¡ªwearier. ¡°I¡¯m retiring from the Space Cops,¡± he said, his voice soft. ¡°Without Helius, the galaxy feels... different.¡± Robinson exhaled, a slow breath heavy with resolve. ¡°His dream won¡¯t die with him.¡± His hands curled into fists. ¡°The wars, the suffering... it has to end. If we want change, we have to make it happen.¡± Domain nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s just hope the future brings warriors strong enough to carry that weight.¡± As the sun dipped below the horizon, the two warriors stood in silence¡ªguardians of a dream too precious to let die. Far above them, a lone star burned brighter against the endless void. Perhaps, somewhere in the vastness of space, the next legend was already awakening. Or perhaps, the echoes of Helius¡¯ will had already begun to move unseen hands. The Chapter 1: The Green haven The twin suns of Verdalia bathed the planet in golden light, casting long shadows through the endless greenery that spread across the land. The skies shimmered with hues of teal and violet, reflecting the harmony between nature and civilization. In the country of Alag, nestled in the heart of Green Cross Street, stood a breathtaking house¡ªone seamlessly blended with nature. Vines adorned the walls, large windows opened to the vast expanse of rolling hills, and bioluminescent flowers pulsed faintly in the early morning glow. Inside, a young boy lay curled up in his bed, wrapped snugly in his blanket. His raven-black hair sprawled across his pillow, contrasting against his pale skin. As the soft chirping of Verdalian birds filled the air, a firm yet gentle voice broke the morning stillness. "Max, wake up! It¡¯s time for school!" A warm hand shook the ten-year-old boy¡¯s shoulder. Max groaned and turned away from the voice, pulling his blanket over his head. His older brother, Warren Amberdunk, smirked and sat on the edge of the bed, arms crossed. Unlike Max, Warren¡¯s skin had a deep green hue, a defining feature of Verdalians. His snow-white hair framed his sharp features, his golden eyes brimming with amusement. "Come on, lazybones," Warren chuckled. "If you don¡¯t wake up, Mom¡¯s going to come in, and you know what that means." Max peeked out from under the covers, eyes wide with mock terror. "Not the tickle attack!" "Exactly." Warren smirked. "You have three seconds before I call her. Three¡­ two¡­" "Alright, alright! I¡¯m up!" Max groaned, sitting up with a yawn. His small frame stretched as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes. Before he could say another word, Warren ruffled his hair. "Good. Now get dressed." Max rolled his eyes but smiled as his brother left the room. Despite being adopted into a Verdalian family, he had never once felt out of place. Warren was always protective, always looking out for him, and in moments like this, Max felt truly at home. After a quick wash, he threw on his school uniform¡ªa dark green tunic with silver embroidery and comfortable trousers. As he adjusted his sleeves, he took a moment to look in the mirror. Compared to Warren, he looked different in almost every way. But deep in his heart, this was his family. A grin spread across his face as he rushed out of his room. The hall was bathed in morning light as he ran in, greeted by the scent of freshly baked bread and herbal tea. His mother, Tina, stood by the kitchen, preparing breakfast. Her emerald-green skin glowed under the sunlight, her wavy silver hair cascading over her shoulders. Her gentle smile was enough to warm the room. "Morning, sleepyhead," she teased, setting a plate on the table. "Come eat before it gets cold." Max beamed. "Morning, Mom!" He rushed forward and wrapped his arms around her waist. Tina laughed softly, hugging him back before guiding him to the table. Sitting across from him was his father, Jason. A tall, broad-shouldered man with a quiet presence, Jason¡¯s deep scars hinted at a past filled with battles. His jade-colored skin had a slightly rough texture, and his silver eyes held an unreadable depth. Despite his intimidating appearance, his voice was always steady and calm. "Did you sleep well, Max?" Jason asked, taking a sip of his tea. Max nodded enthusiastically, stuffing a piece of bread into his mouth. "Yeah! Until Warren woke me up." "You¡¯re welcome," Warren said, plopping down beside him and stealing a piece of fruit from Max¡¯s plate. "Hey!" Max protested, making everyone chuckle. Jason leaned back, a small smile touching his lips as he observed the exchange. "Eat quickly. You don¡¯t want to be late for school." Max¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. He loved school, even if he was the only human there. His classmates were different, their skin in shades of blue, green, and even golden hues, yet they had always treated him as one of their own. As breakfast continued, the warmth of family filled the house, a beautiful contrast to the mysteries that loomed in the shadows of Verdalia. For now, though, Max was simply a ten-year-old boy enjoying the love of his parents and the ever-watchful care of his brother. Little did he know, his journey was only beginning. The cool morning breeze carried the scent of Verdalian blossoms as Max and Warren stepped outside. The streets of Alag were unlike any other¡ªpaved with smooth, luminescent stones that absorbed the twin suns¡¯ energy, creating a soft golden glow beneath their feet. Hovering platforms and bridges seamlessly connected different levels of the city, blending into the towering trees and lush greenery. Bioluminescent vines twisted around buildings, pulsing with life as they purified the air. Parked at the end of their street was the school bus¡ªif it could even be called that. The massive, sleek vehicle was a masterpiece of Verdalian engineering, its body made of a shimmering, plant-infused alloy that naturally repaired itself. Large, transparent panels allowed for a panoramic view of the city, while the engine, powered by solar and bio-energy, emitted no pollution. Floating just above the ground, the bus hummed with a soft, rhythmic pulse, as though it were alive. Warren turned to their parents, giving them a quick, casual salute. ¡°See you later, Mom, Dad.¡± Jason gave a slow nod, his unreadable silver eyes lingering on his son for a moment longer than usual. ¡°Be safe.¡± Tina smiled warmly at Max, kneeling slightly to cup his face. ¡°Have a great day, sweetheart.¡± Max grinned. ¡°I will! Bye, Mom! Bye, Dad!¡± As he and Warren walked toward the bus, Max hesitated for a split second. Jason was watching him, his expression calm but distant. There was something about his gaze¡ªsomething deep, something layered. But before Max could think about it too much, Warren nudged him forward. ¡°Hurry up, slowpoke.¡± They boarded the bus, where soft, vine-woven seats adjusted automatically to fit each passenger. The walls were lined with living plants that provided fresh air, and subtle, glowing runes pulsed along the ceiling, regulating temperature and lighting. As soon as Warren stepped in, a voice called out. ¡°Warren! Over here!¡± A girl with deep green skin, long flowing silver hair, and striking amber-colored eyes waved at him from the middle row. She had the same Verdalian features as Warren, exuding confidence and grace. Dressed in the same school uniform, she had a presence that was both elegant and sharp, her gaze full of warmth. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Jasmine. Warren gave Max a small nod before heading toward her. ¡°Looks like I¡¯m sitting with Jasmine today,¡± he said, smirking slightly. Max rolled his eyes but smiled. ¡°Yeah, yeah. Go be a lovesick puppy.¡± Warren laughed before sliding into the seat beside Jasmine, who leaned in to whisper something that made him chuckle. Max, now on his own, turned to find his usual seat. That¡¯s when he heard an energetic voice from behind. ¡°Max, my man! Over here!¡± Max turned to see Rure¡ªa boy with greenish golden skin that seemed to glimmer under the sunlight. His hair was a wild, spiky mess of fiery red, and his eyes practically sparkled with excitement. Unlike Max, who preferred to stay quiet, Rure was always buzzing with energy, talking at a mile a minute and never staying still for too long. Max sighed playfully and made his way over. ¡°Morning, Rure.¡± ¡°Morning? My guy, it¡¯s not just a morning¡ªit¡¯s an adventure waiting to happen!¡± Rure grinned as Max sat beside him. ¡°Did you see that new hover-dragon model in the city square? I heard it¡¯s got an AI that actually learns your flying style and adapts! I swear, if I had the credits, I¡¯d buy one today.¡± Max chuckled. ¡°You and your hover-dragons.¡± ¡°You just don¡¯t appreciate top-tier engineering!¡± Rure said dramatically, before nudging Max. ¡°Oh, by the way, I heard we¡¯re getting a new lesson on intergalactic history today. Think we¡¯ll learn more about the 12 Ancient Tribes?¡± Before Max could answer, the bus stopped again, and another group of students climbed aboard. Among them was a familiar face¡ªanother one of their classmate As the bus hovered smoothly over the streets of Alag, it made another stop, allowing a new group of students to step aboard. Among them was a familiar face¡ªJimmy. Jimmy was different from Rure in almost every way. Where Rure was loud and bursting with energy, Jimmy was calm and methodical. His deep green skin had a faint shimmer to it, his short white hair neatly combed, and his hands were always a bit stained with soil from his passion¡ªfarming. ¡°Morning, Jimmy!¡± Max greeted as his friend took the seat beside him. Jimmy nodded, his voice steady. ¡°Morning, Max. Rure.¡± He adjusted his backpack before glancing out of the window. ¡°Did you know that the soil in Alag has a higher concentration of life energy than anywhere else on Verdalia? That¡¯s why the plants grow so fast here.¡± Rure groaned. ¡°And here I thought we¡¯d go at least five minutes without a farming fact.¡± Max chuckled. ¡°I think it¡¯s cool.¡± Jimmy smiled slightly before turning back to them. ¡°Speaking of plants, are we still meeting near the Great Tree this evening?¡± Max¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡°Yeah! I was just about to ask. Let¡¯s play there after school.¡± Jimmy nodded. ¡°The Great Tree of Heavens is over forty feet tall. You can see it from kilometers away! It¡¯s one of the rarest trees on Verdalia. Some people say it has been here since the beginning of our civilization.¡± His voice held admiration, his passion for nature evident. Rure smirked. ¡°Yeah, yeah, it¡¯s a big tree. But can it fly?¡± Jimmy rolled his eyes. ¡°Not everything needs to fly, Rure.¡± Before their conversation could continue, the atmosphere in the bus shifted. The doors slid open once more, and heavy footsteps echoed as another student entered. Jones. Unlike the others, Jones carried an air of arrogance, his dark green skin slightly more rugged in texture, a rare trait among Verdalians. His amber eyes scanned the bus until they locked onto Max, and a sneer crossed his lips. ¡°Well, well, if it isn¡¯t the little human,¡± Jones drawled, making sure his voice was loud enough for the others to hear. ¡°Still pretending you belong here, huh?¡± Max stiffened, his fingers gripping the edge of his seat. He wasn¡¯t the type to fight back¡ªhe never had been. He believed in kindness, in understanding. But Jones never seemed to care. Rure, however, leaned forward, his usually playful expression replaced with something sharper. ¡°Back off, Jones.¡± Jones scoffed. ¡°Oh, what? The nerd¡¯s gonna protect him?¡± He stepped closer, looking down at Max. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just leave Verdalia? You don¡¯t belong here.¡± Before Max could say anything, Rure stood up. Though he loved technology and science, Rure wasn¡¯t weak. He had spent years training in combat as part of the standard Verdalian education, and right now, that training showed. ¡°You talk a lot,¡± Rure said coolly. ¡°But I don¡¯t think you can back it up.¡± Jones hesitated. He knew Rure wasn¡¯t afraid to fight. Still, he scowled, muttering under his breath, ¡°Tch. Whatever.¡± Just when it seemed like the situation was over, another voice cut through the air. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± Warren. Jones turned, and his confidence immediately wavered. Warren stood tall, his golden eyes sharp, his usually relaxed posture now firm. Unlike Max, Warren had the kind of presence that demanded attention. ¡°Nothing,¡± Jones muttered, trying to play it off. Warren took a step forward, his expression unreadable. ¡°You sure? Because it sounded like you were talking nonsense.¡± Jones gulped. His bravado was gone, and before he could stop himself, his eyes welled up with tears. He wiped them away quickly, trying to hide it, but the damage was done. ¡°I-I¡¯m telling my big bro, Skull!¡± Jones blurted out. Warren didn¡¯t even flinch. ¡°Skull?¡± He smirked. ¡°No problem. He¡¯s my age. I¡¯ll handle him if he wants to cause trouble.¡± Jones hesitated again, then turned and stomped toward his seat, his pride wounded. Before anything else could happen, a soft chime rang through the bus. A panel slid open from the upper section, and a figure descended¡ªa Verdalian woman, draped in elegant yet functional robes. Their bus teacher. Her calm gaze swept over the students before she spoke. ¡°Fighting among yourselves is pointless. Do you not see the state of the universe?¡± Her voice carried wisdom beyond her years. ¡°Verdalia may be rich in nature, but we are not strong. The other empires see us as weak, easy to take advantage of. If we cannot stand together, how do you expect us to survive?¡± The bus was silent. She sighed. ¡°Think before you act. We are all Verdalians¡ªregardless of background. That is all.¡± With that, she returned to the upper section, leaving the students to their thoughts. Max exhaled slowly. Rure patted his shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Jones. He¡¯s all talk.¡± Max nodded, offering a small smile. He knew he wasn¡¯t brave like Warren or strong like Rure. Amburdunk Household Back at the Amburdunk household, the morning sun bathed the lush surroundings in a golden hue. The wind carried the scent of fresh soil and blooming flora, a signature of Alag¡¯s abundant greenery. Inside the house, Tina stood by the entrance, her arms crossed, watching Jason as he adjusted the straps of his travel satchel. ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to stay for lunch?¡± Tina asked, a knowing smile playing on her lips. Jason, his tall frame relaxed yet unwavering, glanced at her with a small smirk. ¡°Tom doesn¡¯t wait for anyone. If I¡¯m late, he¡¯ll scold me like I¡¯m still a young recruit.¡± Tina chuckled, shaking her head. ¡°That old man can barely stand without his cane, yet he still terrifies even the strongest Verdalians.¡± Jason exhaled, his expression turning more serious. ¡°There¡¯s a reason he¡¯s led Alag for so long. And with the way things are going in the universe, we need his wisdom more than ever.¡± He adjusted the straps again, then met Tina¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll be back by nightfall. Make sure Warren doesn¡¯t start any trouble while I¡¯m gone.¡± Tina scoffed. ¡°You should be more worried about Max. If trouble finds him, Warren will level a building.¡± Jason chuckled, stepping forward to kiss her forehead. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡± With that, he stepped out, leaving behind the warmth of home as he made his way toward the heart of Alag. Alag Country Head Office The Alag Country Head Office stood as a grand structure woven into the very essence of nature. Massive vines entwined with stone walls, forming an intricate balance between civilization and the wild beauty of Verdalia. The office was not just a building; it was a living entity, a symbol of Verdalian harmony. Jason stepped inside, the familiar scent of polished wood and aged scrolls filling the air. The hall was quiet, save for the rustling of paperwork and murmurs of officials discussing governance matters. At the very end of the chamber sat an elderly Verdalian on an ornate chair. Tom, the 160-year-old leader of Alag, was a relic of a time long past¡ªhis deep green skin had begun to lose its luster, wrinkles lined his face, and his once-mighty frame was now slightly hunched. Yet his eyes, sharp and golden, held the weight of centuries of wisdom. ¡°Jason,¡± Tom greeted, his voice rough but commanding. ¡°You¡¯re late.¡± Jason smirked slightly. ¡°Only by a few minutes.¡± Tom chuckled dryly. ¡°A few minutes can decide the fate of a nation.¡± He leaned forward. ¡°Come. We have much to discuss.¡± Jason nodded, stepping forward as the doors behind him silently closed. The winds outside carried whispers of an uncertain future. And as the twin suns of Verdalia shone upon the land, Jason knew¡ªchange was coming. Chapter 2: A Place not meant for me The chapter -2: A place not meant for me The Academy of Alag stood as a marvel of bioengineered architecture, seamlessly blending nature and technology. Towering ancient trees intertwined with the structures, their roots forming natural archways while their glowing bioluminescent leaves provided illumination. Vines coiled around crystalline walls, which shimmered with embedded energy conduits that powered the facility. The very air carried a refreshing scent of earth and flora, as if the academy itself breathed with life. The school grounds stretched far and wide, with levitating platforms ferrying students across lush courtyards. A cascading waterfall, its water purified through nanotech filtration, flowed gently through the center of the academy, creating a serene contrast to the hum of advanced holographic screens and floating AI drones monitoring the environment. As the bus halted at the grand entrance, the doors slid open with a soft hiss. Max, Rure, and Jimmy stepped off, their eyes adjusting to the vibrant scene ahead. Students of all shades of green, some with intricate markings unique to their Verdalian heritage, hurried into the academy. Max, the lone human, stood out more than ever in this sea of deep emerald skin tones. Rure, always energetic, stretched his arms with a grin. ¡°Ah, nothing like the fresh scent of an oxygen-rich biodome!¡± Jimmy chuckled, adjusting his satchel. ¡°You know, most of the oxygen here is actually enhanced by engineered plant species. The Alag Academy itself produces over seventy percent of its energy through organic photosynthesis, meaning it¡¯s more self-sustaining than any other structure in the country.¡± Max listened quietly, fascinated but still feeling the usual unease of being an outsider. ¡°Also,¡± Jimmy continued, ¡°the soil here is specially treated to retain nutrients at four times the normal rate, making plant growth exponentially faster.¡± Rure groaned playfully. ¡°Here he goes again.¡± Jimmy smirked. ¡°Hey, you guys should appreciate the land you walk on. Without nature, technology means nothing.¡± Max smiled slightly. ¡°It¡¯s interesting,¡± he admitted. ¡°I mean, Verdalia feels so alive. Back on Earth, I don¡¯t think we had anything this¡­ connected to nature.¡± Jimmy¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Exactly! That¡¯s why I want to be a bio-engineer¡ªto make agriculture even better!¡± As they walked toward the grand entrance, the towering academy loomed over them, its seamless fusion of glass-like crystal and living bark making it look almost otherworldly. Further away, Warren and Jasmine stepped off their section of the bus. Being in their final year, they walked with effortless confidence. Warren, with his sharp features and silver hair, stood tall beside Jasmine, whose long, braided white locks and piercing golden eyes made her one of the most admired students in the academy. Together, they were the picture of popularity¡ªrespected, admired, and nearly untouchable. Unlike Max. As Max, Rure, and Jimmy entered the academy, the shift in atmosphere was immediate. The moment Max stepped through the doors, whispers spread like wildfire. The only human. The orphan. The weakling. Some students muttered insults under their breath, others outright sneered. ¡°Why is he even here?¡± one girl whispered, her emerald eyes narrowing. A boy beside her scoffed. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t he be in some human school? Oh, wait¡ªthere isn¡¯t one.¡± Some of the teachers weren¡¯t much better. A few gave him cold, indifferent glances, while others simply ignored his presence altogether. He was tolerated, but never accepted. As they entered their advanced classroom, the bullying escalated. Some students deliberately blocked his path. One even ¡°accidentally¡± bumped into him, nearly knocking his books from his hands. Max clenched his fists but said nothing. ¡°Can¡¯t even walk properly, huh?¡± one boy taunted. Rure stepped forward, his golden eyes flashing. ¡°Touch him again, and I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡± The boy hesitated, knowing Rure wasn¡¯t just smart¡ªhe was strong. Still, the sneers and laughter continued. Jimmy sighed. ¡°Don¡¯t let them get to you, Max. They just don¡¯t understand.¡± Max forced a nod, but inside, he felt utterly broken. He didn¡¯t belong. No matter how much love Jason, Tina, or Warren gave him, he would always be seen as different. Alone. The classroom doors slid shut, signaling the start of their first lesson. Max swallowed his pain and took his seat, preparing for another day in a world that never truly accepted him. The classroom buzzed with quiet murmurs as the Verdalian teacher, an elderly figure with dark green skin marked by intricate bioluminescent veins, stood before the students. His piercing golden eyes scanned the room before he spoke in a deep, commanding voice. "In today¡¯s lesson, let us discuss something that has shaped the very foundation of our existence." He paused, letting the students lean in with curiosity. "For over 100,000 centuries, all known intelligent species are said to have originated from a single, mysterious planet¡ªEarth." Max felt his breath hitch. His fingers tightened around his desk as he stared at the teacher. The murmurs grew louder. A few students shot Max knowing glances, while others exchanged amused smirks. The teacher continued, unaware¡ªor perhaps indifferent¡ªto the growing hostility toward Max. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. "It is said that the species which once thrived on Earth destroyed it with their greed, wars, and arrogance. That species was none other than the Homo sapiens¡ªthe so-called humans." Laughter rippled through the classroom. One student leaned over and whispered, ¡°Guess some of them still exist, huh?¡± Another muttered, ¡°That explains why he doesn¡¯t belong here.¡± Max clenched his fists under the desk, his nails digging into his palms. He refused to look up. He refused to cry. "However," the teacher continued, raising a hand for silence, "humans did not disappear completely. Many of them ventured into the stars, evolving into different species over time. Some still remain unchanged, like the boy sitting among us today." The entire class turned toward Max. He kept his head low, swallowing back the lump in his throat. His vision blurred, but he refused to let the tears fall. A few minutes passed, and the subject changed, but the damage had been done. A different teacher, younger and more composed, stepped into the classroom. He adjusted his uniform and addressed the students. "As you all know, Verdalian education ends at age fifteen, meaning at eleven years old, you must choose your stream. Your goal should align with your path so that we can guide you accordingly." The students sat up straight, eager to declare their ambitions. One girl stood first. "I want to be a bio-engineer and develop stronger, self-sustaining plant life for our planet." The teacher nodded approvingly. "A noble goal. Bio-engineering is one of the most respected fields in Verdalia." Next, a boy spoke. "I will join the Planetary Defense Corps to protect Verdalia from external threats!" Then, Jones, the bully who had tormented Max on the bus, stood with a smug grin. "I¡¯m going to be a galactic trader¡ªI¡¯ll have ships traveling across different planets, making me rich and powerful." Some students cheered, others laughed. The teacher nodded and gestured for the next student. Jimmy stood proudly. "I want to become the greatest farmer in all of Verdalia! I will cultivate the finest crops and ensure that our world never runs out of food." The class chuckled at first, but when they saw how serious Jimmy was, some nodded in approval. Then, Rure stood up. His voice was confident. "I will become the Director of Space Cops and establish law and order across the galaxies." The room filled with murmurs. It was an ambitious goal, but Rure¡¯s intelligence and strength made it seem possible. Finally, Max stood up. His voice was quiet but steady. "I... I currently have no ambition." The classroom fell silent for a second. Then, the laughter erupted. "He¡¯s got nothing!" "Not surprising, he¡¯s just a human!" Jones smirked. "What, did your ancestors ruin all the ambitions for you too?" Max clenched his fists, his ears burning with shame. "Enough!" the teacher raised his voice, silencing the room. He turned to Max, his expression unreadable. "Max, it¡¯s important to have a goal. Without one, you will struggle to find your place in Verdalia." Max only nodded. He had nothing to say. The class continued, but Max barely heard any of it. As the trio walked through the academy¡¯s grand hallway, Max remained silent, his mind replaying the laughter and taunts. Jimmy and Rure tried to cheer him up. "Don¡¯t let those idiots get to you," Rure muttered. "Yeah," Jimmy added. "Just because you don¡¯t have a goal now doesn¡¯t mean you never will." Before Max could respond, a figure stepped into their path. A boy taller than Warren, clad in a black combat uniform, leaned against the wall with his arms crossed. His sharp, angular features and piercing silver eyes immediately commanded attention. His long white hair was tied back, and a single scar ran across his cheek. This was Jude, also known as Skull¡ªJones'' older brother. Unlike Jones, Skull wasn¡¯t just talk. He was fifteen years old, from the Combat Stream, and known for being one of the strongest fighters in the academy. Rure and Jimmy stiffened immediately. Max instinctively took a step back. Skull¡¯s sharp gaze landed on Max. He smirked. "So, you¡¯re the human my little brother keeps talking about." Jones appeared behind Skull, grinning wickedly. "Yeah, big bro. He¡¯s a pathetic nobody." Skull ignored him and continued looking at Max. His eyes weren¡¯t mocking, but they held something unreadable. After a long pause, he finally spoke. Skull tilted his head, studying Max like an unreadable puzzle. ¡°You don¡¯t belong here. But I wonder¡ªare you really as weak as they say, or are you just afraid to prove them wrong?¡±." The great halls of Alag¡¯s Head Office resonated with an air of solemnity. Inside, beneath the high-vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate Verdalian symbols, Jason stood before an aged yet formidable figure¡ªTom, the 160-year-old leader of Alag. The scent of aged parchment and polished wood lingered in the room, accompanied by the faint hum of energy crystals embedded in the walls, illuminating the chamber in a soft green glow. Tom sat in his grand, vine-woven chair, his fingers interlaced as he studied Jason with the gaze of a man who had seen centuries of war, peace, and everything in between. He took a deep breath, then spoke. ¡°Jason, I need you to lead a relief mission,¡± Tom began, his voice steady but laced with urgency. ¡°The people of Vokar-17 are starving. Their drought has reached catastrophic levels. If we don¡¯t send aid, they won¡¯t last much longer.¡± Jason crossed his arms, his battle-worn face unreadable. ¡°Vokar-17¡­ that¡¯s at least 20 light-years from Verdalia,¡± he remarked. Tom nodded. ¡°Yes, son, but if we delay, their suffering will turn into extinction. The Zypherians, their dominant species, are already on the brink. They are a proud and resilient people, but even they cannot survive without food.¡± Jason had heard of the Zypherians before¡ªa unique alien race with six arms and four eyes, their tall, sinewy bodies built for endurance. Unlike Verdalia¡¯s lush, green landscapes, Vokar-17 was a barren wasteland, where sandstorms raged, and water was a rare luxury. The Zypherians had survived on limited resources for centuries, but now, even their resilience had limits. Jason exhaled. ¡°This isn¡¯t just about Vokar-17, is it?¡± he asked, narrowing his eyes. Tom leaned forward. ¡°You¡¯re right. The crisis isn¡¯t limited to one planet. The Lilliput Star System¡ªten planets, each around thirty times smaller than Earth¡ªare all suffering from extreme shortages. We¡¯re not just delivering to one world; we¡¯re supplying food for ten.¡± Jason¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°That¡¯s an enormous operation. Did King Jim approve the supplies for such a large-scale mission?¡± Tom tapped his fingers against the armrest of his chair. ¡°I convinced him,¡± he said with a sigh. ¡°He knows what¡¯s at stake. The Lilliput system may be small, but it houses billions across its planets. If we don¡¯t step in, their desperation could turn into chaos.¡± Jason remained silent for a moment, calculating the risks. ¡°How much time do I have to prepare?¡± ¡°Four days,¡± Tom answered. ¡°No more.¡± Jason ran a hand through his hair. ¡°We¡¯re talking about an interplanetary mission involving vast resources. Organizing supply chains, verifying security, and coordinating the fleet¡ªit¡¯s a lot.¡± ¡°I understand,¡± Tom said firmly. ¡°But I also know you. You¡¯ve commanded far more dangerous operations in the past. This time, you aren¡¯t fighting an enemy. You¡¯re saving lives.¡± Jason gave a small nod. ¡°And what about the fleet?¡± ¡°Thirty ships,¡± Tom replied. ¡°From Verdalia¡¯s International Port, contributed by all twelve nations. I¡¯m putting you in charge of the entire operation.¡± Jason raised a brow. ¡°Why me?¡± Tom¡¯s eyes locked onto his. ¡°Because I trust you, Jason. And because you¡¯re the only one who won¡¯t let politics, fear, or bureaucracy slow this down.¡± Jason clenched his fists for a moment, then released a slow breath. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do it.¡± His eyes hardened with determination. ¡°I promise you, I¡¯ll accomplish this task with everything I have.¡± Tom gave a small, approving nod. ¡°That¡¯s why you were my choice.¡± The mission was set. In four days, Jason would lead a fleet of thirty ships across twenty light-years, carrying the survival of an entire star system in their cargo holds. The weight of responsibility settled on his shoulders¡ªbut if there was one thing Jason never did, it was fail Special edition chapter: verdalia -The Bastion of life Special Edition Chapter: Verdalia ¨C The Bastion of Life The Twin Suns and Verdalia¡¯s Star System Nestled within the Zyphera Star System, Verdalia is a thriving world orbiting two radiant suns: Xyphos, a massive Type G star akin to Earth¡¯s Sun, and Vyralis, a smaller yet hotter Type K star with a distinct orange hue. This binary star system creates a mesmerizing daylight cycle, where golden twilights and intense brightness alternate, shaping Verdalia¡¯s diverse climate. This celestial balance not only enriches the planet¡¯s agricultural potential but also defines the rhythm of life for its people. A Legacy of the Ancient Tribes Verdalia is one of the 12 Ancient Tribes of the Universe, an enduring symbol of resistance against the darkness that once threatened all existence. Over 100 centuries ago, the legendary warrior Ankrit led these tribes in a defiant stand when countless civilizations fell. While many succumbed to annihilation, Verdalia and its allied tribes remained steadfast, preserving their way of life. This unbreakable spirit continues to guide their traditions, honoring the sacrifices of those who ensured their survival. A Planet of Agriculture Amidst Universal Drought The universe has long suffered an ecological catastrophe, with nearly 70% of habitable planets rendered barren due to relentless droughts. Amidst this crisis, Verdalia stands as one of the few remaining sanctuaries of life. Blessed with fertile lands, abundant water, and unparalleled agricultural advancements, it has become a crucial supplier of food and medicinal herbs to struggling civilizations across the cosmos. Its mastery of irrigation and sustainable farming techniques allows it to sustain worlds that would otherwise face extinction. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. The 12 Nations of Verdalia Verdalia is a union of 12 sovereign nations, each vital to its culture and economy. Among them, Alag is the most influential¡ªa landmass four times the size of Earth¡¯s India. Known for its vast agricultural fields, ancient cities, and deep spiritual heritage, Alag serves as the heart of Verdalia¡¯s economy and traditions. These nations operate under the guidance of Verlan, the capital country where the reigning King of Verdalia and the royal heir reside, ensuring unity and governance across the planet. Veythar ¨C The Capital of Verdalia At the center of this thriving world lies Veythar, Verdalia¡¯s capital nation. A fusion of science and tradition, Veythar is home to the Grand Council of Verdalia, where leaders from all 12 nations convene to make critical planetary decisions. This council safeguards Verdalia¡¯s mission to nurture life and uphold its sacred duty to the universe, ensuring its survival even as other civilizations falter. The Great Tree of Heavens ¨C Verdalia¡¯s Sacred Heart Deep within Alag stands the Great Tree of heavens, a 40-foot celestial tree planted by the Father of the Universe himself. This revered relic is believed to be infused with cosmic energy, its roots extending into the planet¡¯s core, stabilizing Verdalia¡¯s fertility even as the rest of the universe withers. More than just a landmark, it is a **symbol of hope, resilience, and the Verdalian people¡¯s commitment to sustaining life beyond their own world for over 10000 years. A Beacon of Hope in a Dying Universe As the universe teeters on the edge of desolation, Verdalia remains a bastion of life, feeding the hungry and preserving the legacy of the ancient tribes. Though its people are peaceful, they remain ever-vigilant, ensuring that the darkness that once threatened the cosmos never rises again. Their unyielding connection to Ankrit¡¯s teachings fuels their determination¡ªreminding them that no matter how dire the circumstances, those who fight for life will always find a way to endure. Chapter 3 : The inequality all along Chapter 3 : The inequality all along The hallway grew tense as Skull stepped closer, his sharp silver eyes locked onto Max. Without warning, his fist shot forward, aiming straight for Max¡¯s face. But before it could land¡ª BAM! Rure¡¯s fist crashed into Skull¡¯s jaw, sending a shockwave through the air. Students gasped, some stepping back, others leaning in with wide eyes. The sound of the impact echoed down the bio-engineered corridors of the academy, shaking the glowing green vines that lined the walls. Skull barely staggered. He turned his head slowly, touching his jaw with mild surprise before smirking. "Hmph¡­ not bad for a nerd." Rure took a step back, breathing heavily. His fists trembled, not from fear¡ªbut from determination. "If I want to become the Director of the Space Cops¡­ I can''t lose here!" He charged again. WHAM! Skull dodged effortlessly and drove a knee into Rure¡¯s gut. Rure coughed and stumbled, but before Skull could follow up, Rure gritted his teeth and forced himself to stand. His mind screamed at him to stop, but his heart roared louder. "I can¡¯t¡­ back down¡­!" Again, he rushed at Skull. Again, he was thrown to the floor. Then again. And again. Blood dripped from Rure¡¯s lip. His legs shook. Yet, he refused to stay down. The students watching the fight grew silent, their amusement fading into awe. Even Skull paused for a moment. But the moment passed. With a final, brutal kick, Skull sent Rure crashing against the corridor wall. This time, he did not get up. Max stood frozen. His feet refused to move, his hands clenched into tight fists by his side. Rure was struggling, his breathing ragged, bruises forming along his arms. Warren had stepped in, his presence shifting the tide, but Skull still grinned¡ªunshaken, unfazed. Do something! Max¡¯s own voice screamed inside his head. He wanted to help. He wanted to stand beside Rure and Warren. But his body wouldn¡¯t listen. His mind churned with memories¡ªof past beatings, of being shoved into lockers, of Skull¡¯s voice laughing in his ears. Every time he had fought back, it had ended the same way: pain, humiliation, and failure. The last time he had tried, Skull had broken two of his fingers. What if that happened again? What if he got in the way? What if he failed? A sharp gasp snapped him back¡ªRure was down, gripping his stomach, coughing. Skull¡¯s foot pressed against his chest. Max¡¯s heart pounded, each beat like a hammer against his ribs. His arms trembled. He could see the energy. It pulsed around them, flickering in waves, intertwining with the chaos. Rure¡¯s was dimming. Skull¡¯s burned with an unnatural glow. Warren¡¯s was sharp, controlled. Max¡¯s own aura? Weak. Like a flickering ember in a storm. They don¡¯t need me. I¡¯ll just slow them down. Yet, deep inside, another thought gnawed at him¡ªWhat if they lose? What if Skull overpowered Warren next? What if no one else could stop him? The air shifted. Warren moved. A blur of motion, a flash of impact. Skull staggered back, wiping his lip. A single drop of blood. Warren had landed a hit. Max should have felt relieved. Instead, he felt small. They¡¯re fighting.And I¡¯m just standing here. His fingers twitched. Somewhere, deep within, something stirred. A whisper. A presence. A power yet untouched. But before he could grasp it, the moment passed. The fight continued¡ªwithout him Jimmy clenched his fists, but he knew he wasn¡¯t strong enough to intervene. Skull cracked his knuckles and turned back to Max. "Now, where were we?" He pulled his fist back for the finishing blow¡ª "That¡¯s enough." A deep, commanding voice cut through the tension. Warren. He stepped forward, his green Verdalian skin glowing faintly under the academy¡¯s artificial sunlight. His golden eyes burned with intensity as he placed a hand on Rure¡¯s shoulder. "You¡¯re brave," Warren said softly, his voice filled with respect. "I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll become the greatest Space Cop one day." Rure, still barely conscious, gave a weak but determined nod. Then, Warren turned to Skull. The air shifted. The energy between the two Verdalians became electric, their presence overwhelming. They awakened their first chakra¡ªChakra 1. A deep rumble shook the academy as the walls cracked, the glowing vines curling away as if afraid. Even the advanced trees, bio-engineered to withstand anything, shuddered at the force building between the two warriors. Chakra 1 was the foundation¡ªthe first step of a warrior¡¯s awakening. It was common among Verdalians, but the way it erupted between Warren and Skull was anything but ordinary. BOOM! Both Warren and Skull moved at the same time. Their fists collided in a clash so powerful that it sent a shockwave rippling through the hallway. A sharp gasp snapped max back¡ªRure was down, gripping his stomach, coughing. Max¡¯s heart pounded, each beat like a hammer against his ribs. His arms trembled. He could see the energy. It pulsed around them, flickering in waves, intertwining with the chaos. Rure¡¯s was dimming. Skull¡¯s burned with an unnatural glow. Warren¡¯s was sharp, controlled. Max¡¯s own aura? Weak. Like a flickering ember in a storm. They don¡¯t need me. I¡¯ll just slow them down. Yet, deep inside, another thought gnawed at him¡ªWhat if they lose? What if Skull overpowered Warren next? What if no one else could stop him? The air shifted. Warren moved. A blur of motion, a flash of impact. Skull staggered back, wiping his lip. A single drop of blood. Warren had landed a hit. Max should have felt relieved. Instead, he felt small. They¡¯re fighting.And I¡¯m just standing here. His fingers twitched. Somewhere, deep within, something stirred. A whisper. A presence. A power yet untouched. But before he could grasp it, the moment passed. The fight continued¡ªwithout him Dust and debris scattered as they exchanged a rapid series of blows, each strike powerful enough to shatter stone. Skull grinned. "Finally¡­ someone worth fighting!" Warren smirked. "I was about to say the same thing." Fists met fists. Kicks sent shockwaves through the air. The bio-engineered academy felt their battle, reacting to their raw energy. Blood trickled down Skull¡¯s forehead. Warren¡¯s arm ached from the sheer force of the clash. Neither backed down. "Enough!" A loud crack echoed through the air as a teacher appeared between them, radiating an overwhelming force that instantly stopped both fighters. Both Warren and Skull staggered back, breathing heavily, but neither broke eye contact. "You two could have destroyed the properties of academy," the teacher scolded, his deep voice laced with disappointment. "This ends now." He turned to the stunned onlookers. "Everyone, back to your classes!" The students hesitated, some whispering excitedly, but one glare from the teacher sent them all scurrying away. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Then, he faced the troublemakers. "Warren, Skull, Rure, Max, Jimmy¡ªPrincipal¡¯s office. Now." The five boys sat in a row, facing the Academy Principal, a towering Verdalian with dark green skin, deep golden eyes, and long flowing white hair. His aura alone was enough to command silence. His gaze swept over the five students, lingering on Warren and Skull. "You two," he said, his voice calm yet filled with authority, "do you have any idea how much damage you caused?" Neither spoke. He sighed. "Rure, I commend your bravery. But throwing yourself into a battle you cannot win is reckless." Rure, despite his injuries, sat up straight. "I refuse to let injustice go unchallenged, sir." The Principal¡¯s expression softened slightly before he turned to Max. "You¡¯re at the center of this, yet you didn¡¯t fight back." Max lowered his gaze. "I¡­ I can¡¯t fight." The Principal studied him for a moment before nodding. Then, his voice hardened. "Your parents will be called immediately." Skull tensed. Warren exhaled. Jones, who had been standing outside, paled. The Principal leaned forward. "I don¡¯t care if you are sons of warriors, traders, or politicians. This academy does not tolerate chaos. You will all face the consequences of your actions." The room fell into silence. Wishey Household In the grand Wishey Household, the morning sun bathed the elegant yet functional home in a golden glow. The estate was nestled within the bio-engineered outskirts of Alag City, surrounded by massive trees that whispered with the wind, their leaves absorbing and redirecting sunlight to optimize natural energy collection. A sleek holo-screen flashed, illuminating the pristine white walls with a soft blue light. The call from the academy had come. Rure¡¯s mother, Serena Wishey, a strong yet graceful Verdalian woman with emerald skin and piercing silver eyes, answered. She listened carefully, her expression shifting from calm to concern. ¡°I understand. I will be there by 3 PM,¡± she said before ending the call. She turned to her assistant, a floating AI drone that managed her household affairs. "Prepare the transport. And notify Rure¡¯s father¡ªhe must be aware of this." Amburdenk Farm Meanwhile, across the vast Amburdenk Farm, a call was being redirected. The farm, managed by Tina Amburdenk, was one of Verdalia¡¯s most advanced agricultural zones. Stretching across thousands of acres, it was a masterpiece of bio-integrated farming technology, blending nature and engineering seamlessly. The land pulsed with life¡ªrows of bioluminescent crops glowed softly under the daylight, absorbing special solar-enhanced nutrients. Towering oxygen-producing trees swayed gently, their roots intertwined with underground irrigation systems that intelligently adjusted water distribution based on the plants¡¯ needs. Throughout the fields, massive auto-farming mechs roamed, their sleek, plant-covered exteriors making them look almost like living creatures. These machines performed multiple tasks¡ªplanting, monitoring soil conditions, and harvesting with robotic precision. Drones hovered in the sky, scanning the fields with infrared and bio-radiation sensors, ensuring no crop was left untreated. Tiny pollination bots flitted between flowers, mimicking the behavior of extinct insects from ancient Earth. At the farm¡¯s control hub, Tina stood, issuing commands to her workers. Her sharp mind processed multiple reports at once when a soft chime rang from the assistant¡¯s holo-com. ¡°Madam, a call from the academy. It seems urgent.¡± Tina wiped the sweat from her forehead and sighed. ¡°Patch it through.¡± The teacher¡¯s voice came through, detailing the fight involving Max, Rure, Warren, Skull, and Jimmy. Tina¡¯s face darkened. "Not again¡­" She ended the call and immediately turned toward her personal communicator. "Get me Jason at the Alag Headquarters. Now." Alag Headquarters Deep within Alag City¡¯s central administration building, Jason sat in his high-tech office, reviewing star-maps and logistics data. His office was a marvel of modern Verdalian design¡ªholographic displays floated in the air, shifting between intergalactic trade routes, military patrol schedules, and classified political reports. The room was lined with data-crystals, storing centuries of intelligence. A large observatory window overlooked the city, where flying transports glided between sky bridges, and floating platforms carried workers across massive vertical gardens. Yet, Jason''s mind was elsewhere. He had spent the last few hours analyzing the Liliput Star System, where he was ordered to lead a massive humanitarian mission to deliver food supplies. The ten planets were 30 times smaller than Earth but home to billions of starving beings. His concern, however, wasn¡¯t just the delivery¡ªit was the Vir Empire. Their warships had been sighted near the system. Just as he was about to finalize his strategy, his communicator rang. Tina. Jason frowned and answered. "Tina? What¡¯s wrong?" Tina¡¯s voice was sharp. "Jason. It¡¯s Max. He got into a fight¡ªagain." Jason¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°What happened this time?¡± She explained everything. The bullying. The awakening of Chakra 1. The Principal summoning them immediately. Jason sighed, rubbing his temple. He was already dealing with intergalactic threats, and now this? "Alright. I¡¯ll be there." But before leaving, he had one last stop¡ªTom¡¯s Office. Tom¡¯s Office Jason stepped into Tom¡¯s chamber, where the 160-year-old leader sat surrounded by an endless sea of data-scrolls and diplomatic reports. Despite his age, Tom worked tirelessly, his mind sharper than ever. Jason exhaled. ¡°Old man, you should take a break.¡± Tom chuckled, not looking up. ¡°A leader rests only when his people are safe. And right now, they aren¡¯t.¡± Jason placed a holo-tablet on the desk, displaying Vir Empire activity reports. ¡° Sir We have done analysis about the political status of mission field and we came to know that the Vir Empire has been making movements there. Their ships were spotted in the sector. If they interfere, this mission could turn into something¡­ worse.¡± Tom studied the reports. His expression remained unreadable. ¡°That¡¯s why we must act fast. This isn¡¯t just about one planet, Jason. We are delivering aid to ten planets. If we fail, billions will suffer.¡± Jason crossed his arms. ¡°Are you sure King Jim will support this? Giving away this much food to an outer system?¡± Tom smirked. ¡°I convinced him. Besides, we aren¡¯t alone in this.¡± Jason sighed. ¡°You¡¯re talking about the Rebellions, aren¡¯t you?¡± Tom nodded. The Vir Empire, ruling over 25 galaxies, was led by the powerful Adam Clan¡ªa lineage of humans known for their intelligence and cruelty. Emperor Joseph, though holding the throne, was weak. His empire survived only because of Bright Adam¡ªthe strongest swordsman and Astra user, a 222-year-old warrior whose presence alone kept the universe in check. But not everyone feared the empire. ¡°The Rebellions,¡± Tom continued, ¡°are scattered into 5000 different groups, each under a Chief. And all of them serve one man¡ªthe Rebellion King.¡± Jason clenched his fists. ¡°If we fail this mission, the Vir Empire might see it as a chance to expand its influence into Liliput. And if that happens, the rebellions won''t be able to hold them off.¡± Tom leaned forward. ¡°That¡¯s why I chose you, Jason. We have 30 Verdalian space ships prepared for this mission. You will lead this fleet. You are not just delivering food¡ªyou are ensuring that these worlds remain free.¡± Jason took a deep breath. The weight of responsibility pressed down on him, but he nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll need four days to prepare.¡± Tom stood up, placing a firm hand on Jason¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Make sure you do not delay, son, before leaving you need to report to king . The universe is waiting for your actions.¡± Jason met his mentor¡¯s gaze. ¡°I won¡¯t fail.¡± With that, he turned and left¡ªready to face both his intergalactic mission and the family issues waiting for him at the academy Outside the Principal¡¯s Office ¨C Tension in the Air The grand halls of Alag Academy were unusually quiet, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Outside the principal¡¯s office, six sets of parents stood waiting, their faces a mixture of concern, anger, and frustration. The moment Jason arrived, Tarek Skullbane scoffed, crossing his arms. ¡°So, even the great Jason Amburdenk, right-hand of Old Tom, is wasting his time on this nonsense?¡± Jason¡¯s eyes flickered to him, his face impassive. He had no patience for political games today. Liza Skullbane, Skull¡¯s mother, sneered as she folded her arms. ¡°We¡¯ve had enough of this issue. The problem isn¡¯t Skull¡ªit¡¯s that boy, Max. He should not be here.¡± Tina clenched her fists, her anger barely contained. ¡°Excuse me? My son deserves to be here just as much as anyone.¡± Moira Greenfield, Jimmy¡¯s mother, sighed. ¡°Can we stop with this nonsense? They are just kids. This is an academy, not a battlefield.¡± Tarek, ignoring her, stepped forward. ¡°You people are blind. This is a school for Verdalians. Why should a¡ª¡± He glanced at Jason and smirked. ¡°¡ªhuman even be here? Especially when his kind are the reason for current state of the universe ?¡± Serena Wishey, Rure¡¯s mother, shook her head in disappointment. ¡°How can you judge a child based on the past? If that¡¯s your logic, should we punish all Verdalians for the wars their ancestors waged?¡± Jason finally spoke, his voice dangerously calm. ¡°You forget, Tarek, that this school was built to teach unity. Not to divide. I suggest you tread carefully before I remind you who I am.¡± Tarek glared but said nothing. He may have been a political figure, but Jason was a war hero and one of the most powerful figures in Verdalia. Just then, the principal¡¯s assistant opened the door. ¡°The principal will see you now.¡± Inside the Principal¡¯s Office The Principal of Alag Academy, Headmaster Varex, was a wise, aged Verdalian, his greenish skin marked with deep lines of experience. He sat behind a massive holo-desk, watching the parents enter. Behind him, holographic screens played footage of the fight¡ªRure standing up for Max, Skull¡¯s brutal attacks, and finally, Warren and Skull¡¯s chakra awakening that cracked the academy walls. As the parents settled into their seats, Varex folded his hands and sighed. ¡°Let me make this clear. This is not about your political opinions. This is about your children.¡± He turned to Tarek and Liza. ¡°Your son, Skull, has a long record of aggression. This time, it wasn¡¯t just a fight¡ªhe deliberately instigated an attack.¡± Tarek scoffed. ¡°He was defending himself from a weakling.¡± Varex¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°From an eleven-year-old? Skull is fifteen. He fought Rure Wishey, an eleven-year-old, without remorse. If Warren had not intervened, it could have been much worse.¡± Liza shook her head, waving a hand dismissively. ¡°And yet, you¡¯re ignoring the real problem¡ªwhy is Max even here?¡± Tina slammed her hand on the desk. ¡°You dare say that in front of me? In front of my husband? Max is my son.¡± Jason leaned forward, his gaze sharp. ¡°And you¡¯re questioning King Jim¡¯s decision? It was his law that made this academy open to all, regardless of species. Are you suggesting you know better than your own king?¡± Tarek went silent, his jaw clenching. Even he couldn¡¯t openly challenge King Jim¡¯s decree. Varex turned to Jason and Tina. ¡°I understand your frustration. And I commend Max¡¯s resilience, but it¡¯s clear that he is being targeted. We must ensure that this academy remains a place of education, not division.¡± Henry Greenfield, Jimmy¡¯s father, finally spoke. ¡°So what¡¯s the solution? We can¡¯t ignore this.¡± Varex leaned back. ¡°For now, all students involved in the fight will receive disciplinary action. Skull and Jones will be placed on behavioural probation, and if they attack another student, they will face suspension.¡± Tina raised an eyebrow. ¡°And Max?¡± Varex sighed. ¡°Max¡­ will need protection. He is a good kid, but the discrimination against him won¡¯t disappear overnight. I am assigning a special mentor to him.¡± Jason¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Who?¡± The principal¡¯s holo-screen flickered, showing a mysterious figure. "A retired Space Cop. A man who understands discrimination better than anyone else. He will be Max¡¯s personal instructor from now on." Tina placed a hand on Max¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Max¡­ are you okay with this?¡± Max looked up, his eyes still carrying the pain of being bullied. But then, he nodded. ¡°If it will make me stronger¡­ then I accept.¡± Varex nodded. ¡°Then this meeting is concluded. I hope this will be the last of these conflicts.¡± As the parents began to leave, Tarek Skullbane glared at Jason one last time. ¡°This isn¡¯t over.¡± Jason smirked. ¡°For you? It never is.¡± And with that, the meeting ended, but the battle for Max¡¯s place in Verdalia was just beginning chapter 4 : The fired universe Chapter 4: The Old Space Cop The principal''s voice carried a firm authority as he addressed the gathered parents. "Racism has no place in this academy. Every student, regardless of their origins, deserves respect. This institution was built on the principles of unity and learning. I expect better from all of you." As the meeting concluded, Jason placed a firm hand on Warren¡¯s shoulder, leading him out of the principal¡¯s office. The academy''s hallways stretched with bioengineered architecture¡ªglowing vines climbed the walls, and energy-infused tiles hummed underfoot. The scent of Verdalian flora filled the air, but despite the beauty, tension lingered between father and son. Jason''s voice was calm but edged with disappointment. "Warren, I need to understand why you let this escalate. I know you were protecting Max, but fighting isn¡¯t always the answer. You have to learn when to use your words." Warren clenched his jaw, crossing his arms. "Dad, I couldn¡¯t just stand there and watch Skull humiliate Max. You weren¡¯t there! That guy wasn¡¯t going to stop. Sometimes, words aren¡¯t enough." Tina stepped forward, her expression a mix of concern and understanding. "We know you meant well, Warren, but restraint is important. There are better ways to handle situations like these." Max stood silently between them, fists tightening. The principal¡¯s words echoed in his mind¡ªa retired space cop, defeated by words alone. He felt useless. Powerless. Why am I so weak? Jason sighed, rubbing his temples. "I get it. But this world is already on the brink of chaos. There are bigger battles ahead, Warren. You have to be smart about the fights you choose." After a moment, Jason¡¯s tone shifted. "There¡¯s something I need to tell you all. In four days, I¡¯ll be leaving on a relief mission. But first, in two days, I have to travel to the capital, Verlan, to meet with King Jim and organize the crew for the operation." Tina¡¯s face tightened with worry. "That soon? Jason, are you sure it¡¯s safe? The Vir Empire has been lurking around the Liliput Star System. If they interfere¡ª" "I know, Tina." Jason reached for her hand, his voice steady yet gentle. "But if we don¡¯t help, entire planets will starve. This is bigger than politics. It¡¯s about saving lives." Warren¡¯s gaze hardened. "And you¡¯re leading this mission?" Jason nodded. "Yes. That¡¯s why you need to understand responsibility. You¡¯re graduating this year, Warren. If you really want to join the Space Cops, you need to learn how to handle situations¡ªnot just with strength, but with wisdom." Tina squeezed Jason¡¯s hand, worry still evident in her emerald-green eyes. "Just¡­ be careful." Jason smiled softly, placing a reassuring hand on her cheek. "I always am." Max looked up at his father, admiration and doubt swirling in his mind. What am I supposed to do? He wasn¡¯t strong like Warren. He wasn¡¯t brave like Jason. He was just¡­ Max. And that thought scared him more than anything. As they stepped out of the academy, Warren stretched. "Okay, can we leave now?" Jason shook his head. "No, we need to meet Max''s new mentor first." Tina nodded as they approached the Wishey family. Rure, still visibly wounded from his fight with Skull, sat on the academy steps, his expression filled with regret. As Max neared, Rure looked down, fists clenched. "Max... I''m sorry. I couldn¡¯t protect you." Max was surprised. He had always seen Rure as the strong, confident one, but now, he saw frustration. Before he could respond, Tina and the Wishey parents greeted each other warmly. Rure took a deep breath, his gaze filled with determination. "I swear, I¡¯ll become strong enough to protect everyone! Next time, no one will have to suffer like this." Jason, observing quietly, nodded in approval. Tina smiled, while Warren smirked. Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more. Max, however, shook his head and placed a hand on Rure¡¯s shoulder. "Rure, thanks... but you don¡¯t need to protect me all the time. I still don¡¯t know what my goal is, but I do know this¡ªnext time, I¡¯ll be strong enough to assist you. I¡¯ll protect myself¡­ and maybe even others." Warren chuckled, easing the tension. Max scratched his head and turned to the group. "So, can we go to the Great Tree of Heavens now?" Rure nodded, but before they could set off, his parents stopped him. "Not today, young man," his father said with a warm smile. "You''re injured and need rest." At that moment, another voice joined them. "May I join?" They turned to see Jimmy arriving with his usual bright grin. As their families exchanged words, a slow, deliberate sound echoed through the academy grounds¡ªfootsteps accompanied by the tapping of a wooden stick. A tall, battle-worn Verdalian warrior approached. His scarred features bore the weight of countless battles, and his left leg was injured, forcing him to rely on a cane. Despite his age, his presence was undeniable¡ªwisdom sharpened his gaze, his aura commanding respect. At ninety-five years old, he was a living legend. As he reached them, his gaze settled on Max. "So, you must be the human boy I''ve heard about." Meanwhile: The Liliput Star System Far beyond Verdalia, twenty light-years away, the planet Zelkaris lay crushed under extreme poverty. Above its crumbling cities, ten imperial warships of the Vir Empire loomed. Inside the largest vessel, the high-tech war room buzzed with activity. Holographic screens floated midair, displaying planetary data, military strategies, and fleet formations. The centerpiece was a massive circular hologram, flickering with the image of Bright Adam, the right hand of Emperor Joseph. At 222 years old, Bright Adam was a war relic. His long white hair was tied back in a warrior¡¯s knot, his deep golden eyes carried the wisdom of centuries, and his scarred, muscular frame spoke of battles that shaped galactic history. Draped in the royal dark armor of the Adam Clan, his hand rested on the hilt of his colossal black-bladed sword. Before him, Arthur stood in the flesh¡ªa 26-year-old force of nature, leader of the Commander 30 Association. His sharp blue eyes studied the reports, his imperial uniform crisp, his spear Astra strapped to his back. Bright Adam¡¯s voice cut through the silence. "Report." Arthur met his gaze. "The situation on Zelkaris worsens by the hour. Famine has crippled the population. If we wait, the resistance will gain outside support." Bright Adam¡¯s expression remained unreadable. "Let them suffer. Desperation breeds compliance. We act when their will to fight is shattered." Arthur¡¯s jaw tightened. "That¡¯s a dangerous gamble. If the rebellion finds an ally, the sector could destabilize." Bright Adam leaned forward. "Then we remind them why the Vir Empire is feared." Arthur exhaled. He knew better than to argue. The hologram flickered, and Bright Adam vanished At the heart of Ayodh, in the towering Rebellion Command Center, sat Robinson Dreuewage, a living legend. At 192 years old, Robinson was far from a frail elder. His towering pink-skinned figure exuded both wisdom and raw power. Despite his age, his body remained at its peak, his muscular frame wrapped in a high-tech combat robe, adorned with insignias from battles long past. His piercing silver eyes scanned the holographic reports on his desk, his mind calculating a thousand possibilities at once. Once, he had been the master of Helius, the leader of the Dharma Army, and even a Rebellion King himself¡ªbut now, he stood as the head of the Rammanites, overseeing the fight against oppression. As he leaned back in his chair, a sudden beep echoed through the room. His private communicator lit up, displaying the incoming transmission. It was from the current Rebellion King¡ªPeace. With a tap of his finger, the hologram materialized, revealing a hooded figure bathed in the dim blue glow of the transmission. Peace, the highest authority of the rebellion, spoke in a calm but urgent voice. "Robinson, we have a crisis." Robinson¡¯s eyes narrowed. "Go on." "Bright Adam has launched an attack on Planet Portue. If this goes unchecked, the entire system could collapse under Vir¡¯s rule." A moment of silence. Then Robinson exhaled, already understanding the weight of the situation. "You could call upon the Space Cops," Robinson said, his deep voice carrying an edge of curiosity. "They still have their strongest warrior¡ªRonaldo, the Star of the Galaxies. His strength alone could turn the tide." Peace hesitated before replying. "I could. But I believe in you, Lord Robinson. Even at your age, you remain among the highest-class warriors¡ªS+ rank¡ªalongside only a select few in the entire universe. If there''s anyone who can stop Bright Adam¡­ it''s you." Robinson closed his eyes briefly, then gave a small, knowing smirk. "Rebellion King, Roger that. I''ll handle it." The call ended. A heavy silence filled the room. Robinson slowly stood up, stretching his battle-worn yet unbreakable body. His muscles tensed in anticipation, as if they, too, remembered the past. Bright Adam¡­ it''s been decades. They had clashed before, two titans from an era long past. Their battles had shaped galaxies, rewritten history, and had nearly shattered the very foundation of the Vir Empire. And now, the universe would witness their legendary rivalry once again. As Robinson turned toward the window, gazing at the stars, his expression hardened. The time had come Chapter 5 : The Legendary mentor Chapter 5 : The Legendary mentor The aged warrior, leaning on his wooden cane, surveyed the young faces before him. His deep-set eyes, filled with wisdom and years of experience, settled on Max. A slow smile formed on his wrinkled face as he spoke. "So, you must be the human boy I''ve heard about¡­" Max, caught off guard by the intensity of the old man¡¯s gaze, hesitated for a moment before nodding. Jason, sensing the tension, stepped forward, his expression firm. "And you are¡­?" Jason asked. The elder let out a small chuckle before straightening up. Despite his war-torn appearance and the cane supporting his weight, his presence radiated strength. "Name¡¯s Joe. Formerly of the Space Cops." His voice carried a weight of authority. "And as of today, I have been assigned as this boy¡¯s mentor." A hush fell over the group. Max¡¯s eyes widened in shock. His mentor? He had barely begun to process the events of the day, and now he was standing before a retired Space Cop, a warrior of legend. Tina exchanged a surprised glance with Jason. "A former Space Cop¡­ mentoring Max?" Tina murmured. Joe simply nodded. "It¡¯s no mistake. The principal made the call, and I accepted. I don¡¯t take on students lightly, but¡­" He looked at Max once more. "There¡¯s something about you, kid." Max lowered his gaze, feeling both honored and overwhelmed. Warren, crossing his arms, let out a low whistle. "Well, that¡¯s something. Our little Max, a Space Cop apprentice?" Jimmy grinned. "That''s awesome, Max! Looks like you¡¯re moving up!" Rure, still seated and recovering from his injuries, turned toward Joe. "Sir¡­ if I may ask, why Max? There are plenty of other talented students¡ª" Joe cut him off with a wave of his hand. "No need for that, boy. Talent isn¡¯t everything. Sometimes, it¡¯s about something deeper. The kind of strength that can¡¯t be measured in fights." Jason nodded in understanding. "That¡¯s the kind of thinking Space Cops are known for." Joe reached into his pocket and pulled out a small capsule filled with a glowing, golden liquid. He turned toward Rure. "Before we continue¡ªhere. Catch." With a simple flick of his fingers, Joe tossed the capsule toward Rure. The young warrior caught it instinctively, looking at it with confusion. "What is this?" Rure asked. "A high-grade medical capsule. The best healing technology out there, refined for quick regeneration." Joe smirked. "No point in having you sitting around injured while the others are up and running." Rure hesitated for a moment before nodding. As soon as he ate the capsule, a warm, greenish energy spread throughout his body. His wounds closed instantly. The bruises, the cuts¡ªevery trace of damage vanished within seconds. Rure gasped, looking at his hands in awe. "I... I feel completely fine!" he exclaimed. Rure¡¯s parents, who had been watching silently, finally spoke. His father stepped forward. "That kind of medicine¡­ it¡¯s beyond what¡¯s usually available. You truly were a Space Cop, weren¡¯t you?" Joe let out a hearty chuckle. "Retired or not, I still have my ways. And connections." Tina placed a hand on Max¡¯s shoulder. "Max, this is a rare opportunity. A mentor like Joe doesn¡¯t come often. You should take it seriously." Max nodded, still trying to process everything. "I will. I promise." Joe grinned. "Good. Because training starts soon." Jason, arms crossed, raised an eyebrow. "What kind of training are we talking about?" Joe¡¯s smile turned sharp. "The kind that separates boys from warriors." A silence filled the air, and for the first time, Max felt a spark of excitement¡­ and fear. Rure, still feeling the warmth of the healing capsule coursing through his body, clenched his fists. He could feel his strength returning¡ªno, it was better than before. He looked at Joe, his eyes burning with determination. "Master Joe¡­ please train me as well!" Rure suddenly declared, stepping forward. The group turned to him in surprise. Joe raised an eyebrow but didn¡¯t look shocked. "And why should I?" Rure took a deep breath before answering. "Because I won¡¯t stop until I become strong enough to protect everyone. I want to make sure that no one around me ever has to suffer!" His voice was unwavering, filled with pure conviction. "I¡¯ve been beaten down so many times, but I never stayed down. I always got back up. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to grow stronger!" Joe watched him in silence for a moment before letting out a low chuckle. "I already knew you¡¯d ask." Rure blinked. "You did?" Joe nodded, stroking his beard. "I¡¯ve seen your fights. Every single one of them. Even when you lost, you stood back up. No hesitation. No fear. That kind of determination is rare." The tension in the air was thick as Rure waited for Joe¡¯s response. Finally, the old warrior smirked. "Alright, kid. Why not? You¡¯re in." Rure¡¯s eyes widened with joy. He clenched his fists, barely able to contain his excitement. "Thank you, Master Joe! I won''t disappoint you!" he said, bowing deeply. Jimmy, who had been watching the entire exchange, suddenly let out a dramatic gasp. "Oh my god¡­ YOU TWO are going to be trained by a SPACE COP?!" He turned toward Max and Rure, waving his hands excitedly. "That¡¯s crazy! You¡¯re actually gonna learn from one of the legends!" Jason chuckled at Jimmy¡¯s reaction. "Well, it¡¯s not every day you get to be trained by someone like Joe." Tina smiled softly, placing a hand on Max¡¯s shoulder. "You¡¯ll both learn a lot. Make sure you listen carefully." Joe nodded, cracking his knuckles. "One hour from now. Max, Rure, meet me near the Great Tree of Heavens. Don''t be late." Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Jimmy suddenly raised his hand like a student in class. "Uh, Master Joe? Can I come too?" Joe gave him a questioning look. "You want to train as well?" Jimmy immediately shook his head. "Oh no, no, no! I¡¯d probably die! I just want to watch! I promise I won¡¯t disturb!" Joe let out a hearty laugh. "Fine, kid. You can watch. Just don¡¯t get in the way." Jimmy fist-pumped. "Yes! This is going to be so cool!" Rure¡¯s parents, who had been silent for a while, finally spoke up. His father smiled proudly. "Rure, I¡¯m glad you found a master who recognizes your potential. Train well." His mother, however, was a bit more emotional. She walked up to Rure and placed her hands on his shoulders. "Just don¡¯t push yourself too hard, alright? Stay safe." Rure nodded. "I will, Mom." Jason turned to Joe, arms crossed. "Make sure they don¡¯t break on the first day." Joe smirked. "No promises." Tina sighed, but there was amusement in her expression. "At least they have a proper mentor now." Max, who had been quiet for a while, finally spoke. "Rure¡­ let¡¯s do our best." Rure grinned. "Yeah. Let¡¯s get stronger together." With everything set, the group finally dispersed, each person heading off to prepare for what was to come. The air buzzed with anticipation¡ªbecause in just an hour, Max and Rure would begin their training under a legendary Space Cop. And it was bound to change them forever. An hour had passed. The Great Tree of Heavens stood towering over the land, its massive trunk stretching nearly forty feet tall and 4 km wide, with roots that burrowed deep into the planet¡¯s very core. Its bark was an intricate pattern of twisting lines, glowing faintly with a mystical golden hue, as if the very life of the world pulsed within it. The branches extended like the arms of a celestial guardian, spreading across the sky, forming a vast canopy of vibrant emerald leaves that shimmered under the light of Verdalia¡¯s twin suns. The leaves weren¡¯t ordinary. Each one sparkled, reflecting different hues depending on the time of day. At dawn, they were a soft, calming blue. By midday, they radiated a deep, rich green, and by nightfall, they glowed silver under the moonlight. It was said that this tree was the oldest living thing on the planet¡ªperhaps even older than Verdalia itself. The people revered it, calling it the Heart of Verdalia, for its roots stretched across the entire world, nourishing it with an unseen force. Legends spoke of how its presence sustained the planet¡¯s ecosystem, balancing the elements and ensuring harmony among all living beings. Max, upon seeing the tree, broke into a full sprint. ¡°Great Tree! I¡¯m back!¡± he shouted joyfully as he ran straight into its massive trunk, wrapping his arms around it in a warm embrace. He pressed his forehead against the bark, closing his eyes, as if listening to its whispers. "I missed you..." Max murmured with all his love. "You¡¯re still as strong and magnificent as ever!" Rure blinked in disbelief before bursting into laughter. "Max, are you seriously hugging a tree?" he teased, arms crossed. "You talk to it like it''s a person!" Max pulled back slightly, pouting at Rure. "You don¡¯t understand, Rure. This isn¡¯t just any tree!" Jimmy, standing beside Rure, tilted his head, his expression thoughtful. "Actually... Max isn¡¯t wrong." Rure turned to him, raising an eyebrow. "What do you mean?" Jimmy adjusted his glasses. "This tree is special. It¡¯s the one that gives life to the planet." Rure blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Wait, seriously?" Jimmy nodded. "The Great Tree of Heavens isn¡¯t just old¡ªit¡¯s legendary. Its roots spread all across Verdalia, keeping the land fertile, the air clean, and even the water pure. Without it, Verdalia wouldn¡¯t be the paradise it is today." Max smiled proudly. "See? That¡¯s why I love this tree!" Rure scratched his head, looking up at the massive branches stretching endlessly into the sky. "Huh... I always knew it was important, but I didn¡¯t think it was literally the heart of the planet." Max grinned and patted the bark. "The Great Tree listens. It¡¯s alive in ways we don¡¯t even understand. That¡¯s why I talk to it." Jimmy crossed his arms, nodding. "Some even believe that when Verdalia is in danger, the tree will awaken and protect the planet itself. But, of course, that¡¯s just a legend." Max, however, looked up at the tree with a knowing smile. "Maybe it¡¯s not just a legend." The wind rustled through the leaves, making them shimmer under the sunlight, as if the tree itself acknowledged Max¡¯s words. Rure let out a small chuckle, shaking his head. "You really are weird, Max. But I guess that¡¯s what makes you... you." Jimmy smirked. "At least now you know why this tree is so important." The three of them stood there in silence for a moment, simply admiring the ancient tree¡¯s beauty. Despite their differences, they all felt something in that moment¡ªa quiet reverence for the living giant before them. And then, the sound of slow, deliberate footsteps echoed behind them. Joe had arrived joe took a deep breath, gazing at Max and Rure with sharp yet calm eyes. He planted his wooden cane into the ground and nodded. "Alright, Max, Rure¡ªlet''s begin your training. But before that, there''s something important you need to understand." The two boys straightened up, their attention locked on the aged space cop. Even Jimmy, who had been standing to the side, found himself intrigued. Joe continued, his voice steady yet filled with wisdom. "There are two fundamental power systems in the universe¡ªAthma and Vishwa. Mastering either of them can turn an ordinary being into a warrior beyond imagination. But the path to true power is never easy." Max furrowed his brows. "Athma and Vishwa?" Joe nodded. "Yes. Let¡¯s start with Athma. This path is about mastering the soul. At its core, it revolves around the seven chakras. Every living being has chakras, but unlocking them is another story. Most people struggle to awaken even their first chakra. And the highest a mortal has ever reached is the fifth chakra, plus an additional fifty percent of the sixth." Rure¡¯s eyes widened. "Wait, so¡­ no one has ever unlocked the full seven chakras?" Joe smirked. "Correct. The sixth and seventh chakras are considered the domain of the gods. Only deities or those who surpass mortality can access them. For us, reaching even the fifth chakra is an achievement of a lifetime." Max folded his arms. "So, Athma is about unlocking and controlling your inner self?" Joe nodded. "Exactly. But there''s another branch connected to Athma¡ªMystic Arts." Jimmy¡¯s eyes gleamed with curiosity. "Mystic Arts? That sounds cool!" Joe chuckled. "It is, but not just anyone can use it. Mystic Arts require a special essence¡ªsomething that is either present in your genes or imprinted onto your soul from birth. Only a very small percentage of beings have it. And within the Mystic Arts, there are various types¡ªsome allow you to bend elements, others can alter reality itself. But remember, true Mystic users are extremely rare." Rure clenched his fists. "So, if someone doesn''t have this ''essence,'' they can never use Mystic Arts?" Joe nodded. "Unfortunately, yes. It''s something you¡¯re either born with or not. But don¡¯t worry, because there¡¯s another path¡ªthe path of Vishwa." Max, Rure, and Jimmy leaned in slightly, eager to hear more. Joe looked up at the sky, as if gazing beyond the stars. "The universe is composed of three fundamental energies¡ªLife Energy, Dark Energy, and Destruction Energy. These forces govern everything, yet they are not easily accessible. You can''t just ''use'' them like normal energy." Max tilted his head. "Then how do people access them?" Joe tapped his cane against the ground. "By mastering the basic levels of chakra, you can start to sense the presence of these energies. When this happens, they appear as phantom energies¡ªremnants of their true forms. From there, you can begin to understand and connect with them, but only at a superficial level. True mastery of Vishwa energy is something that very few in the universe have ever achieved." Rure scratched his head. "So, first, we unlock our chakras. Then, we start sensing Vishwa energy?" Joe grinned. "You''re catching on fast. But before we move on, there''s one last thing you should know¡ªthe rarest weapons in existence, the Astra." Max¡¯s eyes lit up. "Astra?" Joe¡¯s expression turned serious. "Yes. There are only twelve Astra in the entire universe. These weapons are not ordinary¡ªthey have their own entities, their own consciousness. They choose their wielders, not the other way around. Each one holds unimaginable power, capable of turning the tide of battles, even wars." Jimmy whistled. "Twelve weapons that can decide the fate of the universe¡­ Sounds insane." Joe smirked. "It is. And if you ever come across one, be prepared¡ªbecause the moment an Astra acknowledges you, your life will never be the same." A heavy silence followed, as the weight of Joe¡¯s words sank in. Max clenched his fists. Rure¡¯s determination burned in his eyes. Jimmy, despite only being a spectator, was completely absorbed in the conversation. Then, Max finally spoke. "Alright, Master¡­ So what¡¯s our first step?" Joe grinned. "Simple. We start with mastering the first-level chakra. This will allow you to connect with the earth itself and use it as a combat ability." Rure¡¯s face lit up. "Finally! Let¡¯s get started!" But before Joe could continue, Max raised a hand. "Wait¡­ Master, why are you training us? I mean, I appreciate it, but no one asked you to do this. So¡­ why?" Joe was silent for a moment before exhaling with a smirk. "No one asked me, huh? You''re right, Max. But the truth is, I don¡¯t train just anyone. I only train those I deem worthy¡ªthe next generation of warriors who will shape the universe. And when I saw you two¡­ I saw potential. I saw fighters who refuse to give up. who are kind moreover those who fear to fight have more might inside them some now them and some doesn¡¯t, And that¡¯s all the reason I need." Max and Rure exchanged glances before turning back to Joe. Rure grinned. "Then, we won¡¯t disappoint you, Master!" Joe chuckled. "You better not. Now, let¡¯s begin." With those words, the true training was about to start. The first step toward unlocking their potential¡­ and toward their destiny. Chapter 6: The real training began Chapter 6: The real training began For the next two days, Max and Rure followed a strict schedule under Joe¡¯s guidance. Their mornings were spent attending the academy as usual, but as evening approached, their true training began. Each day, just as the sun began to set, the trio would gather beneath the towering Great Tree of Heavens, where Joe awaited them. His training regimen was relentless but methodical, ensuring that the two young warriors built a solid foundation before moving on to more advanced techniques. On the first evening, Joe made them start with yoga and meditation. Joe sat cross-legged on the soft grass, his posture perfectly aligned. "Before you learn to fight, you must learn to control your body and mind. Without control, power is meaningless." Max struggled to stay still, fidgeting every few seconds. "Master, do we really need to do this? I thought we¡¯d be learning how to fight!" Joe smirked. "And you think warriors are made in a day? Your breathing is unstable, your mind is restless. Meditation isn¡¯t just sitting quietly; it¡¯s about understanding yourself. Now close your eyes, breathe deeply, and feel the energy around you." Rure, unlike Max, remained surprisingly composed. He closed his eyes and focused, though beads of sweat formed on his forehead from the intense concentration. Jimmy, watching from the side, whispered to himself, "I¡¯m so glad I¡¯m not training. This looks exhausting." By the second evening, Joe pushed them harder. After meditation, he made them do push-ups, squats, and endurance runs around the massive tree. Max collapsed onto the ground, panting. "Master¡­ this is too much¡­ I can¡¯t move¡­" Joe simply crossed his arms. "You¡¯re complaining after just twenty push-ups? If you can¡¯t handle this, how do you plan to unlock even a single chakra?" Rure, despite his exhaustion, forced himself back up. "I won¡¯t give up. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes!" Joe¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. "That¡¯s the spirit. Keep going." Jimmy, once again watching from the side, shook his head. "You guys are insane." On the third evening, Joe finally introduced them to martial arts. Joe stood before them, his stance firm yet relaxed. "Before you wield weapons, you must learn how to fight with your bare hands. Today, I¡¯ll teach you basic strikes and footwork." He demonstrated a simple punch¡ªnothing flashy, just pure precision and power. When he struck a tree trunk, the force left a deep imprint on the bark. Max¡¯s jaw dropped. "That was just a normal punch?!" Joe grinned. "It¡¯s all about technique and control. Now, copy my movements." Rure mimicked Joe¡¯s stance, throwing punches into the air. Max followed suit, though his form was a little off. Joe walked up to him, adjusting his posture. "Widen your stance. Relax your shoulders. Focus your power into the strike." After hours of practice, the two were drenched in sweat, but a sense of progress filled the air. "That¡¯s enough for today," Joe finally said. "Tomorrow, we¡¯ll push further." As they dispersed, Jimmy walked up to Max and Rure. "I have no idea how you guys are still alive." Max laughed weakly. "Neither do I." While Max and Rure were busy training, Jason and Tina had their own matters to handle. In the Amburdunk household, Jason sat at the dining table, double-checking his mission details. Tina stood across from him, arms crossed. "Are you sure about this, Jason?" she asked, concern evident in her voice. Jason nodded. "It¡¯s my duty. The King summoned me to Verlan. I need to meet with him, assemble my team, and prepare for the mission. This is important." Tina sighed. "Just be careful, okay?" Jason smiled. "I always am." The next morning, the entire Amburdunk household gathered at the Verdalian Skyport to see Jason off. The massive floating airport hovered high above the city, seamlessly blending nature with advanced technology. Verdalian airships weren¡¯t like ordinary spacecraft; their designs resembled giant gliding birds, sleek and aerodynamic. Instead of roaring engines, they operated on eco-gravitational energy, allowing them to soar silently through the sky. Large bio-solar panels lined their wings, drawing power from the planet¡¯s natural energy fields. Jason¡¯s assigned transport, the Eclipse Falcon, was a masterpiece of engineering. Its hull was crafted from Verdalite metal, lightweight yet incredibly durable. The inside was lined with organic circuitry, allowing the ship to repair itself over time. As Jason stepped toward the boarding ramp, Warren, Max, Rure, and even Jimmy came to see him off. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Warren smirked. "Try not to get yourself killed, Father." Jason chuckled. "No promises." Max clenched his fists. "Good luck Dad . We¡¯ll be waiting for you." Jason gave one last nod before stepping aboard. The Eclipse Falcon¡¯s engines hummed softly as it prepared for takeoff. Within moments, the ship rose into the sky, vanishing into the vast expanse. Tina watched until it disappeared, her expression unreadable. Max glanced at her. "He¡¯ll be fine, right?" Tina took a deep breath and smiled. "Of course." As the ship sped toward Verlan, the capital country, Jason¡¯s real mission was about to begin. Even at this day Max refused to skip a single session. As the twin suns¡¯s orangish colour now illuminating throughout Alag, Warren got ready with his bicycle to drop max near great tree and drop tina in the home. This was no ordinary bicycle¡ªit was a sleek, self-adaptive vehicle powered by Verdalian bio-energy technology. The frame, made from a lightweight yet ultra-durable alloy, could adjust its structure based on the rider¡¯s needs. The wheels were designed with hover-assisted mechanics, reducing friction while maintaining a smooth ride on any terrain. Max hopped onto the back seat, securing himself as Warren activated the controls. The bicycle whirred to life, gliding over the roads with a near-silent hum. The roads of Alag weren¡¯t simple concrete or steel highways. Instead, they were composed of eco-gravitational paths, seamlessly integrating luminescent energy veins that pulsed with the rhythm of the planet. These roads not only adjusted to traffic flow but also absorbed excess heat and converted it into energy, ensuring a sustainable balance. As they rode, Max¡¯s gaze drifted to the floating gardens lining the streets¡ªclusters of bio-suspended flora that provided natural air purification and shaded the walkways. Towering crystalline buildings, infused with organic circuitry, shimmered as they absorbed and redistributed solar and atmospheric energy. Despite the breathtaking scenery, Max¡¯s mind was elsewhere. Ever since his encounter with Skull, Max felt a deep weight pressing against his chest. He clenched his fists, recalling the moment he had been utterly powerless. "Why does everyone treat me like an outsider?" Even after meeting Jason, Tina, and his newfound companions, there was always a lingering feeling of detachment. He wasn¡¯t Verdalian. He wasn¡¯t born here. And worst of all¡ªhe had failed to protect those he cared about. "I have to become stronger." The thought burned in his mind. No matter how long it took, he would surpass his limits. From a distance, the Great Tree of Heavens dominated the horizon. Even after days of visiting it, Max was still in awe of its sheer majesty. Standing at 40 feet tall, its trunk wasn¡¯t just a single mass of wood¡ªit was a colossal network of intertwining roots and ancient vines, radiating an aura of life itself. The bark gleamed faintly with golden inscriptions, whispers of an age long past. The leaves shimmered in varying shades of green and blue, swaying gently despite the absence of wind, as if breathing in unison with the planet. At the very heart of the tree¡¯s base lay an enormous temple, a sanctuary that had withstood countless millennia¡ªthe Temple of Ankrit, the Father of the Universe. As Warren neared the tree, he brought the bike to a smooth halt. Max hopped off, taking a deep breath. His expression had changed¡ªresolve replacing doubt. "Alright, see you later, Max," Warren said, offering a casual wave before pedaling away. Max turned toward the training ground, where Joe and Rure were already waiting. Joe crossed his arms, nodding in approval. "You¡¯re on time. Good. Let¡¯s begin today¡¯s lesson." Rure, stretching his arms, grinned. "What¡¯s on the menu today, Master?" Joe smirked. "We¡¯re taking a little trip. Before we begin physical training, we¡¯re going to visit the Temple of Ankrit." Max and Rure exchanged glances. "The temple?" Joe nodded. "Training the body is only half the battle. To master your abilities, you must also understand the roots of power. The Great Tree is not just a massive plant¡ªit¡¯s a sacred place where the essence of life converges. And at its core lies the temple of the one who shaped the very foundation of existence¡ªAnkrit." Max¡¯s eyes widened. "The Father of the Universe..." Joe gestured toward the towering entrance of the temple, carved directly into the base of the Great Tree. "Follow me." As they walked toward the temple, Max and Rure marveled at the intricate stone pathways, each tile embedded with ancient Verdalian symbols. The very ground seemed to pulse faintly with an otherworldly energy. Though they visited the temple several times it still made them goosebumps each time they visit Upon reaching the entrance, they found themselves before two enormous doors, made of an unknown dark stone, each adorned with detailed carvings depicting celestial beings, warriors, and cosmic battles. Despite their apparent weight, the doors opened effortlessly as Joe placed a single hand upon them. Inside, the air was cool and filled with the scent of aged parchment and incense. Towering pillars of shimmering crystal lined the main hall, supporting an impossibly vast ceiling that seemed to stretch beyond the limits of reality. At the very center of the temple lay the main deity¡ªa colossal stone monolith, unshaped and untouched by tools, yet radiating an undeniable aura of divine presence. It was said to be the idol of Ankrit , a physical embodiment of his will. Max felt a strange warmth in his chest as he gazed upon it. For the first time in a while, something deep inside him stirred. Joe, standing beside them, finally spoke. "Now¡­ let¡¯s begin your real training." As Jason sat aboard the advanced aircraft, he gazed out of the window, watching the clouds drift past. The aircraft, a marvel of nature-blended technology, seamlessly integrated organic materials with high-functioning energy systems. Unlike conventional metal-bodied spacecraft, this one utilized bio-metal alloys that could adapt and repair minor damages over time. The propulsion system harnessed both solar energy and refined atmospheric ions, making it one of the fastest and most efficient transport vessels ever designed. The interior was equally impressive, equipped with self-adjusting seats that molded to the passenger¡¯s comfort. Transparent display panels projected real-time data about the flight path, atmospheric conditions, and even a direct communication link to Verlan¡¯s capital. As Jason sat deep in thought, his mind drifted back to his final conversation with Tom before departing. The wise elder had placed a firm hand on Jason¡¯s shoulder, his eyes filled with both pride and concern. "Jason, be careful. The Vir Empire won¡¯t sit idly by while we provide relief to Lilliput. There are forces out there who see this mission as a threat to their interests," Tom had warned. Jason had nodded, determination set in his gaze. "I understand, Tom. I¡¯ll lead this mission with everything I¡¯ve got. We have to ensure the supplies reach the people in need." Now, as the aircraft glided effortlessly through the sky, he clenched his fists, reaffirming his resolve. He had to make this mission a success. Within just half an hour, the aircraft broke through the final layer of clouds, revealing the mighty nation of Verlan. Even from above, its vast and advanced infrastructure was breathtaking. Towering skyscrapers stood in harmony with lush greenery, connected by a network of high-speed railways and floating transit systems. The technological marvels were evident at every corner¡ªhovering platforms, AI-assisted drones managing urban operations, and grand sky bridges linking entire districts. Yet, despite all its brilliance, one thing was missing¡ªthe Great Tree of Heavens. Unlike Alag, which thrived under the presence of the sacred tree, Verlan had built its greatness purely on technological advancements. Jason exhaled, preparing himself for what was to come. The real challenge was about to begin. Chapter 7: The capital of verdalia Chapter 7 : The capital of verdalia The grand capital of Verdalia the veythar stretched beneath the aircraft as it made its final descent. A city of towering structures and seamlessly blended nature and technology, Verlan stood as the pinnacle of Verdalian advancement. Unlike Alag, it lacked the Great Tree, but its skyline gleamed with solar-powered spires and levitating transportation hubs. The golden domes of the royal palace glistened under the sun, visible even from miles away. As Jason¡¯s aircraft landed on the massive tarmac of Veythar ¡¯s primary spaceport, he took a deep breath, preparing himself. The moment he stepped out, a team of royal guards clad in dark blue armor awaited him. Without a word, they escorted him through the airport''s security clearance, ensuring that his arrival proceeded without interruption. Upon exiting the terminal, Jason was greeted by a tall, lean Verdalian man with graying green hair and sharp, calculating eyes. Dressed in an elegant yet practical uniform adorned with the insignia of Verdalia¡¯s trade and supply division, he exuded an air of authority. ¡°Commander Louis,¡± Jason acknowledged with a respectful nod. ¡°Jason Amburdunk,¡± Louis responded, clasping his hands behind his back. ¡°I trust your journey was smooth?¡± Jason nodded, wasting no time. ¡°Let¡¯s get to business.¡± Louis smirked and gestured for Jason to follow him. As they walked, he began explaining the situation. ¡°This year, we¡¯re allocating forty percent of our Verdalian supply to the Lilliput Star System. That old hag practically forced our hand.¡± Jason frowned but kept his composure. ¡°The people of Lilliput are in dire need. We aren¡¯t just sending supplies for the sake of diplomacy. They don¡¯t have enough food to sustain themselves, and even with this, it still won¡¯t be enough.¡± Louis sighed, nodding. ¡°You¡¯re right. That¡¯s why we¡¯ve contacted several rebellious factions and the space cops to provide additional resources. But even with their help, the situation remains critical.¡± As they continued walking, Louis led Jason to the other side of the spaceport. A massive fleet of thirty spacecraft stood in formation, their polished metallic surfaces gleaming under the artificial sunlight. Each ship was built for both cargo and defense, carrying over ten thousand crew members combined. The size and power of the fleet were staggering, a testament to Verdalia¡¯s commitment to the mission. Louis gestured towards a towering figure standing near the lead ship. A massive Verdalian with arms like tree trunks and a scar running across his forehead approached them. ¡°Jason, this is Jigo. He¡¯ll be your right-hand man on this mission.¡± Jigo crossed his arms and gave Jason an approving nod. ¡°I¡¯ve read your reports. You lead well. I¡¯ll make sure the crew follows your command without hesitation.¡± Next, Louis introduced a slender yet fierce-looking woman with sharp eyes and a confident stance. ¡°This is Lina, Verdalia¡¯s best navigator. She¡¯s the reason our ships never get lost, no matter how complex the route.¡± Lina smirked. ¡°No pressure, but if I mess up, we¡¯re all lost in space forever.¡± Jason chuckled slightly but shook her hand. ¡°I¡¯ll trust you to make sure that doesn¡¯t happen.¡± Louis then pointed to an elderly Verdalian adjusting his glasses while scanning a data pad. ¡°That¡¯s Mr. Phill, our commerce lead. He¡¯ll handle the trading negotiations along the way.¡± Phill barely looked up from his work but gave a brief nod. ¡°Numbers and deals are my specialty. You handle the command, I¡¯ll handle the goods.¡± Finally, a stern-looking man with a mechanical eyepiece and a captain¡¯s insignia on his chest stepped forward. ¡°Captain Shin, head of the piloting crew,¡± Louis introduced. ¡°He¡¯ll be leading all the pilots from every ship, but he¡¯ll be traveling in the lead ship with you.¡± Shin gave Jason a firm handshake. ¡°We depart as soon as you give the order.¡± Jason took a moment to absorb the weight of responsibility before him. The success of this mission depended on the cooperation of these individuals, and he had to ensure they worked as a flawless unit. He exhaled slowly before addressing them. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get started.¡± As Jason and his crew boarded an advanced transport vehicle, Louis explained their route. "The journey to the royal palace will take about two hours. It¡¯s located in the heart of Verlan, within the ancient district." The vehicle glided smoothly over Verlan''s roads, powered by a blend of natural and advanced energy sources. The cityscape outside was a mixture of towering skyscrapers, lush greenery, and waterways integrated seamlessly into the infrastructure. Hovering crafts zipped through designated air lanes, and the roads below were bustling with civilians, traders, and officials moving about their duties. Jason observed the balance between technology and nature¡ªVerdalians had mastered the art of coexistence. As they approached the ancient district, the architecture changed dramatically. Gone were the sleek, metallic buildings; instead, massive stone structures, adorned with carvings of Verdalian history, stood as silent witnesses to the past. Jason¡¯s gaze fell upon an engraved rock embedded into one of the larger walls. It bore the same symbol he had seen in the Great Tree¡¯s temple back in Alag¡ªthe mark of Ankrit, the Father of the Universe. ¡°This place holds the history of our people,¡± Louis said, noticing Jason¡¯s curiosity. ¡°Before we embraced technology, Verdalia was built upon warriors, wisdom, and honor. Ankrit led us to what we are today. Even with all our advancements, we never forget our roots.¡± The palace entrance loomed ahead, guarded by elite Verdalian soldiers clad in armor that shimmered with energy plating. Each one carried a plasma spear and a traditional Verdalian blade, representing both past and present. As the gates opened, the grandeur of the palace interior came into view¡ªthough ancient on the outside, inside, it was brimming with cutting-edge technology. Holographic displays showed real-time updates on Verdalian territories, interstellar trade, and military operations. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. At the center of the grand hall stood King Jim. Dressed in royal Verdalian attire, his presence exuded authority, yet his gaze held an unusual warmth, something rare among rulers. He was flanked by several advisors and a few high-ranking officers, each maintaining a respectful distance. Jason stepped forward, placing a fist over his chest in a formal Verdalian salute. "Your Majesty." King Jim nodded. "Welcome, Jason amberdunk. Tom had a five-hour online meeting with me to convince me about this mission. I understand his reasoning." The king leaned slightly forward. "He is the eldest among our people, and his wisdom is not to be ignored. He suggested you personally, and for that, I agreed." Jason bowed slightly. "I appreciate your trust, Your Majesty. I will not let you down." Before the conversation could continue, a figure in a sharp black court suit stepped forward. His presence was different from the others¡ªthere was a calculated sharpness in his eyes. Jason recognized the man as Ken, a high-ranking officer from Verdalia¡¯s secret intelligence agency, akin to an intergalactic FBI. Ken walked closer and spoke in a low voice, meant only for Jason. "I ran a deep background check on you," he said, his tone laced with suspicion. "Something doesn¡¯t add up. What are you hiding?" Jason remained silent, his expression unreadable. A tension hung in the air for a brief moment before King Jim intervened. "Leave him be, Ken." Jim''s voice was calm but firm. "I trust Tom¡¯s judgment, and if he trusts Jason, that is enough for me." Ken hesitated before stepping back, his eyes still lingering on Jason with doubt. Jim turned his attention back to Jason. "Now, let¡¯s get to the bigger picture." He gestured to a massive holographic display behind him, showing a star map. "I am a king who rules over planets¡ªVerdalia and a few surrounding territories. But kings like me govern only planetary-level domains." He pointed towards an expanded section of the map. "Above kings, there are emperors. They do not rule over just planets; they govern entire galaxies. The Vir Empire, our strongest adversary, spans across multiple galaxies. That is the scale we deal with." The display shifted, highlighting red zones across various sectors. "Then, there are the rebellion clans," Jim continued. "You already know that rebellion forces exist, but what most people don¡¯t realize is how powerful they truly are. The top ten rebellion clans each control at least one galaxy. Some, even more. These aren''t just ragtag forces¡ªthey are entire civilizations, armies capable of standing against empires." Jason studied the map, understanding the vastness of what they were up against. Jim folded his arms. "This mission is dangerous. Not just because of the resources we are sending, but because of the eyes that will be watching. The Vir Empire, the rebellion forces, and even neutral parties¡ªthey all have stakes in what happens next. You must be prepared for anything, Jason." Jason nodded, his resolve strengthening. "I understand, Your Majesty. I¡¯ll make sure this mission succeeds." Jim''s gaze lingered on Jason for a moment before he gave a small nod. "Good. Then let¡¯s proceed with the final arrangements." The weight of responsibility settled on Jason¡¯s shoulders, but he was ready. The universe was far more complex than he had imagined, and this mission was only the beginning In the temple of ankrit in alag country Joe led his two students, Max and Rure, through the temple''s worn steps, the air thick with the scent of ancient earth and fresh tree sap. The temple was simple in its construction, built from the same stone as the idol itself, but the carvings along its walls spoke of a forgotten past¡ªwarriors clad in celestial armor, wielding forces beyond comprehension, standing against adversaries as vast as the stars. Joe halted before the idol, his expression unreadable. "Sit down, my dear students," he instructed. His voice carried a sense of reverence, something Max and Rure had rarely heard from him. They obeyed, settling themselves before the massive stone. The silence of the temple wrapped around them like a protective cocoon, the only sound being the rustling of leaves from the Great Tree above. Joe crossed his arms. "From now on, you are going to connect with the ground and nature using this divine idol. Lord Ankrit is said to be a fundamental part of Verdalian history, but these days, people no longer worship him as our ancestors did." Rure, ever the curious one, furrowed his brows. "I know Ankrit is important, but¡­ was he a god?" Max, equally intrigued, glanced at Joe, awaiting his answer. Joe exhaled, his eyes lingering on the idol. "I don¡¯t know," he admitted. "If there truly was a god, wars like this wouldn¡¯t exist." His voice held a weight that neither Max nor Rure fully understood, but they could sense the depth of his words. The temple fell into silence for a brief moment. Then, Joe clapped his hands together. "Alright, enough distractions. Close your eyes. Feel the earth beneath you. Let¡¯s begin meditation." The two boys followed his instruction, shutting their eyes and slowing their breaths. The first few minutes were uneventful¡ªjust the rhythm of their own heartbeats, the stillness of the air. But then, something changed. A warmth began to rise from the ground, a soft yet undeniable energy. It was neither frightening nor overwhelming¡ªit was like a gentle pulse, as if the earth itself was alive, breathing along with them. It started at their fingertips, then spread through their arms, to their chests, wrapping around their cores like an invisible embrace. Max''s eyebrows twitched slightly. Rure, unable to contain his curiosity, opened one eye. "Uh, Master Joe¡­ something is happening," he muttered. Max, too, peeked at Joe, who remained calm. Joe smirked slightly. "That¡¯s life energy," he explained. "It¡¯s easiest to sense it near the Great Tree since it pulsates with life itself. Not everyone gets to experience this. You two should consider yourselves lucky to have been born in Verdalia, where such energy exists in abundance." Rure¡¯s eyes widened. "This energy¡­ Verdalians can use it?" Joe¡¯s expression darkened slightly. "Once, we did." Max and Rure exchanged glances before looking back at Joe, waiting for him to continue. Joe sighed, running a hand through his graying hair. "Before two hundred years ago, Verdalians were one of the Twelve Ancient Tribes. We were not just warriors¡ªwe were masters of ancient arts, capable of wielding life energy in battle. Our ancestors fought to protect this planet, to defend the balance of the universe itself." Rure sat up straighter. "Then¡­ what happened?" Joe¡¯s gaze hardened. "A bitter incident changed everything. Our kings, out of fear or wisdom¡ªI do not know¡ªchose to abandon our warrior ways and focus solely on farming and agriculture. From that moment on, fewer and fewer Verdalians trained in combat, and the knowledge of our ancient arts began to fade." He closed his eyes briefly, as if remembering something painful. "Now, true warriors among us are rare." A heavy silence followed. Max clenched his fists. He thought of Skull. He thought of his own helplessness. The knowledge that Verdalians were once warriors but had now lost that part of themselves stirred something inside him. Joe sensed his thoughts. "That¡¯s why I¡¯m training you both," he said firmly. "Verdalia may have turned away from battle, but that does not mean its people should remain weak. If you wish to stand tall, if you wish to protect, then train. Focus. Become stronger." Max and Rure swallowed their emotions and nodded. Joe smirked again. "Good. Now, continue your meditation. We have a long way to go." The boys shut their eyes once more, the life energy surrounding them becoming clearer, stronger. The temple of Ankrit, long forgotten by many, bore witness to a new generation¡ªtwo young warriors who had just begun their journey