《Cycle of Fate》


 Chapter 1-Death

    The clash of steel echoed through the grand throne room, the air thick with tension and power. In the center of the battlefield stood a man¡ªa shadowy figure, his appearance concealed in darkness, exuding an overwhelming aura of malevolence. Around him, a small group of warriors fought fiercely, their resolve unshakable, though the odds seemed insurmountable.


    Noah¡¯s gaze swept across the chaotic scene, his heart pounding in rhythm with the battle. He was not alone. His comrades surrounded him, each fighting with a relentless fury. At the forefront was his younger brother, Isaac, wielding two massive greatswords. With every swing, Isaac''s strikes cleaved the air, carving at the enemy with brutal force. No wound could hold him back¡ªhis body healed almost instantly, his resolve seemingly unbreakable.


    Beside him, a woman with vibrant pink hair and piercing yellow eyes nocked arrow after arrow, each one aflame. Her fiery missiles arced through the air, exploding in bursts of heat as they struck the enemy, forcing the figure to constantly evade. Her sharp gaze never wavered, her precision deadly.


    Flitting across the battlefield was a man with blazing orange hair, his movements a blur of speed and strategy. He was methodical, applying curses and restrictions onto the foe with every strike. Each movement was calculated, each spell designed to weaken their shared adversary, whittling away his strength piece by piece.


    Then came a vampiric figure¡ªblonde hair tied back into a neat ponytail, his crimson eyes glowing with power. Lightning crackled at his fingertips, spreading through the room in erratic arcs. His electricity paralyzed their opponent¡¯s movements, giving the others openings to strike.


    Standing nearby, a man with stark white hair and luminous purple eyes cast his magic with careful precision. He was the group''s lifeline, healing any injuries sustained by his comrades. His hands glowed with soft light, mending cuts, and closing wounds before they could become fatal.


    Finally, Noah stood amidst the chaos, his own weapon glowing with an ethereal light. He gripped the hilt tightly, the sword pulsing in his hands. With a battle cry, he lunged forward, prepared to deliver the final blow to their enemy.


    But just as his sword neared the figure''s heart, everything shattered. Noah''s world dissolved in an instant.


    He woke with a start, his heart racing and his head throbbing. The remnants of the dream clung to him, fading with every breath. He sat up in his bed, rubbing his temples, trying in vain to remember the details. But it was slipping away, elusive as mist, leaving him with nothing but the sense of something vital lost.


    Noah slowly pushed himself up from the bed, his limbs heavy with exhaustion. Each movement sent a dull ache through his body, but he forced himself to cross the room. As he reached the mirror, he paused, gazing at his reflection. His black hair was a wild mess, tangled from restless sleep, and he absently began brushing it down, though it did little to tame the chaos. Atop his head, two white, spiraled draconic horns jutted out.


    Black spots marred his pale skin, radiating from his body like dark bruises. Each one pulsed with a deep, unrelenting pain. His breath hitched as a violent cough overtook him, and a spatter of blood escaped his lips, staining the mirror. His emerald draconic eyes stared back at him, piercing yet haunted by his own frailty. Noah wiped the blood away with the sleeve of his sleepwear, hiding the evidence of his suffering. He was only 15, yet his body felt worn, and fragile¡ªlike it could break at any moment.


    He stumbled through his bedroom, the world swaying with every step, until he reached the stairs. Just as he gripped the banister, his legs gave a slight tremble, and then a sharp pain shot through the back of his leg as he was kicked from behind.


    ¡°You know, a responsible older brother would check on his poor, sick sister,¡± came the voice of his younger brother, Isaac.


    Noah glanced back, irritated but too tired to argue. Isaac stood there, arms crossed, his expression a mix of annoyance and expectation. The boy¡¯s hair was stark white, a sharp contrast to Noah''s, and atop his head were two black, spiraled draconic horns. His eyes were strikingly different¡ªhis right was a deep, blood-red with draconic origins, while his left was an emerald green, marked by a crosshair-like symbol. Though only 8 years old, Isaac¡¯s gaze held a sharpness beyond his years.


    Noah sighed, rubbing his leg. ¡°You know, my health isn¡¯t that great, either.¡±


    Isaac scoffed. ¡°Sure, but you''re always sick. Isabelle¡¯s been stuck in bed for a week now, barely able to move. You¡¯re supposed to be the older brother.¡±


    Noah ran a hand through his hair, feeling the weight of Isaac¡¯s words. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go check on her.¡±


    With a tired exhale, he made his way to Isabelle¡¯s room, his steps slow and heavy. The bedroom was small but cozy, with two beds set side by side¡ªone for Isaac and the other for his twin sister. Noah''s eyes fell on Isabelle, who lay curled up beneath her blankets. Her long white hair was unkempt, strands falling messily around her pale face. The same white, curled draconic horns sat atop her head, but her frail condition made her look as if she could barely hold their weight. A pair of glasses rested on the nearby table, unused for days.


    As Noah stepped closer, Isabelle stirred, her eyes fluttering open. They were the same as Isaac¡¯s¡ªher right eye a deep, blood-red, but with an X-shaped symbol carved into the iris. Her left was an emerald green, glowing faintly with draconic power, though dulled by illness. She was only 8 years old, yet the sickness seemed to have drained all her life from her.


    Noah knelt by her bedside, his heart heavy. ¡°Hey, Isabelle,¡± he whispered softly, his voice betraying the concern he tried to mask.


    She blinked slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Noah¡­ I feel¡­ so tired.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he said, forcing a small smile. ¡°But you¡¯ll get better soon. You¡¯re strong.¡±


    Isabelle¡¯s eyes closed again, her breathing shallow and weak. Noah sat there in silence for a moment, his chest tightening as he watched his little sister struggle. He could feel the weight of Isaac¡¯s gaze on him from the doorway, and for a moment, he felt utterly helpless.


    ¡°She¡¯ll be okay, right?¡± Isaac¡¯s voice was softer now, the sharpness replaced with worry.


    Noah didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, he reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from Isabelle¡¯s face. He wanted to believe his own words as he finally spoke, ¡°Yeah¡­ she will.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a horrible liar,¡± Isaac muttered under his breath, turning on his heel and heading downstairs, leaving Noah in the silence of Isabelle¡¯s room. The truth of his brother¡¯s words weighed heavily on him, the knot in his chest tightening. He lingered for a moment longer, watching Isabelle¡¯s frail form before finally making his way down.


    By the time Noah descended, the rest of his family was already seated around the dining table. The aroma of fresh, home-cooked food filled the air. Despite their noble status, Noah¡¯s mother took pride in preparing meals for her family, finding joy in the simple act of cooking. Her smile was warm as she served plates, though her eyes, like everyone else¡¯s, held a quiet concern for her son.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to skip breakfast today,¡± Noah said, reaching for the sword mounted on the wall, its hilt gleaming in the soft morning light. ¡°I¡¯ll be training in the forest again.¡±


    His father, sitting at the head of the table, looked up, his brow furrowing in disapproval. ¡°I know you¡¯re desperate, son, but you don¡¯t need to push yourself this hard. You¡¯re already a fine successor to our family. Strength isn¡¯t everything.¡±


    Noah¡¯s hand tightened around the hilt of his sword, his knuckles white. The word successor felt hollow, a title that carried too much weight, especially for someone in his condition. He couldn¡¯t bear the thought of giving up, of allowing his weakness to define him.


    ¡°I want to get stronger,¡± he said, his voice strained with frustration and desperation. ¡°I need to prove myself. The entrance exams for the Hero¡¯s Academy are in a week, and I know I can pass them.¡±


    The room fell silent. His father¡¯s gaze softened, but the unspoken doubt hung in the air. Everyone in the family knew Noah¡¯s ambitions, but they also knew his limitations. Still, his mother, always the peacemaker, spoke up.


    ¡°Fine,¡± she said, her tone gentle but firm. ¡°If you¡¯re going out, make sure to visit Ava as well. She¡¯ll want to see you.¡±


    Noah managed a small, strained smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll visit her. She is my fianc¨¦e, after all.¡±


    He shouldered his sword and walked out of the manor, feeling the cool morning air hit his skin. But the moment he stepped outside, the whispers began¡ªfaint, but impossible to ignore. The townsfolk were talking again. They always were.


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    ¡°He doesn¡¯t look well¡­¡±


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


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


    Some voices were softer, filled with concern, but others were sharper, harsher.


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


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


    Noah¡¯s jaw clenched, his heart aching as he walked through the village. He knew what they thought of him¡ªthe sickly son, the fragile heir. They acknowledged his intelligence, and his care for the people, but it wasn¡¯t enough. Not for them. Strength was what they valued, and Noah¡¯s body betrayed him at every turn.


    Some whispered that they wished for his death, not out of malice, but because they believed Isaac, strong and healthy, would make a better ruler. The weight of their expectations pressed down on Noah¡¯s shoulders, each step through the village growing heavier.


    Still, he kept walking, determined to prove them wrong, to prove himself. As he neared the forest of ¨¢lfheimr, his thoughts drifted to its four ruling families. His own¡ªthe Fafnir family¡ªoversaw a diverse population, a mix of races and cultures. Then there was the Starbell family, who ruled over the elves and fairies. Ava, his fianc¨¦e, was a Starbell, and their betrothal had strengthened the bond between their two territories. The thought of her brought him a small measure of comfort.


    But then his thoughts darkened as he recalled the ruined Eldenwood territory, once home to a proud demi-human population. A criminal organization had attacked and decimated their land, leaving it in ruins. The survivors had fled to the Fafnir lands, seeking refuge, and Noah¡¯s family had taken them in. And finally, there was the domain of the Black Witch¡ªa quarter of the forest claimed by a being so powerful that no citizens lived there, yet none dared to question her authority.


    The forest loomed ahead, its towering trees casting long shadows across the path. Noah gripped his sword tighter, the weight of everything¡ªhis family, his health, the expectations of the town¡ªbearing down on him. But he pushed forward.


    He had to prove himself. Not just to his family, or the town, but to himself.


    Noah moved through the forest, his sword heavy in his grasp. Even the simplest creatures¡ªthe boars and slimes¡ªproved to be a challenge. His strikes lacked power, his body betraying him at every turn. Every swing of the blade felt like a burden, his muscles straining under the weight of exhaustion. Despite his determination, the forest seemed to mock him with its dangers, the simplest tasks turning into struggles.


    He pushed forward, determined not to return home empty-handed. But as he ventured deeper into the forest, something caught his eye. Just ahead, through the thick foliage, a group of individuals stood in quiet conversation.


    Noah quickly ducked behind a tree, his heart racing. He observed them carefully. The first figure was a man draped in a black cloak, his hands concealed by red gloves. A sinister plague doctor¡¯s mask obscured his face, giving him an unsettling presence. Beside him was a young girl, perhaps no older than Isaac, wearing a cow mask with a brown cloak that concealed most of her small frame. Next, a man with long, dirty blonde hair, and a fox mask covering his face, stood with a katana resting at his side. Finally, a man with striking neon green hair and piercing orange eyes stood tall in armor, a sword sheathed at his hip.


    Noah¡¯s breath hitched. He recognized the plague doctor¡¯s mask immediately¡ªit belonged to the leader of The Crows, a notorious criminal organization feared throughout the land. They were said to be a group of harbingers, some whispering that they could bring about the next apocalypse. The most disturbing rumor tied to them involved a man dressed in all white, who had been present in every recorded apocalypse in history. Seven apocalypses had already scarred the world, each one led by an individual who sought to bring about total destruction. And now, standing before him, was one of the very people responsible for the attack on the Eldenwood territory.


    The leader spoke, his voice calm but commanding. ¡°It seems we have a watcher. Faker, deal with him.¡±


    Noah¡¯s heart stopped as the neon-haired man, Faker, turned in his direction, his lips curling into a cruel smile. Before Noah could react, Faker lunged with terrifying speed, his sword glowing with an emerald hue as he swung it in a wide arc. The tree Noah had been hiding behind was cleaved in half, the blade narrowly missing his head as he ducked at the last possible moment. The raw power of the strike sent splinters flying through the air.


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t the failed son of the Fafnir family,¡± Faker sneered, stepping closer, his voice dripping with mockery. ¡°Hey boss, we¡¯re here for the brother, right? It¡¯s fine if I kill this one, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    The leader, still unmoved, gave a dismissive nod. ¡°Of course. He isn¡¯t even worth feeding to Viper. Inari, Labyrinth, follow me.¡± With that, he turned and began to walk away, his presence cold and indifferent, his codename Blank hanging in the air like a shadow.


    Noah¡¯s blood ran cold as he realized the gravity of the situation. He was alone, outmatched, and facing down a member of one of the deadliest organizations in the world. He barely had the strength to fight lowly monsters¡ªhow could he possibly survive this?


    Faker¡¯s grin widened as he slowly unsheathed his sword, the emerald glow growing brighter. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we plan to kill most of your family, too. So you¡¯ll get to meet them soon enough in the spirit realm.¡± He tilted his head, his orange eyes gleaming with sadistic delight. ¡°But I¡¯m feeling generous today. I¡¯ll give you one good hit. Try to kill me.¡±


    Noah¡¯s hands trembled as he gripped his sword. His body screamed in pain, his vision blurred by the weight of his sickness. But despite the terror gnawing at him, something deep inside him refused to give in. He knew this was hopeless, but the thought of doing nothing¡ªof simply allowing himself to be cut down¡ªwas unbearable.


    He straightened himself, tightening his grip on the hilt of his blade, every ounce of his remaining strength funneling into this one moment. Faker¡¯s smirk widened as he watched Noah gather himself, amused by the sight.


    ¡°Come on then,¡± Faker taunted, his voice dripping with mockery. ¡°Give me your best shot. Let¡¯s see what the ¡®failed son¡¯ is capable of.¡±


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


    His vision blurred with desperation as he steadied his blade, its weight almost unbearable in his trembling hands. His entire body screamed for him to stop, but his will was stronger than his flesh. With a deep breath, Noah surged forward, a roar of defiance escaping his lips.


    The world slowed around him. His sword felt impossibly heavy, each step like wading through thick mud. But he pushed through the fatigue, the weakness, the fear. With every ounce of strength he could muster, Noah swung his sword in a clean arc, the blade cutting through the air with a desperate whistle. The cold steel met flesh.


    Thwack¡ªFaker¡¯s head came clean off, severed from his body in one swift motion. It tumbled to the ground with a dull thud, rolling to a stop at Noah¡¯s feet.


    For a brief, fleeting moment, Noah felt a surge of hope¡ªhad he done it? Had he actually won?


    But then, horror unfolded before his eyes.


    The decapitated body remained standing, unaffected by the loss of its head. Slowly, the headless figure raised its hands and began to clap. The grotesque sound of flesh meeting flesh echoed through the clearing, chilling Noah to the bone. His breath caught in his throat as the severed head on the ground began to squirm, twisting and distorting until it broke apart into a swarm of writhing maggots. They slithered up the body¡¯s legs in a sickening, squirming mass, crawling over its torso and reassembling into Faker¡¯s face with unnatural precision.


    The man¡¯s cruel smile returned, as if nothing had happened. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to inform you,¡± he said, his voice calm and mocking, ¡°but I am the Primordial Regeneration, the Mimic. No matter how many times this vessel falls apart, you¡¯ll never be able to kill me.¡±


    Noah¡¯s blood ran cold. Desperation gripped his chest as his legs wobbled beneath him. This couldn¡¯t be real¡ªhe couldn¡¯t defeat something like this. But still, he refused to stop. He couldn¡¯t stop.


    With a strangled cry, Noah swung his sword again, the blade cutting shallow gashes across Faker¡¯s body. He hacked and slashed at the man with wild abandon, each strike more frantic than the last. But no matter how hard he tried, the wounds were shallow, and ineffective. Faker¡¯s flesh rippled and reformed, the gashes sealing almost as quickly as Noah could make them. His strikes became weaker and weaker, until they were nothing more than desperate taps, his arms too tired to swing with any real force.


    ¡°Pathetic,¡± Faker sneered, watching with cold amusement as Noah struggled in vain. ¡°Stop flailing around like that. Trash like you¡ªsomeone who doesn¡¯t even possess an ability¡ªshould learn when to give up.¡± He raised his blade, which shimmered with a bright emerald glow. ¡°Ability: Enchanter.¡±


    In one swift motion, Faker swung his sword. There was a flash of green light, and a sharp clang echoed through the forest. Noah stared in disbelief as the blade of his sword fell to the ground, cleanly severed from the hilt.


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


    Noah¡¯s mind raced. He was out of time, out of strength, and out of options. His sword was broken, his body was failing him, and yet¡­ he couldn¡¯t give up. Not now. Not when his family was at stake. He raised his head, fire flickering in his eyes despite the hopelessness of the situation.


    ¡°Damn you,¡± Noah spat through gritted teeth. ¡°I refuse to giv¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish, Noah felt a sharp, searing pain shoot through his chest. His eyes widened in shock as he looked down to see Faker¡¯s hand plunged deep into his torso, fingers wrapped around his heart. The world seemed to freeze as the realization of what was happening sunk in.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this ironic?¡± Faker whispered, his lips brushing against Noah¡¯s ear. His hand tightened, fingers digging into the pulsing organ. ¡°The so-called ¡®heir¡¯ of the Fafnir family, so weak, so pitiful.¡± He smiled, his voice soft yet filled with malice. ¡°You never stood a chance.¡±


    With a sickening crunch, Faker crushed Noah¡¯s heart in his hand. Agony unlike anything Noah had ever felt ripped through him. His vision darkened, his strength leaving him in an instant. His legs gave out, and he collapsed to the forest floor, gasping for breath that would no longer come. Blood poured from his mouth as he lay there, staring up at the canopy of trees, the sky fading from view.


    ¡°Rest in peace, failed son of the Fafnir family,¡± Faker said casually, flicking the blood from his hand as if Noah had been nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Without another glance, he turned and walked away, his footsteps fading into the distance.


    Noah¡¯s world grew dimmer, the sounds of the forest fading into a hollow silence. His chest ached with the weight of failure, not just for himself, but for his family¡ªIsaac, Isabelle, his parents. He had failed them all. As darkness overtook him, a single, bitter thought echoed through his mind.


    I wasn¡¯t strong enough¡­

 Chapter 2-Life

    Faker rejoined the group just as they crossed the threshold into the heart of the city, controlled by the Fafnir family. The streets were unnaturally silent, and the air was taut with impending doom. It was as if the city itself recognized the presence of these notorious criminals, and every citizen, hidden behind windows and closed doors, felt the chill of death brushing against them.


    City guards spotted the infamous figure in the plague doctor mask at the head of the group, and their training took over, spears snapping into position. They knew who he was. Blank, leader of The Crows, moved with a disturbing calm, his dark attire blending seamlessly into the shadows. A quiet chuckle escaped him, distorted beneath the beak of his mask.


    ¡°I admire your bravery,¡± he said, voice dripping with a mockery that sent shivers down the guards¡¯ spines. ¡°So willing to die for a duty you barely understand.¡±


    Blank removed his gloves without another word, revealing unnaturally pale hands pulsing with a dark energy. In a blur, he lunged forward, his hand slipping beneath the armor of the nearest guard and brushing against exposed skin. In seconds, the man¡¯s skin turned a ghastly shade of purple, blistering and bubbling until his entire body collapsed, reduced to a gelatinous, horrifying pool. His armor hit the cobblestones with a hollow clatter, like the sound of a funeral bell.


    Blank wiped his hand on a cloth with practiced indifference. ¡°I do hope the rest of you put up more of a fight,¡± he sneered.


    Inari, silent as a shadow, moved among the guards like a specter of death. His fox mask concealed his expression, but his katana gleamed with cruel intent, cutting through armor and flesh with terrifying ease. Each strike was swift, and elegant, a deadly dance of steel and blood that left the guards broken in his wake, their bodies crumpling into pools of scarlet.


    Meanwhile, Faker¡¯s laughter rose above the chaos, cold and sharp. Wielding his blade aglow with an intense emerald light, he tore through the guards, severing limbs and lives with brutal efficiency. Blood splattered against the cobblestones as Faker¡¯s eyes gleamed with sadistic pleasure, reveling in the symphony of death and destruction surrounding him.


    ¡°Look at them, dropping like flies,¡± he taunted, stepping over the fallen with casual disdain. ¡°This is almost too easy.¡±


    The surviving guards, faces drained of color, tried to hold their ground, but The Crows were an unstoppable force. One by one, they fell¡ªdissolved, slashed, or torn apart in a gruesome display that transformed the once-peaceful city square into a blood-soaked battlefield.


    Watching from behind shutters and cracked windows, the citizens held their breath in terror. They¡¯d heard the whispered rumors of The Crows, but witnessing their arrival in person was a nightmare none could have imagined. Hope was a fragile thing, slipping away as Blank¡¯s group pressed forward, leaving a trail of death and despair.


    At the center of the group, the young Labyrinth clung to Blank¡¯s shadow, her small frame trembling. Her wide eyes darted between the fallen guards and her monstrous allies, fear freezing her in place.


    ¡°Faker, enjoy yourself,¡± Blank ordered, his voice as cold as ice. ¡°Kill and devour to your heart''s content.¡±


    ¡°When can I get a new vessel?¡± Faker muttered, running a hand along his blade, his voice laced with irritation. ¡°This one is already falling apart.¡±


    ¡°Soon enough,¡± Blank replied smoothly. ¡°There¡¯s a mission for you in the capital. Claim your new vessel there.¡±


    Labyrinth whimpered softly, clutching Blank¡¯s cloak, as if hiding from the carnage she couldn''t escape. ¡°Boss¡­ why did I have to join this?¡± she whispered, her voice quivering.


    ¡°Your abilities are too valuable, my dear,¡± Blank reassured her, his tone oddly gentle despite the brutality unfolding around them. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let you be harmed.¡±


    As Faker¡¯s laughter echoed down the darkening streets, he set fire to the surrounding buildings, the flickering flames casting a grotesque light over the bodies left in his wake. With no mercy or remorse, he watched as the fire consumed the lives he had stolen, all while The Crows advanced toward the Fafnir family manor, leaving terror in their trail.


    ¡°He¡¯s so scary,¡± Labyrinth whimpered, clinging to Blank¡¯s cloak, her voice barely audible over the crackling flames.


    Blank looked down at her, a faint smile hidden beneath his mask. ¡°I understand, but that¡¯s precisely his value,¡± he replied, voice soft yet unwavering. ¡°You¡¯ll grow to appreciate it.¡±


    With a measured glance, he turned to Inari. ¡°Inari, retrieving the child will be your task. I trust there will be no complications?¡±


    ¡°Of course, sir,¡± Inari replied, dipping his head respectfully. ¡°And where will you be?¡±


    Blank¡¯s voice turned cold. ¡°Killing, naturally. I¡¯ll take care of any who think themselves capable of stopping us.¡±


    Within the Fafnir family manor, the sound of distant screams and the glow of flames caught the attention of the family. The mother, Alicia, clasped her hands over her mouth as she looked out the window.


    ¡°Honey, the town¡­¡± she whispered, her voice breaking. ¡°It¡¯s burning.¡±


    Hector, her husband, stared at the chaos below with a look of dawning horror. His city¡ªthe heart of his territory¡ªlay in ruins, engulfed in flames, their empire crumbling before his eyes.


    ¡°Noah¡­¡± he muttered, realization hitting him. ¡°He¡¯s still out there. Alicia, stay here and protect Isaac. I¡¯ll find Noah.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Alicia said, her eyes wide with fear. She gathered Isaac in her arms, shielding him as best she could. ¡°Go, quickly!¡±


    Hector rushed out, his heart pounding, only to freeze as he encountered the twisted figures of The Crows waiting for him, shadows against the fire-lit night. Recognition flashed in his eyes, turning quickly to fury.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s you,¡± Hector snarled, his voice filled with venom. ¡°The same ones who left Eldenwood in ruin. You monsters¡ªI¡¯ll kill each and every one of you!¡±


    Blank gave a soft laugh, gesturing dismissively to Inari. ¡°Inari, keep Labyrinth out of harm¡¯s way. Allow me to entertain our guest.¡±


    Blank stepped forward, sliding off his gloves as he moved, his hands emanating an eerie energy. Hector braced himself, his muscles tensing as his right arm began to shift. His flesh stretched, transforming into thick, crimson scales, while flames erupted, licking up his arm as he swung at Blank with titanic force.


    Blank barely managed to intercept the blow, but the impact reverberated through his bones with a sickening crack, shattering both arms. He staggered back, looking down at his broken limbs with mild irritation. ¡°How annoying.¡±


    A dark aura seeped from his shattered bones, and within seconds, his arms twisted back into place, regenerating with a sinister ease.


    ¡°By all means,¡± Blank murmured with a smirk, ¡°do try again.¡±


    Hector¡¯s eyes narrowed, and he straightened, gripping his arm as a surge of power rippled through his body. ¡°I won¡¯t hold back any longer,¡± he growled. ¡°Awaken my Regalia¡­ Arthur Pendragon!¡±


    A blinding light erupted from Hector''s hands, casting radiant beams that pierced the smoke and shadows around him. As the brilliance began to subside, it coalesced into a magnificent weapon¡ªa sword so grand and awe-inspiring it seemed almost divine. The blade itself was long and elegantly curved, with edges as sharp as judgment, forged from a silver metal that gleamed with an otherworldly luster. Intricate etchings ran along its length, ancient symbols glowing faintly as if infused with a force older and greater than anything mortal.


    The hilt was equally stunning, wrapped in dark leather with accents of pure gold. At its center rested a crystal orb, filled with a swirling light that pulsed rhythmically, like a heartbeat, in perfect sync with Hector¡¯s own. When he gripped it firmly, tendrils of light danced up his arm, fusing man and weapon, amplifying his strength and resolve. The crossguard extended like wings, each side adorned with tiny, engraved runes, which glowed brighter with each passing second, as though absorbing Hector¡¯s willpower and feeding it into the blade.


    The sword¡¯s radiant edge seemed to vibrate with restrained power, casting a brilliant aura that banished every shadow in its path. It wasn¡¯t just a weapon¡ªit was a beacon, a challenge, a declaration of war against darkness itself. Every movement caught the light, sending waves of iridescent energy rippling down the length of the blade, while faint sparks crackled at the tip, hinting at the devastating force contained within.


    ¡°Impressive,¡± Blank mused, tilting his head, ¡°though I doubt I¡¯ll require my own Regalia for this.¡±


    With a disturbing calmness, he reached to his own hand, grasping a finger as though it were an ordinary object to be discarded. In a grotesque, chilling display, he tore it off with a sickening snap. The severed digit writhed in his grasp, the bone elongating with a visceral crack as it twisted and contorted into a thin, jagged blade. Flesh stretched and darkened, melding seamlessly with sinew and veins that wove together to form a twisted shaft. The finger transformed, piece by piece, into a sinister scythe, its blade gleaming with a wicked, predatory sharpness that seemed to drink in the surrounding light.


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    The scythe pulsed with dark energy, as if born from his own life force, resonating with an unnatural, almost malicious hunger. And as he lifted his new weapon, his hand regenerated with horrifying precision, the skin, and bone knitting back together effortlessly, leaving him whole once more, and armed with a weapon born of his own flesh.


    ¡°Let¡¯s dance, shall we?¡± Blank said, his voice a low, dangerous whisper.


    Hector tightened his grip on his radiant blade, its light blazing like a star in the darkness surrounding him. He took a deep breath, his chest swelling as embers flickered from his mouth, before unleashing a torrent of scorching flame toward Blank. The fire roared forward, consuming the distance between them with searing heat and blinding light.


    Blank, however, merely smiled beneath his mask, his grip tightening on his grotesque scythe. He swung it in an arc that seemed to cut through the very air, creating a shadowy barrier that deflected the surrounding fire, the flames bending away as though afraid to touch him. Yet Hector pushed forward, his fire breath intensifying as he closed the gap, his blade crackling with power. With a fierce cry, he brought it down toward Blank¡¯s head.


    Blank parried with his scythe, the clash sending a shockwave that rippled through the air. The force cracked the cobblestones beneath them, but Blank didn''t falter. Instead, he twisted his wrist, forcing Hector back and countering with a vicious slice aimed at Hector¡¯s side. Hector barely dodged, feeling the dark blade scrape against his armor.


    Seizing the moment, he raised his hand, conjuring flames that danced along his arm before launching a blazing fist toward Blank''s face. Blank''s own hand darted up, catching Hector¡¯s wrist mid-swing. The dark energy pulsing from Blank¡¯s grip countered the fire licking at Hector¡¯s skin. Hector roared, yanking his arm free, then slamming his scaled claw into Blank''s chest.


    The impact shattered bone, the sound of ribs cracking like snapping branches, but Blank merely grinned wider, an eerie glow consuming the fractures as they mended themselves almost instantly. Hector¡¯s eyes widened in horror.


    ¡°Oh, Hector,¡± Blank cooed mockingly. ¡°I did warn you to try harder.¡±


    Blank drove his scythe forward, the blade slicing into Hector¡¯s shoulder. Hector gritted his teeth against the pain, countering with another burst of flames, but Blank moved faster, sidestepping the fire and slashing low, his scythe biting into Hector¡¯s thigh. Blood spattered onto the stone, and Hector staggered, but he retaliated with a wide swing of his sword, forcing Blank back.


    Wounded but determined, Hector lunged again, pouring everything into a final attack. He raised his blade, light erupting from it in a radiant glow, and brought it down with all his strength, aiming to split Blank in two. Blank met the strike head-on with his scythe, a brutal clash of light and shadow, but even as Hector strained, his opponent remained unyielding. Blank¡¯s mask cracked slightly from the force, but his laughter only grew louder.


    Hector drew back, his breaths coming in ragged gasps, but before he could react, Blank¡¯s scythe cleaved into his chest, deep enough to make his vision swim with pain. He stumbled back, his vision blurring, until he felt a cold, relentless grip close around his neck.


    Blank¡¯s hand tightened, lifting Hector effortlessly off the ground. He dangled there, powerless, the blazing sword slipping from his grip and clattering to the cobblestones below. Blank tilted his head, his masked face inches from Hector''s, his voice a cruel whisper.


    ¡°Tell me, Hector,¡± Blank murmured, his voice dripping with venomous mockery. ¡°Do you have any last words? Perhaps something I can tell your wife before I kill her?¡±


    With what strength he had left, Hector snarled, ¡°Go to hell.¡± Then, summoning the last of his inner fire, he spat directly at Blank''s face. The spit sizzled into molten lava, scorching through the cracked glass of Blank¡¯s mask and into his left eye. A sickening hiss filled the air as the lava melted through flesh and bone, leaving a charred, hollow socket.


    For a brief, glorious moment, Hector saw pain flicker across Blank¡¯s face. But that flicker turned into an even more deranged smile as the empty, ruined eye grotesquely knitted itself back together, sinews and tissue rebuilding at an unnatural speed. In seconds, Blank¡¯s eye was as whole and cold as before.


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll make sure your wife gets that message,¡± Blank said icily. With a sudden, vicious twist of his hand, he crushed Hector¡¯s neck. The sickening crunch echoed through the air as Hector''s body went limp, his blade slipping from his grasp, its brilliant light fading to cold, lifeless steel before dissolving into wisps of white smoke.


    Blank dropped Hector¡¯s lifeless form with cruel indifference, wiping his hands as if he had merely swatted a bug. ¡°Labyrinth, keep an eye on the body,¡± he commanded. ¡°We¡¯ll feed it to Viper later.¡±


    A faint cry of horror came from within the manor. Alicia stood frozen in the doorway, her hands clasped over her mouth as she watched her husband fall. Her face was pale, eyes wide and rimmed with tears, a sword clutched shakily in her trembling hands.


    ¡°No¡­ no¡­¡± she choked out, terror and grief twisting her features.


    ¡°Isaac, run! Hide!¡± she managed, pushing her son toward the shadowed safety of a nearby room. As he darted into the dark, he stole a last look through a small crack in the door, watching as the terrible scene unfolded.


    The Crows forced their way into the home, each step reverberating through the walls. Alicia faced them, her body trembling yet rooted in desperate resolve. She raised the sword, the blade wobbling in her weak, untrained grip as her eyes locked on Blank, who advanced toward her with a darkly amused gaze.


    ¡°Oh, your husband left me a message for you,¡± Blank said with a mocking smirk. ¡°He said, ¡®Go to hell.¡¯ But I suppose that wasn¡¯t meant for you.¡± He laughed, a cold, hollow sound that echoed through the hall.


    Alicia''s knuckles whitened on the hilt, her tears glinting in the dim light as she tried to steady her wavering voice. ¡°You won¡¯t touch my children¡­ I swear it.¡±


    Blank¡¯s head tilted, a mocking grin twisting beneath the shattered mask. ¡°I¡¯ve already killed Noah and your husband. What do you think you can do with those frail arms, barely able to hold a sword?¡± He took a step closer, his tone deceptively gentle. ¡°Give me your son, and I¡¯ll let you live.¡±


    With a burst of desperate courage, Alicia lunged, the sword heavy and clumsy in her hands. Inari intercepted her with ruthless efficiency, his katana flashing as it caught her blade mid-swing, blocking her with ease.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t necessary, Inari,¡± Blank muttered, sounding almost annoyed.


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Inari replied, knocking Alicia back with a quick flick of his blade.


    Blank advanced again, his eyes cold. ¡°So, what¡¯s it to be? Will you sacrifice yourself to save him, or save yourself by giving him up?¡±


    ¡°Never!¡± Alicia¡¯s voice rang through the hallway, fierce but fragile. ¡°I won¡¯t ever hand him over. I¡¯d rather die.¡±


    Blank scoffed, his tone darkening. ¡°Your son will regret your choice. He¡¯ll carry that regret for life, wishing you¡¯d chosen survival over sentiment.¡± His voice grew almost introspective. ¡°Believe me, I know¡­ I wish my mother had sacrificed me. I¡¯d rather she¡¯d been selfish.¡±


    Alicia¡¯s face was pale but resolute. ¡°If a mother isn¡¯t willing to die for her children, she isn¡¯t a mother at all.¡±


    Blank let out a low, almost appreciative chuckle. ¡°Perhaps. A mother¡¯s love truly knows no bounds. So be it.¡± His arm shifted grotesquely, his hand transforming into a jagged blade. ¡°Now¡­ die.¡±


    With a sickening blur of movement, Blank swung his arm, severing Alicia¡¯s head in a single, brutal stroke. Her body crumpled to the ground, the sword slipping from her hand as her head rolled across the floor, her expression still marked by fierce defiance. Isaac, watching through a crack in the door, let out a silent, horrified gasp as he witnessed his mother fall.


    Blank¡¯s gaze shifted, and his voice turned coaxing, almost playful. ¡°Isaac, come out now. We¡¯re not here to hurt you, really¡­ we just want to talk.¡±


    ¡°Sir, I believe he¡¯s hiding in that room,¡± Inari remarked.


    ¡°Obviously, Inari,¡± Blank muttered, his tone irritated. ¡°I¡¯m just playing along with the theatrics.¡±


    Isaac, hearing them grow closer, panicked and burst from his hiding spot, his small frame darting through the halls of the manor as fast as his legs would carry him.


    Blank watched, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he called after the boy. ¡°Oh look! He¡¯s revealed himself! However, will we catch him now?¡± He waved Inari forward dismissively. ¡°Go get him. Hurry.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Inari replied, disappearing down the hall in pursuit.


    Isaac ran through the corridors, his heart pounding, mind racing as he skidded to a halt by the back exit of the manor. A staircase loomed to his left, but something held him there in uncertainty, caught between his instinct to escape and the knowledge that his sister was still somewhere within.


    ¡°What do I do¡­ what do I do?¡± he whispered, tears streaming as he choked back a sob, fear, and helplessness gripping him.


    Inari surged toward him with blinding speed, his presence a looming shadow. Driven by sheer panic, Isaac bolted, slamming through the back door and into the night, his heart racing like a wild drum.


    Isaac¡¯s small voice wavered in the night air, lost amid the towering trees. ¡°I need to escape?¡± His face was streaked with tears, his breathing panicked as he forced himself to run, limbs shaking with exhaustion and terror.


    Behind him, Inari¡¯s calm but relentless footsteps closed in, swift as death itself. Isaac heard the rustle of leaves and dared to glance back, a chill running down his spine as he saw Inari draw his katana, muttering softly, ¡°A quick slash should be enough. Sword technique: Wind Blade.¡±


    Inari¡¯s blade gleamed under the sunlight as it sliced through the air, releasing a powerful arc of wind that cut across the forest like an invisible scythe. As Isaac looked, back he felt a sting at his neck, and blood trickled down his skin, hot and sickening. He stumbled, clutching his neck in desperation, but still, he forced his legs to keep moving, his vision blurring as he pushed deeper into the forest.


    Then, as his strength waned, he saw a figure standing just ahead, illuminated by a faint, otherworldly glow. The man was unlike anyone Isaac had ever seen, dressed in a pristine white suit with a matching top hat, a purple eye gleaming from behind a monocle. His purple hair flowed down against his dark skin, catching the soft glow of sunlight. As Isaac collapsed at his feet, the man bent down, a calm smile on his face.


    ¡°Ah, it seems I didn¡¯t need to search for you, after all.¡± The man¡¯s voice was soothing, rich with a strange promise. ¡°Fear not, Apostle of Calamity. I¡¯ll not let them harm you.¡±


    With a sweep of his hand, the stranger touched Isaac''s shoulder, and in a flash of violet light, they vanished, leaving the forest silent and still.


    Inari arrived moments later, scanning the empty clearing. He frowned, his shoulders slumping as he realized his target had slipped away. ¡°The boss is going to be furious,¡± he muttered, sheathing his blade.


    Back within the forest, miles away, another quiet scene unfolded. There, lying motionless among the twisted roots, was Noah¡¯s body, his face pale and eyes closed. Footsteps broke the silence, a young boy stepped into view, cloaked in black robes that contrasted starkly with his pale, almost ethereal face. Golden-blonde hair spilled over his shoulders, and a mask covered the upper half of his face, lending him an eerie yet angelic aura. Small, feathered wings unfurled delicately from his back, gleaming faintly under the starlight.


    He looked down at Noah¡¯s lifeless form with mild curiosity, as though appraising a rare artifact. ¡°A shame¡­¡± he murmured, his voice soft, laced with a strange sadness. ¡°You weren¡¯t the one I intended to make a hero. But I suppose you¡¯ll have to do.¡±


    Raising a hand, he whispered, ¡°Ability activate¡­ Miracle.¡±


    From his fingertips, a single droplet of golden water formed, hanging in the air before it fell onto Noah¡¯s forehead. The liquid shimmered with a divine radiance as it absorbed into Noah¡¯s skin. Slowly, his eyes fluttered open, filled with a mixture of confusion and wonder as they adjusted to the dim forest light.

 Chapter 3-Despair

    As Noah awoke, he instinctively clutched his chest, feeling the eerie absence of the gaping wound that had once torn through him. The searing pain was gone, replaced by an unsettling emptiness. But as he lifted his gaze, horror washed over him: his home, a once-familiar sanctuary, was now engulfed in towering flames, the inferno dancing with malevolent glee.


    ¡°No, no¡­¡± Noah gasped, panic clawing at his throat as he stumbled to his feet, the heat of the blaze searing his skin. He fought against the encroaching dread, the world around him spinning with the chaos of destruction.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, young Fafnir,¡± a voice interjected, smooth and mocking. Noah turned to find a boy standing before him, clad in a flowing robe that shimmered like liquid starlight. His eyes, bright with an unnatural light, held a weight that seemed to press down on Noah''s heart. ¡°Your parents are dead, and Isaac has escaped. You couldn¡¯t change anything, even if you wanted to.¡±


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Noah demanded, his voice trembling but defiant, desperation fueling his words.


    ¡°Me?¡± The boy smiled, an enigmatic grin that held both warmth and something darker. ¡°You may call me Lux. To put it bluntly, I am the god of hope. And you, my dear, are destined to be this era¡¯s hero, the one who shall save it from the impending apocalypse.¡±


    As Lux spoke, the flames cast eerie shadows across Noah''s face, illuminating the stark realization of his loss and the weight of the path laid before him. The world around him crackled with despair, but Lux¡¯s presence was a flicker of light amid the darkness, promising purpose in the wake of devastation.


    ¡°How blasphemous! I don¡¯t see a cross around your neck,¡± Lux lamented, his tone dripping with mock disappointment. ¡°I¡¯m the only god with an established church, and you, of all heroes, are the first to not actively worship me. I must admit, it saddens me.¡±


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


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


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Noah said, his brow furrowed with confusion. ¡°But why did you choose me? I¡¯m not exactly a beacon of health right now. I don¡¯t even have an ability.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? Of course, you have an ability,¡± Lux countered, tilting his head, an amused smile playing on his lips.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Noah asked, bewildered.


    Lux stepped closer, his fingers brushing against the dark spots scattered across Noah¡¯s arm. ¡°These black spots¡ªthese are your ability. It¡¯s called The Ladybug. A truly exquisite gift, if I do say so. It absorbs the pain and suffering of those around you and stores it within your body. Your territory has flourished because of it, but your declining health¡­ that¡¯s a direct result of your sacrifice.¡±


    Tears welled in Noah¡¯s eyes as he processed Lux¡¯s words. ¡°I see. I¡¯m glad I could be of use. A true hero should sacrifice himself for others,¡± he said, his voice trembling with emotion.


    ¡°I agree,¡± Lux said, his tone shifting to one of admiration. ¡°It seems I¡¯ve chosen the perfect candidate. However, I¡¯ve made a slight alteration to your ability to make it less likely to kill you. Now, hold out your arm and channel your mana into the spots.¡±


    With a mix of trepidation and determination, Noah followed Lux¡¯s instructions. As he concentrated, a bolt of darkness surged from his arm, tearing through the air and obliterating a nearby tree with a violent crack.


    ¡°I did that?¡± Noah gasped, astonishment mingling with hope.


    ¡°Of course! I couldn¡¯t allow my hero to be useless,¡± Lux replied, his voice filled with pride.


    ¡°Damn it! If only I had this power earlier, I could¡¯ve stopped those bastards!¡± Noah cried, fresh tears streaming down his face.


    ¡°Oh please, don¡¯t flatter yourself,¡± Lux chided gently. ¡°Even in this state, you wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against them. It will take time, training, and practice to truly harness your ability.¡±


    As Noah gazed at the remnants of the shattered tree, a flicker of resolve ignited within him. He may have been battered and broken, but now, he held the potential to rise from the ashes and reclaim his destiny.


    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll wait here,¡± Lux declared, his tone firm yet strangely comforting. ¡°I don¡¯t plan to return until those crows are dealt with. It would be a shame for my hero to perish so soon.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t just sit back and let it end like this,¡± Noah insisted, urgency lacing his words as he struggled to his feet.


    ¡°What a troublesome brat I¡¯ve acquired,¡± Lux sighed, shaking his head with a hint of exasperation. ¡°But very well, I¡¯ll keep watch over you.¡±


    Meanwhile, Inari trudged back to Blank, his expression heavy with regret. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir, but the kid got away,¡± he reported, his shoulders slumping.


    ¡°I should have brought all the commanders here,¡± Blank muttered, a flicker of frustration crossing his face. ¡°This mission was crucial.¡±


    ¡°They all have difficult personalities, sir,¡± Inari reminded him, trying to lighten the mood. ¡°You¡¯re fortunate that Faker was so cooperative.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Blank conceded, exhaling slowly. ¡°But still, the fact that we stopped that damned god from securing a new hero candidate is an accomplishment in itself.¡±


    A smirk tugged at Inari¡¯s lips. ¡°I imagine Labyrinth is on the verge of tears as she watches over that corpse. I should go make sure she is alright, is there anything else you need to take care of?¡±


    ¡°Just one more thing, you may go join her¡± Blank replied, his gaze narrowing as Inari left the manor.


    Outside, he found Faker sitting on the ground, boredom etched across his features. As expected, Labyrinth hovered nearby, her face streaked with tears, trembling as she stared at the lifeless body before her.


    Moments later, Blank joined them, his demeanor shifting as he cradled the unconscious body of Isabelle in his arms. ¡°It¡¯s time to move,¡± he announced, his voice cold and commanding. ¡°Faker, carry the corpse. Viper will be delighted with his new meal.¡±


    Suddenly, a bolt of darkness shot through the air, striking Blank squarely in the leg. He stumbled, pain flaring as his leg was severed. But with a swift motion, he healed the wound, his expression a mask of irritation as he readjusted his balance.


    ¡°Who dares¡ª¡± Blank growled, his voice a low rumble that vibrated with malice as he scanned the area, fury igniting like a wildfire in his eyes.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you get away, you bastard!¡± Noah yelled, his heart racing as he summoned a bolt of dark energy. The power crackled in his palms, fueled by a tempest of rage and despair, as his memories of loss and helplessness surged to the forefront.


    ¡°Oh, I wouldn¡¯t recommend that,¡± Blank sneered, a twisted smile spreading across his face. He thrust Isabelle forward, using her as a shield. ¡°It would be a shame if your poor sister got harmed.¡±


    ¡°No! You monster!¡± Noah screamed, his voice thick with anguish. Each word felt like daggers piercing through him, the sight of his sister trembling in Blank''s grip igniting a wildfire of fury within him. ¡°I won¡¯t let you get away with this!¡±


    ¡°Oh, but you will,¡± Blank replied, his tone chillingly indifferent. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to kill a brat who has already died once. Nor am I interested in battling one of the five primordial gods. Let us end this now. I¡¯m quite certain we will meet again, failure of the Fafnir family.¡±


    ¡°Labyrinth, open a gate for us,¡± Blank ordered, his words devoid of emotion.


    With every ounce of strength she could muster, Labyrinth conjured a large, swirling portal, a shimmering vortex of colors that seemed to pulse with desperation. One by one, the other members stepped through, leaving Noah to face the void of his loss.


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    Blank paused at the threshold, glancing back at Noah with a cruel grin. ¡°I do hope we meet again. Watching you die a second time will be quite enjoyable.¡±


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


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


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


    Entering the room, Lux found Noah on his knees, tears streaming down his face, his breath hitching in disbelief as he stared at his mother¡¯s headless body sprawled on the floor. The air was thick with the scent of smoke and ash, a stark reminder of the brutality that had just unfolded.


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


    ¡°There is nothing wrong with what you¡¯re feeling right now,¡± Lux replied gently, his voice steady and reassuring. ¡°Harness this fury, Noah. Remember what that man took from you. Let it fuel your resolve.¡±


    ¡°I will, I will! I¡¯ll never forget!¡± Noah vowed, clenching his fists until his nails dug into his palms, the pain grounding him in the reality of his grief. The fire in his heart blazed brighter, a dark promise forged in anguish and determination. He would rise from this, stronger than before. He would make them pay.


    Isaac awoke to the faint scent of antiseptic and the dim light filtering through cracked, dusty windows. He found himself lying on a rickety cot in what looked like a nurse¡¯s office, its paint peeling and shelves cluttered with outdated potion bottles. The room¡¯s neglected state hinted at the humble resources of wherever he had ended up. As his eyes adjusted, he shifted and noticed a boy sitting nearby with messy crimson hair and piercing, draconic eyes of the same shade. A black face mask covered much of the boy¡¯s face, as if he was uncomfortable or reluctant to show more of himself.


    ¡°Where am I?¡± Isaac murmured, trying to process his disorientation.


    The boy looked over, his gaze calculating but warm. ¡°I heard we were getting a new kid,¡± he replied with a casual shrug. ¡°Name¡¯s Karma. Welcome to Sunshine Orphanage. Currently, we¡¯re on the continent of Midgard.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s stomach dropped as Karma¡¯s words sank in. ¡°Midgard? That¡¯s¡­ an entirely different continent. How¡­? My family¡­ they¡¯re all gone, and I¡¯m here on the other side of the world. I was on ¨¢lfheimr¡­ how did I end up here?¡± His voice quivered as fragments of his last memories flooded back to him, the horror of that night still fresh and vivid.


    Karma nodded knowingly, his expression hidden behind the mask but his eyes reflecting a glint of understanding. ¡°Most of us got here in strange ways. I was living in a forest on the continent of Helheim before I ended up here. I was¡­ well, let¡¯s say in a rough spot, being attacked by a monster. Next thing I knew, I was waking up in this orphanage.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s head spun, grappling with this whirlwind of new information. ¡°There¡¯s¡­ so much to process here,¡± he said, barely above a whisper.


    Karma sighed, his posture slightly slumped. ¡°Yeah, I get it. Been here just a week myself, and it¡¯s still weird.¡±


    Before Isaac could say more, the door creaked open, and an elderly woman shuffled in with a warm smile. She was diminutive but carried an air of gentle authority. Her face was deeply lined, her neon-green eyes bright and sharp beneath her long, white hair. She leaned on a cane adorned with a snake motif, its emerald eyes carved to glimmer in the faint light. The woman wore a faded brown dress, and a spiderweb tattoo adorned her hand, a subtle reminder that perhaps she was more than met the eye.


    ¡°Welcome to my orphanage, young one,¡± she said, her voice soft yet filled with an undeniable strength. She gave Isaac a nod of encouragement. ¡°I¡¯m Agatha, though the children call me Granny. You must have so many questions, dear. You¡¯re safe here, as safe as one can be in this place.¡±


    Isaac glanced between Agatha and Karma, trying to grasp this strange new reality, feeling like he¡¯d been thrown into a world he barely recognized, yet somehow, he felt a flicker of safety in their presence.


    ¡°Thank you¡­ Granny,¡± he murmured, the weight of everything beginning to settle heavily upon him. He might be far from his old life, but a small part of him dared to hope that perhaps, here in this unfamiliar place, he might find a way to start anew.


    ¡°First of all, Karma, how many times do I have to tell you to stop picking fights you can¡¯t win?¡± Agatha scolded, swinging her cane to land a light yet sharp tap on Karma¡¯s head.


    ¡°Ow! What the¡ª¡± Karma hissed, rubbing the sore spot.


    ¡°Language, Karma,¡± Agatha said with an unyielding glare, one that spoke of countless past warnings.


    As Karma grumbled under his breath, Agatha turned back to Isaac, her expression softening with sympathy. ¡°Welcome to my orphanage, Isaac. After the attack on your home¡­ a friend brought you here for safety,¡± she said gently, the warmth of her tone did little to mask the gravity of her words.


    Isaac¡¯s face fell as her words pierced him. ¡°What am I doing here? My family¡­ my family, they need me¡ª¡± His voice cracked, his eyes flooding with tears as the realization began to settle.


    Agatha placed a hand on his shoulder, her face a mask of sympathy, though a shadow lingered in her gaze. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Isaac. There were no survivors. They¡¯re¡­ they¡¯re all gone.¡±


    Isaac choked back a sob, his face contorted with pain as despair hit him like a storm. A numbness began to settle, his grief quickly morphing into a blazing anger.


    After a moment of silence, Agatha¡¯s voice dropped to a whisper, edged with a hint of darkness. ¡°Would you like revenge?¡±


    Isaac¡¯s head snapped up, his tear-filled eyes burning with a newfound fury. ¡°Yes,¡± he whispered, his voice trembling but resolute. ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    Agatha¡¯s gaze hardened, her eyes flashing with a sharp intensity. ¡°Then listen well, Isaac. You will spend the next seven years here, training harder than you¡¯ve ever known. And when you¡¯re of age, you¡¯ll take the entrance exam to the Hero¡¯s Academy in Castletown. There, you will continue to grow stronger¡ªstrong enough to find and face the ones responsible for this tragedy.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s determination solidified, his grief and anger twisting into a fierce resolve. ¡°But¡­ can I pass the entrance exam?¡± he asked, doubt flickering in his voice.


    Agatha leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. ¡°Let me share a little secret. This orphanage is funded by the academy¡¯s headmaster himself. He values my word, and as long as I say you¡¯re trained well enough, you¡¯ll get in¡ªno matter how you score on the entrance exam.¡±


    Isaac nodded, his jaw set with grim determination. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to give you results that speak for themselves. I won¡¯t just pass; I¡¯ll be the top-ranked candidate. I¡¯ll grow stronger than any of them. I¡¯ll find them¡­ and I¡¯ll kill those bastards.¡±


    Agatha¡¯s face softened, though her cane came down sharply on his shoulder in a practiced swing. ¡°Language, Isaac.¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am,¡± Isaac muttered, rubbing his shoulder but already lost in thought, his mind a tempest of memories and dark promises.


    Isaac turned to Karma, his face filled with grim resolve. ¡°Karma, will you join me? Will you come to Castletown and face this with me?¡±


    Karma raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. ¡°I¡¯ve known you for less than five minutes.¡±


    ¡°Fair point,¡± Isaac replied with a determined grin. ¡°But I¡¯m serious. Will you?¡±


    Before Karma could answer, Agatha¡¯s voice cut through, her tone firm. ¡°I should mention that neither of you has a choice in the matter. Both of you will go to Castletown and train to become the heroes you need to be.¡±


    Karma sighed, shoulders slumping. ¡°Yes, Granny, I¡¯ll go.¡±


    ¡°Good. I expect both of you to grow stronger than you ever imagined,¡± she said, nodding with a knowing smile, before adding softly, ¡°Rest up while you can.¡±


    She walked away, leaving Isaac and Karma in silence, each feeling the weight of the journey ahead.


    Moments later, Agatha entered her office, her demeanor shifting as she closed the door behind her. A figure awaited her in the dim room, a man, his legs kicked up on her desk, lounging with an unsettling ease. His face was half-lit, revealing an amused grin as he watched her enter. It was the same man who had brought Isaac here.


    ¡°Thank you for taking care of those two,¡± Ashe said, eyes glinting with a sinister amusement. ¡°I¡¯m quite excited to see how they develop.¡±


    Agatha placed a hand on her chest and bowed her head with practiced reverence. The spiderweb tattoo on her hand began to glow faintly, pulsing with a dark purple light. ¡°Of course, my lord. I am here to assist you in any way possible.¡±


    Ashe chuckled, clearly enjoying the show of devotion. ¡°It¡¯s always so satisfying to have a¡­ useful apostle.¡±


    Agatha¡¯s eyes gleamed as she lowered herself to a half-kneel, her age making it difficult. She winced, pain flickering across her face. ¡°I serve you gladly, Lord Ashe, greatest of the gods, bearer of Despair.¡±


    He leaned forward, almost mockingly concerned. ¡°Please, don¡¯t strain yourself on my behalf, Agatha. You¡¯re one of the few humans whose despair I don¡¯t relish.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, my lord,¡± she murmured, her voice filled with reverence, though a strange bitterness lurked behind her words. ¡°You truly are magnificent.¡±


    Ashe''s gaze darkened, his tone dropping to a deadly calm. ¡°Just ensure that they¡¯re ready, that they become useful. And, of course¡±¡ªhe tilted his head, his voice dripping with malice¡ª¡°do not speak to Isaac about his surviving family.¡±


    Agatha¡¯s face stiffened, her expression hidden by shadows as she replied, ¡°Yes, my lord. It will be as you command.¡±


    A twisted smile crossed Ashe¡¯s face, satisfied with her loyalty.


    With that, the curtain closed on the opening act. Unseen forces were already weaving threads of destiny around these two brothers¡ªeach cast into darkness yet bound by an unbreakable link. Separated by time, by continents, and by cruel fate, Isaac and Noah¡¯s paths had only just begun to diverge.

 Chapter 4-Starbell

    Noah sat on the floor, his fists clenched, his gaze distant and hollow as he processed the trauma of the last few hours. Lux leaned casually against the wall, his elegant form a contrast to the surrounding destruction. His hair fell over his face, shadowing eyes that watched Noah with an expression both calculating and surprisingly gentle. From his pocket, he produced a silver watch and flicked it open, letting its ticking fill the heavy silence.


    ¡°We need to move. There are people to meet,¡± Lux said, his voice calm but resolute. ¡°For now, at least, I¡¯ll help you lay them to rest.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Noah whispered, his voice barely audible as he met Lux¡¯s gaze, his eyes betraying the last remnants of exhaustion and grief.


    In response, Lux snapped his fingers, and with a soft glow, a cascade of golden light enveloped each of the fallen. In an instant, the bodies vanished, reappearing outside in a line of freshly formed graves. A light breeze rustled the leaves as Lux stepped outside, bowed his head, and murmured, ¡°May the Lord of the Spirit Realm welcome you into his embrace.¡±


    ¡°A god praying to another god¡­¡± Noah observed, his tone one of surprise. ¡°How odd.¡±


    Lux lifted his head, a small smile touching his lips. ¡°It¡¯s simply respect. He¡¯s a close friend of mine¡± A rare solemnity shadowed Lux¡¯s face, and for a moment, Noah glimpsed the complexity of his guide.


    Noah¡¯s gaze softened, and he took a deep breath, seemingly gaining strength from Lux¡¯s steady presence. ¡°Thank you¡­ for all of this,¡± he said.


    Lux waved a hand dismissively. ¡°Come. We¡¯ll have time to deal with what remains later. We have a journey ahead.¡±


    As Noah rose to his feet, a new purpose seemed to light within him. ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    ¡°The Starbell territory,¡± Lux replied. ¡°We¡¯ll meet an ally along the way. If all goes well, it should be an advantageous journey.¡±


    Noah¡¯s face brightened a little as he absorbed the news. ¡°And Ava will be there? We finally have a reason to cross paths again, it¡¯s been a while.¡±


    Lux glanced at him, the hint of amusement in his eyes. ¡°For an arranged marriage, you seem rather taken with her.¡±


    A faint blush crossed Noah¡¯s cheeks. ¡°I am,¡± he admitted. ¡°It¡¯s one arrangement I never had to force myself to accept.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s not waste time,¡± Lux said, pushing off from the wall. ¡°Your future awaits, and your path, twisted as it may be, is just beginning.¡±


    The forest air was thick with tension as Noah and Lux moved through the shadows, Noah¡¯s senses alert as he hunted. Every movement was precise, his sword flashing with dark energy as he cut down monster after monster. Slimes burst apart, dissolving into shadows, while insectoid creatures writhed as they fell, his blade cleaving effortlessly through them. With each swing, he could feel the dark energy coursing through him, fueling his strength and quickening his reflexes.


    ¡°The more I channel this energy, the lighter I feel,¡± Noah remarked, a thrill of excitement in his voice as he sliced through another foe with renewed vigor.


    Lux watched with mild interest, leaning against a tree as he observed Noah¡¯s technique. ¡°Enjoy it while you can,¡± he advised. ¡°Your dark energy supply isn¡¯t endless. It will drain with each use,¡± he added, nodding toward the fading black spots on Noah¡¯s arm.


    Undeterred, Noah pressed on, his swordsmanship sharp and efficient, each swing displaying both skill and growing confidence. Just as he prepared to strike down another slime, it paused, as if reacting to his presence. The creature began to shift, its gelatinous form stretching and rippling until it took on the shape of a young man. His appearance was both striking and intimidating¡ªeyes a fierce shade of crimson, their shape reminiscent of a lion¡¯s glare, and silver hair cascading over his shoulders. Dark markings framed his face, three bold lines on each cheek, and he wore a regal red coat trimmed with fur, giving him an air of unmistakable authority.


    With a graceful movement, the man raised his hand, halting Noah¡¯s blade effortlessly. His expression was one of simmering anger, his gaze piercing.


    ¡°Such audacity,¡± the man sneered, his voice a low, menacing growl. ¡°An insolent human, thoughtlessly cutting down my creatures as if they were nothing.¡±


    Noah took a step back, startled by the man''s sudden appearance and sheer presence. ¡°Who¡­ who are you?¡± he managed, his voice barely steady as he tightened his grip on his sword.


    The silver-haired figure¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°I am Sicil, I am the God of Monsters, and master of the creatures you so casually slay,¡± he replied, his tone filled with contempt. He leaned closer, his fierce gaze locking with Noah¡¯s. ¡°You¡¯ve invaded my realm and killed my subjects without a second thought.


    Noah gritted his teeth, his body tensing. ¡°They attacked first. I¡¯m not here to cause trouble,¡± he said, though his tone betrayed a mixture of resolve and fear.


    Sicil scoffed, his eyes blazing with fury. ¡°In my forest, there¡¯s no distinction. Every creature here is under my protection,¡± he growled. With a swift motion, he pushed Noah¡¯s sword away, forcing Noah to stumble back.


    Lux finally stepped forward, his calm and unruffled demeanor casting a stark contrast to the tension simmering between them. He met Sicil¡¯s hostile gaze with a faint, knowing smile. ¡°Sicil, it¡¯s good to see you again. How long has it been since you¡­ assisted me with killing your mother? Anyway, I¡¯d like to cash in that little favor.¡±


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


    Lux¡¯s smile widened, unbothered by Sicil¡¯s fury. ¡°True, I did. But come on, Sicil, you could¡¯ve resisted like your sibling Oz did¡ªand look, Oz is still alive. What¡¯s done is done, and now you¡¯re stronger for it, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Sicil¡¯s voice dropped, a dangerous edge lining his words. ¡°I despise you, you bastard. You forced me to kill my own mother, and now you act like you did me a favor?¡±


    ¡°She was an Apocalypse,¡± Lux replied, unblinking. ¡°An entity designed to bring ruin. Her death was a necessity for this world¡¯s survival. You should know the difference between us, Sicil. You¡¯re a lesser god; I¡¯m primordial. The power disparity is vast enough that it would be wise to choose your battles.¡±


    Sicil clenched his jaw, but finally, after a tense silence, he asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


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


    Sicil let out a short, mirthless laugh. ¡°Train him? Lux, I¡¯m in the middle of keeping the Crows and the Black Witch¡¯s machinations in check. She¡¯s crowned herself queen of those wretched things, and she¡¯s no easy opponent.¡± He looked over at Noah, assessing him with a raised brow. ¡°Listen, kid, your first assignment is to go after the Black Witch. If you survive, you might just be worth my time.¡±


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


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


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


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


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


    Sicil shook his head, sighing. ¡°It¡¯s not that I can¡¯t kill her, Noah. The problem is her territory¡ªshe¡¯s set up a barrier specifically to repel, just me.¡±


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


    Sicil¡¯s gaze darkened. ¡°More than that. They¡¯re business partners, tangled together in a blood trade that keeps her growing stronger. That woman commands creatures called the Black Mist¡ªvicious things, almost like living slime. They feast on blood and reproduce from it. For anyone else, they¡¯re deadly. But some people, they can¡¯t consume¡ªwe call them King¡¯s Candidates. Right now, she¡¯s the most powerful of them all, ruling those creatures like a twisted queen.¡±


    Noah¡¯s expression twisted with disgust. ¡°And the Crows? What role do they play in all this?¡±


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    ¡°They¡¯re supplying her with corpses,¡± Sicil answered, his voice a mixture of anger and resignation. ¡°More bodies mean more food for her creatures, more soldiers at her command. Each body delivered to her fortress strengthens her power.¡±


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


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


    Noah turned to Lux, a glint of purpose in his eyes. ¡°Lux, let¡¯s head to town. I¡¯d like to see Ava before I start this.¡±


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


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


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


    Noah wove his way through winding paths as they arrived in Marim, the heart of the Starbell territory.


    Noah stepped into the town of Marim, nestled deep within a lush forest. Marim was a forest town like no other, with buildings crafted almost entirely from the great trees that surrounded them. Towering oaks and sturdy cedars had been carefully hollowed to form homes and shops, their trunks woven seamlessly with vines and flowers in a way that made the entire town look like it was born from the forest itself. Leaves fluttered overhead, casting dappled sunlight across the pathways, and lanterns hung from branches, glowing softly in preparation for nightfall.


    The cobbled streets were lined with herbal shops, bakeries, and blacksmith stalls. Shopkeepers waved from their windows, and the scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the earthy fragrance of moss and pine. Children ran through the streets, their laughter ringing through the trees as they chased one another, while elders sat in rocking chairs outside their doorways, carving wooden figures and telling tales to whoever would listen.


    Everywhere he looked, people were tending to small, cultivated gardens filled with herbs, vegetables, and rare plants, each chosen to attract the vibrant songbirds and tiny animals that darted in and out of sight. At the center of town, a massive ancient tree with sprawling branches held an intricately carved platform, often used for festivals and gatherings. This was the heart of Marim, where the townsfolk would come together to celebrate, share stories, or meet travelers passing through.


    Lux observed Marim with mild interest, but Noah¡¯s gaze held a deeper appreciation. This town was alive in a way few places were, its pulse matching the rhythm of the surrounding forest. There was a tranquility here that made Marim feel timeless, as if it would remain untouched for centuries.


    As soon as Noah stepped into Marim, he was swept into a tight embrace by a woman with long, lime-green hair woven with delicate blue flowers, her eyes gleaming golden like autumn leaves. She wore a stunning black dress adorned with intricate floral patterns, and her face was lit with both relief and sorrow as tears brimmed in her eyes.


    ¡°Noah, I was terrified,¡± Ava choked, clutching him even tighter. ¡°A few survivors told us bits and pieces of what happened. I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re alive¡­¡± Her voice trailed off as she held him, too grateful to let go.


    ¡°I¡¯m alright, really,¡± Noah reassured, trying to wriggle free. ¡°I have a lot to explain, just¡­ could you give me some breathing room?¡±


    Ava¡¯s tearful face turned mischievous as her hand began to glow with a soft yellow light. Her ability pulsed through Noah, locking his limbs in place. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t think you¡¯re getting away that easily,¡± she teased, holding him in place as the minutes ticked by.


    After five whole minutes, she finally released him from her paralyzing hold, stepping back with a playful smirk. ¡°You¡¯d think by now you¡¯d know there¡¯s no escaping my hugs.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, your ability feels weirder each time,¡± Noah chuckled, still tingling from her power.


    Ava¡¯s smile softened as she studied his face. ¡°But¡­ is it really just you, Noah?¡±


    Noah¡¯s expression darkened, and he took a shaky breath. ¡°My parents¡­ they didn¡¯t make it. Isabelle, my sister¡­ the Crows took her. I have no idea where Isaac is. He could be anywhere.¡± His voice cracked, and he struggled to keep his composure.


    Ava¡¯s hand slipped into his, squeezing gently. ¡°We¡¯ll find them. We¡¯ll bring them home. You''re not alone in this, Noah.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, thank you,¡± Noah said, his voice soft with gratitude as he clutched Ava¡¯s hand, grounding himself in her presence.


    Lux cleared his throat with an exaggerated cough, reminding them he was still there. ¡°Alright, newbie hero, we really do need to get moving. There¡¯s a mission, remember?¡±


    Ava¡¯s gaze snapped toward Lux, her eyebrows knitting in suspicion. ¡°Mission? What mission?¡± she asked, her tone demanding answers.


    Noah hesitated for only a moment, then spoke with a steadiness that surprised even him. ¡°I am the hero of this era,¡± he said, meeting her eyes, ¡°and this here is Lux, the god of hope. Our first task is¡­ to slay the Black Witch.¡±


    Ava¡¯s expression went from shock to fury. Without warning, she reached out and grabbed Lux by his collar, shaking him with surprising strength. ¡°How dare you put Noah in that kind of danger, you irresponsible god!¡±


    ¡°H-hey, hey! Show some respect¡ªNoah, help!¡± Lux stammered, attempting to hold his ground against her death grip.


    Noah chuckled, crossing his arms as he watched the spectacle. ¡°Sorry, Lux. Once she¡¯s mad, there¡¯s no escaping it.¡±


    Lux groaned, struggling under her grip. ¡°Listen, he was the best candidate available¡ªcould you please stop shaking me? I¡¯m going to be sick¡­¡±


    Ava released him, letting him regain his balance, but her gaze remained steely. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll let you off for now. But I¡¯m coming with you,¡± she said, her finger aimed squarely at Noah.


    ¡°What? Ava, you can¡¯t! It¡¯s too dangerous,¡± Noah protested, his voice rising in alarm.


    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Lux smirked, clearly amused by the banter. ¡°She¡¯d fit a Berserker role perfectly.¡±


    Ava narrowed her eyes at Lux and shot back, ¡°For your information, you clueless god, my combat class is an assassin.¡± She gave him a mocking smile, sticking her tongue out.


    ¡°Assassin or not, you¡¯d be useful regardless,¡± Lux conceded, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. ¡°As for you, Noah, I¡¯d say you¡¯d make an excellent paladin with your skill set.¡±


    Noah nodded slowly, considering. ¡°If we¡¯re actually doing this, we need at least someone of the ranger class. I can cover healing and some front-line damage,¡± he said, his expression determined.


    Ava crossed her arms, her face thoughtful. ¡°Agreed. I¡¯m decent with a bow, but my ability and regalia are optimized for stealth and close-quarters combat. So yeah, I¡¯ll be our assassin. But someone with true ranged power would make all the difference.¡±


    Lux nodded approvingly, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. ¡°I can live without a healer or Berserker in the party if Noah¡¯s filling in as our Paladin, but we do need a proper ranger. Ideally, I¡¯d like at least a party of four or a ridiculously powerful ranger


    Noah turned to Lux, curiosity in his gaze. ¡°But why can¡¯t you just fight yourself, Lux?¡±


    Lux shrugged, glancing away. ¡°My abilities are potent but come at a steep cost. I burned through most of my energy bringing you back to life, remember?¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes widened as she turned to Noah. ¡°Killed? Noah, please tell me everything.¡±


    Noah sighed, scratching his head as he tried to find the right words. ¡°I¡­ died during the attack on my family¡¯s territory. It was chaos; I stood no chance. Lux brought me back, but it cost him a lot¡ªand now I¡¯m the new hero.¡±


    ¡°An unfair death, if you ask me,¡± Lux muttered. ¡°You were up against one of the Crows¡¯ Seven Commanders; it wasn¡¯t even a fight, just bad luck.¡±


    Ava¡¯s fists clenched, her entire demeanor changing as her voice dropped to a dangerous, furious tone. ¡°Tell me where he is,¡± she growled. ¡°I¡¯ll kill him. I¡¯ll tear him apart.¡±


    ¡°Ava, it¡¯s okay.¡± Noah placed a calming hand on her shoulder, gesturing to the now-healed wound in his chest, the only remnant of a torn shirt. ¡°See? I¡¯m here, and I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Ava¡¯s tension melted, her lips trembling as her relief turned to gratitude. She looked back at Lux, her eyes misty. ¡°Thank you, Lux¡­ thank you for bringing him back.¡±


    Lux tried to shrug it off, though a touch of genuine warmth flickered in his expression. ¡°I only did it because, out of all the corpses, his had the most promise,¡± he replied, attempting to sound dismissive.


    Ava wiped her tears, regaining her composure. ¡°Actually, I know someone who could fill the ranger role. A strange doctor just showed up in town recently, claiming he was here to hunt the Black Witch. His abilities¡­ they seem to be ice-based.¡±


    Lux¡¯s eyes lit up with renewed interest. ¡°Ice? That¡¯s perfect. The Black Mist has only one major weakness: ice.¡±


    Noah nodded, his resolve hardening. ¡°Alright then, it¡¯s settled. Let¡¯s go find this doctor.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s staying at the Starlight Inn,¡± Ava said, her voice filled with anticipation as they prepared to track down their potential ally.


    The Starlight Inn was a popular location within Marim, its old wooden walls adorned with rustic lanterns that gave off a soft, warm glow. Sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, painting the inn¡¯s oak tables and stone hearth in shades of green, gold, and blue. The steady hum of conversation mixed with the clink of mugs, laughter, and the occasional clash of steel as adventurers sharpened their weapons.


    Adventurers from all walks of life filled the space, their tales of quests and skirmishes swirling like smoke. At the bar, a few slouched figures raised their tankards, their weariness evident, while others huddled in corners whispering of treasure and dangers. Survivors of the Fafnir attack were among them, their faces haunted but their spirits unbroken as they nursed drinks or found small comfort in conversation.


    Among the crowd, a pair of knights caught Noah¡¯s eye as they disappeared into a room, one garbed in royal purple and the other in deep green. Across the room, a party of adventurers laughed loudly, exchanging drinks and toasting their team, which seemed curiously to be named after a popular tavern.


    At the center of the room, a striking figure commanded attention, a man in a crisp white lab coat that contrasted sharply with the warm, earthy tones of the inn. His cyan hair fell in tousled strands across his forehead, and two curved horns jutted proudly from his head, marking him as something other than human. Immaculate white gloves adorned his hands, which hung casually at his sides, yet he exuded an unmistakable aura of restrained power. Most captivating were his eyes: his right eye shone a deep, enigmatic purple, while his left eye glowed with an otherworldly cyan light, a clock symbol imprinted within its iris, ticking softly as if counting down to some unseen event.


    ¡°Are you the doctor who seeks to hunt the Black Witch?¡± Ava inquired, her voice laced with urgency.


    ¡°Yes, I am. You may call me Cyrus Sanguine,¡± he replied, his tone smooth and confident. ¡°And to answer the question that undoubtedly lingers in your minds, yes, Vanitas Sanguine, the 7th Apocalypse of the world¡ªthe Apocalypse of Calamity¡ªwas indeed my father.¡±

 Chapter 5-Determination

    The tension in the room was thick, nearly tangible as Lux¡¯s cold gaze settled on Cyrus, his voice dripping with disdain. ¡°Filthy wretch. Just look at that tainted blood running through your veins, do we even need this man, or should we just dispose of him here?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes burned with fury, his face tightening. ¡°I remember you vividly, Lux. My mother would tell me about the only true monster she ever encountered. I was five, but I remember you forcing my own uncle to kill my father. You, with that same twisted smile.¡±


    Beside him, Noah looked at Lux, a grim edge sharpening his gaze. ¡°How many families have you torn apart, Lux? Just how many people have you manipulated into killing their own blood?¡±


    Lux only shrugged, as if recalling an amusing memory. ¡°Let¡¯s see...the first Apocalypse¡¯s own children were pitted against her, the Sixth Hero and Apocalypse were siblings, and, oh yes, the Seventh Hero and Apocalypse were brothers. So yes, I¡¯ve used this ¡®little trick¡¯ three times now, Noah. Call it efficient¡ªthere¡¯s no bond stronger than blood, after all.¡± Lux gave a dark smile, unapologetic.


    Without warning, a black liquid spiraled down Cyrus¡¯s arm, condensing into an obsidian claw that latched around Lux¡¯s throat. He pulled him close, his voice low and filled with lethal intent. ¡°You¡¯re fortunate, Lux. I have more important matters to settle than indulging in the satisfaction of snapping your neck. But don¡¯t think for a second it¡¯s mercy. You¡¯re not worth the energy.¡±


    Cyrus released Lux, tossing him backward. Lux staggered, but even in his falter, he seemed more amused than shaken, his eyes dancing with some twisted approval. ¡°Such ferocity, dear child. So, shall we put our personal history aside and offer our¡­ assistance in your hunt for the Black Witch?¡±


    Cyrus''s gaze remained icy, his voice clipped. ¡°I don''t plan to kill her, I only will if she doesn''t give me the item that I need.¡±


    Lux gave a satisfied nod, extending his hand as though the entire ordeal had been nothing more than a business transaction. ¡°Fine with me. Allies then, and the past¡­where it belongs.¡±


    Cyrus hesitated, his gaze lingering on Lux¡¯s outstretched hand before he finally clasped it, if only out of necessity. ¡°Fine. But know this, if anything you do even hints at betrayal, I will kill you.¡±


    Lux¡¯s smirk was unbothered as he looked back at Cyrus. ¡°You¡¯re welcome to try, truly. I¡¯d enjoy the effort.¡±


    Noah shifted uncomfortably, clearing his throat. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Noah¡­so, uh, yeah. This whole situation is kind of¡­awkward.¡±


    Ava chuckled, her smile warm and genuine as she leaned close to Noah. ¡°Well, I¡¯m Ava, Noah¡¯s incredible fianc¨¦e,¡± she added, giving him a teasing grin.


    Cyrus gave a slight nod, his gaze narrowing slightly as he spoke. ¡°You know my name already. I¡¯ll work with you, though working with him isn¡¯t exactly my preference.¡± He shot Lux a sharp look before turning back to the others. ¡°But for now, I¡¯ll make an exception.¡±


    Noah tilted his head, curiosity lighting his eyes. ¡°So, what¡¯s got you chasing after the Black Witch?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s expression turned solemn. ¡°I¡¯ve been researching the black mist for years. Recently, my brother fell victim to a failed experiment with it. He¡¯s not a King¡¯s Candidate, so he couldn¡¯t resist its effects. I was able to keep it from fully consuming him, but to save him, I need a book in her possession. It holds the key to purifying the mist and restoring him.¡±


    Noah¡¯s eyes softened in understanding. ¡°That¡¯s a good reason. Are you a King¡¯s Candidate?¡±


    Cyrus nodded. ¡°Yes. I know every weakness of the black mist and can exploit them. With my knowledge, our success rate goes up significantly.¡±


    Noah raised an eyebrow. ¡°I had a hunch about you. Guess I was right.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s lips quirked into a small smile. ¡°I can appreciate good instincts. However,¡± he added, his gaze sharpening as it swept over them both, ¡°I am a bit concerned about your combat capabilities. I suggest we spar, one-on-one. That way, I¡¯ll know what I¡¯m working with.¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement. ¡°Perfect. Let¡¯s get a sense of each other¡¯s styles. I¡¯ll go first.¡±


    ¡°Works for me,¡± Cyrus replied, nodding in approval. The three walked to a deserted stretch on the town¡¯s outskirts, far enough from bystanders and buildings. The ground felt almost charged, anticipation filling the air as Ava and Cyrus squared off, both sizing up their soon-to-be ally.


    Ava held out her hands, a soft, shimmering light enveloping her as she called out, ¡°Awaken my regalia, Robin Hood.¡± In a breathtaking flash, an emerald-green cloak draped itself over her shoulders, embroidered with intricate designs of forest leaves. The cloak¡¯s fabric seemed to ripple like sunlight filtering through a dense canopy, enhancing her figure with an ethereal aura of agility and stealth.


    Cyrus inclined his head slightly, an approving glint in his eye. ¡°A regalia of your own¡­impressive. I won''t need mine here, though. No offense,¡± he said, his tone calm but laced with confidence, ¡°I just believe it would be... overkill.¡±


    As he spoke, black liquid seeped over his lab coat, slowly engulfing it in darkness until it was entirely pitch-black. Sleek, obsidian-like blades extended from his sleeves, sharp and menacing. His entire appearance shifted, transforming him into a figure of formidable shadow. A black hat materialized atop his head, and a sleek, raven-feathered plague doctor mask cloaked his face. It was not unlike the mask of the Crows¡¯ leader, yet different¡ªits beak was shorter, the mouth opened slightly, and vivid red glass covered his eyes like sinister, glowing lenses.


    For a brief moment, Noah¡¯s heart skipped, recalling the Crows¡¯ ominous insignia. But the mask held its own distinct identity, a stark reminder of Cyrus¡¯s dark power yet with a refined, unsettling control that marked him as his own creature.


    ¡°Please,¡± Cyrus said, his voice cool and composed, ¡°make the first move.¡±


    Ava took a breath, centering herself. Her cloak shimmered faintly, blending her into the background until she was nearly invisible. Only the faintest rustling of leaves marked her position as she darted forward, swift and silent as a whisper.


    Cyrus watched, unperturbed, his stance relaxed yet ready. His crimson-glassed eyes scanned the area carefully, tracking her with a patience that showed he was no stranger to this kind of fight. He raised his right hand, and a flurry of icy shards materialized at his fingertips, each glinting dangerously.


    Ava suddenly appeared right behind him, her hand reaching for his shoulder to paralyze him. But Cyrus had anticipated her move¡ªhis icy projectiles shot out in all directions like shrapnel, forcing her to dodge backward. She disappeared once more, her cloak rippling as it rendered her unseen.


    ¡°Interesting,¡± Cyrus said, the slightest smirk evident in his voice. ¡°But you¡¯ll have to be quicker than that.¡±


    Ava didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she circled him, each step soundless, her figure nearly undetectable. She reappeared briefly on his left, a blur of green and gold, and lunged forward, her fingers aimed directly at his arm. Cyrus spun, his black blade narrowly blocking her reach. As they clashed, Ava¡¯s eyes sparkled with a fierce determination.


    ¡°Not bad, but let''s see how you handle this,¡± she whispered, her voice teasing.


    In an instant, Ava activated her cloak again and vanished, leaving Cyrus momentarily disoriented. Seizing the opportunity, she flanked him from behind, her fingers grazing his shoulder. For a moment, his movements faltered as the paralyzing effect of her touch began to set in.


    But Cyrus gritted his teeth, summoning a burst of cold energy that blasted from his body in a wide radius. Ava leapt back just in time, evading the wave of frost that crackled in the air around him. She reappeared at a distance, breathing heavily as she measured him with a keen gaze.


    Cyrus straightened, shaking off the last effects of her paralysis. ¡°Your tricks are impressive, but they won¡¯t be enough,¡± he said, raising his hands.


    Without warning, he fired a barrage of ice projectiles in her direction, each one whistling as it cut through the air. Ava weaved through them, her cloak flashing as she evaded each shard with agile precision. Just as he thought he¡¯d managed to corner her, Ava darted forward with startling speed, closing the distance between them.


    She reached out, fingers extended toward his arm once again. This time, she succeeded¡ªher fingers wrapped around his wrist, and Cyrus felt his muscles lock under her touch. Paralyzed, he could only watch as she grinned victoriously.


    Ava smirked, her fingers still tingling from the paralyzing energy she''d used on him. "Looks like I win," she whispered, tightening her grip on Cyrus¡¯s arm, feeling the tension in his muscles.


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    But Cyrus¡¯s purple eye gleamed, a spark of defiance lighting his face. ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± he replied smoothly.


    Before she could react, he tilted his head upwards. Ava¡¯s eyes followed his gaze, her breath catching as she noticed a formation of icy spears suspended high above her, glinting dangerously. In a split second, they plummeted toward her, forcing her to release him and leap out of the way. As she rolled back to her feet, the ground where she¡¯d just stood was pierced with shards of ice, each one sharp enough to impale.


    The instant she let go, Cyrus broke free of her paralysis, his expression calm as he raised his hand. A chill spread through the air as he conjured an enormous scythe made entirely of ice, its curved blade shimmering with deadly elegance. With a fluid sweep, he swung it toward her, its edge cutting through the air.


    Ava barely had time to react, her heart pounding as the icy scythe halted mere inches from her neck. The cold radiated from it, chilling her skin as she stood frozen in place.


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes sparkled with amusement under his mask, the faintest smile hidden beneath. ¡°It seems, Ava,¡± he murmured, ¡°that this victory is mine.¡±


    Ava released a slow breath, her tension giving way to a reluctant grin. ¡°Fine, you got me this time,¡± she admitted.


    The icy scythe in Cyrus¡¯s hand dissolved, droplets splashing to the ground as he lowered his hand. He gave Ava a nod of approval. ¡°Impressive. You¡¯ll make a valuable asset as our assassin.¡± He turned to Noah, his voice taking on a mocking edge. ¡°Alright, ¡®hero.¡¯ Let¡¯s see what you can do.¡±


    Noah tightened his grip on his sword, channeling his dark energy into the blade until it pulsed with a faint, ominous glow. His eyes, sharpened and draconic, locked onto Cyrus, a determined fire flickering within them.


    Cyrus raised an eyebrow, folding his arms with a dismissive smirk. ¡°I¡¯d suggest summoning your regalia,¡± he remarked. ¡°A basic weapon isn¡¯t going to last long against me.¡±


    Noah¡¯s jaw tightened, his pride prickling. ¡°I don¡¯t possess a regalia,¡± he replied flatly.


    A chuckle escaped Cyrus, a dark amusement in his gaze. ¡°A hero without a regalia?¡± He shook his head, scoffing. ¡°Pathetic. The heavens didn¡¯t even see fit to grant you a boon.¡±


    ¡°Oh, shut up!¡± Noah snapped, lunging forward with his blade in a swift arc, determined to make up for what he lacked in experience with sheer tenacity.


    But Cyrus moved like a shadow, weaving effortlessly around Noah¡¯s strikes. Each swing of Noah¡¯s sword met empty air as Cyrus sidestepped, his movements smooth and calculated. Cyrus¡¯s skill was undeniable; his experience showed in every step, every feint, as he danced around Noah¡¯s attacks.


    With a flick of his wrist, Cyrus conjured a massive ice mallet in an instant. He swung it with brutal efficiency, the mallet slamming into Noah and sending him flying back with a force that left Ava gasping. Noah skidded across the ground, his body battered and his side bleeding from the impact.


    ¡°Noah!¡± Ava rushed over to him, her eyes wide with concern. She dropped to her knees, hands hovering over his wound. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Noah coughed, pushing himself up despite the pain. ¡°I¡¯m¡­ fine. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Ava¡¯s gaze shifted to Cyrus, her expression sharp and accusatory. ¡°What the hell was that for?¡± she demanded, anger simmering in her tone.


    Cyrus merely shrugged, his gaze unflinching. ¡°If he¡¯s to face the Black Witch, he needs to know what he¡¯s up against. Coddling him will only get him killed.¡± He stepped forward, meeting Noah¡¯s determined gaze. ¡°To put it bluntly, you¡¯re weak.¡±


    ¡°Every single time, I¡¯m too weak, why, why am I always too weak to do anything?¡±  Noah yelled, tears falling from his eyes.


    ¡°Noah,¡±  Ava said, a worried look in his eyes.


    Noah¡¯s fists clenched, his shoulders tense, as a raw, searing frustration burned in his chest. He grit his teeth, unable to meet anyone¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯m pathetic, I¡¯m absolutely pathetic,¡± he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper, yet filled with a pained resolve. ¡°I can¡¯t change a thing. I never could. Even as a hero, all I¡¯ve done is join the race, while the rest of you¡­ you¡¯ve already lapped me three times over.¡±


    The words fell from his mouth like stones, but a fire kindled in his eyes, ignited by something deep within him¡ªa fierce, unyielding refusal to be broken. He straightened, his breath coming sharper. ¡°But I refuse to give up,¡± he growled, the frustration in his voice hardening into resolve. ¡°Knock me down as many times as you want. I¡¯ll keep getting back up. I won¡¯t quit. Not now, not ever!¡±


    As he spoke, the small, dark spots that dotted his skin began to glow, pulsing as if answering his defiance. They grew and multiplied, spreading across his body like embers in the dark. A strange, potent energy pulsed from him, sending waves through the town. Every injured survivor nearby felt their wounds close, pain melting away like morning fog. Starved bodies felt a surge of warmth, hunger fading into something deeper, more powerful. For a moment, every misfortune in the town was drawn into Noah, absorbed as if he were a black hole consuming every last ounce of despair.


    The cost was immediate and brutal. His body trembled, blood trickling from his mouth as he choked back a cough. His limbs felt as though they were cast in lead, each movement demanding everything he had. But the darkness he had absorbed surged through him, concentrating in his blade until it crackled with black lightning, a tempest of stolen misfortunes that twisted into power.


    With an unshakable gaze fixed on Cyrus, he took a step forward, then another, dark energy spiraling around him as he prepared to strike. ¡°You hear me?¡± he shouted, voice ringing with iron resolve. ¡°I may be weak¡ªhell, weaker than anyone here. But I¡¯m the hero. I¡¯ll turn every misery of this world into hope, and that hope will be what saves it! I refuse to back down!¡±


    Cyrus smirked, a flicker of respect glinting in his eyes. His stance shifted, meeting Noah¡¯s energy head-on with a dark confidence. ¡°Then come at me, pretender hero,¡± he called, his voice daring.


    Noah¡¯s grip tightened around his sword, his pulse thrumming with the weight of countless absorbed burdens. Black lightning danced along his blade, crackling with the very misfortunes he had drawn into himself. Across from him, Cyrus stood calm and composed, his icy scythe gleaming with a chill that seemed to deepen the very shadows around him.


    Without hesitation, Noah lunged forward, bringing his sword down in a sweeping arc. Cyrus sidestepped with the fluidity of water, his own weapon rising in a graceful counter. The scythe clashed with Noah''s blade, sending a ripple of black lightning and frost in all directions. Their weapons locked for a tense heartbeat, and Cyrus¡¯s eyes narrowed as he felt the force behind Noah''s strike. He pushed Noah back, his face unreadable beneath the mask, but a slight tension in his stance betrayed surprise.


    ¡°You¡¯re stronger than I expected,¡± Cyrus said coolly, his scythe twirling in his hands as he shifted to the offensive. ¡°But don¡¯t mistake borrowed strength for true power.¡±


    With a flick of his wrist, Cyrus conjured a volley of razor-sharp ice projectiles, each shard shimmering with lethal precision. Noah barely had a second to react, diving to the side as the projectiles sliced through the air, peppering the ground with icy shrapnel. He rolled to his feet, raising his sword just in time to deflect a spear of ice that Cyrus launched straight at his chest.


    ¡°Not bad,¡± Noah panted, his voice fierce. He raised his blade, and the dark lightning around it intensified, swirling into jagged tendrils that arced toward Cyrus. He swung, and a bolt of dark energy shot forward, crashing against Cyrus¡¯s scythe. Cyrus staggered, the force of the blast forcing him back a few steps, though he quickly regained his balance, his eyes narrowing with renewed focus.


    ¡°You rely too much on your brute force,¡± Cyrus scolded. He extended his hand, and with a low hum, his scythe transformed, morphing into a long whip of ice that gleamed wickedly in the dim light. He snapped it forward, and the icy lash shot toward Noah, faster than he could dodge. It wrapped around his arm, biting into his skin with a freezing grip.


    Noah grunted, feeling the cold seep through his skin and numb his flesh. But he clenched his teeth and summoned every ounce of willpower, channeling the dark energy within him. The black lightning surged along his arm, shattering the ice whip into glittering shards. Before Cyrus could retract his weapon, Noah lunged forward, his blade flashing in a rapid series of strikes that forced Cyrus to backpedal, parrying with practiced ease but showing signs of strain.


    Cyrus retaliated with a flourish of his scythe, swinging it in a wide arc that released a freezing gust of wind. Noah felt his muscles lock up, the biting cold threatening to slow him down, but he pressed forward, fighting through the numbing chill. He brought his blade down, aiming a strike at Cyrus¡¯s shoulder, but Cyrus sidestepped again, barely evading the strike.


    ¡°You¡¯re determined. I¡¯ll give you that,¡± Cyrus said, his tone still taunting but laced with grudging respect.


    ¡°Determination is all I need!¡± Noah yelled, his voice thick with defiance. With a roar, he drove his blade into the ground, sending a shockwave of dark lightning coursing toward Cyrus, tearing through the earth and sending debris flying. Cyrus leapt back, narrowly avoiding the blast, his eyes flashing with a flicker of surprise.


    Cyrus¡¯s scythe glinted under the faint light as he channeled his energy, the black ice coalescing into a dense, cutting edge. With a final, heavy swing, he brought it down on Noah¡¯s sword, shattering it into fragments that scattered across the ground. But before Cyrus could relax, he saw Noah charging at him again, fists brimming with dark energy. The pieces of his broken sword lay forgotten¡ªNoah¡¯s resolve still burned strong.


    ¡°Clench your teeth,¡± Noah warned, his draconic eyes ablaze with fierce determination.


    In one swift motion, Noah unleashed an uppercut, his fist colliding with Cyrus¡¯s jaw. The impact knocked Cyrus back a few steps, and his mask slightly cracked. The blow was unexpected, filled with a force that went beyond physical strength, born instead of sheer will.


    Cyrus wiped his mouth, a grin breaking across his face as he steadied himself. ¡°Well played, Noah. You''ve proven yourself. Let¡¯s call it a draw for now, before we both get too carried away,¡± he laughed, his voice tinged with respect.


    But Noah barely heard him. The effort had pushed him to his limit. ¡°I¡¯m counting this as a win¡­¡± he muttered as his vision blurred, and he slumped forward, unconscious. Ava rushed to his side, kneeling by him with a mixture of worry and affection in her eyes.


    ¡°That idiot,¡± Ava sighed, though a soft smile crept onto her lips. ¡°He¡¯s always pushing himself too hard. But I guess his stubbornness is part of his charm,¡± she said, brushing a strand of hair away from his face. ¡°And he¡¯s¡­ pretty cute when he¡¯s asleep.¡±


    Cyrus shook his head, chuckling as he turned to leave. ¡°Alright, lovebird. Take him somewhere to rest up. We can plan out the raid tomorrow, he¡¯ll need his strength.¡±


    Ava lifted Noah gently, his head resting on her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll get him back and explain everything to my dad while I¡¯m at it. Thanks, Cyrus,¡± she said with a grateful nod.


    ¡°Get some rest,¡± Cyrus called after her, watching as she disappeared with Noah as the sun began to set, the quiet returning as the town settled down. Tomorrow would be another day, and their mission had only just begun.

 Chapter 6-Prison Master

    Noah awoke to the gentle glow of morning light spilling through gauzy curtains, filling the room with a warm, golden haze. He blinked against the brightness, feeling the unfamiliar weight of thick blankets pressed around him, stitched with intricate patterns of deep greens and golds.  A faint scent of herbs and pinewood drifted through the air, mingling with a hint of aged parchment, grounding him in the reality of the day.


    As he stirred, the muted sound of voices outside the door caught his attention. Moments later, a guard stepped in, bowing slightly as he entered.


    ¡°Good morning, sir. Apologies for the watch¡ªMiss Ava attempted to slip into your room a few times last night to join you,¡± he said with a slight smile. ¡°There are clothes in the dresser for you. When you''re ready, the elder awaits you in the council room.¡±


    Once the guard left, Noah pulled himself from the bed and found the garments laid out for him. He dressed in a black tunic and dark green pants, admiring the way the clothes fit.  Catching a glimpse of himself in the mirror, he noticed that most of the black marks dotting his skin had faded due to the fight against Cyrus, though a few still clung stubbornly to his arms.


    He made his way through the quiet manor and soon, he entered a large, softly lit council room. Around the table sat several familiar faces, each with expressions ranging from warm welcome to restrained indifference.


    Ava¡¯s father, a stern-looking man with short blond hair and piercing emerald eyes, sat closest to the door. Though he¡¯d always respected the Fafnir family, it was clear he still harbored reservations about Noah¡¯s marriage to his daughter. Beside him sat Ava¡¯s mother, a woman of serene elegance with flowing lime-green hair and golden eyes, traits Ava had inherited. She gave Noah a warm smile as he entered, a silent gesture of approval.


    At the head of the table sat the elder, an imposing figure even in his advanced age. Tall and broad-shouldered, with silver hair and sharp crimson eyes that seemed to pierce through anyone he looked at, his presence filled the room. He sat with quiet authority, his wrinkled hands resting on the table, observing Noah¡¯s every movement as he entered.


    Ava sat next to her mother, beaming as she met Noah''s gaze. Lux, perched lazily in a corner with his usual air of casual disinterest, offered a faint nod, though his attention was clearly wandering.


    ¡°Please, Noah,¡± the elder¡¯s deep, gravelly voice commanded the room. ¡°Take a seat. We have much to discuss.¡±


    Noah took his seat at the far end of the table, and a tense silence filled the room. The air was thick, the weight of the elders'' scrutiny bearing down on him. Each face around the table seemed hardened, their gazes scrutinizing, as if evaluating not just his presence but his resolve.


    Finally, the elder¡¯s gravelly voice broke the silence. ¡°So, it''s true,¡± Elder Novis said, his gaze piercing. ¡°By Lux¡¯s presence, I see you have indeed assumed the mantle of this era¡¯s hero.¡± He paused, his tone shifting to something firmer, more unyielding. ¡°Now, I have a request, Noah. Break off your engagement with my granddaughter.¡±


    Ava¡¯s face paled as she stood up from her chair in shock. ¡°Grandpa, no!¡± Her voice was filled with desperation, but Elder Novis¡¯s sharp glare silenced her as quickly as she¡¯d spoken.


    ¡°Sit down, Ava,¡± he commanded, his voice unyielding.


    She lowered herself back into her seat, her eyes brimming with sadness, though she dared not challenge him further.


    Novis looked back at Noah, his expression softening only slightly. ¡°Understand, Noah, this decision has nothing to do with the tragedy that befell your family. I care for you as if you were my own blood,¡± he admitted, his tone laced with a rare gentleness. ¡°But as the hero, your path is dangerous. I simply cannot allow you to drag my granddaughter into the firestorm that is bound to follow you. Our family will support the hero¡¯s mission, as we always have, but I won¡¯t see Ava harmed by association.¡±


    Ava¡¯s father, Orist, spoke up next, his voice hard as iron. ¡°Your journey is filled with peril, Noah. And as a hero who intends to hunt down the Black Witch herself, your journey will be filled with too many dangers.¡± His gaze was stern, unrelenting. ¡°You cannot protect Ava from that.¡±


    But Ava¡¯s mother, Elanor, interjected, her tone gentle but resolute. ¡°You cannot deny their bond. He is the hero, but he¡¯s also a man who loves her. Separating them won¡¯t ensure her safety, Orist.¡±


    Orist scowled, frustration flashing across his face. ¡°You¡¯re blinded by affection, Elanor! Just because he is the hero doesn¡¯t mean he¡¯s strong enough to keep her safe.¡±


    ¡°I am!¡± Noah¡¯s voice rang out, defiant and filled with raw determination. He slammed his fist on the table, the sound reverberating through the room. ¡°I can protect her. I¡¯ll prove it.¡±


    Novis¡¯s gaze narrowed, evaluating him with newfound interest. ¡°Very well,¡± he said, leaning back in his chair thoughtfully. ¡°If you wish to prove yourself, you¡¯ll face Orist. If you can best him, I¡¯ll allow your engagement to continue. To make it fair, Orist will refrain from using his regalia. Consider it a¡­ test of your resolve.¡±


    Noah met the elder¡¯s gaze without flinching, determination burning in his eyes. ¡°I accept. I won¡¯t lose.¡±


    Orist scoffed, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. ¡°What a waste of my time,¡± he muttered, folding his arms. ¡°But fine. It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve had the pleasure of a little target practice.¡±


    With that, they made their way to the training hall. The grand stone corridors seemed to stretch endlessly, finally opening into a vast chamber carved from dark granite and polished marble. Torches lined the walls, their flames casting a warm, flickering glow that danced across the room. Ornate banners adorned with the family crest¡ªan emerald apple entwined with thorns surrounding it, hung on either side of the entrance, symbols of honor and legacy that whispered of battles long past.


    As Noah stepped inside, he could feel the weight of hundreds of past victories and defeats in the air. The hall was a tribute to skill and discipline, its floor marked with faint scuffs and cracks, remnants of the fierce duels fought here. At one end of the room lay an array of weapons mounted on the wall, gleaming steel swords, axes, and spears neatly arranged and carefully maintained. On the other side were a variety of targets, mannequins clad in armor, straw dummies, and targets marked with painted bullseye, each with its own scars of combat.


    An elevated platform with rows of seats encircled the arena, and it was already filling with onlookers. Knights, their armor gleaming in the torchlight, had gathered to witness the clash, their expressions ranging from amused curiosity to quiet respect. Ava¡¯s family stood at the front, with her father, Orist, confidently adjusting the wraps on his hands, clearly relishing the upcoming duel. Ava herself seemed both excited and apprehensive, her gaze fixed on Noah as if silently urging him on. Even Lux had taken a seat, though he lounged lazily, a hint of amusement in his eyes as he watched the proceedings.


    Noah took his place opposite Orist, who was rolling his shoulders and stretching his neck, a faint, predatory smile playing on his lips. His presence was imposing, his posture fluid yet firm, like a coiled serpent waiting to strike. He gave Noah a quick glance, an appraising look that was as sharp as the blade he wore at his side.


    ¡°This is your last chance to back down, Noah,¡± Orist taunted, his voice dripping with mock concern. ¡°No one will think less of you. Not any more than they currently do.¡±


    Noah¡¯s response was a single, silent step forward, his eyes steady, refusing to waver.


    The crowd held its breath as the signal was given, and with that, Orist took his stance, his movements deceptively relaxed but brimming with deadly precision. He was ready to test the young hero¡¯s resolve to its limit, and Noah knew it.


    Orist¡¯s smirk deepened, a glint of malice in his eyes as he continued, ¡°I¡¯ll make it quick for you, hero. My ability, Prison Master, allows me to conjure chains that drain the very strength out of anyone they touch. Once you¡¯re trapped, you''ll feel your energy slip away¡ªlittle by little, until there¡¯s nothing left.¡± He raised his fist, his knuckles cracking with anticipation. ¡°And when that happens, I¡¯ll be free to hit you over and over. Hope you¡¯ve got some fight in you because it¡¯s going to hurt.¡±


    Noah¡¯s gaze hardened, the usual warmth in his eyes replaced with fierce resolve. He gripped his sword tighter, planting his feet firmly on the training room floor. ¡°You can try,¡± he replied, his voice low but steady. The challenge in his tone was unmistakable.


    The air between them grew tense, the onlookers barely daring to breathe. Noah¡¯s stance spoke of determination and defiance, daring Orist to come at him. And Orist, with chains subtly materializing around him, was all too ready to oblige.


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    Orist chuckled darkly, rolling his shoulders as a faint, metallic glint flickered around him. Chains began to manifest from thin air, ghostly and faint at first, but soon solidifying into thick iron links that rattled ominously as they extended, hovering in the air like waiting serpents.


    ¡°Brave words," Orist sneered, his voice dripping with amusement, ¡°but let¡¯s see if you can back them up."


    Noah gripped his sword tightly, his draconic eyes blazing with determination. He lunged forward, his sword flashing as he aimed a strike at Orist¡¯s side. But before his blade could reach, Orist sidestepped, his movements fluid and effortless. In a swift counter, Orist swung his fist, catching Noah in the ribs with bone-crushing force, sending him stumbling back.


    The chains responded instantly, surging forward like snakes sensing prey. Noah swung his sword to cut through them, managing to slice a few of the links, but more and more of the chains replaced them, darting around him in every direction. Orist moved with deadly precision, his smirk widening as he manipulated the chains to surround Noah, forcing him into a defensive stance.


    Orist¡¯s voice rang out, dripping with mock sympathy. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, hero? You look overwhelmed. Surely the gods didn¡¯t choose someone so¡­ weak?¡±


    Noah gritted his teeth, frustration mingling with pain as he swung his sword desperately to keep the chains at bay. But Orist¡¯s technique was flawless, each swing of his fist sending Noah reeling back, every punch followed by more chains closing in around him. Finally, one of the chains snagged his arm, wrapping around it and tightening with a crushing grip.


    The effect was immediate. A wave of exhaustion washed over Noah as the chain sapped his strength, his movements growing sluggish and heavy.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" Orist taunted, pulling Noah forward with the chain as he wound up for another blow. His fist collided with Noah¡¯s stomach, and the young hero felt the air leave his lungs as he doubled over in pain, barely able to stay upright.


    The chains coiled tighter around him, binding his legs and arms as Orist slowly circled him, savoring the moment. He sneered down at Noah, whose face was twisted in pain but still held a spark of defiance.


    ¡°Still standing? Impressive,¡± Orist mocked, gripping one of the chains and jerking it tight, pulling Noah off balance and sending him crashing to his knees. ¡°But I wonder how long that stubbornness will last once I¡¯ve beaten every last bit of strength out of you.¡±


    With a powerful punch, Orist struck Noah¡¯s face, his fist colliding with enough force to split the skin and leave a trickle of blood running down his cheek. The audience watched in silence, some knights exchanging glances, others muttering that the hero was outmatched.


    ¡°Perfect, just what I wanted,¡± Noah murmured, a defiant smile playing at his lips as the black markings along his arms began to pulse, spreading across his skin like ink in water. He let himself open up to the room, feeling the energy swirling around him¡ªthe negative currents that everyone tried to suppress or forget.


    The room¡¯s atmosphere shifted as Noah¡¯s ability drew in emotions like a magnet. He felt the dull ache of the knights'' accumulated exhaustion from their relentless training, the moments of self-doubt they pushed down day after day. He sensed the flickers of envy from younger knights, hoping for a chance to prove themselves. But Ava¡¯s feelings shone through most strongly¡ªan intense, almost desperate worry wrapped in fierce love. Her emotions were powerful enough to fuel him beyond what he thought possible, flooding his body with a warmth that held a bittersweet edge.


    Dark circles grew along his skin as he absorbed it all. Ava¡¯s concern, the knights¡¯ fatigue, their anxiety, envy, fear, and frustration¡ªit all coursed into him like a surge of dark lightning, strengthening him in a way that was as painful as it was empowering.


    "Ava," he whispered under his breath, his eyes flashing with new resolve. "Thank you¡­ I can feel your care for me from here. I don¡¯t plan to lose. I love you, and I¡¯ll prove it. I won¡¯t let us be separated.¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes widened, and then a bright grin spread across her face as she cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted louder. ¡°Alright, Noah, kick his ass! Make him look so bad that even Mom would stop kissing him!¡±


    Orist¡¯s expression hardened, though a glimmer of respect flashed in his eyes. ¡°She really does love you, doesn¡¯t she? But don¡¯t think that¡¯ll stop me from testing the limits of your resolve.¡±


    The energy within Noah surged to a peak, his body nearly vibrating with the blend of emotions he¡¯d taken in. The dark energy seeped through his veins, wrapping around his muscles and sharpening his senses. He felt powerful and grounded, but with a heavy weight pressing on him¡ªan embodiment of all the struggles, all the hardships everyone else bore in silence. He would turn this darkness into his strength, shaping their hidden burdens into his own hope.


    Orist flexed his hands, his chains rattling ominously as they manifested with a metallic glint, reaching toward Noah like serpents. ¡°Show me what that love and resolve of yours can really do.¡±


    Noah straightened, a wild glint in his eyes and a grin tugging at his lips. ¡°I¡¯m about to put on a show that¡¯ll leave everyone speechless. Just watch, folks¡ªyour noble captain is about to be beaten to a bloody pulp.¡± He stretched his arms wide, his voice carrying across the room as if to declare his defiance to everyone present. Despite his confidence, a thin line of blood trickled from his nose, the toll of absorbing so much negative energy starting to show. But Noah didn¡¯t flinch.


    Orist scoffed, crossing his arms as his chains slithered around him protectively. ¡°Bold move, provoking your opponent. But that only works if you¡¯re on their level, and right now, you¡¯re not even close. I see right through your little plan.¡±


    Noah rolled his eyes, a glimmer of mischief dancing there. ¡°Provoke you? Please. I don¡¯t care enough to try to rattle you. I just wanted their attention,¡± he gestured to the watching knights and Ava, who looked on with anticipation. ¡°A hero¡¯s words are meant to move the hearts of the people.¡±


    With that, Noah surged forward, his darkened energy crackling along his blade. He swung with a fierce, almost reckless intensity, aiming a powerful slash at Orist. The captain¡¯s chains shot up in response, meeting Noah¡¯s blade with a loud clang as sparks flew from the impact.


    Orist¡¯s face was impassive as he held the chains steady, his stance unmoving. ¡°Impressive enthusiasm,¡± he said, his voice laced with a hint of amusement, ¡°but raw force alone won¡¯t get you anywhere.¡±


    Noah gritted his teeth, feeling the weight of Orist¡¯s strength pushing back against his blade. He could feel the eyes of the crowd on him, their anticipation feeding into his energy reserves. Letting their gazes fuel him, he gripped his sword tighter, drawing in another surge of dark energy that pulsed through his muscles. His entire body burned with determination as he pushed against Orist¡¯s chains with all his might, his focus unyielding.


    With a fierce yell, he pushed back against Orist¡¯s chains, forcing them back an inch. The crowd murmured in surprise. Noah¡¯s eyes flashed with a fiery resolve, as he shouted, ¡°Remember this moment. Because a true hero doesn¡¯t just fight battles¡ªhe makes the impossible possible.¡±


    Orist tightened his grip on his chains, sweeping them in a wide arc to try and trap Noah in a powerful bind. But Noah was quick, darting to the side and narrowly avoiding the metal links as they crashed against the floor where he¡¯d stood moments before. He retaliated with a swift overhead slash, his sword glowing faintly with the dark energy he¡¯d amassed.


    Orist met the strike with a smooth parry, his chains coiling around Noah¡¯s blade and wrenching it to the side with a brutal twist. Noah staggered but held his ground, pulling his sword free and immediately lunging again, aiming for Orist¡¯s torso. The captain¡¯s movements were precise, almost effortless as he blocked each strike, his eyes cold and calculating.


    ¡°Not bad, but this reckless energy won¡¯t carry you far,¡± Orist taunted, slamming a chain into Noah¡¯s side with enough force to send him stumbling back.


    Noah winced as he felt the impact reverberate through him, but he quickly recovered, charging again. He knew his strength alone couldn¡¯t match Orist¡¯s, so he poured his focus into speed and unpredictability. He spun, feinted, and struck from every angle he could manage, each attack more desperate than the last. But Orist saw through every move, his experience making him an impenetrable wall.


    Finally, with one swift motion, Orist swung his chain in a broad, powerful arc that caught Noah¡¯s sword just as he raised it to defend. The chain wrapped around the blade and, with a single, vicious tug, tore it from Noah¡¯s grasp. His sword clattered across the floor, far out of reach.


    Noah¡¯s heart raced. He was defenseless, his breathing heavy, his body aching from the relentless assault. But something inside him refused to surrender. He clenched his fists, feeling the bruises along his arms and ribs, but he pushed the pain aside. He had one chance left, and it wasn¡¯t one he wanted to take¡ªyet there was no choice.


    He glared up at Orist, who was already closing in, his movements steady, confident, and unhurried. Noah had been holding back the urge to cough throughout the entire fight, fighting to keep his body steady and his mind focused. But now, as desperation took hold, he felt it rise¡ªhot and fierce. Finally, he let it out, a violent cough that tore through him and sent a spray of blood arcing toward Orist. The crimson droplets splattered across Orist¡¯s face, a few finding their way into his eye, startling the captain and forcing him to blink against the sudden sting.


    Orist cursed, recoiling slightly, momentarily blinded as he blinked furiously to clear his vision. And in that split second, Noah saw his opening. He lunged forward, gritting his teeth as he threw his full weight into a brutal kick aimed at Orist¡¯s legs.


    The kick landed with a resounding thud, striking Orist just behind the knee with enough force to buckle his stance. Orist staggered, his balance disrupted as he began to fall. Noah took a shaky breath, his vision blurring from exhaustion, but his heart pounded with triumph. For a brief moment, he had knocked down the captain, and the room held its breath, watching in stunned silence.


    ¡°You damned brat, that was a dirty trick,¡± Orist growled, but there was an edge of respect in his voice. ¡°I don¡¯t care what kind of underhanded tactics you employ in combat or how close you push yourself to the brink of death.¡± He stood up, brushed himself off, and lightly shoved Noah back to the ground, noting the state of his battered body.


    ¡°But know this, no matter what, don¡¯t let my daughter come to harm. If you do, I will kill you myself. You have to promise me that you¡¯ll keep her safe,¡± Orist said, extending a hand to help Noah stand.


    ¡°I swear I¡¯ll keep her safe,¡± Noah replied, his voice steady despite the pain coursing through him. ¡°I¡¯ll risk everything for her.¡±


    Just then, Ava rushed over, wrapping her arms tightly around Noah in a jubilant hug. ¡°Congratulations! You beat him! Did you hear that, Gramps? We get to keep our arrangement!¡± she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with joy.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll allow it,¡± Elder Novis said, his tone begrudgingly approving. ¡°Good work, young hero.¡±


    Lux, leaning against a nearby wall, muttered to himself, ¡°Cyrus is going to be furious. We¡¯ll have to postpone our planning until tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 7-Castletown

    Around seven long years had passed since that fateful day, a day Isaac could never forget, even if he tried. Seven years of nightmares, of sleepless nights, of the hollow ache left in his chest, propelling him toward a single, unyielding goal. Today, at last, was the day he and Karma would set out for Castletown. A long journey awaited them, but Isaac¡¯s gaze was fixed on a future with no path of return.


    As they gathered their belongings by the gate, Granny Agatha hobbled out to see them off, a wry smile tugging at her lips. The years had softened her once sharply vigilant eyes, but her words still held the warmth of the only mother figure they¡¯d known.


    ¡°Well, it seems today I finally get rid of you two troublemakers,¡± she chuckled, her voice both teasing and tender. ¡°Always off brawling, pushing each other to the brink. I don¡¯t think the orphanage has seen a moment¡¯s peace since you started training together.¡±


    Karma laughed, shrugging, the mischievous spark in his eyes untouched by the years. ¡°You¡¯re the one who always told us to get stronger. Can¡¯t blame us for putting in the work.¡±


    As they exchanged these parting words, Karma seemed almost unchanged, with the same rebellious, cocky demeanor, his face hidden beneath his usual face mask. Beneath the bravado, though, his movements had grown sharper, his reflexes quicker, honed from years of relentless training. But Isaac was another story.


    Isaac¡¯s transformation over the years had been stark, haunting even. The once-bright glimmer in his eyes was gone, replaced by a hollow, vacant stare, as though each day stole a little more of his soul. Shadows pooled under his eyes, deep and permanent, like bruises from a thousand sleepless nights. His hair, once neatly combed, now lay in wild, untamed strands, a reflection of the chaos within. Every gesture he made carried a heaviness, a quiet, simmering rage masked by an unsettling calm. When his hand brushed over the scar on his neck, a souvenir left by Inari¡¯s sword, his fingers lingered, as if remembering the sting of the blade and the vow he made to himself that day.


    Granny Agatha¡¯s smile faded as she looked at Isaac. Her voice softened, almost breaking. ¡°Isaac, you¡¯re¡­ so different now. Are you certain, you¡¯re ready for this path?¡±


    He didn¡¯t answer, his gaze fixed on the distance, the world around him a blur. For Isaac, there was no choice. His every thought, every action, had been building to this moment.


    ¡°Goodbye, you brats," Agatha called out, holding back a hint of sadness beneath her gruff tone. "The headmaster has gifted you each a teleportation crystal. They¡¯re custom-made just for you two, so don¡¯t waste them. Just break them, and you¡¯ll be brought straight to the academy. And don¡¯t disappoint me¡ªI expect both of you to pass.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye, Granny,¡± Karma grinned, waving carelessly. ¡°See you never!¡± he laughed, eyes sparkling with excitement.


    Isaac¡¯s voice was low but steely. ¡°I¡¯ll win, Granny. I¡¯ll make sure of it.¡±


    Both of them pulled out their crystals, small emerald stones that pulsed softly, as though alive with latent magic. Karma lifted his mask, hiding his face from view, and bit the top of the crystal with a sharp crack, his expression momentarily serious. Isaac took his crystal and crushed it in his hand, the edges cutting into his skin, leaving faint traces of emerald dust.


    In an instant, a brilliant emerald glow enveloped them, the light bursting outward. The world around them faded, replaced by a dizzying rush of colors and shapes until, almost as suddenly as it began, they found themselves standing in the heart of Castletown, blinking in the bright daylight.


    The city before them was awe-inspiring, a vast expanse of towering spires, stone-paved streets, and bustling crowds. Other potential students appeared around them in flashes of emerald light, adding to the vibrant energy of the scene. A magical, faintly glowing barrier surrounded the entire city, shimmering in hues of purple and silver, pulsing with a rhythm like a heartbeat. It was a protective shield that enclosed the city in a veil of safety.


    The town was a marvel, crafted to support the needs of the academy¡¯s students. To the east, they saw towering dormitory halls, ancient but grand, built with an intricate blend of carved stone and enchanted glass. The western side of the town led to a sprawling forest, thick and foreboding, its shadows crawling with the unspoken promise of danger. The forest was teeming with creatures that lurked within its depths¡ªyet somehow, none ever crossed its border.


    Everywhere they looked, the town bustled with life. Shops displayed rare and exotic goods, from spell-infused trinkets to gleaming weapons and armor. Blacksmiths pounded iron into enchanted swords; alchemists sold elixirs that bubbled with faint glows, while the scent of food wafted from nearby restaurants, filling the air with tantalizing aromas.


    The upperclassmen had arrived two days prior, and some watched the new arrivals from balconies or strolled around town in their distinctive academy uniforms, their gazes a mix of intrigue and amusement. The city itself seemed alive with magic and mystery, as if welcoming them into a new world, one that promised challenge and transformation.


    At the heart of the town stood the school, an awe-inspiring, towering structure that dominated the skyline and stretched impossibly high, vanishing into the clouds above. The tower was massive, each floor like a world of its own, with walls built of dark stone inlaid with gleaming veins of enchanted silver. Magic seemed to pulse through these veins, giving the structure a faint, ethereal glow that flickered like a heartbeat against the stone¡¯s dark surface.


    The tower¡¯s exterior was alive with a network of sprawling balconies and grand platforms, each one offering a breathtaking view of the town below and the landscape beyond. Beautiful arches and ornate carvings adorned each balcony, depicting scenes of mythical battles, and legendary creatures.


    The tower itself was the size of a fortress, but its structure was elegant, almost regal, with spires spiraling upward, and sharp angles softened by artistic detailing. Tall stained-glass windows reflected scenes of famous heroes from history, their colors dancing with the sunlight. Students flocked to the entry gates, a vast, intricately designed portal that was flanked by colossal statues of mythical guardians, their stone faces carved with expressions of wisdom and power. The entrance doors, plated with enchanted gold, shimmered as they opened, revealing the grand atrium beyond.


    Isaac and Karma navigated the bustling streets, heads turning as they passed, whispers of excitement spreading like wildfire among the gathered crowd. Suddenly, Isaac¡¯s shoulder brushed against an upperclassman, the impact hard enough to make both of them halt.


    ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going, freshman,¡± the upperclassman sneered, barely concealing his disdain. Kurt stood a head taller than Isaac, his expression twisted in a mixture of arrogance and annoyance. ¡°Honestly, you newcomers need to learn your place.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s eyes narrowed, their deadened, sleepless look locking onto Kurt¡¯s gaze with a flash of eerie calm. Around them, students began to gather, eager to witness the showdown. A few upperclassmen exchanged smirks, familiar with Kurt''s violent nature. The crowd thickened, drawn to the tension in the air, anticipating a brawl.


    In particular, two freshman siblings lingered at the edge of the crowd, concern flickering in their expressions. The sister, June, watched with a mix of worry and readiness. Her long crimson hair flowed down her back, and two striking red wings extended from her shoulders, catching the light. Her crimson eyes were fixed on Isaac, every muscle in her body tense and alert.


    ¡°Should we help him? This doesn¡¯t look good¡­¡± June murmured, glancing at her brother.


    Mars, her brother, adjusted his square black glasses, the lenses gleaming. Unlike June, he bore no wings, his features more grounded, with unruly black hair and yellow eyes. He crossed his arms, watching intently as the confrontation unfolded.


    ¡°If we stood back doing nothing, both Dad and Uncle would be angry for not helping,¡± Mars replied, his voice low yet resolute.


    June gave a nod, already stepping forward, but then Karma, noticing the siblings, glanced over his shoulder. With a playful grin, he lifted a finger to his lips and winked, signaling them to stay put. The glint in his eyes promised that things were under control.


    ¡°Karma, would it be bad if I killed him?¡± Isaac asked, his tone calm but chilling, as though asking about a trivial matter.


    ¡°Yes, you dumbass. Just knock him out,¡± Karma replied with a smirk, nonchalant as ever.


    Kurt¡¯s face twisted in rage. ¡°What the hell did you say?¡± he barked, throwing a punch with all his weight behind it.


    Isaac¡¯s eyes shifted, his demonic eye glowing faintly with a gleaming emerald hue, tracking Kurt¡¯s movements in slow motion. With a calculated sidestep, he dodged the punch effortlessly, the blow swiping harmlessly past him. Without hesitation, Isaac delivered a swift kick to Kurt¡¯s leg, buckling it and forcing him down to one knee. The crowd gasped as Isaac¡¯s foot shot up in a brutal arc, connecting with Kurt¡¯s jaw and sending him crashing to the ground.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    A tense silence lingered over the crowd, eyes wide as they watched Isaac standing over Kurt¡¯s battered form. For a moment, Isaac¡¯s eyes held an unnerving intensity as he looked down.  He knelt beside Kurt and, without hesitation, threw another punch, then another, even as Kurt weakly gasped, trying to shield his face. Blood spattered across Isaac¡¯s face, but he was unmoved, lost in some dark focus.


    Just then, June pushed through the crowd and unfurled her crimson wings in a graceful arc, blocking Isaac¡¯s next strike. The look in her eyes was serious, almost a warning.


    ¡°The fight¡¯s over,¡± she said firmly. ¡°I get it; he started it. But you don¡¯t need to go this far. He¡¯s already unconscious.¡±


    Isaac froze, caught off guard by her intervention, before he looked over at Karma, his expression unreadable. ¡°Karma, did I take things too far?¡± he asked, voice steady but uncertain.


    Karma sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°Yeah, dumbass. You scared the whole crowd. I was just getting ready to scam them, maybe charge them for the entertainment. Now I can¡¯t do that.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s gaze softened slightly. ¡°I see. Sorry for ruining your plan.¡±


    June rolled her eyes, feathers rustling as she pulled one from her wing and pressed it to Kurt¡¯s wounds, healing him. ¡°Don¡¯t apologize to him,¡± she huffed. ¡°Apologize to the guy you nearly turned to pulp!¡±


    Isaac blinked, confused. ¡°What for? He started it.¡±


    ¡°Obviously, because you nearly killed him,¡± Karma replied, raising an eyebrow.


    Isaac shrugged, looking at Kurt with vague disinterest. ¡°But I don¡¯t wanna. Do I have to?¡±


    Karma just snorted. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s a lost cause. He¡¯s not gonna hear it after being knocked out cold by you, anyway. Besides, it feels pretty nice watching someone else take the hit for a change instead of me.¡±


    Isaac smirked, though a hint of fatigue lingered in his eyes. ¡°You started most of those fights, remember?¡±


    June shook her head, exasperated. ¡°You two are impossible,¡± she muttered. ¡°Mars, come on; we don¡¯t have time to waste with these two. The entrance exam¡¯s about to start.¡±


    Mars chuckled, waving a casual goodbye. ¡°See you, crazies.¡±


    As the siblings walked off, Karma nudged Isaac. ¡°Alright, enough brooding. The letter said to head to the auditorium, and we¡¯re already running late.¡±


    Isaac gave one last look at the unconscious Kurt before nodding, his usual focus returning. The two of them took off, weaving through the crowd and heading toward the towering school in the distance, ready to face the next challenge waiting inside.


    As the duo entered the grand auditorium, they spotted two open seats near the front, only to realize they were right next to June and Mars. The siblings turned as they sat down, with June giving them a resigned sigh.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you two again. What a pain,¡± she muttered, though there was a hint of amusement in her tone.


    ¡°Hello there!¡± Karma replied, voice cheerful and warm beneath his mask. ¡°I¡¯m Karma. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you two properly.¡±


    Isaac, however, remained silent, his gaze fixed somewhere beyond the stage, not bothering with a greeting.


    Karma nudged him with a smirk. ¡°Sorry about Mr. Edgelord here. He¡¯s been a moody bastard for the seven years I¡¯ve known him.¡±


    Isaac shot him a dark glare. ¡°Don¡¯t call me an edgelord, you damned con artist.¡±


    ¡°You two are an odd pair,¡± Mars observed, studying them with open curiosity. ¡°Are you siblings?¡±


    The word seemed to hit Isaac hard. His expression faltered, eyes darkening briefly as a flash of sadness crossed his face. Karma, catching this, answered quickly.


    ¡°Thankfully, no!¡± he replied with a chuckle. ¡°We just grew up in the same orphanage. He¡¯s been my best friend ever since.¡±


    Isaac rolled his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m your only friend,¡± he muttered dryly.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m June, and this is my brother Mars,¡± June replied, gesturing between them. ¡°We¡¯re from the city of Camelot, right at the heart of ¨¢lfheimr.¡±


    Karma tilted his head, genuinely intrigued. ¡°Camelot? Sounds grand, but can¡¯t say I¡¯ve heard of it. Not much history or geography got taught in our orphanage.¡±


    The group continued talking, sharing bits of their lives and experiences, growing more comfortable with each other as they exchanged laughs and quick-witted remarks. But their conversation abruptly halted as a shadowy figure suddenly appeared on stage. The man wore a sharp black suit and an odd, theatrical top hat with two eerie eyeballs perched on its brim, likely fake but unsettlingly lifelike. Isaac¡¯s eyes narrowed, he recognized this man from that horrific day when his home was attacked.


    ¡°Ahem. Quiet down, everyone,¡± the man announced, voice rich and steady. But the students paid him little attention, their chatter filling the air.


    In an instant, the surrounding air rippled, then condensed with intense energy, as if the entire room had thickened, pressing down on each student like a great invisible hand. A wave of sheer dread flooded the room, silencing everyone in a heartbeat. The students froze, their breaths shallow as they looked toward the man on the stage, their casual defiance replaced by unease.


    ¡°Thank you for quieting down,¡± he said, his voice now gentle yet carrying an undeniable edge. ¡°I am Ashe, the headmaster of Castletown Academy.¡± He smiled, though the glint in his eyes seemed to hint at something far less comforting.


    The silence lingered, students transfixed by the enigmatic man who held their gaze with quiet authority.


    Ashe¡¯s sharp gaze swept across the sea of students as he took a step forward, his presence towering. ¡°Now, as you all know, the purpose of this academy is simple yet formidable: to train warriors capable of either becoming the hero of this era or serving as the hero¡¯s crucial allies. But remember¡ªthe path you choose is yours to forge. Before we begin the entrance exam, let me remind you all of this academy''s motto.¡±


    He paused, voice rising with commanding intensity. ¡°Sharpen thy claws to the best of your ability. If your claws are weak, sharpen your mind. If your mind is weak, sharpen your fangs. Find your specialty¡ªhone it to its utmost. Only then will you become worthy of standing among the legends.¡±


    A murmur passed through the crowd as his words sank in, resonating with the gravity of the challenge ahead. Ashe gave them a moment to reflect, then continued with a calculating smile.


    ¡°Now, for the rules of the entrance exam. It will be a battle royale. Each of you will be distributed throughout the forest surrounding the academy grounds. Engage with each other as you see fit; however, should you strike with fatal intent, worry not. The academy has taken precautions, any blow that would otherwise be fatal will instead trigger an emergency teleportation, bringing the student back here unharmed. They''ll be healed instantly, safe from any risk to their lives.¡±


    A pause, and then he let his smile widen. ¡°The exam will continue until only ten of you remain.¡±


    The statement unleashed a ripple of shock through the auditorium, erupting into a clamorous uproar. The notion of such fierce competition, only ten to pass from among so many, sent nervous glances and excited murmurs through the students. Ashe raised a hand, his aura thickening as he released a powerful wave of mana that instantly quelled the noise. Silence fell once again as he resumed.


    ¡°I will be monitoring every move, and rest assured, I¡¯m not looking for mere survival. I¡¯m looking at how you navigate this test¡ªhow you adapt, strategize, and fight. Those who perform well in any respect may earn a spot here. If you choose to fight, your skill and form will be evaluated. If you decide stealth, I¡¯ll judge your ability to evade and outwit. Whether you¡¯re the first one knocked out or the last one standing, so long as you fight with every ounce of your potential, you have a chance to pass.¡±


    With this, Ashe''s eyes gleamed as he scanned the room once more. There was a renewed sense of determination on many of the students'' faces, the previous anxiety transformed into something sharper, more focused.


    Ashe nodded, satisfied. ¡°Those who survive until the final ten will be given a guaranteed pass. Now, there¡¯s one last twist to this exam, which can begin under one of two conditions. The first is when half of you have been eliminated. The second¡­ well, that depends on your luck. Somewhere within the forest lies the sentinel, a professor who will be stalking the grounds. Should you come across him, he will awaken early.  He¡¯ll be capped at only ten percent of his true power, but he¡¯ll be in his soul-release state. Should you encounter a knight in black armor¡­ just know that your days may be numbered.  Though it has never happened before, should you defeat the sentinel the exam will end and everyone currently remaining will pass¡±


    He let the words hang ominously in the air before smiling with eerie calm. ¡°Now, let the entrance exam begin. Good luck, everyone.¡± With a sharp snap of his fingers, an emerald light swirled around each student, whisking them away.


    As the green light engulfed them, Karma grinned at Isaac, giving a mock salute. ¡°You better survive, Isaac.¡±


    ¡°I will,¡± Isaac replied, his eyes blazing with determination. ¡°In fact, I¡¯m planning to hunt down the sentinel.¡±


    Karma laughed. ¡°Crazy bastard.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you weird duo later. Let¡¯s hope we all pass,¡± June said with a smile, glancing between the two of them before the light carried her away.


    In a flash, Isaac found himself within a sprawling, shadow-draped forest. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth, and distant calls of beasts echoed through the woods. A moment¡¯s silence passed before he heard a sharp rustle behind him, a student, unprepared, had stumbled into his path.


    With deadly precision, Isaac extended his index finger, dark scales creeping over it until it formed a claw. He slashed his palm, conjuring a blade of blood. Moving like a shadow, he lunged toward his opponent, eyes fixed on his target¡¯s throat. Just before his blade made contact, the student vanished in a swirl of light, and teleported back to the auditorium.


    A disembodied voice boomed across the forest. ¡°First blood has been claimed.¡±


    Isaac smirked, feeling a thrill course through him. His journey had begun, and with it, his relentless pursuit of vengeance and power.

 Chapter 8-Exam

    Isaac settled himself on a nearby tree stump, focused and unfazed by the stillness of the surrounding forest. His gaze sharpened as he transformed his index finger into a draconic blackened claw, its edge gleaming like obsidian. Without hesitation, he sliced his wrist, letting his blood spill into the air. Instead of falling, it hung in midair, then drifted purposefully, shaping itself into an arrow. The arrow spun slightly, orienting itself westward, and Isaac allowed a rare smile to break through his otherwise stoic expression.


    ¡°Perfect. My blood link worked,¡± he murmured, watching the crimson pointer hover in place. ¡°Karma¡¯s not far. Once we regroup, this whole exam will be ours.¡±


    Elsewhere in the dense forest, Karma stood alone, surrounded by nine other students. They eyed him warily, sizing him up, as he casually reached into his pocket, pulling out a small vial. Inside, a droplet of Isaac¡¯s blood shivered, drawn by an invisible pull, twitching as if yearning to rejoin its source.


    The leader of the group, a tall boy with a scarred eyebrow and a confident smirk, took a step forward. ¡°Hey, masked guy, we¡¯re forming an alliance. Power in numbers and all that. Join us, and we¡¯ll make sure we¡¯re all in the final ten. What do you say?¡±


    Karma tilted his head, his eyes narrowing beneath his mask as he considered the proposal. Then, with a shrug, he gave a half-hearted laugh. ¡°Sorry, but I¡¯ve already got a partner. And he¡¯s a bit possessive.¡±


    The leader¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Then it¡¯s too bad for you. We can¡¯t leave loose ends.¡± He signaled his group, and they began closing in.


    Karma let out a low, almost playful chuckle. ¡°Guess it¡¯s time to bring out the big guns.¡± He raised his hand, whispering with a hint of relish, ¡°Awaken, high-class fire spirit, Salamander.¡±


    Instantly, a torrent of purple flames erupted around him, spiraling outward with an almost sentient fury. In mere seconds, the students surrounding him were engulfed, their screams cut short as the flames teleported them back to the auditorium. As the fire dissipated, a small creature appeared, floating lazily on top of Karma¡¯s head. It looked like a miniature dragon, with ruby-red scales, tiny black horns, and wings too small to lift it. The creature, Salamander, gave a soft purr, settling comfortably on his head.


    ¡°Welcome back, Sally,¡± Karma grinned, reaching up to scratch under the creature¡¯s tiny chin. ¡°With you around, this whole exam¡¯s a walk in the park. Can¡¯t see any of these amateurs standing a chance against a high-class spirit like you.¡±


    He rolled up his sleeve, revealing an intricate tattoo on his forearm. The tattoo was a series of concentric circles, four lines branching out in a cross pattern, with a single, piercing eye at the center, a symbol that glowed faintly as he stroked Salamander¡¯s scales.


    ¡°Awaken, low-class fire spirits, Embers! Scout the forest, and if you find anyone¡­¡± Karma paused with a wicked grin. ¡°Explode on sight,¡± he commanded, snapping his fingers. Instantly, dozens of tiny fireballs flared to life around him, each one wearing a comical, wide-eyed grin that glowed with mischievous energy. They bobbed through the air, flickering and crackling as they dispersed in all directions, their happy faces at odds with their destructive orders.


    Meanwhile, deeper in the forest, Isaac prowled through the dense foliage, tracking any potential targets with ruthless intent. Soon, he stumbled upon an unusual sight¡ªa boy asleep beneath the shade of a tree. He looked entirely out of place in this brutal arena. His messy green hair lay sprawled over his face, and he was bundled up in a black hoodie, worn over pajama pants, with slippers on his feet. In his arms, he clutched a small white kitten plush, nestled securely under a blanket.


    Isaac narrowed his eyes, forming a thin blade from his blood and positioning it above the sleeping boy. He thrust the weapon downward¡ªonly to have it ricochet off an invisible barrier with a resounding clang. The protective shield shimmered faintly in the sunlight before fading back into invisibility.


    ¡°What the¡­? How strong is this barrier?¡± Isaac muttered, taken aback. His gaze hardened as he sized up the boy. Something about this lazy stranger was off.


    The boy stirred, his purple eyes opening sleepily as he yawned. ¡°Excuse me,¡± he mumbled, barely awake. ¡°I¡¯m trying to sleep here. Not really interested in fighting or anything, so¡­ could you move along?¡±


    Isaac looked at him incredulously. ¡°You do realize this is a battle royale, right? People are out here fighting for their lives, and you¡¯re¡­ napping?¡±


    The boy stretched, rolling his neck as he lazily shifted his plush to the side. ¡°Yeah, but I¡¯m the strongest one here,¡± he said casually, his voice barely above a murmur. ¡°Why should I worry?¡±


    Isaac blinked in surprise. There was an eerie calmness about this kid, like someone who had absolute confidence in his strength. ¡°You¡¯re¡­ an odd person,¡± he admitted, lowering his weapon, intrigued despite himself. ¡°What¡¯s your name, anyway?¡±


    The boy mumbled as his eyelids began to droop again. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ Kel,¡± he muttered, sounding as though he were moments away from drifting off. ¡°My dad¡­ works here¡­ as the¡­¡±


    And just like that, Kel¡¯s eyes closed, and he was back asleep, leaving Isaac standing there with a bewildered look on his face.


    Isaac continued sprinting through the dense forest, his eyes sharp, his focus narrowed as he traced his path toward Karma. The shadows of the trees danced across his face as he leaped over roots and ducked under branches, each step swift and sure. Suddenly, his foot landed in a shallow puddle, splashing water in all directions.


    A few steps later, the puddle began to ripple, reforming as it took on a shimmering, purplish hue. The water rose, shifting and coalescing until a torso emerged, followed by long, flowing hair made of liquid. The upper half of a young woman appeared, her blank face softening into an almost petulant expression as she surveyed her surroundings.


    ¡°Ugh, how rude! Just because my disguise was flawless doesn¡¯t mean he had to step on me,¡± she grumbled, a pout forming on her smooth, featureless face. With a sigh, she melted back down, rippling back into the shape of a placid puddle, hidden once more.


    Isaac ran onward, oblivious to the hidden watcher, until he spotted someone ahead. His pace slowed as he saw a figure standing beneath the soft shafts of light filtering through the canopy. A girl with light blue hair cascading down her back, her white draconic horns elegant and sweeping upward, unlike the fierce, rugged horns of the Fafnir family. A delicate rose was tucked into one of her horns, its crimson petals a stark contrast against her pale hair. She wore a flowing crimson dress that billowed lightly in the breeze, and as her golden draconic eyes fell upon him, a look of shock and recognition crossed her face. A single tear traced down her cheek, glistening in the faint light.


    Isaac froze, his breath catching as he stared back, recognition flooding over him. He hadn¡¯t seen her in so many years, but there was no mistaking who she was. ¡°Lyra?¡± His voice shook, unsteady, the usual edge softened by the tremor of old memories.


    The girl¡¯s eyes widened as she looked back at him, her hands trembling as they clasped together in front of her. ¡°It¡­ it is. I can¡¯t believe it¡¯s really you,¡± she whispered, her voice thick with emotion as tears spilled freely down her cheeks.


    ¡°N-no¡­ it¡¯s not me. I¡¯m sorry, but you¡¯ve got the wrong person,¡± Isaac muttered, looking away, his voice hollow and forced.


    Lyra¡¯s face crumpled, her golden eyes narrowing in disbelief. ¡°You said my name. You have the same demonic eye¡­ don¡¯t lie to me. I know it¡¯s you,¡± she insisted, her voice breaking, her fists clenching at her sides as if to hold herself together.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know who you¡¯re looking for. This demonic eye just awakened within me. Whoever its previous owner was¡­ he¡¯s dead,¡± Isaac replied, forcing himself to keep his tone flat, distant. But his hand trembled as he clenched his fist, the words tasting like ash on his tongue.


    ¡°Isaac, why are you doing this?¡± she cried, her voice cracking with the desperation of old memories she had clung to for years. ¡°Our families¡­ they were planning for us to be engaged.  I know you better than anyone else. Please don¡¯t push me away. I know it¡¯s you, no matter how much you deny it.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s heart hammered in his chest as he forced himself to look anywhere but at her. Fear surged through him, a fear not of Lyra, but of the parts of himself he had left behind, the pieces of the boy she once knew that had been buried, shredded, and abandoned in the wake of that day. He couldn¡¯t let her see what he had become, what he had let himself become for the sake of revenge.


    ¡°I¡¯m not him.¡± His voice was sharper now, a harsh edge in his tone as he conjured a blade of blood from his wrist, its dark, shimmering surface a contrast to the light in her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re just my enemy, so get out of my way.¡±


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Lyra¡¯s eyes blazed with hurt, her face crumpling, but her expression soon hardened, the sadness there morphing into fiery determination. She took a step forward, tears streaming down her cheeks, her fists glowing with the faintest traces of energy. ¡°Fine, Isaac. If that¡¯s how it is¡­ I¡¯ll beat some sense into you until you remember who you really are, you stubborn jerk.¡±


    Without another word, Lyra raised her hands, summoning the energy coursing through her veins. ¡°Ability¡ªHeavenly Rain!¡±


    A rumbling crack tore through the sky as a bolt of lightning shot down from the heavens, its blinding flash searing across Isaac¡¯s vision. He barely sidestepped in time, feeling the static charge surge past him, close enough to make his skin prickle. The impact left a smoking crater where he¡¯d been standing just seconds before.


    Isaac clenched his teeth, steeling himself as he met her tear-streaked gaze. For a moment, he felt his resolve falter, but he tightened his grip on his blade. If she wanted to face him, to make him acknowledge the boy he¡¯d left behind, he would have to push her away¡ªno matter how much it hurt.


    The air between Isaac and Lyra was charged, thick with emotions left unsaid, with memories hanging like a haze over the battlefield. Lyra¡¯s golden eyes were wet with determination, her hands sparking with energy as she prepared herself for the fight. Isaac felt his heart twist; he didn¡¯t want this, didn¡¯t want to clash with someone who had once been part of his past¡ªsomeone he was supposed to protect. But there was no choice now. She was forcing him to confront everything he¡¯d tried to leave behind.


    ¡°Last chance,¡± she called out, her voice wavering but resolute. ¡°If you won¡¯t acknowledge me, then I¡¯ll make you remember with every hit.¡±


    Isaac met her gaze, steadying himself. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ but I can¡¯t.  That person you knew¡­ he¡¯s gone.¡±


    Without further warning, Lyra surged forward, her form a blur as she unleashed a flurry of strikes. Isaac barely managed to parry her blows, their clashing energies resonating with the crackle of thunder in the air. Lyra¡¯s fists glowed with raw power, each punch carrying her desperate emotions. She wanted to break through his defenses, not just physically but emotionally, trying to reach him in a way that words couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°You think you can just throw everything away?¡± she shouted, her voice breaking as she intensified her assault. ¡°What about the promises we made? Our families, our dreams? Do those mean nothing to you now?¡±


    Isaac dodged, weaving through her relentless attacks, but each strike brought her words closer to his heart, chipping away at the walls he had built around himself. ¡°I had no choice,¡± he replied, his voice strained as he conjured another blade of blood, its edge glinting with his resolve. ¡°I lost everything, Lyra, everything was taken from me.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you come to me?¡± She spun in a graceful arc, her hand glowing as she aimed a palm strike at his chest. ¡°Why did you let me believe you were dead?  Why can''t you tell me the truth now?¡±


    The blow connected, sending Isaac stumbling back as he struggled to stay on his feet. Her hit had knocked the air out of him, but it was her words that struck deeper. He wanted to answer her, to tell her how helpless he had felt, how revenge had swallowed every other part of him whole. But there was no way to say that without sounding like a monster.


    ¡°Because it was easier than facing you!¡± he finally admitted, his voice raw as he swung his blade toward her, meeting her blow with equal force. The impact sent them both reeling, but neither backed down. ¡°I¡¯m not the person you remember. I¡¯m not even a person anymore¡ªI¡¯m just¡­ a monster.¡±


    Lyra¡¯s face crumpled, but her stance didn¡¯t falter. She stepped forward, her fists crackling with a renewed ferocity. ¡°You¡¯re wrong, Isaac. You might be angry, hurt, or even broken, but you¡¯re still you. And you don¡¯t have to do this alone.¡±


    With that, she gathered a surge of energy, raising her hands to the sky as another bolt of lightning tore down from the heavens, illuminating the battlefield with blinding light. Isaac barely managed to throw up a shield of blood, the intense energy cracking it as he felt the heat singe his skin. But he wouldn¡¯t stop. Not now.


    He steadied himself, breathing hard, the weight of his decision sinking in as he charged forward. The demonic eye in his face glowed with a fierce light as he parried her strikes, his movements growing faster and more calculated. Despite his cold resolve, each blow felt like a betrayal to the person he once was, to the person she still saw in him.


    Finally, in a last desperate move, he broke through her defenses, grabbing her wrist and pulling her close, his other hand poised with the blade of blood hovering near her heart.


    Lyra¡¯s breath hitched, her eyes wide as she looked up at him, her cheeks streaked with tears. ¡°Go ahead,¡± she whispered, her voice choked. ¡°If you¡¯ve really lost yourself¡­ then prove it. But I don¡¯t believe it. I don¡¯t believe you¡¯re gone.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s hand shook as he stared at her, his blade trembling as he struggled to hold his resolve. At that moment, he felt the weight of all his pain and regret, the isolation he had imposed on himself. She was willing to risk her life just to reach him, to save him from the darkness he had embraced.


    He dropped the blade, his breath unsteady as he let go of her wrist. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered, his voice breaking. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything, for not being the person you needed me to be. For letting you believe I was dead.¡±


    Lyra collapsed to her knees, her shoulders shaking as she wiped away the tears that had streamed down her face. Isaac watched her, feeling the hollow ache in his chest as he turned away, trying to keep himself from shattering.


    ¡°Maybe¡­ maybe one day, I can be that person again. But right now¡­¡± He swallowed, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I have to be someone else. I have to finish what I started.¡±


    With that, he stepped back, leaving her kneeling in the clearing, her sobs echoing softly as he vanished into the forest.


    As Isaac tore through the forest, his thoughts were a tangled mess of anger, regret, and pain. Lyra¡¯s tear-streaked face haunted him, her voice echoing in his mind, ¡°Isaac, why are you doing this?¡± He tried to shake off the memory, tried to bury it under the fury that had driven him this far, but it clung to him, gnawing at his resolve. He couldn¡¯t let himself feel, not now.


    The first student that crossed his path barely had time to raise their guard before Isaac¡¯s blood blade slashed through their defenses, sending them stumbling backward as they were teleported back to the auditorium. Isaac didn¡¯t even look back, his movements sharp and mechanical, a dullness settling over his gaze as he continued forward. He moved like a storm, cutting down anyone who dared cross him, his steps relentless and silent as he carved a path through the forest.


    Another opponent appeared, a tall girl with a blade glowing with energy. She lunged at him, her expression fierce, but Isaac sidestepped effortlessly, his demonic eye gleaming as he read her every movement. With a quick swipe of his clawed hand, he disarmed her, sending her sword flying. Before she could recover, he struck a precise blow, and she too vanished in a flash of light, teleported back to safety.


    ¡°Why are you all so insistent on getting in my way?¡± he muttered, a hint of frustration breaking through his monotone. He clenched his fists, his knuckles white as he tried to keep his composure.


    Each opponent fell faster than the last, none able to withstand his merciless onslaught. Isaac¡¯s face remained expressionless, but with each strike, his mind grew darker, his inner turmoil bleeding into his every move. To anyone watching, he seemed like a shadow gliding through the forest, leaving only defeat in his wake.


    Yet, as he took down another student, a boy who tried to summon a defensive barrier but crumpled under Isaac¡¯s sheer force, Isaac¡¯s gaze flickered. He saw flashes of himself in their frightened faces, memories of his own struggles, his own helplessness, memories he tried so hard to bury. He shook his head, pushing the thoughts away, but they clawed at him, relentlessly.


    As he felled his tenth opponent, he finally stopped, breathing heavily as he looked down at his bloodstained hands, his blood staining his hands, his chest heaving with a mix of exhaustion and guilt. His vision blurred as he clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms.


    ¡°Damn it¡­ What am I even doing?¡± He couldn¡¯t shake the image of Lyra¡¯s tearful face, her pleading voice. The weight of it pressed on him, choking him with guilt.


    He took a shaky breath, his voice barely a whisper. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ I¡¯m so sorry.¡± For a moment, his hardened exterior cracked, a single tear slipping down his cheek as he struggled to hold himself together.


    Isaac looked around, the forest suddenly feeling darker, and colder. He felt as if he was sinking into a void, his heart heavy with everything he¡¯d tried to push away. Taking one last look at the path of destruction he¡¯d left behind, he steeled himself, forcing the mask back on as he pushed forward.


    But no matter how many he defeated, he couldn¡¯t escape the truth gnawing at him from within. And as he moved deeper into the forest, one thought repeated in his mind, haunting him like a curse, ¡°Isaac, why are you doing this?¡±


    In the dense heart of the forest lay a massive stone castle, its shadow stretching ominously over the surrounding trees, as if daring anyone to approach. The walls were ancient, covered in thick vines, and etched with strange runes that seemed to pulse with a faint, dark glow. A lone student, desperately seeking a place to hide from the chaos of the exam, slipped inside, believing he¡¯d found sanctuary.


    ¡°This place should be empty. No one will think to search here,¡± he whispered to himself, relief easing his tense posture as he moved deeper into the castle.


    He wandered into a grand, echoing hall that led to a throne room, his footsteps growing hesitant as he noticed the eerie silence. There, at the center of the room, sat a solitary figure¡ªa knight clad in armor as black as night. The figure¡¯s presence radiated a menacing aura that filled the hall, swallowing the light and casting long, jagged shadows. The knight¡¯s helmet was sharp and imposing, with twisted ram horns curving from its sides, adding a monstrous touch. His right arm was fused with a massive spear, the deadly weapon gleaming faintly under the dim light.


    The boy¡¯s heart skipped a beat as he realized the gravity of his mistake. This was no ordinary knight¡ªthis was the Sentinel.


    ¡°How¡­ unfortunate,¡± the Sentinel drawled, his voice resonating with an unsettling calm. ¡°Not even ten percent of the students have been eliminated, and yet here you are¡­ awakening me.¡±


    The boy stumbled back, a wave of panic seizing him. He spun around, making a desperate attempt to flee. But before he could even cross the threshold, a spear of dark energy erupted from the ground, piercing through him. He vanished in an instant, and teleported back to the auditorium, his scream lingering in the castle like a ghostly echo.


    The Sentinel slowly rose from his throne, his spear arm glinting as he stretched, as though waking from a long slumber. With a low, almost hungry chuckle, he murmured to himself, ¡°Let the hunt begin.¡±

 Chapter 9-Night of the Hunt

    The Sentinel stepped out of the shadowed castle, his heavy black armor catching the dim glint of the sun. His helmet, with its twisted ram horns, angled upward as if relishing the coming descent into night. A dark amusement played in his eyes, barely visible through the narrow slits in his helm.


    With a low, rumbling voice, he murmured words that twisted the surrounding air, words ancient and fierce, dripping with ominous power. ¡°Soul Expansion,¡± he declared, his voice reverberating with each syllable. ¡°Night of the Hunt.¡±


    As he spoke, his presence ignited an invisible yet palpable wave of energy. It expanded outwards from him, rolling across the ground, through trees, past rivers, touching every inch of the forest. The vibrant greens dulled to gray and blue, and colors leeched into an endless twilight, as if the Sentinel had bent reality itself. A sickle-shaped moon appeared, frozen high above, bathing the entire area in a dim silver glow. The day collapsed into the night, casting long shadows, and yet there was no warmth, only a chilling, silent stillness.


    The announcement rang through the forest, cutting through the students'' hearts like a blade, ¡°The Sentinel has been released early. Good luck.¡±


    The oppressive wave of fear rippled through the forest as the Sentinel¡¯s laughter echoed. Students clung to shadows, struggling to calm their breaths and steady their hands. The silver crescent moon, casting a dim, otherworldly glow, seemed to mock their predicament, as the very ground beneath them felt cursed. Trees stretched taller, and darker, and rocks jutted out in twisted, unnatural shapes, each one potentially hiding the ever-looming figure of the Sentinel.


    ¡°With this, I know the location of every one of you,¡± Professor Willow¡¯s voice boomed across the forest, chilling the air as he declared his advantage. ¡°I am Castletown¡¯s guard dog. I am Professor Willow. Run¡­ or be hunted. Above all else, be afraid.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the faculty meeting room, a group of professors observed the exam unfold on a glowing, ethereal screen. Leonardo Jupiter, the academy¡¯s renowned combat instructor, watched with tense focus. His jet-black hair was tied back in a sleek ponytail, his crimson eyes taking in every detail with a steely gaze. Known for his unyielding discipline and fierce skill, he was a man of unwavering composure. His tailored black suit and gloves completed the look of a true warrior, and his stoic aura was legendary. His gaze remained sharp, noting each move of Professor Willow, a mix of admiration and wariness in his expression.


    ¡°Sir, are you sure letting him take on the role of the Sentinel this year was wise?¡± Professor Jupiter asked, voice low but edged with concern. ¡°He¡¯s undeniably powerful, but his¡­ unpredictability is concerning.¡±


    Fraser Haas leaned back in his chair, a sly grin playing on his lips. Unlike Jupiter, Fraser radiated an unpredictable, wild energy. With his flowing blonde hair and delicate features, he was often mistaken for a woman, but his chilling blue eyes suggested a soul that had peered into the depths of darkness. A former bounty hunter with countless tales to his name, he wore a luxurious fur coat, his rifle always by his side like an extension of his very being.


    ¡°Oh, come on, Leo,¡± Fraser chuckled, his voice full of mischief. ¡°You¡¯re just upset it isn¡¯t you out there. Admit it, it¡¯d be fun to hunt those little brats.¡±


    Jupiter shot him a glare. ¡°This is a trial, not a slaughter. Willow¡¯s power should not be unleashed lightly.¡±


    Fraser waved Jupiter¡¯s concern away with a grin. ¡°He¡¯s the guard dog, and he knows his place. He¡¯s got them scared, which is exactly what we want. The real world isn¡¯t going to coddle them.¡±


    Jupiter¡¯s crimson eyes narrowed, his voice tinged with lingering wariness. ¡°I just don¡¯t want another disaster like last year, with that psycho Warren. Honestly, I still can¡¯t believe a single student managed to eliminate every other exam taker simultaneously.¡±


    A lazy but familiar voice drifted into the room, cutting through the tension. ¡°Are you all talking about me? Gossip isn¡¯t exactly becoming behavior¡­ especially when it¡¯s about the student council.¡±


    Warren Necrom strode in, his presence immediately commanding attention. He wasn¡¯t merely the student council president, he was the student council. On his second day at the academy, he had nonchalantly walked into the council office, challenging and defeating every single member. He claimed all their positions, a feat reflected in the numerous armbands on his sleeve, each symbolizing a different council role. His blond hair was an unruly mess, his deep red eyes underscored by dark circles, a testament to his rumored caffeine obsession. He wore black glasses low on his nose, and from his back sprouted a set of angelic wings. Above his head floated a shimmering halo, a surreal contrast to his otherwise irreverent demeanor.


    ¡°Those positions weren¡¯t handed to me, you know,¡± Warren smirked, tilting his glasses up. ¡°And as for my exam¡­ it¡¯s hardly my fault that none of them could dodge a simple attack. I seem to recall you managed it just fine, Professor Jupiter.¡±


    Jupiter folded his arms, unimpressed. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t exactly call what you did an attack. More like a one-sided slaughter. Go back to your coffee, you addict.¡±


    Warren rolled his eyes, grinning. ¡°I am still a student here, Professor. No need to be so harsh. Besides, I¡¯m three cups deep today and not really craving more.¡± He yawned, stretching his wings out lazily before they folded back behind him. ¡°Anyway, I hear there¡¯s some actual talent this time around. Is anyone worth my attention? My class is full of¡­ underwhelming and boring people.¡±


    At the far end of the room, Professor Ashe remained with his back turned, his focus riveted on the floating screen where the chaotic exam played out in real time. Without glancing back, he spoke, his tone carrying a note of intrigue. ¡°We¡¯ve got some interesting candidates. Descendants of primordial beasts, a future king, even a demigod among them.¡±


    Warren¡¯s grin widened, his interest piqued. ¡°Oh? Maybe this year won¡¯t be as dull as I thought.¡± He leaned closer to the screen, eyes alight with a dark curiosity as he watched the students navigate the Sentinel¡¯s deadly game.


    Professor Willow stood atop a ledge, his dark armor gleaming under the silver crescent moonlight as he reviewed the magical map revealing the location of each student in the forest. His eyes narrowed in curiosity when he noticed an unusual cluster¡ªnearly ten percent of the students gathered in a tight formation, as though banding together.


    ¡°Hm, an alliance? Not a bad plan,¡± Willow chuckled to himself, his voice echoing menacingly in the quiet forest. ¡°Perhaps I¡¯ll pay them a visit next.¡±


    Deep within the shadowed woods, a lone student sat on the damp ground, breathing heavily as he took a moment¡¯s reprieve. Just as he closed his eyes to steady himself, he felt an icy chill wash over him. Looking up, he found two figures looming above.


    The first was a young man, his crimson eyes sharp and gleaming with excitement. His black hair was immaculately groomed, and his attire spoke of royalty¡ªa regal tunic and cloak draped over his shoulders with an air of authority that bordered on intimidation. His ears were long and pointed, hinting at some otherworldly ancestry, and a single fang gleamed as he smiled.


    Beside him stood a woman with an otherworldly grace and a disinterested gaze. Her long, curly purple hair was adorned with pink flowers, and her skin was as pale as freshly fallen snow. She wore a flowing black dress and held a sheathed katana with an air of quiet, deadly elegance.


    ¡°My lord, do you wish to offer salvation to this one as well?¡± the woman asked, her tone as apathetic as her gaze.


    The young man turned to her with a slight smirk. ¡°That depends. He may be unworthy,¡± he replied before addressing the student. ¡°Tell me, would you like salvation?¡±


    The student looked up in bewilderment, fear edging into his eyes. ¡°W-who are you? Why are you doing this?¡±


    The young man¡¯s eyes lit with a mixture of amusement and command. ¡°I am Shadar Eclipse, future king of the continent of Helheim. That name alone should inspire trust,¡± he said, extending his hand in an invitation. ¡°I seek to gather those who would serve the Shadow King. Pledge yourself to me, and I will protect you within my shadow. Accept this, and you will know salvation.¡±


    The name ¡°Helheim¡± sent a jolt of recognition through the student. Helheim¡ªthe only continent that refused submission to the Emperor, yet managed to maintain a tenuous peace with him. Once fractured and warring, it had been united by Shadar¡¯s forces in recent years, with a temporary lord ruling until Shadar could come of age to claim his throne.


    The student hesitated, then bowed his head. ¡°Please¡­ I don¡¯t want to fail. I¡¯ll do anything!¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Shadar¡¯s gaze softened for a brief moment, though the pride in his stance did not waver. ¡°Your loyalty is accepted.¡± With a flick of his wrist, shadows unfurled around the student, swallowing him whole. In a heartbeat, he vanished, hidden within the depths of Shadar¡¯s companion¡¯s shadow, joining the dozens of others who had sought sanctuary in this unusual alliance.


    Once the shadows settled, the woman, Alice, looked at Shadar with a hint of reservation. ¡°Sir, are you certain this plan is wise?¡± she asked quietly, her fingers brushing against the hilt of her katana.


    Shadar¡¯s gaze turned resolute, his eyes glowing with determination. ¡°Of course. I am confident we can face the Sentinel, and save every last one of these students. A king must never forsake his subjects,¡± he replied, echoing the advice of a great man who had once counseled him. His voice was laced with a calm, iron-clad resolve. ¡°And I will not, no matter what it takes.¡±


    Alice watched him for a moment, then nodded, her expression shifting to one of quiet loyalty as she stepped in line beside him. ¡°Then, we shall prepare for the hunt.¡±


    As Prof. Willow ran through the forest, he heard an interesting scream. Students were yelling that the sentinel had arrived, even when he hadn''t made his way there yet. Out of curiosity, he decided to check it out, before checking out the large cluster.


    In the clearing, students scrambled in every direction, only to find themselves cornered by what they thought was the true Sentinel. A towering suit of armor, ominous and imposing, stood in their path. It held a massive, double-bladed axe, which it swung with terrifying precision. One by one, panicked students were cut down by the faux Sentinel¡¯s blade, vanishing in bursts of light as they were teleported back to the auditorium.


    Moments later, the real Sentinel, Professor Willow, emerged from the shadows, his black armor glinting in the dim silver moonlight. He surveyed the scene with an amused smirk as he watched the armored giant slash at the scattering students.


    ¡°Well, well,¡± Willow chuckled, folding his spear arm across his chest. ¡°Pretending to be me to frighten your classmates, huh? Clever trick. Maybe they¡¯ll even let you join the academy for creativity¡­ though I¡¯m not sure about strength.¡±


    The massive suit of armor turned its blank gaze toward Willow and, without hesitation, lifted its axe high, swinging it down with the weight of a collapsing mountain. Willow, unimpressed, blocked the attack with ease, his spear-arm rotating like a drill as he deflected the blow, causing the surrounding earth to shudder. Then, with calculated precision, Willow drove his spinning spear straight into the armor¡¯s chest, piercing through with brutal efficiency.


    The armored figure staggered, its axe slipping from its grip as it crashed to the ground, creating a thunderous echo that reverberated through the clearing. Willow climbed onto the fallen giant, peering inside its helm with mild curiosity. ¡°That was disappointing,¡± he muttered, his voice edged with mockery.


    Suddenly, a spear shot out from within the armor, whizzing past Willow¡¯s face, narrowly missing him. Willow¡¯s eyes widened for a moment, surprised, before his gaze hardened. From the wreckage, a man dragged himself out of the armor¡¯s chest cavity, his appearance twisted and fierce. His skin was an unnatural shade of blue, stitched in patches, giving him the look of a living patchwork doll. His visible eye, a vivid crimson, glared at Willow with a savage intensity, while the rest of his face was partially concealed under a battered, makeshift helmet that resembled both a mask and an eye patch.


    With a low growl, the man summoned a massive battleaxe from thin air, gripping it with both hands as he straightened, his breath labored but his stance unwavering.


    Willow chuckled, a mocking grin spreading beneath his helm. ¡°So, you¡¯re the mastermind behind that massive suit of armor? Gotta say, didn¡¯t expect such a clever tactic from someone who¡¯s¡­ well, kind of short,¡± he taunted, his voice dripping with condescension.


    Kenji bristled, his eye narrowing. ¡°I''m not that short! And for your information, my abilities are more complex than you¡¯d think. The first one''s called Enchantment, I can enhance and control any weapon at will, even a hunk of metal like that armor. And I¡¯m so amazing, I¡¯ve even got a second ability, Forgery. I can replicate any object I¡¯ve seen before.¡± He lifted his chin, pride gleaming in his eyes as he glared at Willow. ¡°So show some respect and apologize for underestimating me!¡±


    Willow stifled a laugh, shaking his head with exaggerated pity. ¡°Aww, look at you, all puffed up. I know you¡¯re a zombie, but do you have to act so brain-dead?¡± He folded his arms, his tone dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Who goes around broadcasting their abilities to the enemy? Talk about giving away your trump card. For someone with a decent strategy, you sure don¡¯t know when to keep your mouth shut.¡±


    Kenji¡¯s face twisted in irritation, but Willow continued, undeterred, his voice turning sharp. ¡°So tell me, did someone else think this up for you, or did you finally put those brain cells to use?¡±


    Kenji¡¯s grip on his recreated axe tightened, his knuckles blanching despite his undead flesh. ¡°Laugh all you want, but I¡¯m more than just a walking corpse. I¡¯ll show you exactly what I can do!¡± He lunged forward, bringing the heavy axe down with fierce momentum, each strike carrying the weight of his indignation. Willow sidestepped effortlessly, his expression still annoyingly amused, almost bored.


    ¡°Oh, are we finally starting?¡± Willow sneered, parrying another blow with his spear-arm, the grinding sound of metal against metal filling the clearing. ¡°Let me show you what real strength looks like.¡±


    Kenji clenched his jaw, frustration flashing in his single crimson eye. ¡°I¡¯ve taken down tougher opponents than you, Willow,¡± he spat, raising his axe once more. ¡°I¡¯ll make you regret every word.¡±


    With a roar, he swung his massive recreated axe in a powerful arc. Willow sidestepped smoothly, the blade whistling past him by mere inches, carving into the ground with a force that sent debris flying. Willow tilted his head, a lazy grin on his face. ¡°You call that an attack? I¡¯m starting to feel bad for you.¡±


    Kenji snarled, channeling his energy through the axe. With his Enchantment ability, the weapon pulsed, doubling in size as black shadows wrapped around it like crackling tendrils. He swung again, faster this time, aiming to catch Willow off guard.


    But Willow¡¯s spear-arm twisted with blinding speed, intercepting Kenji¡¯s strike with a screech of metal. Sparks flew as their weapons clashed, the Sentinel''s spear absorbing the shock of Kenji''s blow with ease. He grinned through the grinding clash of metal, his voice dripping with mockery. ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got, corpse-boy?¡±


    Kenji¡¯s face contorted with rage as he spun to attack again, this time swinging from below to surprise him. But Willow leaped back, his movements quick and fluid, watching as the enchanted axe cleaved through empty air. ¡°Don¡¯t you get it?¡± Willow taunted, landing effortlessly on his feet. ¡°Your little bag of tricks won¡¯t help you here.¡±


    Kenji refused to let up. He concentrated, pulling his hand back to summon another weapon¡ªa second, smaller axe forged from memory, materializing instantly in his left hand. With newfound ferocity, he lunged forward, attacking with a relentless series of strikes, one blade following the other in rapid succession. Willow¡¯s spear spun in response, deflecting each blow with practiced ease. The Sentinel''s taunts had faded; now, he focused entirely on Kenji''s every move, a sharp glint of interest flashing behind his helmet¡¯s visor.


    ¡°You¡¯re stubborn,¡± Willow muttered, a flicker of approval slipping into his voice as he deflected another powerful swing. ¡°But this just means you¡¯ll fall that much harder.¡±


    Kenji¡¯s eye burned with determination as he switched tactics. Abandoning brute force, he struck low, aiming to take out Willow¡¯s knees. Willow narrowly dodged, surprised by the shift in style. But before he could retaliate, Kenji had already moved, darting to the side and aiming a new strike at Willow''s midsection.


    Willow spun, his spear-arm flashing upward just in time to parry the attack. ¡°Not bad,¡± he admitted, almost begrudgingly, his voice losing some of its earlier mockery. ¡°But I hope you¡¯re not tiring yourself out.¡±


    Kenji forced a smirk, despite his growing exhaustion. ¡°Worry about yourself, Sentinel.¡±


    With renewed energy, Kenji¡¯s axe arced down, slashing toward Willow¡¯s shoulder. Willow met it with a fierce counter, their weapons clashing with a thunderous impact that echoed through the forest clearing. Neither combatant backed down, their expressions intense, as the fierce struggle escalated.


    With a swift slash, Willow shattered both of Kenji''s weapons, the remnants clattering to the forest floor like fallen leaves. Kenji stumbled back, his breath quickening as he prepared for Willow''s inevitable charge.


    The Sentinel surged forward, his heavy armor creaking ominously as he swung his weapon for a killing blow. But in a split second, Kenji executed a desperate maneuver. He threw a special gunpowder into Willow''s eyes, a dazzling flash ignited upon impact, filling the air with acrid smoke and a bright explosion that momentarily blinded the Sentinel. Taking advantage of the chaos, Kenji summoned a makeshift cannon, its dark silhouette rising from the ground as he encased himself in a protective shell. With a tremendous roar, he ignited the cannon, propelling himself backward through the trees, narrowly escaping Willow¡¯s wrath.


    As he soared away, Kenji couldn¡¯t resist the urge to taunt the Sentinel, flipping him off mid-flight, a smirk breaking across his face despite the dire circumstances.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get that brat later,¡± Willow laughed, his voice echoing menacingly as he regained his composure, the heat of the battle still lingering in the air.


    In the clearing where Kenji landed, he was met with an unexpected sight, Karma stood there, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity as he assessed the weakened Kenji.


    ¡°My spirits told me that you were fighting the Sentinel. Is that true?¡± Karma asked, his voice steady and reassuring.


    ¡°Yes, it is. I couldn''t beat him, so I ran away,¡± Kenji admitted, the weight of defeat hanging heavily on his shoulders.


    ¡°Do you want another shot? I¡¯ve been asked to gather useful people to hunt him down, and you look like you¡¯d make a good tank,¡± Karma proposed, his eyes glinting with determination.


    ¡°Fine, let¡¯s be allies,¡± Kenji agreed, gratitude and resolve mingling in his heart as Karma reached out to help him stand.


    ¡°Here, drink this. It will heal you,¡± Karma said, producing a vial filled with a shimmering red liquid, the sight of it promising revitalization.


    Without hesitation, Kenji took the vial and drank it down. Warmth flooded through him as the healing properties coursed through his veins, knitting together his wounds and rejuvenating his spirit. He felt stronger, and more focused, as the pain dissipated.


    ¡°Now let¡¯s go find my friend,¡± Karma laughed, a confident grin spreading across his face.

 Chapter 10-Cú Chulainn

    The next day, the team assembled in the meeting room, each figure carrying their own distinct energy. This time, Cyrus was included in the meeting, his expression set in a scowl as he folded his arms impatiently.


    ¡°What on earth were you thinking, getting into a fight yesterday? This mission is our priority!¡± Cyrus barked, his voice tinged with frustration.


    ¡°Cool it, frosty,¡± Lux chimed in, unfazed, a smirk tugging at his lips. ¡°Marriage is a big deal, you know? Besides, we wouldn¡¯t have Ava here if Noah hadn''t won. Chill out a little.¡±


    Cyrus shot Lux a hard glare. ¡°Spare me the ice puns. We have serious work to do here.¡± He sighed, moving past the banter. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss the plan. I have someone joining us today. That makes four of us for the mission to hunt down the Black Witch.¡±


    ¡°Only four?¡± Orist raised an eyebrow, incredulous. ¡°That¡¯s reckless, even by my standards. At the very least, you¡¯d need a full party. And with your status, Cyrus, surely you could rally an army?¡±


    Cyrus shook his head. ¡°Yes, my position grants me that privilege. But the emperor keeps a close watch on my activities. A large-scale assault would draw his attention, and any attack on one of his lords could escalate quickly. We can¡¯t afford that kind of risk.¡±


    Noah leaned in, curious. ¡°What do you mean by that, Cyrus? Who exactly are you?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s gaze turned distant, a flicker of pride mingling with something deeper in his eyes. ¡°I am one of the seven guardians of Sicillia. Our territories span half of Helheim, the only region that has not submitted to the emperor¡¯s rule. Even when he rose to power after the death of the fourth apocalypse, we stood firm. My father refused to submit, and even when war was waged against us, even when the emperor branded him the ¡®Seventh Apocalypse,¡¯ we held our ground. Our independence came at a cost, but it remains intact. However, our relationship with the empire is¡­ tenuous.¡±


    ¡°The Calamity War,¡± Lux murmured, his tone almost nostalgic, a strange smile flickering across his face. ¡°Now that was a real mess. I almost thought Helheim would win, that man and his armies left scars across our lands.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s jaw tightened, a flicker of remembered anger in his eyes. ¡°We didn¡¯t start that war. But regardless, a mission this sensitive would give the emperor reason to interfere, and if he wanted, start another. So this must stay between us. We take down the Black Witch quietly, with no outside attention.¡±


    ¡°That makes sense,¡± Orist acknowledged. ¡°Even if her actions are questionable, she¡¯s still a lord of ¨¢lfheimr. The emperor is bound to scrutinize any power shift here, especially since we¡¯ll be the only remaining lords on this continent.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re at a crossroads,¡± Elder Novis added gravely. ¡°Either we expand rapidly to fill the void, or he¡¯ll send his people to repurpose the ruined territories. We may not have much time.¡±


    Noah¡¯s expression hardened, his resolve clear. ¡°I refuse to let him take over my family¡¯s land. It may be in ruins, but I intend to rebuild it. Once this mission is done, I¡¯ll become the new lord of Fafnir territory.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a noble aim, but don¡¯t forget your duties as a hero,¡± Lux reminded him with a smirk. ¡°I plan to push you harder than any hero before you, Noah. We¡¯ll be traveling across continents, facing down every kind of challenge.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll stand by your side, Noah,¡± Elder Novis assured him. ¡°Our resources, and our strength, will be at your disposal for the rebuilding. We¡¯ll keep it safe in your absence.¡±


    Noah nodded gratefully. ¡°Thank you. But before anything else, we need to focus on taking down the Black Witch. That¡¯s our priority.¡±


    Cyrus leaned forward, speaking with quiet confidence. ¡°My ally will be arriving tomorrow. She¡¯s also one of the Seven Guardians, skilled at defense. Her abilities make her ideal as our tank.¡±


    ¡°Perfect,¡± Lux nodded. ¡°With her on our side, our party composition is strong. If it¡¯s just the Black Witch, we should be able to handle this.¡±


    Ava, however, wasn¡¯t as certain. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, the Black Witch has connections with the Crows. There¡¯s a chance we¡¯ll face more than just her. If luck isn¡¯t on our side, we might even encounter one of the Seven Wings.¡±


    A tense silence followed her words. The Seven Wings, commanders of the Crows, were legendary for their ruthlessness and power. Each Wing, marked by one of the seven deadly sins, led a squad of deadly operatives, each a master in their own right. Even a chance encounter with one of them could turn a simple mission into a battle for survival.


    Lux¡¯s smirk deepened as he replied, ¡°Which is why I said ¡®if¡¯¡ªI highly doubt the Black Witch will be the only one we¡¯ll be dealing with.¡±


    Before anyone could respond, a sudden knock on the door broke the tension. The door creaked open, and a tall figure strode in, leaving a trail of unconscious guards slumped against the walls behind him.


    The man¡¯s presence was as unsettling as it was impressive. His hair, a dark blend of green and black, framed a sharp, bearded face and eyes that practically glowed with an eerie, emerald excitement. Twisted ram horns rose from his head, and a black cloak draped over his broad shoulders. He adjusted his glasses, giving a small smirk as he took in the room¡¯s occupants.


    ¡°Ah, Adam,¡± Orist greeted, a hint of familiarity softening his tone. ¡°Good to see you, old friend. Though, did you really have to knock out my guards?¡±


    Adam Willow shrugged with a grin. ¡°Not my fault they weren¡¯t trained well enough. They didn¡¯t stand a chance.¡± He gave a courteous bow. ¡°For those who haven¡¯t met me, the name¡¯s Adam Willow. Former mercenary, now retired to spend time with my family. But I still keep my skills sharp.¡±


    Orist gestured towards him. ¡°Adam¡¯s modest, but he¡¯s a legend in his own right. He was instrumental in defending against the death dragon¡¯s invasion.¡±


    Noah¡¯s eyes lit up with recognition. ¡°The death dragon? My father was part of that raid as well! He often spoke of the ¡®Black Knight¡¯ who nearly took the dragon down. That¡¯s you?¡±


    Adam¡¯s expression softened with a mixture of respect and sorrow. ¡°Yes, Hector was a great man and a brave fighter. I¡¯m sorry for your loss, Noah. I¡¯ll gladly help his son fulfill his own heroic path.¡±


    Orist nodded approvingly. ¡°Adam will be your fifth member. His skill set is diverse enough to fill any role, and I can personally vouch for his abilities.¡±


    Adam chuckled, his eyes glinting with a hint of mischief. ¡°My power¡¯s a bit hard to explain, but trust me, it¡¯ll be useful. I¡¯m also one of the few people who wields two regalias.¡± He looked at Noah with a smirk. ¡°Guess that makes up for the fact that you haven¡¯t found yours yet, huh?¡±


    Noah tensed at the mention, but Lux leaned over and clapped him on the shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you. The stars have their own timing. Now that you¡¯re the hero, they¡¯ll definitely bless you with a regalia soon enough.¡±


    Adam chuckled. ¡°And with that regalia, kid, you¡¯ll be unstoppable. Until then, you¡¯ve got me.¡± He extended a hand to Noah. ¡°So, what do you say, hero? Ready to hunt down this Black Witch and anyone else who dares to get in our way?¡±


    Noah grinned, his confidence bolstered by Adam¡¯s presence. ¡°With the five of us, we can do this,¡± he said, giving Adam¡¯s hand a firm shake.


    Adam tilted his head, sensing a familiar energy in the air. ¡°You have a familiar scent. One of your regalias, it¡¯s Lancelot, isn¡¯t it?¡± Lux asked, his gaze sharp and curious.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Adam replied with a knowing smile. ¡°Did you know a previous wielder?¡±


    Lux¡¯s eyes glinted with a mixture of pride and nostalgia. ¡°I did. The first hero I trained wielded Lancelot. It¡¯s a powerful regalia, especially in the hands of someone who can match its intensity. His style was ruthless, a true force of nature. I look forward to seeing what you can do.¡±


    Adam chuckled, turning his gaze to Orist. ¡°Speaking of ruthless styles¡­ it¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve fought. What do you say? Care for a quick round?¡±


    Orist shook his head with a smirk, though there was a glint of fatigue in his eyes. ¡°I know better than to pick a fight with you, Adam. I¡¯m losing my edge, anyway. Even this kid managed to surprise me yesterday.¡± He nudged Noah with a grin, though his pride in the young hero was evident.


    Adam shrugged, turning to Cyrus with an arched brow. ¡°Fine, fine. Then what about you, Cyrus? One of the seven guardians must be quite the challenge, wouldn¡¯t you say?¡±


    Cyrus gave a sly smile, his eyes already gleaming with anticipation. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got. We have a day to kill until my ally arrives, anyway.¡±


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    The two of them moved to the training grounds.


    Cyrus turned to Adam, eyes narrowing. ¡°How far are we taking this?¡±


    Adam¡¯s smile grew feral, his gaze alight with excitement. ¡°I can¡¯t get fired up unless I¡¯m using Soul Release. So let¡¯s make it count.¡±


    Cyrus gave a sharp nod, raising his hand. ¡°So be it. Awaken, Jack Frost.¡± A large, ice-white staff materialized in his hand. Its surface glistened like frost, and at the top was a triangular spearhead with a hollowed center, through which a faint, cold mist drifted. The staff seemed to radiate a frigid aura that lowered the surrounding temperature, crackling with latent frost magic.


    Adam¡¯s grin grew broader. ¡°That¡¯s more like it. Awaken, C¨² Chulainn! Awaken Lancelot!¡±


    In his right hand, a long white spear emerged, its shaft resembling twisted roots as if nature itself had formed it. The spear¡¯s black blade gleamed with a menacing edge, its aura thrumming with wild, untamed power, as though the spirit of C¨² Chulainn was itching for battle. In his left hand, Adam held Lancelot, a pitch-black lance with streaks of red spiraling through the metal. It was a knight¡¯s weapon, deadly and unbreakable, but twisted and powerful, its presence feeling like the weight of ancient wars. Red sparks danced along its blade, hinting at its ferocious past and the blood it had spilled.


    Cyrus grinned, his icy gaze unflinching as he gripped his staff. ¡°No holding back, Adam! And don¡¯t come crying if you lose an arm, Soul Release!¡± he declared, driving the staff into his chest.


    The weapon began to merge with Cyrus''s body, sending waves of frosty energy rippling outward. His fingertips and lips turned a glacial blue, and his skin became as pale as a winter storm. His hair lengthened and shifted to a pure, snowy white, and his entire form radiated an aura of bitter cold. The surrounding ground cracked and froze, covered in a layer of shimmering frost. His eyes, now an intense electric blue, burned like twin shards of ice, piercing through the chilled air.


    Adam let out a wicked chuckle, twirling C¨² Chulainn before him. ¡°Decisions, decisions¡ªwho wants a piece of this fight?¡± he murmured to his weapons. ¡°Guess it''s you, my old friend. Ready, partner? Soul Release!¡± With a ferocious grin, he drove C¨² Chulainn into his chest.


    As the spear melded with him, a feral transformation overtook Adam. Sleek white armor encased him, overlaid with a dark, tattered cloak that billowed around him like shadowy flames. Black, razor-sharp claws extended from his fingertips, blending seamlessly into the armor¡¯s gauntlets. His previously green hair streaked with a deep, ominous crimson, and his eyes glinted with predatory glee. His ears sharpened to a point, giving him an almost beast-like appearance. His very presence exuded raw, primal power, and the ground beneath him seemed to vibrate with barely contained ferocity.


    Noah watched, wide-eyed and stunned. ¡°What¡­ what did they just do?¡± he stammered.


    Lux¡¯s eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he explained, ¡°Soul Release, the technique that allows a user to fuse their very essence with their regalia. The soul and heavens intertwine, granting them these fearsome forms. Regalias aren¡¯t just weapons, Noah, they¡¯re crystallizations of myths, legends, and heroes from other worlds. Each holds the spirit, the ego, of those legends, drawn from realms far beyond this one.¡± He watched Adam and Cyrus with a proud, approving gaze. ¡°In this form, they wield not only the power of their own souls, but also the stories and legacies embedded in their weapons.¡±


    Cyrus clenched his fists, and the ground around him erupted in a circle of frost, a forest of deadly ice spikes shooting up in an instant. He dashed forward, his footsteps gliding over the frozen ground with unnatural speed, his eyes blazing blue. With a swift motion, he summoned a hail of jagged ice shards, sending them flying toward Adam.


    Adam only smirked, plucking a strand of his now-crimson hair, stretching it out until it elongated into a blood-red spear. He hurled it with casual ease, and it shot forward, weaving effortlessly through the hail of ice shards, bypassing each obstacle as if it had a mind of its own. Cyrus barely sidestepped it in time, the spear embedding itself into the icy ground and leaving a scarlet trail.


    ¡°You¡¯re not the only one with some tricks, Cyrus,¡± Adam taunted, tugging at another strand of hair. "But watch closely¡ªthese spears never miss."


    Cyrus scoffed, thrusting his hand forward. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be so sure,¡± he growled, summoning a gust of snow that whirled around him, forming a dense wall of snowflakes. But Adam simply pulled out Lancelot, a pitch-black lance with red streaks pulsing along its length, like veins feeding it with power. The lance thrummed with an ominous energy, and Adam charged, aiming straight for Cyrus¡¯s icy wall.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if you can stop this,¡± Adam shouted, thrusting Lancelot forward. The lance pierced the snow barrier as if it were made of mist, reaching straight for Cyrus.


    Cyrus spun away just in time, raising a sword made of ice. But Lancelot sliced right through his defenses, nicking his arm and drawing a line of blue blood that froze instantly upon leaving his skin. Cyrus growled, pressing a hand to his wound, but his focus remained unbroken.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to do better than that,¡± he taunted, slamming his fist into the ground. The frozen earth cracked, releasing jagged, spiraling shards of ice that twisted and wrapped around Adam¡¯s legs like frozen vines, binding him in place.


    Adam laughed, his eyes gleaming with excitement. ¡°Not bad!¡± With a swift motion, he yanked out a strand of red hair, transforming it into another spear that he jammed into the ice at his feet. The spear expanded, cracking the ice, freeing him from Cyrus¡¯s snare in a burst of crimson energy.


    ¡°Let¡¯s heat things up!¡± Adam roared, pulling three more strands at once and twisting them into a deadly trident. He threw it toward Cyrus, the trident splitting in midair into a trio of spears that whirled toward him like bloodthirsty missiles.


    Cyrus summoned a gust of snow that swirled around him, creating a spiraling barrier. The snow thickened, forming into a solid shield of ice just as the trident of spears struck. Two of them were deflected, shattering harmlessly against the ice, but the third found its mark, slipping through a chink in the shield and grazing his side.


    With a snarl, Cyrus raised both hands, and the surrounding air froze in a massive blast, covering the ground in a sheet of ice that spread in all directions. The cold intensified, drawing moisture from the air until it turned into swirling snow. He thrust his hand forward, and a barrage of icicles launched toward Adam, each one glistening with lethal precision.


    Adam dodged with ease, twisting and sidestepping in a graceful dance as each shard narrowly missed him. ¡°Is that all you''ve got?¡± he taunted, lifting Lancelot. He drew his arm back, hurling the lance straight at Cyrus with terrifying speed.


    Cyrus tried to deflect it with a block of ice, but Lancelot cut through it like paper. He barely managed to sidestep, the lance slicing the air mere inches from his chest. With a grin, he retaliated, summoning a storm of icy winds that whipped through the clearing. Snowflakes turned into shards as the wind picked up, creating a blizzard-like vortex that surrounded Adam.


    ¡°You think a little snow will slow me down?¡± Adam chuckled, flexing his claws. His eyes flared, and he leaped forward, punching through the wall of ice, his claws digging deep into the frozen barrier before shattering it. His form flickered, and in a split second, he was directly in front of Cyrus, striking with a clawed fist.


    Cyrus sidestepped, spinning on the ice, and retaliated with an ice-covered punch of his own. Their fists collided, sending a shockwave through the air, the surrounding ice cracking and trembling under their combined force.


    Adam laughed as he hurled a rapid volley of blood-red spears toward Cyrus, each one homing in on him with deadly accuracy. Cyrus evaded with a grace that seemed almost casual, but he could feel the pressure mounting with each throw. These spears were relentless, turning mid-flight to pursue him, nipping at his heels.


    ¡°Getting a bit crowded here,¡± Cyrus muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing with focused intensity.


    Then, with a glint of icy blue, Cyrus activated his demonic eye, The Timekeeper''s Eye. His gaze locked onto the oncoming spears, and suddenly, their relentless motion ceased. Each one froze midair, suspended in time as if captured in a twisted portrait, just inches away from piercing his flesh.


    Adam grinned, showing no hint of fear. ¡°That¡¯s a neat trick. But it won¡¯t be enough to finish me!¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s hand glowed with a cold energy as he clenched his fist. ¡°No trick, just strategy.¡± With a sharp exhale, he conjured a massive scythe from the surrounding ice, its blade shimmering with lethal intent as it formed in his hand. He whipped it around in a single fluid motion, holding the chilling weapon just an inch from Adam¡¯s neck.


    At the same time, Adam only smirked, reaching for another strand of crimson hair, and stretching it between his fingers. With a swift motion, he conjured another spear, pointing it directly at Cyrus¡¯s chest, the tip glinting as if eager to strike.


    The two stood locked in a silent standoff, their weapons at each other''s throats. Frost curled around Cyrus¡¯s scythe, while the air around Adam¡¯s spear seemed to hum with a low, pulsating energy. Both men¡¯s breaths were steady, their eyes locked in a deadly, unwavering stare. For a moment, the entire world seemed to hold its breath.


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯re both still standing,¡± Cyrus finally said, a slight smile touching his lips.


    Adam let out a low, appreciative chuckle. ¡°I guess it¡¯s a draw, then,¡± he replied, his tone as sharp as his weapon. Neither moved, but the shared respect between them was clear.


    With a simultaneous nod, they each lowered their weapons, a mutual understanding forming between them, rivalry, respect, and perhaps even a hint of camaraderie.


    Adam stretched, a contented grin on his face as his armor faded away and his normal attire returned. "It''s been a while since I''ve faced someone who could keep up with me. Makes me feel alive again."


    Cyrus smirked, the glacial chill in his veins settling as he deactivated his soul release. ¡°Don¡¯t get too comfortable, Adam. Of the seven guardians, in terms of sheer combat power, I''m the strongest. But I must admit, you gave me more of a workout than expected.¡±


    Watching from the sidelines, Noah felt a spark of determination ignite in his chest. ¡°Hey, Lux, do you think I''ll ever be able to reach their level?¡±


    Lux chuckled, placing a hand on Noah¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s a steep path, but I expect you¡¯ll surpass even them someday. Still, you''ve got a lot to learn, and a lot of training ahead.¡±


    Noah nodded, a look of fierce resolve on his face. ¡°Then I¡¯ll do it. I have to. For Ava, to hunt down the Crows, and to finally find my siblings¡­ I won¡¯t stop until I¡¯m strong enough to face anything.¡±


    He stepped forward, joining the two warriors in the training area. ¡°Good work, both of you. Let me take care of those injuries and that exhaustion.¡±


    He raised his hands, focusing as dark markings began to glow and shift across his arms, curling around his forearms and snaking faintly up to his face. With a concentrated effort, a warm energy radiated from his palms, surrounding Adam and Cyrus in a gentle healing aura. Instantly, the tension in their muscles eased, their cuts and bruises vanished, and their fatigue dissipated.


    As he poured energy into them, the markings on Noah¡¯s skin pulsed, expanding with each passing second. The pain that accompanied them flared, but Noah kept his expression steady, teeth gritted. Every time he used this ability, the markings seemed to spread further, digging deeper into his being. But he didn¡¯t care; he had too many reasons to get stronger to let the pain slow him down.

 Chapter 11-Planning

    Orist found Adam alone in one of the quieter hallways, his eyes sharp and serious. Without a word, he gripped Adam¡¯s arm firmly, pulling him into the room and shutting the door behind them. The room was empty, cold, and dimly lit, with only a single chair in the center. Orist gestured for Adam to sit, his gaze unyielding as he prepared to dig into something he¡¯d long suspected.


    Adam raised an eyebrow, amused but wary, as he sat. ¡°What¡¯s all this about?¡± he asked, trying to keep his tone light.


    Orist crossed his arms, his expression a mixture of irritation and disappointment. ¡°Why did you lie?¡± he demanded, his voice a low rumble.


    Adam blinked, frowning. ¡°Lie? About what, exactly? I haven¡¯t lied to you, Orist.¡±


    ¡°Oh, spare me the games, Adam. You told everyone you retired to be with your family. That¡¯s what you said, right? But I know the truth,¡± Orist¡¯s tone softened, but his gaze remained firm. ¡°You don¡¯t have to pretend with me. Not after everything we¡¯ve been through.¡±


    Adam¡¯s easygoing expression faltered, and something raw flickered across his face before he quickly masked it. ¡°And what truth do you think you know, Orist?¡± he replied, his voice laced with bitterness.


    Orist took a deep breath. ¡°I know what happened, Adam. I know about the kidnapping. I know about your wife and child.¡± He leaned forward, his voice softer now but steady. ¡°You don¡¯t need to lie to me. Why didn¡¯t you just tell us?¡±


    Adam clenched his jaw, his fists tightening until his knuckles turned white. His gaze was fixed on the floor, his voice low and cracking under the weight of emotion. ¡°What was I supposed to say, Orist?¡± he muttered, each word a struggle. ¡°¡®Hey, everyone, my family was taken from me, and instead of doing everything in my power to save them, I came all the way to a different continent to help out an old friend.¡¯¡±


    Orist¡¯s voice softened, but his expression remained firm. ¡°Just don¡¯t pretend everything is fine. We¡¯re friends, Adam. Whatever it is, I can help you.¡±


    Adam looked away, his face tense, his eyes reflecting a deep, unyielding fear. ¡°My wife¡­ she¡¯s already gone, Orist,¡± he said, voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I found her body myself. As for my daughter, she''s still alive¡­ at least, that¡¯s what they¡¯re telling me.¡± He paused, letting the confession hang heavily in the air. ¡°I¡¯ve been working for a man I wouldn¡¯t trust as far as I could throw him. He gave me a job around here, and said if I complete it, I will get her back.¡±


    Orist¡¯s brows furrowed as he took in his friend¡¯s haunted expression. ¡°How bad is it, Adam? Just tell me, how far are you being asked to go?¡±


    Adam¡¯s voice was barely audible, edged with shame. ¡°I swore not to kill anyone. All I have to do is play bodyguard during an exchange. But what he¡¯s trading¡­¡± His words trailed off, his eyes darkening.


    Orist placed a steady hand on Adam¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You don¡¯t need to tell me everything. Just remember, if you need anything, if it all falls apart¡ªI''m here, and I¡¯ll stand by you, no matter what. You¡¯re not alone in this.¡±


    Adam looked up, relief flooding his face. ¡°Thank you, Orist. Thank you¡­ more than you know.¡±


    The next day, a figure rode into town under a pale morning sky, casting long shadows across the streets. A lone knight, clad in tarnished silver armor etched with battle-worn scars, approached the heart of the village. Tattered but regal, a crimson cape billowed behind them, hinting at a storied past. A massive sword, nearly as tall as the knight themselves, rested at their side, its blade glinting with faint traces of past conflicts.


    Most striking was the jack o''lantern atop their shoulders, a carved, grinning pumpkin with flickering embers within, casting an eerie glow through its hollow eyes. Villagers scattered in wary silence as the knight passed, the pumpkin¡¯s face seeming to track each of their fearful movements.


    The knight walked into the manor, and as they approached Cyrus waved to them from the window.


    ¡°Hey Lucy, thanks for joining us.  I¡¯m really grateful!¡±  Cyrus yelled from the window.


    The pumpkin on her head began to rot and dissolve as her face was revealed.  Her dirty green hair was tied into a ponytail, her emerald eyes gazed with glee as she saw Cyrus.  Circular glasses sat on her face.  Two small moles were on her face, under her right eye.  She waved back to him, clearly happy.


    As she stepped into the manor¡¯s dimly lit hall, Lucy¡¯s eyes darted around, taking in the grand yet slightly decayed surroundings. She spotted her companion, Cyrus, waiting in the entryway, his posture tense yet determined.


    ¡°Cyrus, do you think Jasper will really be alright? I¡­ I can¡¯t shake this awful feeling,¡± Lucy murmured, a hint of worry breaking through her usually calm tone.


    ¡°If we succeed in this mission, Lucy, we can save him. That much I promise,¡± Cyrus replied, his voice steady and reassuring.


    Lucy nodded, the weight of hope mingling with her concern. ¡°Alright. Then let¡¯s do this.¡±


    He led her down the echoing halls and into the manor¡¯s meeting room, where the rest of the group was gathered around a large, worn table. As she entered, all eyes turned to her.


    ¡°This is my ally, Lucy,¡± Cyrus announced. ¡°Her skills will be invaluable to our cause.¡±


    Lucy stepped forward, offering a slight nod to the others. ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to save my friend. My ability is called Decay, any plant life I touch withers to rot. And as you might have guessed, I am a dryad; I can command and manipulate plants at will.¡±


    The others watched her, sizing up her capabilities as they began sharing their own powers and backgrounds, an unspoken bond of trust forming as they prepared to face the challenges ahead.


    Lucy¡¯s gaze lingered thoughtfully over each of them. ¡°I understand why I¡¯m here¡­ but what¡¯s driving the rest of you?¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes sparkled with determination. ¡°I¡¯m here to protect Noah, my beloved. There¡¯s nothing I won¡¯t do for him.¡±


    Adam gave a short, knowing nod. ¡°I was passing through the area when an old friend¡ª¡± he gestured toward Orist¡ª¡°asked me to join in. And I never turn my back on friends.¡±


    ¡°The God of Monsters personally assigned me this task,¡± Noah spoke up, his voice carrying a quiet resolve.


    ¡°I would like to mention that I plan to force him to make you his apostle once this mission is over,¡± Lux said.


    Cyrus folded his arms, his expression taking on a serious air.  ¡°I see, then I shall offer the same thing to you, young Noah.¡±


    Noah looked startled. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Cyrus folded his arms, his expression taking on a serious air. ¡°I too, am a god, though not by birth. By title and deed. I am the God of Time.¡±


    Noah¡¯s jaw dropped, surprise flitting across his face. ¡°Wait¡­ you¡¯re¡ª¡±


    Lux interjected with a shrug. ¡°Yes, gods aren¡¯t always born. Most earn their titles through feats that defy the impossible. Cyrus here achieved something so profound that the world itself crowned him with godhood.¡±


    With a calm and almost solemn gesture, Cyrus raised his hand, and above his head, a large, glowing azure halo appeared. The halo was intricate, a perfect circle adorned with two clock hands that glowed with a soft, mystical light. They ticked slowly, each movement resonating through the room like a quiet heartbeat, reminding everyone present of the vast power this seemingly ordinary man wielded.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Cyrus continued. ¡°Through a great feat, I earned the title of God of Time. And now, that title has its own weight and obligations.¡± His gaze swept over them all, lingering on Noah. ¡°I¡¯ll offer you the same opportunity, Noah, if you prove yourself in this mission, I will support you.¡±


    Noah swallowed, overwhelmed but inspired. ¡°I won¡¯t let you down.¡±


    Lux crossed his arms with a smirk. ¡°I have to say, becoming an apostle to three different gods within barely a week of your journey as a hero is no small feat, Noah. But you might want to check your arm¡ªI think you¡¯ll find something special.¡±


    Curious, Noah rolled up his sleeve, eyes widening as he took in the intricate tattoo now etched onto his skin. It depicted angelic wings, detailed with feathers that seemed to shimmer with a faint but powerful glow. The tattoo radiated an intense energy, pulsing with each beat of his heart.


    ¡°That¡¯s the mark that signifies you as my apostle,¡± Lux explained, his tone shifting to something almost reverent. ¡°This tattoo grants you a portion of my divine power. Every apostle¡¯s gift is unique, so I can¡¯t say for certain what yours will be. But whatever it is, it will be formidable.¡±


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    Noah took a deep breath, feeling a swell of determination. ¡°Thank you, Lux. I won¡¯t waste this gift.¡± He turned to the group, resolve hardening in his gaze. ¡°Now, let¡¯s begin planning our raid against the Black Witch.¡±


    Cyrus stepped forward, his voice calm but commanding. ¡°We know her primary force will be the Black Mist. Noah and I will lead the offensive. Unless we encounter candidates for the throne or similarly powerful enemies, the rest of you will take supportive roles.¡±


    Noah¡¯s brow furrowed in curiosity. ¡°Why me? I know ice is effective against them, but what about my own powers?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes darkened with a hint of sorrow as he continued. ¡°It¡¯s more than just a theory. You see, the Black Mist was born from the resentment of my father. When humans tore the skin from his body to create a relic, they unknowingly sowed the seeds of a curse. The negative emotions within that cloak festered, devouring anyone who wore it. Over time, it absorbed so much hate and darkness that it began to generate the Black Mist itself.¡±


    Noah¡¯s grip tightened. ¡°So, my powers might have an edge over it... I understand.¡±


    Cyrus nodded, his expression grim. ¡°We need to move quickly. Tomorrow would be ideal¡ªI¡¯m not sure how much longer my brother can hold out under the Mist¡¯s influence.¡±


    Lucy stepped forward, her voice soft but urgent. ¡°When I checked on him, his condition was stable. But each moment we wait gives the Mist more time to spread and corrupt. We¡¯re on a tight clock.¡±


    Noah squared his shoulders, his expression fierce. ¡°Then tomorrow, we face the Black Witch. Together, we¡¯ll end this.¡±


    That night, the manor was cloaked in silence as each member retreated to their rooms, mentally steeling themselves for the trials that lay ahead. But while the others rested, Adam sat alone in his dimly lit chamber, his heart heavy with conflict.


    A faint shimmer broke the quiet, and a dark portal materialized in front of him. Stepping out was a tall figure cloaked in shadows¡ªBlank, the enigmatic and feared leader of the Crows. He moved with an unsettling calm, his masked face giving nothing away as he drew a small crystal from his pocket, crushed it between his fingers, and let the fragments dissolve into the air.


    ¡°Just in case,¡± Blank murmured, his voice silkily ominous. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want anyone overhearing our little conversation, my dear friend.¡±


    Adam''s shoulders tensed, but he maintained his composure. ¡°I know you wanted me as a bodyguard tomorrow, but... that might be a problem.¡± He chose his words carefully, testing the waters.


    Blank gave a slow, dismissive wave. ¡°Not at all, Adam. I planned for this, actually. Stay with them, help weaken the Black Witch. I¡¯ll stop the fight before it gets truly dangerous. All I need is for her to be sufficiently... softened up. After that, I¡¯ll keep my promise.¡± His voice lowered, filled with unsettling certainty. ¡°You¡¯ll have your daughter back.¡±


    Adam¡¯s throat tightened. ¡°Can I¡­ see her?¡±


    Blank¡¯s gaze darkened. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t recommend it. When we found her, she was¡­ damaged. Both eyes were removed. But her condition is stable. If you stay in line, I¡¯ll restore her sight for you.¡± He let the offer hang in the air, his tone smooth but sharp.


    Adam¡¯s control slipped, a tear catching the dim light as it fell. ¡°Thank you. Please¡­ just help her.¡±


    Blank inclined his head, almost as if in sympathy. ¡°Of course. I¡¯m a father myself. What¡¯s been done to her¡­ what the mob does every day¡­ is a travesty.¡± A thin smile twisted under his mask. ¡°I want you with us, Adam. Permanently. Your task will be clear: rid that rotten continent of the vermin who masquerade as the righteous and bring their wealth to me.¡±


    Adam clenched his fists. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m not sure your organization is the right place for her to grow up.¡±


    Blank¡¯s gaze sharpened, as if studying Adam¡¯s resolve. ¡°Are you so certain? She¡¯ll have companions her own age¡ªmy own son, for instance. And we just brought in another, a girl named¡­ Isabelle, I believe.¡±


    Adam hesitated, a quiet resolve sparking in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll consider it. Now, if you don¡¯t mind, I need to prepare for tomorrow.¡±


    Blank paused, his dark silhouette still in the doorway, before giving a low chuckle. ¡°Don¡¯t take me for an evil man, Adam. I¡¯m simply doing what¡¯s necessary for this world.¡±


    With that, he turned and vanished back into the portal, the darkness swallowing him whole.


    Adam sat there, silence settling heavily around him, the weight of his choices pressing down on his chest. His gaze drifted downward, guilt shadowing his features. ¡°Orist¡­ I¡¯m so sorry. So sorry,¡± he whispered, as if his words could somehow reach his old friend and ease the regret lodged in his heart.


    Noah sat alone in his room, the quiet weighing down on him as he prepared himself for tomorrow. The silence was suddenly interrupted by a soft scuffle outside his door, followed by the unmistakable thud of bodies hitting the floor. Before he could react, the door creaked open, and Ava stepped inside, her eyes shining with a blend of irritation and affection. Behind her, several guards lay unconscious, a testament to her resolve.


    "My father is so overprotective," she huffed, crossing her arms. "Honestly, what harm is there in visiting my own fianc¨¦''s room? He acts like I¡¯m sneaking into the enemy camp."


    Noah sighed, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "He¡¯s definitely not going to be thrilled that you knocked out all his guards, Ava."


    She rolled her eyes, chuckling. "Oh, please. Adam did the same thing the other day, and besides, if they¡¯re so easily taken down, they¡¯re hardly protection at all."


    Her smile faded, replaced by a shadow of worry as she looked at Noah. "Noah¡­ are you sure about this? Are you absolutely certain you want to go through with it?"


    Noah took a deep breath, steeling himself. "I can¡¯t turn back now, Ava. It¡¯s my duty as the hero. This is what I¡¯m meant to do."


    She stepped closer, searching his face, her voice barely a whisper. "I don¡¯t care about your duty, Noah. I¡¯m asking if you want this. Don¡¯t just tell me what you think I want to hear. Be honest¡­ with me and with yourself."


    Noah hesitated, then forced a smile. "You don¡¯t need to worry about me. I¡¯ll be fine."


    Ava¡¯s lips tightened, and she clenched her fists. "You always say that! Every single time you ran off on those reckless hunts, coming back bruised and battered, you¡¯d give me that same smile. And every time, I¡¯d be the one patching you up, worrying if the next hunt would be the last time I saw you."


    "That was different," Noah replied, his voice softening. "I¡¯m stronger now. I can handle this."


    Ava¡¯s eyes flashed, a mixture of fear and anger. "We¡¯re up against the Black Witch¡ªsomeone who could crush armies single handedly. How could I not be worried?"


    "Ava," he murmured, reaching for her hand, "you have to trust me. I won¡¯t let anything happen to us."


    She shook her head, her gaze fierce as she stepped closer until she stood right before him. "Trust you? I want to, but you¡¯re so focused on being strong for everyone else that you won¡¯t even look at your own pain, your own limits." Her voice broke as she whispered, "I can¡¯t bear the thought of losing you, Noah."


    Before he could respond, she pressed him back onto the bed, her power flaring instinctively. Noah¡¯s limbs went rigid, a gentle paralysis overtaking him as her ability surged. His eyes widened, struggling to speak.


    "A-Ava¡­ please¡­ I swear, I won¡¯t let anything happen to you tomorrow."


    She looked down at him, her expression a mix of frustration and heartbreak. "You idiot. I don¡¯t care about what happens to me. It¡¯s you I¡¯m terrified of losing. Just once¡ªjust once¡ªcould you care about yourself, too?"


    Tears began to fall, her hand gripping his shoulder with trembling fingers as she let her fears spill out. Her tears dripped onto his face, mingling with the silent plea in her eyes.


    "Ava¡­" His voice was soft, filled with unspoken promises and the ache of his own fears. He wanted to reassure her, to tell her everything would be all right. But deep down, he knew that facing the Black Witch was a risk none of them could fully prepare for.


    In that moment, her tear-streaked face hovered over him, and he knew he couldn¡¯t bear to see her heart break any further.


    Noah managed a shaky smile, his eyes softening as he looked up at Ava. "Please, Ava¡­ I swear I''ll be careful. I¡¯ll come back to you, no matter what."


    Ava¡¯s grip on him eased just slightly, but she didn¡¯t let go entirely. Instead, she collapsed onto him, her breathing heavy with exhaustion as she clung to him, her ability still holding his body immobile.


    "A-Ava," Noah murmured gently, "could you maybe¡­ turn off your ability?"


    She nestled closer, her voice muffled as she whispered, "Shut up, you dummy. Just let me stay like this¡­ just for a little while."


    Noah¡¯s heart ached at the vulnerable warmth in her words, and he closed his eyes, helpless yet comforted by her embrace. She eventually drifted off to sleep, her power finally fading. Noah remained still, feeling the weight of her steady breathing against him, and he let the warmth of her arms around him ease his own fears. In the quiet of the night, he fell asleep, the world outside forgotten in the tender, sleepy embrace.


    Meanwhile, across the manor, Cyrus sat alone in his dimly lit room. He reached into his cloak, pulling out a small, glimmering purple crystal and held it to his mouth.


    ¡°Hey, sister¡­ can you hear me?¡± he asked, his voice low but steady.


    The crystal flickered, and a familiar voice resonated through it, calm and laced with a hint of amusement. ¡°Cyrus, what¡¯s going on? It¡¯s rare for you to call me out of the blue,¡± Cynthia replied.


    ¡°Are you still keeping an eye on the Black Witch?¡± he asked, his tone turning serious.


    ¡°Of course. Why?¡± Cynthia¡¯s voice sharpened slightly, sensing his purpose.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be storming her castle tomorrow. I need to know everything you have on her,¡± Cyrus replied, a hard edge to his words.


    A long silence followed before Cynthia spoke, her voice tense with warning. ¡°Are you insane, brother? Even for you, this is reckless. She¡¯s not just powerful¡ªshe¡¯s dangerous in ways even I can¡¯t fully grasp.¡±


    ¡°Cynthia,¡± he pressed, ¡°if you know anything that could help, now is the time. What can you tell me?¡±


    With a reluctant sigh, she replied, ¡°She has a Demonic Eye¡­ the Alchemist¡¯s Eye. She¡¯s had it since the day our father died.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s grip tightened around the crystal, his eyes darkening with fury. ¡°That means she was there. She was involved in his death¡­ she must have been one of the heroes in that cursed party.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right,¡± Cynthia said softly. ¡°She¡¯s more than just a target, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to end her,¡± Cyrus said, his voice simmering with restrained rage. ¡°For father. For everything she¡¯s taken from us.¡±


    A pause, then a low sigh from Cynthia. ¡°Then I¡¯ll be there to back you up when you arrive. Stay sharp, brother. Good luck.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Cynthia. I¡¯ll see you soon.¡±


    The crystal dimmed as the connection faded, leaving Cyrus alone with the quiet hum of his anger and determination. The thought of avenging his father sharpened his resolve, and he closed his eyes, his mind running through every detail of the coming raid. Tomorrow, he would finally confront the woman who tore his family apart.

 Chapter 12-Fools Tea Party

    The morning sun broke through the horizon, casting a warm glow over the group as they stood at the edge of their journey¡¯s next chapter. Noah surveyed his companions, each face bearing a hardened resolve forged in the fires of their personal struggles. The weight of their mission hung heavily, but in their eyes was the unshakable determination to see it through.


    Noah gripped his sword tightly, lifting it into the air, its gleaming blade catching the morning light. ¡°Today marks the beginning of our greatest challenge. Together, we will march into her domain and slay the Black Witch!¡± His voice carried with it a steadfast conviction, rallying the group.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let anything happen to you, Noah. I know we can do this,¡± Ava said, her voice strong as she raised her dagger alongside his blade, her gaze locked on his with unwavering faith.


    ¡°No mercy. The Witch shall fall,¡± Cyrus added, conjuring a blade of jagged ice that shimmered coldly in his hand. He held it high, the frost curling from it reflecting his unyielding vengeance.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see this through. For all of us,¡± Adam said, lifting his spear, C¨² Chulainn, its mythic aura pulsating faintly as if answering his resolve.


    ¡°I will make sure we can save Jasper,¡± Lucy declared, her greatsword glowing faintly as she raised it in solidarity with the group. The determination in her voice was as fierce as the strength she exuded.


    ¡°How charming,¡± Lux said with a smirk, leaning against a nearby tree. ¡°All you need now is a name for your merry little band of heroes.¡±


    Cyrus shot him a glare, his tone biting. ¡°Annoying god. Don¡¯t mock us, especially if you¡¯re not going to contribute.¡±


    Lux shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°I already did my part. I scouted the Black Witch¡¯s barrier last night. Turns out, it¡¯s more than just Sicil-proof¡ªit¡¯s locked down against anyone who¡¯s been alive since the first apocalypse. A pity for me, but it also means the Crows¡¯ second and third commanders can¡¯t enter either. Consider that a blessing.¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± Cyrus said, turning back to the group. ¡°We didn¡¯t need you anyway.¡±


    Noah, trying to ease the tension, glanced at the others with a sheepish grin. ¡°If we were to name our adventuring party, what should we call ourselves?¡±


    Cyrus raised an eyebrow, a small smile tugging at his lips. ¡°You¡¯re seriously thinking about this now?¡±


    Lux chuckled. ¡°Oh, let the boy dream. Every legendary group needs a name, after all. It¡¯s tradition.¡±


    Noah stood at the center of the group, the weight of Lux''s suggestion making him pause. ¡°Well, Noah, you¡¯re our leader. Go ahead and give this party a name,¡± Cyrus said, a sly smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.


    Noah frowned in concentration, his brow furrowing as if he were attempting to solve the mysteries of the universe. The intensity of his thinking was so exaggerated it seemed as if steam might start pouring from his ears. Finally, after a dramatic pause, he snapped his fingers. ¡°Alright! From this moment onward, we shall be known as The Fools'' Tea Party! That shall be our name!¡± he proclaimed, puffing out his chest with mock grandeur.


    The room went silent for a beat before Lux burst out laughing. ¡°What kind of name is that?¡± he cackled, nearly doubling over.


    ¡°Yeah, Noah,¡± Ava giggled, struggling to keep a straight face. ¡°Your naming sense is¡­ something else.¡±


    Noah crossed his arms defensively, his cheeks reddening. ¡°It¡¯s a play on the Witches¡¯ Tea Party, you know, that legendary organization of witches from the first apocalypse, we are about to say a witch afterall?¡±


    Lux raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite himself. ¡°The Witches¡¯ Tea Party, huh? I remember them. But why fools?¡±


    Noah grinned, his eyes glinting with a mix of self-awareness and humor. ¡°How else would you describe a group of idiots marching off to raid one of the strongest beings on the continent?¡±


    Adam let out a resigned sigh. ¡°He¡¯s got a point. There¡¯s no better description than fools.¡±


    Lucy¡¯s lips curled into a small smile as she added thoughtfully, ¡°The name may sound self-deprecating, but the Fool in tarot represents more than just recklessness. It symbolizes boundless potential and the courage to embark on an unknown journey. It fits us.¡±


    Cyrus chuckled softly, shaking his head. ¡°Find. The Fools¡¯ Tea Party it is. What a ridiculous, yet oddly fitting name.¡±


    Noah''s grin widened as he raised his sword high. ¡°Then it¡¯s settled! From this day forward, The Fools¡¯ Tea Party will take on any challenge, no matter how impossible!¡±


    A new voice interrupted, dry and laced with disapproval. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I entrusted my daughter to an idiot like you,¡± Orist said, stepping into the room.


    ¡°Orist!¡± Noah exclaimed, startled by the older man¡¯s sudden appearance.


    Ava groaned. ¡°Dad, you couldn¡¯t wait to embarrass him later?¡±


    ¡°I came to see you all off,¡± Orist admitted, his gaze softening. ¡°I¡¯d join you, but with the influx of refugees, someone has to stay behind to keep things in order. Just try not to die out there, you fools.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Orist,¡± Noah said, giving him a determined nod. ¡°We¡¯ll make it back. I promise.¡±


    Orist¡¯s expression grew stern. ¡°Promises are only as good as the actions that follow them. Go prove that your name isn''t entirely true.¡±


    The morning sun filtered through the vibrant canopy of Alfheim¡¯s forest, casting golden light across the multicolored trees. The atmosphere buzzed with life, a deceptive beauty hiding the danger that lurked within. The Fools'' Tea Party stood at the forest¡¯s edge, their faces reflecting a mix of determination and focus.


    ¡°Let us embark,¡± Noah declared, raising his sword as it caught the morning light, the blade shimmering faintly with energy. ¡°We will rid the world of the Black Witch and any members of the Crows who dare to stand in our way.¡±


    With those words, the group pressed forward, their footsteps crunching softly against the underbrush. The forest was vast and otherworldly, its kaleidoscopic foliage swaying in a gentle breeze. Vibrant reds, deep purples, and radiant golds painted a landscape that seemed almost dreamlike. Yet, the deeper they ventured, the more oppressive the air grew, a subtle darkness creeping in around them.


    It wasn¡¯t long before the monsters began to appear, as if the forest itself sought to bar their way. Slimes oozed from the shadows, their gelatinous forms glistening ominously. Goblins, their eyes gleaming with malice, scurried between the trees, brandishing crude weapons.


    Noah¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°Stay sharp! Don¡¯t let them overwhelm us!¡±


    The party sprang into action, each member moving with practiced precision.


    Noah charged forward, his blade dancing in the air. With fluid movements, he sliced through the slimes, their bodies dissolving into harmless puddles as his sword glowed faintly with his dark energy. Whenever one of his allies received a scratch or bruise, he extended his free hand, a shadowy aura leaving there bodies and entering his. His dual focus, offense and support, made him the linchpin of their group.


    Cyrus, standing slightly behind the vanguard, lifted his hand, his demonic eyes glinting a soft azure light. ¡°Freeze,¡± he commanded. Shards of ice materialized in the air above him, raining down like a deadly hailstorm. Goblins screeched as crystalline spikes pierced their flesh, immobilizing them for his allies to finish off. The ground around him shimmered with frost, his control over ice turning the battlefield into his domain.


    Ava darted between shadows, cloak, Robin Hood, glinting as she became a blur of movement. One moment she was visible, the next, she vanished entirely. Goblins and slimes alike fell silently, their forms crumpling to the ground as her blade struck true. ¡°They never even see me coming,¡± she muttered with a smirk.


    Lucy took a more methodical approach. She extended her hands, her dryad powers summoning thick vines from the forest floor. The vines slithered and coiled around her enemies, trapping them in place. With a powerful swing of her greatsword, she cleaved through her restrained foes. Her strikes were precise, her strength formidable. ¡°Don¡¯t let your guard down,¡± she called to the others. ¡°The forest will only grow more hostile as we approach her territory.¡±


    Adam, calm and deadly, wielded C¨² Chulainn, the crimson spear, with unparalleled accuracy. Each throw of the spear found its mark, piercing the monsters¡¯ hearts and returning to his hand as if drawn by an unseen force. His movements were efficient, wasting no energy as he dispatched enemies with chilling precision. ¡°Keep moving forward,¡± he said. ¡°We can¡¯t afford to linger.¡±


    The forest seemed alive, responding to their presence with increasing ferocity. The monsters grew larger and more coordinated, as if some malevolent force was guiding them. Yet, the Fools'' Teaparty pressed on, their teamwork and individual prowess carving a path through the opposition.


    As the group paused briefly to catch their breath, Noah looked around, his gaze sweeping over his companions. Despite the challenges, their determination remained unwavering. He tightened his grip on his sword and nodded to the group. ¡°We¡¯re close. Stay focused. The Black Witch¡¯s territory is just ahead.¡±


    The forest around them darkened further, the vibrant colors dimming into muted shades as they approached their destination. An eerie stillness settled over the group, broken only by the distant, haunting calls of unseen creatures. The air itself felt heavier, carrying with it the faint scent of decay.


    The eerie atmosphere of the Black Witch''s territory weighed heavily on the group as they ventured deeper. The trees loomed larger, their twisted forms casting long, jagged shadows. The stench of blood and decay grew stronger with each step, a grim prelude to what awaited them. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    As they emerged into a clearing, a chilling sight greeted them. Corpses of knights lay scattered like broken dolls, their armor twisted and crushed, their bodies grotesquely mangled. Some had caved-in chests, others were headless, their helmets rolled off like discarded toys. Amid the carnage sat a lone figure on a weathered tree stump, a serene yet unsettling contrast to the slaughter around her.


    Her hair was long, unkempt, and as black as the shadows that seemed to cling to her. Scars criss crossed her pale arms, and two jagged marks on her face twisted her features into the semblance of a permanent, macabre smile. Her bright orange eyes gleamed with a disturbing mixture of amusement and bloodlust, locking onto the newcomers with predatory intent.


    The woman rose from the stump with a deliberate grace, her cloak billowing unnaturally as if moved by an unseen wind. A faint metallic clink accompanied her movements, drawing the group''s attention to the heavy handcuffs binding her wrists. Beside her, a massive greatsword, its blade darkened with dried blood, was buried into the ground, waiting like a predator ready to pounce.


    On her forearm, a tattoo stood out starkly against her skin, two interlocked swords forming a sinister emblem. Cyrus¡¯s sharp intake of breath broke the tense silence.


    ¡°Noah, get back,¡± Cyrus hissed, stepping protectively in front of the group. His voice, usually steady, was edged with something Noah had never heard before¡ªfear.


    Before Noah could respond, the woman tilted her head and smiled wider, her scars stretching grotesquely. ¡°Hello there,¡± she said, her voice light and almost cheerful, belying the horrors she had clearly wrought. ¡°Are you my new friends?¡±


    In a flash, she was no longer by the stump but directly in front of Cyrus, her sudden movement a blur. The oppressive aura surrounding her made the air feel suffocating. Cyrus stiffened, his pupils dilating as terror rooted him to the spot. Beside him, Lucy and Adam instinctively took a step back, their faces pale. The recognition in their eyes was unmistakable¡ªthey knew her. They knew what she was capable of.


    Noah, still uncomprehending, tightened his grip on his sword and stepped forward. ¡°Who are you?¡± he demanded.


    The woman smile at him, her gaze now fixed on Noah. She leaned closer, studying his face with a mix of curiosity and amusement. ¡°Oh, I like you better,¡± she said, her voice laced with mockery. ¡°You¡¯re not on the verge of tears, at least. That¡¯s refreshing.¡±


    Niamh''s unsettling smile deepened, the scars on her face twisting grotesquely as she introduced herself. "I¡¯m Niamh," she said, her tone a mix of playful mockery and chilling menace. "Some call me the Greatsword Monarch, others prefer the Slaughter Witch. Both work, depending on how you''d like your story to end."


    Noah¡¯s breath hitched at her words, recognition flashing in his eyes. "Monarch?" he echoed. "You¡¯re one of the Martial Art Kings?"


    A flicker of satisfaction crossed her face at his realization. "So you''ve heard of me. How flattering," she replied, resting a bound hand on the hilt of her greatsword.


    Noah¡¯s thoughts raced as fragments of his father¡¯s stories surfaced. The Martial Art Kings were the living apostles of the God of Combat, a being once known as the Fourth Apocalypse. Though sealed long ago within an iron maiden, his influence persisted. Through sheer willpower, he chose seven individuals¡ªmasters of their respective weapons, to act as his avatars in the world: the Sword, the Spear, the Greatsword, the Fist, the Bow, the Axe, and the Shield.


    This was no ordinary appointment. Most gods could only sustain three apostles without weakening themselves. But even in his confinement, the God of Combat maintained seven, a testament to his immense power. His criteria for selection were as indifferent as they were ruthless¡ªhe cared not for morality or purpose, only for unmatched skill in martial arts.


    Among these seven, the Greatsword Monarch stood apart. Tales of her exploits eclipsed those of her peers. Unlike the others, she bore a second title, one just as ominous, Witch.


    "Witches..." Noah murmured, his stomach sinking as the weight of her reputation hit him. The title of Witch, dated back to the First Apocalypse, bestowed only upon women who could unleash devastation on a catastrophic scale. In the present day, only two bore that dreaded designation, the Black Witch and the Slaughter Witch.


    Niamh¡¯s eyes gleamed as she noticed his growing unease. "Ah, so you¡¯ve pieced it together," she said, her voice dripping with mock sympathy. "The stories probably didn¡¯t do me justice. But I assure you, they didn¡¯t exaggerate."


    Cyrus clenched his fists, his voice strained as he forced himself to speak. "You... You killed thousands. Entire armies fell to you. Why are you here? What do you want?"


    Niamh tilted her head, feigning a thoughtful expression. "Want? Oh, I¡¯m just passing through," she said casually, then her grin widened into something far more predatory. "But I must admit, it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve had the pleasure of entertaining guests."


    Her bound hands shifted slightly, the chains on her cuffs clinking ominously. Even restrained, her presence was overwhelming. Each member of the group could feel the oppressive aura emanating from her, a suffocating mixture of malice and bloodlust.


    Noah tightened his grip on his sword, stepping forward despite the fear clawing at him. "We didn¡¯t come here to fight you," he said, his voice steady but his knuckles white. "We¡¯re here for the Black Witch. If you¡¯re not involved¡ª"


    Before he could finish, Niamh laughed¡ªa sharp, chilling sound that echoed through the clearing. "Oh, my dear little hero," she interrupted, her eyes locking onto him. "You don¡¯t understand, do you? You don¡¯t get to decide who you fight. Not here."


    "If you want to reach the Black Witch," she said, her voice dropping to a deadly whisper, "you¡¯ll have to survive me first."


    Noah¡¯s voice trembled as he took a step forward, desperation edging his tone. "Why are you doing this? Why cause so much pain? What could possibly drive you to destroy so freely?"


    Niamh tilted her head slightly, her unsettling grin widening. Her orange eyes glowed with predatory amusement as if she relished the question. "Why?" she repeated, her tone mockingly thoughtful. "Why do you eat every day? Why do you sleep each night? Why do you protect those you love? Why do you even bother to keep breathing, little hero?"


    Her voice dropped, each word cutting deeper than the last. "Your question is as meaningless as mine. I do what I do because it¡¯s a part of who I am¡ªno grand purpose, no higher calling. I kill because it is instinct. Because it¡¯s life." She spread her arms, the chains of her handcuffs rattling like the chime of a death knell. "And in life, there¡¯s no escape from death. Especially not for you."


    Before anyone could react, she vanished. A blink later, she reappeared in front of Lucy.


    "Fast¡ª!" Lucy started, but her words turned into a cry of pain. Blood spattered the ground as she crumpled to her knees, her legs torn as if pierced by invisible blades. Niamh hadn¡¯t drawn her sword. She hadn¡¯t even moved her hands.


    "Interesting," Niamh mused, circling Lucy like a predator sizing up its prey. "You wield a greatsword too. But I doubt you¡¯ll make me use mine. You¡¯re not worth it."


    Lucy gritted her teeth, clutching at the searing pain in her legs. "Bastard," she hissed, forcing herself to stand despite the agony.


    The ground beneath Niamh erupted as massive vines burst forth, wrapping around her limbs and hoisting her into the air. "You¡¯ll regret underestimating me!" Lucy growled, her ability surging with fury.


    "Not bad," Niamh said, barely glancing at the plants restraining her. "But not good enough."


    Before Lucy could respond, Adam and Cyrus joined the attack. Adam hurled his crimson spear, its deadly arc aiming directly for Niamh¡¯s heart, while Cyrus unleashed a barrage of razor-sharp ice shards.


    For a split second, it seemed the combined assault might succeed.


    Then everything fell apart.


    With a single motion¡ªa mere flicker of movement too fast to track¡ªthe vines were shredded, the ice shattered into harmless shards, and Adam¡¯s spear splintered mid-air.


    Adam staggered, coughing violently as he clutched his chest. The destruction of a regalia isn''t permanent, but the backlash coursing through his body was crippling. Blood dripped from his lips as he dropped to one knee.


    "Pathetic," Niamh sneered, landing gracefully on the ground. "You¡¯ve already lost your weapon. And you?" She turned her gaze toward Cyrus, whose ice shards were little more than glimmering dust in the wind. "You think a little frost can stop me? Cute."


    Her presence grew heavier, the very air seeming to buckle under the weight of her aura. The group froze, each member paralyzed by the sheer force of her killing intent.


    Noah stepped forward, gripping his sword tightly, his heart pounding in his chest. "We¡¯re not done yet," he said, his voice trembling but resolute.


    Niamh¡¯s eyes locked onto him, a flicker of curiosity crossing her face. "Oh? And what will you do, little hero? Will you save them? Will you stop me?"


    Noah raised his blade, his determination burning brighter than the fear coursing through his veins. "I¡¯ll try," he declared.


    Niamh tilted her head, her unsettling smile widening into something far more sinister. ¡°How cute. You¡¯re not really afraid of me, are you?¡± Her orange eyes glinted with cruel amusement. ¡°No, no¡­ you¡¯re terrified of something else. You¡¯re afraid I¡¯ll hurt her.¡± She gestured toward Ava, whose trembling form stood frozen behind Noah. ¡°If she died¡­ what would you do, little hero?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t let that happen,¡± Noah said firmly. His voice quivered, but the resolve in his words was unshakable. Drawing on his deepest reserves of power, he absorbed the pain and fear radiating from his allies. The dark energy, raw and potent, began to coil around him, seeping into his skin like tendrils of smoke. It surged into his sword, engulfing the blade in a shadowy aura.


    With a roar, Noah brought his sword down in a devastating slash, the energy crackling violently as it carved through the air toward Niamh.


    But it wasn¡¯t enough.


    With a single hand, her fingers wrapped around the blade, stopping it cold. The impact sent shockwaves through the earth, but Niamh stood unfazed, her vicious smile deepening. "Adorable," she whispered. "I like you, little hero."


    Before Noah could react, an intense pain erupted in his stomach. He hadn¡¯t even seen her move. In an instant, her fist had buried itself into his abdomen, sending him crumpling to his knees.


    "You have potential," Niamh said, looming over him as he gasped for air. ¡°I recently killed the Sword Master. That seat is open now, though I do have a student in mind to take it. But you¡­¡± She crouched, gripping his chin with a forceful hand and forcing him to look into her gleaming, predatory eyes. ¡°You could be even better. I¡¯ll let you live, little hero, but only on three conditions.¡±


    Noah winced but held her gaze. ¡°What¡­ What are the conditions?¡±


    Her grip tightened as she leaned in close, her breath warm and menacing against his skin. ¡°Condition one: Obtain a sword-based regalia. If you¡¯re not wielding a proper weapon the next time we meet, I¡¯ll kill you. Condition two: Learn swordsmanship. Enough to keep me entertained, at the very least. And condition three¡­¡± She smirked, her tone laced with sadistic glee. ¡°Land a hit on me. Just one.¡±


    Noah¡¯s chest tightened as he glanced toward Ava, who was staring back at him with wide, tear-filled eyes. Niamh¡¯s gaze followed his. ¡°If you fail, little hero¡­ if you don¡¯t fulfill these conditions the next time we meet, I¡¯ll kill your girlfriend first. And I¡¯ll make you watch every second of it before I finish you off.¡±


    The world seemed to freeze as her words sunk in. Noah clenched his fists, forcing himself to meet her piercing gaze once more. "I¡¯ll do it," he said through gritted teeth. "No matter what, I¡¯ll get stronger. I¡¯ll meet your conditions."


    "Good doggie," Niamh cooed mockingly, patting his head as though he were a child. ¡°I look forward to our next encounter.¡±


    And then, in the blink of an eye, she vanished. The oppressive aura that had suffused the air disappeared with her, leaving an eerie stillness in her wake.


    To the party¡¯s shock, their injuries began to heal instantly, as if some unseen force had mended their wounds. Adam, who had been pale and coughing blood moments ago, sat up with a groan. Lucy tested her legs, now free of pain, while Cyrus shakily summoned a shard of ice to his hand to confirm his ability still worked.


    ¡°What¡­ just happened?¡± Ava whispered, her voice trembling.


    Noah remained silent, staring at the spot where Niamh had stood. The weight of her conditions bore down on him like an iron chain, but his resolve only burned brighter.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it,¡± he repeated softly, gripping his sword tightly. ¡°No matter what.¡±

 Chapter 13-Spear Lord

    Isaac sprinted through the dense forest, his blade of blood gleaming as he struck down anyone who crossed his path. The shadows of trees stretched like ominous fingers, but he pushed forward with relentless determination. However, his rampage came to a halt when he encountered an unusual figure standing amidst a circle of unconscious students.


    The stranger was unscathed, his posture relaxed as if he hadn''t broken a sweat. Around him, the fallen students were incapacitated but not eliminated, each carefully spared from permanent injury. His curly cyan hair caught the faint moonlight, and his piercing yellow eyes seemed to radiate an unsettling calm. A collar wrapped snugly around his neck displayed his heart rate, unnervingly steady. He wore a plain white button-up shirt, his appearance deceptively modest compared to his surroundings. In his hands, he held a long staff, cylindrical and unadorned, as though it had once been a spear with its blade removed.


    But what drew Isaac¡¯s attention most was the tattoo on the stranger¡¯s arm, two interlocked swords, unmistakable in its meaning.


    As Isaac charged, his demonic eye¡ªthe Tactician¡¯s Eye, an ability that specialized in reading opponents¡¯ movements, focused intently on the man. Yet when he swung his sword, the stranger dodged effortlessly, his movements smooth and precise, like a leaf dancing on the wind.


    ¡°What a nuisance,¡± the man muttered, sighing audibly. ¡°I was only here to clean up the side characters, and now I¡¯ve bumped into a main character. How troublesome.¡±


    Before Isaac could react, the man blurred into motion. In an instant, the remaining students were struck in precise locations, each one collapsing unconscious, officially eliminated from the trial. Isaac¡¯s demonic eye strained to follow the movements, but they were faster than anything it could perceive, an almost surreal display of speed and precision.


    Isaac''s grip on his blade tightened. ¡°Who are you?¡± he growled, his voice low and threatening.


    The stranger smiled, leaning casually on his staff. ¡°Deon,¡± he said simply, his tone lighthearted yet eerily cold. ¡°I¡¯m just passing through. No need to make this more complicated than it has to be.¡±


    ¡°That tattoo,¡± Isaac said, his voice sharper. ¡°You¡¯re one of the Martial Arts Kings?¡±


    ¡°Congratulations,¡± Deon replied mockingly, giving a small clap. ¡°You figured it out. Though I¡¯d prefer if we didn¡¯t turn this into a big production. How about we go our separate ways?¡±


    Isaac¡¯s response was swift and uncompromising. He slashed his wrist, summoning a barrage of blood blades that tore through the air toward Deon, their edges gleaming with lethal intent. Yet Deon moved effortlessly, weaving between the attacks as though he could see their trajectory before they even formed.


    When the blood settled, Deon stood untouched, his collar¡¯s heart rate display remaining unnervingly calm. ¡°Impressive,¡± he mused, his smile widening. ¡°That little barrage? It could¡¯ve killed me a total of twelve times.¡± He laughed, twirling his staff as though he were entertaining himself rather than fighting for survival.


    Isaac¡¯s eyes narrowed, frustration creeping into his expression. Deon¡¯s playful demeanor, coupled with his overwhelming skill, only made the encounter more infuriating.


    ¡°How is one of the Martial Kings here? Aren¡¯t these supposed to be students?¡± Fraser asked, his voice filled with disbelief as he watched the screen. The image of Deon effortlessly dispatching his opponents played out before them. ¡°Hey, Leo, you¡¯re one of the Martial Kings. Got any insight about the others?¡±


    Professor Jupiter, also known as the Fist King, leaned forward in his chair, his sharp eyes fixed on the display. "I''ve crossed paths with the Greatsword Monarch before," he said, his voice calm but tinged with gravity. "She mentioned, quite casually, that she killed the previous Sword Master and Spear Lord out of sheer boredom. If this kid has the mark of the Spear Lord, then for some reason, the God of Combat deemed him worthy to inherit the title."


    Fraser frowned, tapping his fingers on the desk. ¡°So he¡¯s officially the new Spear Lord? But why make such a rushed decision? Is this kid really on par with the rest of you?¡±


    Jupiter leaned back, stroking his chin thoughtfully. ¡°The Sword Master position still hasn¡¯t been filled yet,¡± he noted. ¡°The contenders are likely Noah Fafnir or Inari of the Crows. But understand this, the God of Combat doesn¡¯t choose apostles lightly. If Deon was chosen, it¡¯s because he earned it.¡±


    Fraser¡¯s gaze didn¡¯t waver from the screen. ¡°Interesting. Tell me, Mr. Fist King, how do you stack up against the other Martial Kings?¡±


    Jupiter smirked faintly, his expression both confident and reflective. ¡°The Greatsword Monarch? Easily the strongest of us. I couldn¡¯t defeat her. Her combat style is¡­ overwhelming, relentless. She doesn¡¯t fight like a human being; it¡¯s like battling a natural disaster.¡± His tone darkened slightly, as though recalling a painful memory.


    He continued, ¡°I¡¯ve fought and beaten the previous Sword Master and Spear Lord, but that doesn¡¯t mean much now. The Bow Saint? Never met her personally, but word is she serves in the Emperor¡¯s royal guard. From what I hear, she¡¯s untouchable at long range.¡±


    Fraser raised an eyebrow. ¡°What about the Axe Tyrant?¡±


    Jupiter let out a small chuckle. ¡°I¡¯ve fought him. That ended in a draw. He¡¯s as durable as a fortress and hits like an avalanche. Tough to find a weakness there.¡±


    ¡°And the Shield Sovereign?¡± Fraser pressed.


    A shadow of curiosity passed over Jupiter¡¯s face. ¡°The Shield Sovereign is a mystery, even to me. They¡¯re an utter recluse, supposedly part of the royal guard like the Bow Saint, but almost no one¡¯s seen them in action. If rumors are true, they¡¯re a master of defensive techniques, capable of holding off armies alone.¡±


    Fraser folded his arms, the gears in his mind turning. ¡°So Deon, the new Spear Lord, is being tossed into this hierarchy. Yet here he is, tearing through students like it¡¯s child¡¯s play.¡±


    ¡°Tell me,¡± Fraser began, his eyes still glued to the screen, ¡°who do you believe will take the mantle of Sword Master?¡±


    Jupiter leaned back in his chair, his expression calm but confident. ¡°Noah Fafnir. I¡¯ve personally trained him, and the Greatsword Monarch herself has taken an interest in him. That alone speaks volumes.¡±


    Fraser arched an eyebrow. ¡°The Monarch? She rarely takes interest in anyone who isn¡¯t already extraordinary.¡±


    Jupiter nodded. ¡°Exactly. If Noah can survive her test, he¡¯ll be more than worthy of the title.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted by the rising intensity on the screen. The clash between Isaac and Deon had reached a fever pitch.


    Isaac stood firm, his eyes glowing crimson as he activated the Tactician¡¯s Eye. His blood manipulation surged to life, red tendrils twisting around him like vipers, each one a weapon poised to strike.


    Deon, in stark contrast, remained unnervingly calm. His yellow eyes gleamed with amusement, and his cyan curls bobbed slightly as he tilted his head. His staff rested casually in one hand, its metallic surface reflecting the moonlight filtering through the trees.


    Isaac made the first move, slashing his wrist to summon a barrage of bladed blood shards. They screamed through the air, sharp enough to cut through steel.


    Deon dodged effortlessly. Each shard missed by a hair¡¯s breadth, as though he anticipated every move before it happened. His feet barely seemed to touch the ground as he weaved through the deadly rain of blood, his movements fluid and graceful.


    ¡°Impressive,¡± Deon said, his voice light and teasing. ¡°That little attack could¡¯ve killed me¡­ oh, about fifteen times. But here I am, still breathing.¡±


    Isaac gritted his teeth, frustration building. He manipulated the blood midair, redirecting the shards to strike again from all angles. At the same time, he conjured a crimson whip, lashing out with blistering speed.


    Deon¡¯s smile widened. He ducked, spun, and leaped, avoiding the whip with almost playful ease. His staff moved like a blur, deflecting the redirected shards with precise, casual taps.


    Isaac¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Stop dodging, coward!¡±


    ¡°Oh, but dodging is so much fun,¡± Deon replied, grinning. He lunged forward suddenly, closing the distance between them in an instant. Before Isaac could react, Deon¡¯s staff flicked out, aiming for his wrist. Isaac barely managed to block with a shield of hardened blood.


    Deon¡¯s strike connected with the shield, and the impact sent Isaac skidding back. Deon didn¡¯t press the attack; instead, he leaned on his staff and yawned dramatically.


    ¡°You¡¯re persistent,¡± Deon said, inspecting his nails. ¡°But persistence alone won¡¯t win this fight. Tell me, Isaac, do you ever get tired of trying so hard?¡±


    Isaac¡¯s anger boiled over. He slammed his palms together, creating a massive blood spear that crackled with energy. With a roar, he hurled it at Deon, the ground shaking from the force.


    Deon¡¯s expression finally shifted, a flicker of genuine interest crossing his face. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s new.¡±


    He twisted his body, narrowly avoiding the spear. The weapon grazed his collar, leaving a small scorch mark on the fabric. Deon clicked his tongue in mock disappointment.


    ¡°So close,¡± he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Isaac didn¡¯t let up. He summoned a tidal wave of blood, crashing it down toward Deon. The red liquid roared like a beast, its edges shimmering with deadly intent.


    Deon sighed. ¡°Alright, this is getting messy.¡±


    With a single leap, he vaulted over the wave, his staff spinning like a propeller. He landed lightly on a tree branch, his posture relaxed as though he hadn¡¯t just evaded a fatal attack.


    From his perch, Deon called down, ¡°You¡¯re strong, Isaac. I¡¯ll give you that. But this fight? It¡¯s a waste of my time.¡±


    ¡°Running away already?¡± Isaac snarled, his voice filled with venom.


    Deon shrugged. ¡°Not running, just¡­ leaving.  You¡¯re the main character of this little story, Isaac. So it would be waste for you to be defeated now.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s blood tendrils lashed out, aiming to drag Deon down. But with a flick of his wrist, Deon¡¯s staff deflected them effortlessly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s call it a draw,¡± Deon said with a wink. ¡°See you around, maybe.¡±


    In an instant, he vanished into the trees, his movements so quick they seemed almost supernatural. Isaac¡¯s blood manipulation receded, and he clenched his fists, frustration seething through him.


    Back in the observation room, Fraser leaned back, rubbing his temples. ¡°That Deon kid¡­ he¡¯s something else.¡±Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Jupiter nodded, his expression serious. ¡°He didn¡¯t even fight at full strength. That was child¡¯s play for him.¡±


    Fraser frowned. ¡°If that is the new Spear Lord, I shudder to think what the Greatsword Monarch or the other Martial Kings could do at full power.¡±


    Jupiter didn¡¯t reply, but the grim set of his jaw said enough.


    ¡°Damn bastard, I¡¯ll get him next time,¡± Isaac muttered, frustration etched across his face.


    ¡°Relax, hothead,¡± Karma said, strolling into view with a casual wave. Kenji followed close behind, his expression unreadable but curious.


    Isaac glanced at them and smirked. ¡°Oh good, you¡¯re here. Looks like you found someone useful for the raid.¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Karma replied smoothly, gesturing to Kenji. ¡°Our new friend here will make an excellent tank. That just leaves us in need of an assassin, assuming you¡¯re fine playing the healer role.¡±


    Isaac raised an eyebrow. ¡°Healer? You¡¯ve seen how I fight. Do I look like a healer to you?¡±


    Kenji chuckled, his gaze drifting over Isaac¡¯s build. ¡°Honestly, you give off berserker vibes more than anything.¡±


    Karma grinned, stepping between them. ¡°He¡¯s versatile. One of those rare people who can handle multiple roles. For this little adventure, I¡¯ll be playing the ranger.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, right,¡± Isaac snorted. ¡°You just want to stay out of harm¡¯s way while we do all the heavy lifting.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not wrong,¡± Karma admitted with a sly grin. ¡°But did you have to say that in front of our new friend here? You¡¯re making me sound bad.¡±


    Kenji smirked. ¡°You don¡¯t need help with that.¡±


    Isaac jabbed a finger at Karma. ¡°He should know right away that you¡¯re a slippery snake.¡±


    ¡°So mean,¡± Karma sighed dramatically, clutching his chest. ¡°Do you see what I have to deal with, Kenji? The abuse!¡±


    Kenji shook his head, amused. ¡°We should probably get moving. I still think it¡¯s insane you want to take on the Sentinel.¡±


    ¡°My dear Isaac is a very ambitious man,¡± Karma said with mock reverence, slinging an arm over Isaac¡¯s shoulder.


    Isaac rolled his eyes but didn¡¯t shrug him off. ¡°Ambitious or not, I don¡¯t plan on losing today. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The three of them moved deeper into the forest, weaving between trees and brushing past low-hanging branches as they searched for the last member of their party.


    Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, June and Mars faced off against a formidable opponent.


    Their adversary stood confidently, a smirk playing across his lips. His neatly combed blue hair shimmered under the dappled moonlight, two horns curling from his head like a crown. His sclerae were pitch black, the contrast making his vivid purple irises all the more striking. A partially unbuttoned white shirt exposed his chest, a detail that only added to his arrogant demeanor. A black cloak draped over his shoulders, its edges swaying with each of his movements. On his hands, sleek black-metal gauntlets gleamed ominously, their craftsmanship exquisite.


    ¡°You¡¯re wasting your time,¡± the man taunted, cracking his knuckles. His voice was smooth, with an undertone of disdain. ¡°Neither of you stands a chance against me. But I do love a good warm-up.¡±


    ¡°This guy is so annoying,¡± June muttered, her phoenix wings unfurling behind her in a flare of fiery light. Flames licked the edges of her feathers, casting flickering shadows across the forest floor.


    Mars rolled his eyes, summoning a broadsword made from dark energy. It shimmered ominously in his grip, its edges pulsating with shadowy power. ¡°I agree. Honestly, why waste time fighting us? We¡¯d all be better off teaming up to take down the Sentinel.¡±


    Xander smirked, cracking his knuckles. His black-metal gauntlets gleamed under the moonlight, their menacing aura matched only by his confident swagger. ¡°Oh, I plan to take down the Sentinel, but I don¡¯t need you losers slowing me down. Let¡¯s face it¡ªyou¡¯re not even worthy to stand in my shadow.¡±


    Mars¡¯s grip tightened. ¡°Cocky prick.¡±


    Without warning, Xander charged forward, his speed shocking. He closed the distance in a blink, aiming a devastating punch at Mars. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the air, but Mars managed to block with a hastily conjured shield of dark energy. Even so, the force sent him skidding backward, boots digging into the dirt.


    June leaped into action, spreading her wings wide. Flaming feathers shot from her wings like arrows, streaking through the air toward Xander. He twisted effortlessly, dodging them with fluid grace. One feather singed his shirt, but he brushed it off with an amused chuckle.


    ¡°Cute trick,¡± Xander taunted, stepping into Mars¡¯s range again. This time, his fists blurred as he unleashed a flurry of punches. Mars deflected some with a pair of dark energy daggers, but several blows slipped through, slamming into his torso. Mars grunted, stumbling backward.


    June soared overhead, raining down more fiery feathers. She shouted, ¡°Mars, move!¡±


    Mars dove to the side as June unleashed a barrage of flames, blanketing the area around Xander in an inferno. For a moment, the forest crackled with heat, the air shimmering from the intensity.


    When the flames subsided, Xander stood at the center of the scorched earth, unscathed. His cloak smoldered, but his cocky grin remained intact. ¡°You¡¯ll have to do better than that, little bird.¡±


    June snarled, swooping down for a direct attack. She slashed at him with a flaming blade conjured from her wings, but Xander caught her wrist mid-swing. His grip was like iron. With a smirk, he swung her around and hurled her toward Mars.


    Mars caught her with a grunt, the impact nearly knocking him over. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°Peachy,¡± June groaned, pulling herself to her feet. Her wings flared as she focused, a soothing golden light flowing from her hands to heal Mars¡¯s injuries.


    ¡°Enough playing around,¡± Mars growled, summoning a massive greatsword of dark energy. ¡°Time to turn up the heat.¡±


    Mars lunged at Xander, swinging the weapon with all his strength. The ground cracked beneath his feet as the blade came down, but Xander sidestepped at the last second, the sword cleaving into the earth. Xander retaliated with a heavy punch to Mars¡¯s gut, sending him flying into a nearby tree.


    June took the opportunity to unleash another volley of flaming feathers, this time aiming directly for Xander¡¯s gauntlets. The metal heated up, forcing him to shake his hands as smoke rose from the scorched material.


    ¡°You¡¯re persistent, I¡¯ll give you that,¡± Xander admitted, flexing his fingers. ¡°But persistence doesn¡¯t equal strength.¡±


    As Xander prepared to strike again, Mars materialized behind him, a spear of shadowy energy in hand. With a feral shout, Mars thrust the spear toward Xander¡¯s back. Xander twisted just in time, grabbing the shaft of the weapon and snapping it in two.


    Mars¡¯s eyes widened as Xander casually shattered his spear, the dark energy dissipating into harmless wisps. Without hesitation, Xander spun on his heel, driving an elbow toward Mars¡¯s ribs. Mars barely managed to summon a thin barrier of shadow between them, but the impact still sent him staggering back.


    ¡°Your tricks are getting old,¡± Xander taunted, his grin widening. ¡°Come on, entertain me!¡±


    June, still airborne, decided to shift tactics. She conjured a brilliant orb of flame in her palms, compressing it until it burned white-hot. With a sharp cry, she hurled it at Xander. The fireball exploded on impact, engulfing him in a roaring inferno.


    ¡°Got him!¡± she shouted triumphantly.


    The flames cleared to reveal Xander, his gauntlets glowing faintly from the heat. He brushed a speck of soot off his shoulder, completely unharmed. ¡°Not bad. But now it¡¯s my turn.¡±


    Xander launched himself at June with inhuman speed, leaping high into the air. She barely had time to react before his fist was inches from her face. Twisting mid-flight, she deflected the blow with a wing, the force sending her spinning through the air. She regained control and countered by slashing at him with flaming talons, but Xander blocked the attack with his forearm and delivered a punishing kick to her stomach. The blow sent her crashing into the ground, her wings flickering as she tried to catch her breath.


    Mars seized the opportunity, reappearing behind Xander with twin blades of dark energy. He swung both in a cross slash aimed at Xander¡¯s back. Xander, as if sensing the attack, ducked low and drove his fist into Mars¡¯s midsection. The hit was devastating, forcing Mars to collapse to one knee as he gasped for air.


    ¡°You both fight like amateurs,¡± Xander said, his tone dripping with mockery. ¡°How did you even make it this far?¡±


    June staggered to her feet, fury blazing in her eyes. Her wings flared to life once more, the flames brighter and hotter than before. ¡°We¡¯re not done yet!¡± she snarled, launching herself toward Xander with a speed that left scorch marks on the ground.


    Xander sidestepped her initial attack, but she twisted in midair, slashing at him with a flaming whip that extended from her wings. This time, he raised his gauntlets to block, the flames licking at his armor and forcing him back a step.


    ¡°Finally, some spirit!¡± Xander said, a hint of excitement creeping into his voice.


    Mars, now back on his feet, summoned a massive hammer of dark energy. He charged at Xander, coordinating his attack with June. Xander dodged the first swing of the hammer but was forced to jump as June swept the ground with a wave of fire.


    The duo pressed their advantage, their movements synchronizing despite their exhaustion. June¡¯s flames boxed Xander in, forcing him to stay grounded while Mars swung relentlessly with his dark hammer. For a moment, it seemed as though they had him cornered.


    But Xander¡¯s grin only grew wider. ¡°You¡¯re starting to get it. Good. Let¡¯s take it up a notch.¡±


    With a burst of speed, Xander ducked under Mars¡¯s hammer, grabbed the shaft, and yanked it to the side, pulling Mars off balance. He pivoted and drove a knee into Mars¡¯s stomach, sending him sprawling.


    June dove in from above, aiming a fiery dive kick at Xander. He raised an arm to block, but the impact forced him to slide back, his boots digging into the dirt. She followed up with a flurry of strikes, each blow accompanied by a burst of flame. Xander dodged and parried, his movements almost lazy in their precision.


    ¡°You¡¯re fast,¡± he admitted, his grin never fading. ¡°But not fast enough.¡±


    In a blur, Xander grabbed one of her wings and spun, using her momentum against her. He hurled her into a nearby tree, the impact shaking the branches. She groaned, slumping to the ground as embers fell around her.


    Mars, battered but still standing, growled and raised his hammer again. ¡°I¡¯m not done yet!¡± He charged forward, his weapon glowing with dark energy.


    Xander turned to face him, his eyes alight with amusement. ¡°Good. Neither am I.¡±


    The clash had reached a fever pitch, the ground scarred with burns and shadows, the air crackling with the residual energy of their abilities. Mars staggered back, gripping his dark hammer as his knees threatened to buckle. June, battered but defiant, forced herself upright, her wings dimly flickering as flames struggled to reignite.


    Xander stood at the center, his gauntlets gleaming and his smirk undeterred despite the scorch marks on his body. "Is that all you''ve got?" he taunted, rolling his shoulders as if warming up for another round. "Pathetic."


    Before anyone could respond, a deafening crack split the air, followed by a blinding flash of light. A jagged bolt of lightning descended from the heavens, striking Xander squarely. The sheer force of the impact sent Mars flying backward and rattled June where she stood. The forest trembled under the power of the strike, leaves and branches raining down as smoke rose from the charred earth where Xander had stood.


    As the smoke cleared, Xander emerged, visibly affected for the first time. His gauntlets sparked erratically, and he clutched his side, blood dripping from a gash. His grin faltered but didn¡¯t vanish entirely. ¡°Finally, something interesting,¡± he muttered, wiping the blood from his lip.


    A new figure emerged from the shadows, perched on a high tree branch like a predator surveying its prey. Lyra¡¯s silver hair shimmered in the fading light, her piercing yellow eyes narrowing as she surveyed the battlefield. Sparks danced along her fingertips, and the static in the air grew thicker with every passing moment.


    ¡°Well, well,¡± she said, her voice laced with a venomous amusement. ¡°What a mess we have here.¡±


    Xander tilted his head, his grin returning despite his injuries. ¡°Come to play hero? Or are you just here to stroke your ego?¡±


    Lyra hopped down gracefully from the branch, landing between Mars and June, who were both too stunned to react. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not here to save anyone,¡± she said, cracking her knuckles as arcs of electricity surged around her fists. ¡°I¡¯m in a terrible mood, and you just happen to be in the wrong place at the right time.¡±


    Mars groaned, forcing himself upright with the help of his shattered hammer. ¡°Another one?¡± he muttered, wiping blood from his lip. ¡°Great. Just what we needed.¡±


    June, her flames slowly reigniting, shot him a glare. ¡°Stay back, Mars. Let¡¯s see what she does first.¡±


    Xander chuckled, despite the faint limp in his step. ¡°You¡¯re bold, but do you think you can take me? I¡¯ve been wiping the floor with these two, and you¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish, Lyra disappeared in a blur of motion, reappearing an instant later right in front of him. Her fist, crackling with pure lightning, connected with his jaw in a thunderous impact that echoed through the forest. Xander was sent hurtling backward, crashing through two trees before coming to a stop against a boulder.


    Lyra dusted off her hands, a satisfied smirk on her face. ¡°Oops. Did I hit too hard? My bad.¡±


    Mars and June exchanged a glance, their exhaustion momentarily forgotten as they watched Lyra stride toward Xander with a predatory confidence. The air around her shimmered with static, and the ground beneath her feet sizzled with residual energy.


    Xander groaned, pulling himself from the wreckage of the boulder. His grin was gone, replaced with a grimace of pain and irritation. ¡°You¡¯re gonna regret that,¡± he growled, ¡°Let¡¯s see if you¡¯re still smiling after I¡ª¡±


    Lyra raised a hand, and a bolt of lightning struck him again mid-sentence, cutting him off as his body convulsed. She tilted her head, her smirk growing wider. ¡°What was that? I couldn¡¯t hear you over the sound of my lightning.¡±


    The battle was far from over, but the balance of power had shifted dramatically. For the first time, Xander looked genuinely wary as Lyra prepared to unleash another storm of devastating attacks. Mars and June stood at the ready, unsure whether Lyra was an ally or just another storm they¡¯d have to weather.

 Chapter 14-Permafrost

    As the exam unfolded, the professors watched with heightened interest, their eyes glued to the various screens displaying the chaos within the forest.


    ¡°Headmaster, which of the students has captured your attention the most?¡± Professor Jupiter inquired, his tone calm but curious.


    ¡°It¡¯s difficult to choose just one,¡± Headmaster Ashe admitted, his voice tinged with anticipation. ¡°But the upcoming convergence will be pivotal.¡±


    ¡°Convergence?¡± Warren raised an eyebrow, leaning forward. ¡°Care to elaborate?¡±


    ¡°By sheer coincidence¡ªor perhaps fate¡ªall of the most exceptional students are about to cross paths in a single area,¡± Ashe said, his excitement barely concealed.


    Jupiter folded his arms, his expression thoughtful. ¡°Ah, I see. My niece and nephew will be among them. They¡¯re skilled, but this clash will be a true test of their mettle. I wish them luck.¡±


    Ashe nodded and began to elaborate, his voice steady and analytical. ¡°Let¡¯s start with Isaac and his team. Isaac and Karma work together seamlessly, compensating for each other¡¯s weaknesses. Kenji, despite being the newest addition, survived an encounter with the Sentinel¡ªa feat that speaks volumes. Each of them brings something formidable to the table.¡±


    ¡°And then there¡¯s the four-way clash,¡± Jupiter added, his voice carrying a note of pride. ¡°June and Mars have impressed me. June¡¯s mastery of the Phoenix''s traits is remarkable, and Mars, though lacking those abilities, compensates with skillful use of his ability. Lyra, as a descendant of Tiamat, brings the fury and grace of the primordial ocean. Then there¡¯s Xander, who may lack a primordial lineage but is proving his worth with the highest elimination count so far.¡±


    Warren leaned back in his chair, his smirk widening. "And let¡¯s not overlook the other remarkable players. Markus is a prime contender, his stealth and assassination skills are unmatched among his peers. The fact that he descends from the primordial madness, Lovecraft, makes him a wildcard, unpredictable and dangerous. Then there¡¯s Deon Solace, the newly appointed Spear Lord. It¡¯s like watching a master chess player, every move he makes is calculated ten steps ahead.¡±


    Fraser chuckled, his voice laced with excitement. ¡°And finally, we can¡¯t forget the young king¡¯s forces. The boy¡¯s ambition is impressive, but what really intrigues me is his companion. Who would have thought we¡¯d see the wielder of the Demon Sword among the students this year? This is shaping up to be a historic class.¡±


    Warren¡¯s curiosity seemed to shift gears. ¡°Out of curiosity, what¡¯s the pecking order among the professors? Obviously, the Headmaster sits at the top, but what about the rest of you?¡±


    Fraser and Jupiter exchanged knowing glances before speaking in unison. ¡°Doctor Sanguine takes second, without a doubt.¡±


    Warren raised an eyebrow, surprised. ¡°Really? I¡¯ve never seen him fight. I assumed it would be Willow.¡±


    Jupiter smiled faintly, shaking his head. ¡°Willow is undeniably powerful and takes third place. After him, there¡¯s a three-way tie between Fraser, Mr. E, and myself. Each of us excels in different areas, making it impossible to rank definitively.¡±


    Fraser¡¯s grin turned mischievous. ¡°Now that¡¯s a match I¡¯d like to see¡ªjust to settle the score.¡±


    Warren shrugged nonchalantly, standing to leave. ¡°Noted. Anyway, once the exam concludes, send me the list of students who pass. The disciplinary committee will need to memorize every name.¡±


    Fraser quirked an eyebrow, watching Warren walk away. ¡°Isn¡¯t he the entire disciplinary committee?¡±


    Ashe chuckled, his tone one of genuine amusement. ¡°Yes, he is. Truly an exceptional individual. If the current Hero were to fall, Warren is undoubtedly the most likely candidate to take their place. His raw talent and adaptability are unmatched among the students.¡±


    Jupiter nodded in agreement. ¡°There¡¯s no denying it. Warren¡¯s potential is terrifying.¡±


    The professors fell into contemplative silence as the screens before them flickered with images of the forest¡¯s chaos, each battle and strategy bringing them closer to understanding the unprecedented potential of this year¡¯s candidates.


    As Isaac''s group reached a clearing, they noticed silken threads glinting faintly in the sunlight, intricately woven into a massive, inescapable web encircling the area. Before they could react, more threads materialized behind them, snapping taut and sealing their retreat. The air grew colder as a figure descended from above, landing gracefully before them.


    He wore a pristine white button-down shirt, neatly paired with a black tie that contrasted sharply against his striking appearance. Purple, tentacles framed his face, and crimson eyes gleamed with an unsettling intensity. A pirate¡¯s hat adorned his head, a purple feather jutting from its brim, swaying lightly in the breeze. His gloved hands bore small, razor-sharp blades at the fingertips, each one tethered to faintly visible threads that hummed with eerie energy. Clearly, the gloves were his Regalia.


    Around his neck hung a golden chain holding a ring with a brilliant blue gemstone, radiating an aura of frosty cold that chilled the surrounding air. Frost crept along the ground near him, emphasizing his presence.


    Karma raised an eyebrow, his usual smirk undeterred. ¡°Oh, good, an assassin. Just the kind of person we need. Care to join us?¡±


    Markus responded with a sharp glare, his voice calm yet filled with menace. ¡°Not a chance,¡± he said as he conjured a spear of glimmering ice in midair.


    The ice spear hovered ominously before launching at Karma with unrelenting speed. Though Karma dodged to the side, the spear abruptly changed direction mid-flight, slicing deep into his side from behind. Karma staggered, clutching the wound, his smirk replaced by a grimace.


    Isaac¡¯s Demonic Eye, Tactician¡¯s Vision, flared to life, revealing the intricate mana arrows Markus was using to control the spear. Invisible to ordinary sight, the arrows snaked through the air like a deadly puppet master¡¯s strings.


    ¡°So that¡¯s your trick¡­¡± Isaac muttered, narrowing his eyes. Markus¡¯s ability, The Compass, allowed him to alter the trajectory of any object under his influence. Unless someone could perceive the arrows of mana themselves, avoiding his attacks would be nearly impossible.


    Markus smirked as he raised his hand, guiding the ice spear back into position above his head. ¡°Impressive eyes. Too bad they won¡¯t help you.¡±


    ¡°Clever,¡± Isaac admitted, cutting his wrist and conjuring twin blades of blood, the crimson weapons gleaming like liquid rubies. ¡°You two¡ªsave your strength. I¡¯ll deal with him.¡±


    Karma, still pressing a hand to his side, chuckled despite the pain. ¡°Sure thing, boss. Don¡¯t get too cocky, though. This guy¡¯s no pushover.¡±


    Kenji nodded, stepping back but keeping his daggers ready. ¡°We¡¯re here if you need backup.¡±


    Markus¡¯s crimson eyes gleamed with malice. ¡°A noble sentiment, but futile. None of you will leave this clearing.¡±


    With a flick of his hand, the ice spear shot forward again, now splitting into a hailstorm of smaller shards, each guided by his threads. Isaac lunged forward, his blood blades slicing through the air with precision as he deflected the incoming projectiles, the clash of ice and blood filling the clearing with sharp, ringing echoes.


    Markus spun gracefully, his tentacle hair flowing as he manipulated more arrows, causing nearby rocks and debris to rise into the air. With a flourish, he sent the objects hurtling toward Isaac at impossible angles, the invisible arrows guiding them like a masterful conductor leading an orchestra of destruction.


    Isaac dodged and countered with lethal precision, his Demonic Eye allowing him to anticipate the trajectories. His blood blades arced in fluid, crimson streaks, slicing through Markus¡¯s web of attacks. ¡°I see your every move,¡± Isaac growled, his voice steady despite the chaos around him.


    Markus laughed coldly, pulling the threads tighter. ¡°And yet, you still can¡¯t touch me.¡±


    Markus flicked his wrist, and the threads extending from his gloves danced like living vipers, cutting through the air toward Isaac. They glinted with an otherworldly sharpness, slicing through branches and leaves as if they were paper. Isaac rolled to the side, his blood blades flashing as he parried the incoming strikes, each movement precise and deliberate.


    ¡°You¡¯re quick,¡± Markus admitted, stepping back with a smirk. ¡°But let¡¯s see how you handle this.¡±


    With a sweeping motion, Markus raised his hand, conjuring a wave of jagged ice shards that hovered in midair before launching them at Isaac. The shards flew in unpredictable arcs, guided by invisible mana arrows. Isaac¡¯s Demonic Eye flared, tracking the shifting trajectories with razor-sharp clarity. He spun, his blood blades forming a whirling barrier as he shattered the icy projectiles mid-flight, red mist mingling with shards of blue in the air.


    ¡°Nice try,¡± Isaac taunted, dashing forward. He swung his blood blade in a wide arc, aiming for Markus¡¯s midsection.


    Markus reacted instantly, threads shooting out from his gloves to intercept the strike. The threads coiled around Isaac¡¯s blade, halting its momentum. With a sharp tug, Markus yanked the weapon from Isaac¡¯s grasp, sending it flying into the trees.


    ¡°Careless,¡± Markus sneered, stepping forward to press his advantage. A cluster of threads lashed out, aiming for Isaac¡¯s throat.


    But Isaac was already moving. He crouched low, slicing his palm open to summon another blood blade with his free hand. The crimson weapon materialized just in time to deflect Markus¡¯s threads, their clash creating a high-pitched metallic whine. Isaac lunged upward, slashing toward Markus¡¯s chest.


    Markus pivoted, narrowly avoiding the attack, and retaliated by stomping the ground. A jagged pillar of ice erupted beneath Isaac, forcing him to leap backward to avoid being impaled. As he landed, Markus raised his arm, manipulating the ice shards scattered around the clearing. They rose into the air, spinning into a deadly vortex above him.


    Isaac¡¯s Demonic Eye glowed as he analyzed the pattern of the vortex, his mind racing. ¡°He¡¯s controlling them all with those mana arrows.¡±


    Before Isaac could act, Markus extended his arm, and the vortex collapsed into a storm of sharp, spinning shards, each one aimed at Isaac. With a roar, Isaac thrust both hands forward, summoning a wave of blood to meet the onslaught. The crimson wave clashed with the icy storm, the clearing erupting in a chaotic burst of energy as blood and ice shattered and sprayed in every direction.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    As the dust settled, Markus emerged unscathed, his threads lashing out once more. This time, they wrapped around Isaac¡¯s limbs, pulling him off balance. Markus yanked the threads hard, slamming Isaac into the ground with a sickening thud.


    ¡°You¡¯re weak compared to me,¡± Markus said coldly, tightening the threads around Isaac¡¯s arms and legs. ¡°Without your flashy tricks, you¡¯re nothing special.¡±


    Isaac coughed, blood dripping from the corner of his mouth. A grin spread across his face despite the pain. ¡°Then it¡¯s a good thing I¡¯ve got more than tricks.¡±


    In a flash, the blood that had pooled beneath him surged upward, severing the threads that bound him. Isaac rolled to his feet, the crimson liquid swirling around him in serpentine shapes. His wounds began to close as he focused his energy, his Demonic Eye glowing brighter than ever.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see how you handle a real fight,¡± Isaac growled, launching forward with renewed vigor.


    Markus narrowed his eyes, threads snapping back into position. ¡°Impressive... but it won¡¯t be enough.¡±


    The two clashed again, Isaac¡¯s blood blades slicing through the air with unrelenting force, while Markus¡¯s threads danced and weaved, countering every strike. At the same time, Markus manipulated the surrounding debris with his Compass ability, sending rocks, shards of ice, and even broken branches hurtling toward Isaac from all angles.


    Isaac twisted and dodged, his Demonic Eye tracking every object in the chaotic flurry. He deflected some with his blades, while others grazed him, leaving shallow cuts that closed almost instantly. Each moment of the battle became more frenetic, the clearing transforming into a whirlwind of red, white, and shimmering threads as neither combatant gave an inch.


    Isaac stood tall, his grin twisting into something feral and unrestrained. ¡°I was saving this trick for the Sentinel,¡± he began, his voice low and laced with an eerie confidence. ¡°But you¡¯ve earned it. I refuse to lose to anyone, least of all to someone who underestimates me.¡±


    Raising his hand to his temple, he formed a makeshift finger gun, blood pooling at his fingertip in a perfect, crimson sphere. The tension in the air thickened as he pressed the makeshift weapon against his head. His breathing slowed, a wild gleam lighting up his already intense eyes.


    ¡°Trump card: Overdose.¡±


    With that, the blood bullet shot into his skull. A violent surge of energy exploded outward, a shockwave rippling through the clearing, forcing Markus to take a cautious step back. Isaac¡¯s sclera turned a glowing, ominous yellow as dark veins pulsed across his temples, his draconic horns crackling with untamed power.


    The transformation didn¡¯t stop there. Black scales, glossy and menacing, erupted along his arms and hands, their surface shimmering faintly as though charged with some malevolent energy. A chilling dark aura emanated from his entire being, distorting the space around him. Two small, jet-black wings burst from his back, unfurling with a rustling sound, though they appeared more ornamental than functional, like a harbinger¡¯s herald.


    But most unsettling of all was the scar on his neck, the one left by Inari. It glowed a vivid crimson, pulsating rhythmically like a second heartbeat, and seemed to fuel the transformation further. The scar emitted faint tendrils of energy that intertwined with the darkness enveloping him, as though binding him to some deeper, unspoken force.


    Isaac¡¯s posture was unnervingly calm, his smile soft yet brimming with overwhelming confidence. His aura was no longer one of a reckless fighter; it was that of a predator who knew he had cornered his prey. He raised his now-scaled hand, flexing his claws experimentally, as though savoring the new power coursing through his veins.


    ¡°May I know your name before I eliminate you?¡± Isaac asked, his voice unnervingly serene, as if the raging storm within him had reached perfect equilibrium.


    Markus didn¡¯t flinch, but the smirk on his face faltered ever so slightly, betrayed by the flicker of uncertainty in his crimson eyes. Still, he straightened, refusing to show weakness.


    ¡°My name is Markus Lovecraft,¡± he declared, his voice steady, though tinged with an edge of wariness. ¡°And I¡¯ll even tell you the name of my Regalia: Arachne. But let me assure you, your cheap transformation won¡¯t make a difference.¡±


    Markus raised his hands, threads of glimmering mana twisting and writhing around him like a living web. Ice began to form at his feet, spreading outward as his Compass ability manipulated invisible arrows, directing debris to hover menacingly in the air around them.


    Isaac chuckled, the sound dark and guttural, as if it came from deep within. ¡°Cheap? Let¡¯s see if you still think that once I tear you apart.¡±


    And with that, the transformed Isaac surged forward, his newfound power turning the clearing into a battlefield of chaos and destruction.


    Isaac¡¯s feral grin widened as his body began to shift further. The black scales on his arms spread rapidly across his chest, neck, and face. His wings grew larger, their edges serrated like blades. Shadows flickered unnaturally around him, crawling across the ground and merging with his form. His draconic horns twisted upward, crackling with shadowy energy, and his eyes now glowed with a sinister brilliance.


    Markus narrowed his eyes, threads lashing outward to form an intricate web around him. The ice spear floated nearby, its edge gleaming with a frosty sheen. With a flick of his fingers, the spear launched toward Isaac¡¯s chest, the invisible arrow guiding it with perfect precision.


    Isaac¡¯s body shimmered as he dissolved into the shadows beneath him, the spear passing harmlessly through. He reappeared behind Markus, his claws now elongated and dripping with dark energy. With a swift slash, he aimed for Markus¡¯s back, only to meet a sudden barrier of ice.


    ¡°Clever,¡± Markus muttered, spinning around to counter with threads from his gloves, each strand imbued with icy shards. The threads lashed out like whips, slicing through the air with deadly precision.


    Isaac danced between the attacks, his movements a blur as he phased through each strike, emerging unscathed from every shadow he touched. ¡°You¡¯re predictable,¡± Isaac taunted, his voice reverberating from every corner of the clearing. ¡°I can see every move you make.¡±


    Markus clenched his jaw, realizing the futility of aiming directly. Instead, he manipulated his mana arrows, commanding nearby debris to spin violently in a deadly vortex. Shards of ice, branches, and rocks hurtled toward Isaac from every angle.


    Isaac stood his ground, his wings wrapping around him like a shield of darkness. The projectiles collided, shattering into harmless fragments as the shadows devoured them. When his wings unfurled, Isaac¡¯s form had grown even more draconic, his claws radiating with shadow energy, his fangs bared.


    ¡°You¡¯re persistent,¡± Isaac said, his tone laced with mockery. ¡°But persistence won¡¯t save you.¡±


    In one fluid motion, Isaac vanished into the ground, merging with the shadows beneath Markus. Before Markus could react, Isaac emerged directly in front of him, his claws slashing upward. The strike connected, tearing through Markus¡¯s defenses and leaving a jagged wound across his chest. Markus stumbled back, blood staining his pristine shirt.


    ¡°Damn you!¡± Markus spat, clutching his chest. With a furious gesture, he summoned another ice spear and directed it at Isaac, this time with more ferocity. Invisible arrows guided the weapon, its speed and trajectory shifting unpredictably.


    Isaac smirked, sidestepping the attack with ease. As the spear came within inches of his face, he caught it mid-air, his shadow-infused claws shattering the ice into mist. The mist swirled around him, darkening as it was absorbed into his growing aura.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, Markus,¡± Isaac declared, his voice now deep and guttural. He inhaled deeply, shadows swirling around his body, converging toward his mouth. His chest expanded, glowing with an ominous black light.


    ¡°Shadow Dragon Roar!¡±


    Isaac unleashed a devastating blast of pure shadow energy, a torrent of darkness that obliterated everything in its path. The force was overwhelming, tearing through the clearing, uprooting trees, and disintegrating Markus¡¯s threads and ice defenses.


    Markus crossed his arms in a desperate attempt to block the attack, but the sheer power overwhelmed him, launching him backward into the forest. He collided with a tree, the impact shaking the ground as he crumpled to his knees, coughing and clutching his wounds.


    Isaac stood amidst the destruction, his form still radiating dark energy, his breathing steady as if the attack had barely strained him. ¡°Stay down, Markus,¡± he growled, his voice echoing with the remnants of draconic power.


    ¡°Not yet... I refuse to lose!¡± Markus shouted, his voice resonating with defiance. He raised his hand, the golden ring around his neck glowing with a blinding light, its blue gemstone pulsing with power. ¡°Dwell within my body, my great ancestor¡ªthe Second Apocalypse who engulfed this world in frost. Oh, Apocalypse of Permafrost, Randall Ashborn...Soul Release!¡±


    The air around them grew frigid in an instant, freezing the ground solid. Frost crept over trees, encasing them in crystalline ice, and the temperature plummeted to an unbearable chill. Markus¡¯s tentacles of hair turned stark white, their movements slow and serpentine, as if imbued with sentient malice. His sclera darkened to pitch black, and enormous black angel wings erupted from his back, their feathers jagged and icy. The golden ring on his neck fused into his skin, disappearing in a flash of light. From the frozen air, a massive sword of glacial ice materialized in his hands, its surface etched with ancient, glowing runes.


    Markus¡ªor rather, the entity now inhabiting his body¡ªlowered the sword with a flourish. He extended his free hand in a mocking gesture of greeting, a smirk curling his lips. ¡°It has been quite some time since that brat allowed me to awaken. It feels... exhilarating to stretch my wings again.¡± His voice was calm yet chilling, reverberating with an otherworldly resonance. ¡°I am the world¡¯s Second Apocalypse, Randall Ashborn. A pleasure to meet you, Shadow Dragon.¡±


    Isaac, his scaled form still radiating dark energy, remained still, his golden eyes locked onto Randall with an unflinching glare. His wings shifted slightly, their edges glimmering with shadowy energy as if preparing for an attack.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be so hostile,¡± Randall said with a cold chuckle, lowering his hand. ¡°I would much prefer we talk. After all, I want my dear descendant to get along with his peers¡ªespecially you and that red-haired companion of yours.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s narrowed eyes betrayed a flicker of curiosity. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Randall¡¯s icy smirk widened. He raised the massive ice sword and rested it on his shoulder, his gaze scanning Isaac and then shifting briefly to Karma. ¡°You, Isaac Fafnir, are not just a skilled fighter. You are the incarnation of the world¡¯s Seventh Apocalypse, Vanitas Sanguine, The Apocalypse of Calmaity. Your very essence is steeped in his power.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s eyes widened for a fraction of a second, his claws twitching at his sides. ¡°What nonsense is this?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s no nonsense, I assure you,¡± Randall continued, his tone laced with amusement. ¡°As for your companion over there...¡± His black eyes settled on Karma, whose masked face betrayed no emotion, though tension radiated from his body. ¡°You, Karma Morgan, are not a reincarnation yourself. However, your lineage is tied directly to the Fifth Apocalypse¡ªSilvia Morgan, The Apocalypse of Plauges.¡±


    Karma staggered slightly, the weight of the revelation hitting him like a physical blow. His usually relaxed posture stiffened as he clenched his fists at his sides. ¡°What... did you just say?¡± His voice, usually filled with humor, was now deadly serious.


    Randall¡¯s smirk deepened. ¡°It seems you didn¡¯t even know your own surname, did you? How delightfully tragic. The blood of a poison runs through your veins, boy. You are connected to her whether you like it or not.¡±


    The clearing was utterly silent, save for the faint crackling of frost still clinging to the ground. The air was heavy with tension, and a lingering chill radiated from where Randall had stood moments earlier. Karma¡¯s masked face turned slightly toward Isaac, his posture tense yet unreadable. Isaac¡¯s shadow-wreathed claws flexed and uncurled, his golden eyes blazing as his tail lashed the air behind him, betraying his inner turmoil.


    Randall lowered the massive ice sword to the ground with a soft thud. ¡°That was amusing,¡± he said, his tone light but layered with an eerie undertone. ¡°But I have no further interest in fighting you two. My purpose here is not to eliminate you but to ensure my dear descendant grows strong. I trust you¡¯ll help him achieve that, Isaac Fafnir.¡±


    With that, Randall¡¯s body began to glow faintly, the frost and shadows retreating as his form shifted. His wings dissolved into crystalline shards, and the ice sword disintegrated into a fine mist. The vibrant glow of the ring faded into Markus¡¯s chest as he returned to his original form. Markus¡¯s tentacle-like hair regained its purple hue, and his crimson eyes burned with annoyance as he looked at the two standing before him.


    ¡°Damn old man never helps when it matters,¡± Markus muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. He shot a glare at the two before him, his usual cocky smirk faltering for a moment. ¡°Fine. I guess we can team up since that¡¯s apparently what the old geezer wants.¡±


    Isaac, still catching his breath, lowered his claws and let the shadow energy dissipate. His wings folded neatly against his back, and his tail stilled as he allowed himself a moment of composure. ¡°Y-yeah... sure,¡± he said, his voice betraying exhaustion. He gave Markus a tired smile. ¡°Let¡¯s hunt the Sentinel together.¡±


    Karma crossed his arms and tilted his head, the faintest trace of a smirk audible in his voice. ¡°Well, looks like the edgy anti-heroes are forming a band. Should we get matching cloaks or something?¡±


    Isaac rolled his eyes, his lips twitching into a smirk despite himself. ¡°Don¡¯t push it, Karma.¡±


    Markus huffed but couldn¡¯t entirely suppress his amusement. ¡°You¡¯re lucky I like the sound of a good hunt. Don¡¯t slow me down.¡±


    ¡°T-that was too much to handle, too many lore drops,¡±  Kenji sighed.


    The four turned their attention toward the forest ahead, their uneasy alliance sealed. The frozen ground beneath them cracked slightly as the frost gave way, and the clearing seemed to breathe again. Somewhere beyond the trees, the Sentinel awaited, a challenge they¡¯d face together, even if their motives remained distinct.

 Chapter 15-Hunter

    The whims of fate wove an intricate tapestry, guiding the year''s strongest contenders to converge at a singular point. As each group navigated the dense forest, the pulse of destiny seemed to quicken, drawing them closer.


    Shadar and Alice stepped through the underbrush, the crunch of leaves beneath their feet muffled by the forest¡¯s hushed ambience. Emerging into a clearing, their gazes fell upon a woman sitting gracefully on a moss-covered tree stump. Her presence was ethereal yet unsettling, a paradox of light and shadow.


    The woman had long, snow-white hair cascading over her shoulders, stark against her pallid skin. Her eyes were pools of inky black, devoid of light, radiating a quiet intensity that seemed to pierce through the soul. She wore a pristine white sweater, contrasting with the black face mask that obscured the lower half of her face. From her back sprouted two elegant white wings, their feathers shimmering faintly in the sunlight, while a faint halo hovered above her head like a ghostly crown.


    Despite the mask and her unassuming posture, Shadar recognized her instantly.


    ¡°Charlotte?¡± Shadar¡¯s voice cracked with surprise, quickly softening into a wide grin. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re here. I thought you weren¡¯t attending!¡±


    Charlotte¡¯s dark eyes flicked toward him, her expression calm yet tinged with resignation. ¡°I enrolled in secret,¡± she admitted, her voice soft and steady. ¡°My brother would throw a fit if he knew.¡±


    ¡°You know you won¡¯t stay hidden for long,¡± Alice interjected, crossing her arms. ¡°Warren will figure it out by the end of the exam.¡±


    Charlotte¡¯s laugh was light and melodic, muffled slightly by her mask. ¡°By then, it¡¯ll be too late to stop me. I¡¯ll have already secured my place.¡± She leaned forward slightly, resting her chin on her hand, a mischievous glint in her enigmatic gaze.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re here,¡± Shadar began, his excitement bubbling over, ¡°why not join us? We¡¯re after the Sentinel. If we can regroup with Markus, June, and Mars, the six of us should have enough firepower to take him down.¡±


    Charlotte tilted her head, considering his proposal for a moment before nodding. ¡°Why not? I¡¯ve already eliminated more than enough students to qualify.¡± She rose to her feet with an otherworldly grace, her wings shifting slightly as if reacting to her decision.


    Shadar¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Then let¡¯s get moving! We¡¯ve got a mission to complete.¡±


    Meanwhile, in a different corner of the forest, another contender moved with quiet precision. Her long brown hair cascaded down her back, and her dull gray eyes reflected a world she could no longer see. A brown trench coat fluttered lightly as she walked, her steps measured and deliberate. Perched on her head was a sun hat, shading her features, and her thin-framed glasses glinted faintly in the dappled sunlight.


    Her only companion was a walking cane, which she wielded with the ease of someone who had turned their perceived weakness into a weapon. Despite her blindness, her every movement was precise, calculated. As the cane vibrated faintly in her hand, she swung it with a single swift motion. A burst of energy rippled through the air, striking a group of approaching students. Before they could react, their forms flickered and vanished, eliminated and sent back to the auditorium.


    The woman exhaled slowly, adjusting her grip on the cane as if it were an extension of herself. Suddenly, the rustle of leaves and the faint hum of magic announced the arrival of someone new.


    Deon Solace, the newly anointed Spear Lord, stepped into view. His piercing eyes scanned her form, noting the calm precision with which she carried herself. Yet his own heart betrayed him, quickening as he realized who stood before him.


    The woman¡¯s head tilted slightly, as though sensing his unease. ¡°Excuse me,¡± she said, her voice warm yet inquisitive. ¡°Your heartbeat increased just now. Do we know each other? Your breathing pattern doesn¡¯t sound familiar.¡±


    Deon faltered for a moment, heat rising to his cheeks. ¡°N-no,¡± he stammered, his usual composure slipping. ¡°This is our first meeting. But¡­ if you don¡¯t mind, I¡¯d like to propose an alliance.¡±


    ¡°An alliance?¡± Her lips curled into a gentle smile, and she tapped her cane lightly against the ground. ¡°Interesting. I¡¯ll accept.¡± Her blind eyes seemed to glimmer with unspoken confidence. ¡°I have a hunch you¡¯re strong.¡±


    Deon nodded, unable to find his voice as he adjusted the staff on his back. Together, the two began their journey deeper into the forest, their meeting just another piece in the grand game unfolding around them.


    Elsewhere in the forest, luck had abandoned a student whose hiding spot was uncovered by the relentless Sentinel. Sophie stood frozen, her long pink hair braided neatly down her back, her cat-like eyes wide with terror. The pink dress she wore fluttered slightly in the forest breeze, her feline ears twitching as the figure before she spoke.


    ¡°Spare me, please!¡± Sophie cried, her voice trembling as her hands clutched her braid.


    Professor Willow tilted his head, his expression one of weary indifference. His eyes glinted like cold steel as he sighed. ¡°Please, at least try to fight back. Otherwise, I might actually feel bad about this.¡±


    Something in his tone spurred Sophie to act. Her ability flared to life, and with a flash of pink energy, a small battalion of animated stuffed animals materialized around her. Each one bore a unique appearance¡ªa bear, a rabbit, and even a lion, all equipped with comically oversized boxing gloves. Despite their whimsical appearance, the punches they delivered packed surprising force.


    The stuffed animals launched themselves at Willow in synchronized strikes, forcing him to sidestep and parry as their gloved fists battered the air around him. Sophie seized the opening, creating a string of shimmering yarn wrapped in pink energy from her hands. She flung it upward, latching onto a sturdy branch, and yanked herself into the air with feline grace.


    Sophie leaped from tree to tree, her movements fluid and precise. Her cat ears twitched as she gauged the distance between branches, her tail aiding her balance. Her heart raced, but her agility carried her farther and farther from the Sentinel.


    ¡°I have to get away!¡± she whispered to herself, her breath coming in short gasps.


    Behind her, the sound of combat ceased. A glance over her shoulder revealed the Sentinel standing motionless in the clearing below, his head tilted slightly as if studying her escape.


    ¡°You¡¯re fast,¡± Willow called out, his voice calm and even. ¡°I¡¯ll give you that. But speed alone won¡¯t save you.¡±


    Sophie didn¡¯t respond, focusing instead on putting as much distance as possible between herself and her pursuer. She swung low, using her string to whip around a trunk before vaulting over a fallen log. Her stuffed animals, trailing behind her like a small army, provided cover by flinging themselves at any movement in the underbrush.


    The forest blurred around her as she pushed her abilities to their limit. She felt a glimmer of hope¡ªperhaps she could outrun him. Perhaps she could survive.


    That hope was shattered in an instant.


    Without warning, a sharp pain bloomed across her side. Sophie gasped, stumbling as she clutched at her dress, now slashed open and stained with blood. Her cat eyes darted around wildly, searching for the source of the attack.


    ¡°What¡­? What hit me?¡± she whispered, her voice shaking.


    A second slash struck her leg, and she collapsed onto the forest floor, her pink hair spilling around her. Her stuffed animals froze, their movements ceasing as the glow of her ability faded.


    Willow emerged from the shadows, his steps slow and deliberate. ¡°It¡¯s fascinating, isn¡¯t it?¡± he said, his tone almost conversational. ¡°The mind struggles to process what it can¡¯t see. You don¡¯t even know how you lost.¡±


    Sophie tried to move, but her body refused to obey. She looked up at the Sentinel, her fear replaced by despair.


    Willow crouched beside her, his expression neutral. ¡°You put up a good fight. That¡¯s more than I can say for most. Take pride in that.¡±


    Before Sophie could respond, her form shimmered and vanished, eliminated from the exam.


    The clearing fell silent once more as Willow stood, adjusting his gloves. ¡°Well,¡± he muttered to himself, ¡°that was mildly entertaining.¡± He turned and disappeared into the forest, leaving no trace of the chase that had just unfolded.


    The exam pressed on, but Shadar¡¯s cunning plan had thrown an unexpected wrench into its conclusion. The test could not end unless either Alice or the Sentinel was eliminated, creating a tense stalemate. Only a handful of students remained, their paths inevitably converging as the forest seemed to narrow around them.


    In the observation room, the professors continued to monitor the chaos on the screens, their discussions punctuated by bouts of laughter and concern.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even notice Charlotte was participating,¡± Jupiter said with a chuckle. ¡°Warren is going to lose it when he finds out.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s sitting at the second-highest elimination count,¡± Fraser noted, leaning forward to peer at her screen. ¡°When we reveal the top five students, he¡¯ll figure it out instantly. No hiding from that.¡±


    The door to the observation room creaked open, and all eyes turned to the man who strolled in with a confident gait. His short green hair gleamed under the fluorescent light, and his sharp purple eyes twinkled with amusement. He wore a pristine lab coat over a sleek black suit, tailored to perfection, with crimson gloves accentuating his hands. His playful smile hinted at both charm and menace.


    ¡°Doctor,¡± Headmaster Ashe greeted, folding his hands on the desk. ¡°To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m owed a raise,¡± Akira Sanguine quipped with a grin, his tone lighthearted. ¡°But that¡¯s a conversation for another day. Tell me¡ªhow is my dear son performing?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s been sleeping through the entire exam,¡± Ashe said, shaking his head. ¡°But that barrier of his? Impeccable. No one¡¯s been able to lay a finger on him. Frankly, his power alone is enough to secure his entry¡ªwell, that and the fact he¡¯s your son.¡±


    Akira chuckled, brushing imaginary dust off his coat. ¡°I¡¯ll admit, his ability does come with¡­ quirks. His sleeping habits are a side effect, but in terms of raw power, you¡¯re correct¡ªthere¡¯s no student alive who compares.¡±


    ¡°Doctor,¡± Jupiter began, his tone laced with a mix of respect and determination, ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about this since Warren brought it up. How about a rematch sometime? I¡¯d love to see how I measure up against you now.¡±


    In an instant, Akira moved¡ªtoo fast for most to process. One moment he stood casually by the door; the next, he was inches from Jupiter. His fingernail extended into a razor-sharp blade, hovering dangerously close to Jupiter¡¯s left eye.


    ¡°I¡¯m stronger,¡± Akira said softly, his voice steady but tinged with predatory confidence. ¡°I can beat you in close combat, Leonardo. I can outmatch Fraser in long-range combat too. Make no mistake: if I had actually tried during any of our past matches, you¡¯d be dead.¡±


    The room fell silent, the weight of his words sinking in. Jupiter swallowed hard, his usual bravado dimmed but was not extinguished.


    ¡°Long-range combat?¡± Fraser interjected, breaking the tension with a scoff. ¡°I¡¯ll admit you¡¯re strong, Doctor, but you couldn¡¯t beat me in that.¡±


    Akira turned his gaze toward Fraser, his smile widening into something more sinister. ¡°Oh, I could. But understand this¡ªif we were to fight seriously, at the very least, you¡¯d lose both arms.¡±


    Fraser leaned back, arms crossed, smirking despite the threat. ¡°That¡¯s fine. You can always heal them after.¡±


    The Headmaster cleared his throat, redirecting their attention to the screens. ¡°Doctor, it seems your son is about to encounter the Sentinel.¡±


    Akira¡¯s expression shifted, his interest piqued. He stepped closer to the monitor, his purple eyes narrowing as he watched the unfolding scene. ¡°Well now,¡± he murmured, a sly grin playing on his lips, ¡°this should be entertaining.¡±


    Kel lay curled up in his blanket, hugging a plushie close to his chest. His breathing was steady, serene, as if the chaos of the exam hadn¡¯t even grazed his subconscious. A faint smile graced his lips, his relaxed posture the epitome of unbothered tranquility.


    Professor Willow, however, stood nearby, arms crossed as he observed the boy with a mixture of disbelief and amusement.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know whether to be impressed or offended that you¡¯re actually sleeping right now,¡± Willow muttered, shaking his head. ¡°I thought the Doctor was crazy, but his son? Something else entirely.¡±


    ¡°Too... tired to... fight,¡± Kel murmured sleepily, barely lifting his head. ¡°Please leave.¡±


    Willow¡¯s brow twitched at the audacity. He stepped forward, raising his arm-spear, the sharp, shimmering weapon glowing faintly with his energy. With a smooth, calculated motion, he thrust it toward Kel, only for the spear to stop abruptly, repelled by an invisible barrier that shimmered faintly with violet light.


    ¡°What the¡ª?¡± Willow muttered, pulling his spear back.


    The professor¡¯s regalia, known for its ability to pierce through any physical defenses and shatter barriers, was useless against this. He inspected the boy with growing frustration as Kel shifted slightly in his sleep.


    ¡°Too much noise¡­¡± Kel mumbled, hugging his plushie tighter. ¡°Please leave.¡±


    Willow let out a low laugh, his eyes narrowing with glowing green intensity. ¡°You¡¯re actually making me angry now. I almost want to go all out just to see if you¡¯d even wake up.¡±


    Kel opened his eyes a fraction, his violet pupils glowing faintly. Lifting a single finger lazily, he pointed at Willow, as if barely mustering the energy. A sharp hum filled the air as a concentrated purple beam shot from his fingertip, streaking toward Willow¡¯s head.


    The beam struck with precision, creating a crack in Willow¡¯s helmet, the first real damage anyone had managed to inflict on him. Though the crack quickly mended itself, the impact left Willow momentarily stunned.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    ¡°That... was a warning shot,¡± Kel mumbled, closing his eyes again. ¡°Now leave.¡±


    Willow straightened, his frustration morphing into a wicked grin. ¡°You¡¯re going to regret that.¡±


    Lifting his arm high, he called out, his voice reverberating with power: ¡°Awaken, C¨² Chulainn!¡±


    A flash of radiant light burst from his hand as the spear materialized, its form otherworldly. The shaft, twisted like gnarled roots, seemed to hum with the raw power of nature. The spear¡¯s black blade glinted with malice, its aura wild and untamed, as though the very spirit of the legendary warrior it was named after craved blood.


    ¡°Allow me to show you my trump card,¡± Willow said, a predatory gleam in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll unleash everything at once. Soul Release.¡±


    With that, he plunged the spear into his chest, his body convulsing as the energies of C¨² Chulainn fused with the already awakened Lancelot. The black armor encasing him warped, its elegant knightly design twisting into something feral and primal.


    His helmet shattered, revealing his face for the first time. Adam Willow¡¯s green hair grew impossibly long, turning a fiery red as his features took on an almost predatory edge. His ears, now partially armored, gave him an elven, otherworldly appearance. His arms transformed, large gauntlets forming over them with wickedly sharp claws that glowed faintly with a deadly energy.


    But he wasn¡¯t done.


    ¡°Cloak of Twilight, manifest!¡±


    The oppressive darkness that had enveloped the entire exam site, trapping it in an eternal night, began to swirl violently. The dark aura collapsed inward, folding and coalescing around Willow¡¯s body. The shroud of night wrapped itself into a flowing black cloak that radiated an ethereal, otherworldly energy.


    As the light of day returned to the exam site, students all over the forest froze in shock. The unrelenting night had lifted, but Adam Willow now stood as a walking embodiment of twilight. His figure was pitch black, a moving void against the daylight. Every step he took seemed to dim the world around him, the air thick with an ominous, suffocating presence.


    ¡°Wake up now,¡± Willow snarled, his voice deep and guttural, ¡°or you won¡¯t get another warning.¡±


    Kel shifted again, yawning loudly as if unimpressed. ¡°Too... bright,¡± he murmured, pulling his blanket over his face.


    Willow¡¯s grin widened, a feral gleam in his eyes. ¡°Fine then. Let¡¯s see how long that barrier of yours will hold.¡±


    Willow snapped his fingers, his smile widening as the ground beneath Kel erupted into jagged spears of shimmering material, each one honing in on its target with deadly precision. The spears, forged from the essence of his ability, shattered Kel¡¯s barrier in an instant, the shimmering violet shield collapsing like fragile glass.


    Kel rolled to the side with surprising agility, narrowly avoiding the attack. A scowl marred his usually sleepy expression as he glanced down at the tattered remnants of his blanket.


    ¡°You ruined it¡­¡± Kel muttered, his voice low but laced with irritation. His violet eyes opened fully for the first time, revealing a piercing, otherworldly glow.


    In a blur of motion, a massive black scythe materialized in Kel¡¯s hands, its blade long and jagged, shimmering as though forged from liquid nightmares. Before Willow could react, the scythe arced through the air with impossible speed, slicing cleanly through his arm.


    Willow stumbled back, his severed limb falling to the ground with a wet thud. For a moment, there was only silence¡ªthen Willow threw his head back and laughed.


    ¡°Impressive!¡± Willow said, his voice rich with amusement. ¡°The Doctor really did raise an interesting son.¡±


    As he spoke, the severed arm twitched and writhed, black slime bubbling at the wound. The arm slithered back to Willow like a living creature, reattaching itself seamlessly. His armor, as though alive, flowed over the injury, reforming as if nothing had happened.


    Kel didn¡¯t reply. Instead, he raised his scythe again, his expression calm but focused. Shadows danced at the edges of the blade, writhing like they had a mind of their own. The air around him grew cold, a faint whisper of unearthly voices echoing in the distance.


    Willow grinned, snapping his fingers again. The shattered ground rose into more spears, these larger and more numerous than before. They launched at Kel from all directions, cutting off any escape.


    Kel, unfazed, raised a hand. The air shimmered as an ethereal mist spread outward. From it emerged grotesque figures¡ªnightmares given form. A mass of writhing shadows with glowing, hollow eyes intercepted the spears mid-air, absorbing the attacks before vanishing back into the mist.


    Willow¡¯s smile faltered, only slightly. ¡°Nightmares, huh? A bit creepy, but effective.¡±


    With a flick of his wrist, another spear formed, this one crafted from a nearby tree. Its wooden form gleamed unnaturally as it shot forward, faster than the eye could track. The spear curved mid-flight, homing in on Kel¡¯s heart.


    Kel didn¡¯t flinch. Instead, his scythe vanished, and he clapped his hands together. The dream-like mist around him thickened, forming a spectral wall that caught the spear just inches from his chest. He inhaled deeply, and the mist surged, dragging the spear into itself, where it dissolved into nothingness.


    ¡°You¡¯re persistent,¡± Kel said, his tone sharper now, a stark contrast to his usual drowsiness.


    ¡°And you¡¯re resourceful,¡± Willow replied, his grin returning. He crouched low, the aura around him intensifying. ¡°But let¡¯s see how long you can keep up.¡±


    Willow leaped forward, his spear arm morphing into a jagged lance mid-motion. The ground beneath him rippled, erupting into more spears as he closed the gap with blinding speed.


    Kel sidestepped with ease, his movements fluid and dreamlike. His mist-like aura thickened again, swirling around him as new nightmare constructs emerged. A towering figure with multiple arms, each holding a blade, lunged at Willow, forcing him to halt his advance and pivot to counter the attack.


    Willow¡¯s spear slashed through the nightmare like it was nothing, but as it dissolved, two more figures emerged from the shadows, clawing and biting at him.


    ¡°Clever,¡± Willow admitted, breaking free with a burst of energy. He snapped his fingers once more, and every shadow within a hundred feet transformed into spears, raining down on Kel from all directions.


    Kel raised his hand, and the mist thickened into a swirling vortex. Each spear that touched it dissolved, but the sheer number forced him to retreat, dodging and weaving through the storm with acrobatic precision.


    ¡°You fight like a dream,¡± Willow taunted, slamming his spear into the ground and sending shockwaves rippling toward Kel.


    ¡°And you fight like a nightmare,¡± Kel countered, his voice steady as he summoned another scythe, its blade gleaming brighter than before. ¡°Let¡¯s see who wakes up first.¡±


    The two clashed again, Willow¡¯s relentless offense meeting Kel¡¯s ethereal defense, neither willing to give an inch. The forest around them bore the scars of their battle, yet the outcome remained uncertain.


    Kel¡¯s body trembled for a moment, his ethereal mist swirling around him like a storm. Then, in a grotesque flash of violet light, a third eye appeared on his forehead, splitting his otherwise serene features. The eye glowed with a demonic, unearthly brilliance¡ªthe Philosopher''s Eye. Its gaze locked onto Willow, piercing into his thoughts, unraveling his memories like pages of an open book.


    Willow¡¯s confident smirk faltered for the first time as he felt the invasive presence clawing at his mind.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ new,¡± Willow muttered, his grip tightening on his spear.


    Kel raised his hand lazily, his voice calm yet unnervingly cold. ¡°Your mind is an open door, Professor. Let¡¯s see what lurks inside.¡±


    The mist surrounding Kel thickened, taking on shapes and forms pulled from Willow¡¯s memories. Twisted, grotesque figures emerged¡ªcreatures from the battles of his past, exaggerated by the nightmare''s influence. Monstrous amalgamations of claws and fangs surrounded Willow, their distorted roars filling the air.


    Willow¡¯s spear lashed out, skewering one of the nightmares, but another took its place immediately. His movements grew more frantic as he was forced to contend with the ever-increasing horde.


    ¡°You think I fear monsters?¡± Willow shouted, cutting through another construct. ¡°I¡¯ve faced worse than this!¡±


    Kel¡¯s eye narrowed, the glow intensifying. ¡°Have you?¡±


    From the mist emerged a figure that brought Willow to a sudden halt. It was a woman¡ªbeautiful, serene, and achingly familiar. Her eyes, though hollow and lifeless, stared directly at him. She wore a simple dress, one he recognized all too well.


    ¡°...Marianne?¡± Willow¡¯s voice cracked, his spear lowering slightly.


    The nightmare figure tilted its head, stepping closer with an uncanny grace. ¡°Adam,¡± it said, its voice a ghostly echo that sent shivers down his spine.


    ¡°Stop it,¡± Willow growled, his tone hardening as he tried to shake off the illusion.


    Kel didn¡¯t respond. The nightmare version of Marianne continued to approach, her expression shifting to one of sorrow. ¡°Why did you let me die?¡± she whispered.


    Willow¡¯s composure shattered. ¡°You¡¯re not real!¡± he roared, slamming his spear into the ground. A wave of energy erupted from the impact, scattering the surrounding nightmares. The illusion of Marianne disintegrated, but her voice lingered in the air, haunting and accusatory.


    Kel remained unfazed, the third eye glowing brighter. ¡°You¡¯re stronger than I expected,¡± he admitted, his tone devoid of mockery. ¡°But even strength has its limits. How long can you fight against yourself?¡±


    Willow snarled, his feral form surging with power as his armor glowed with a menacing red hue. ¡°Long enough.¡±


    The ground beneath Kel twisted into spears once more, but this time, they launched at impossible angles, converging on him from every direction. Kel raised his scythe, slicing through some, while the mist absorbed others. Yet, the barrage was relentless, forcing him to retreat.


    As Kel dodged, his third eye flickered, focusing deeper into Willow¡¯s psyche. From the mist emerged another nightmare¡ªthis one a hulking amalgamation of all the fears and regrets Willow had buried deep. A monstrous dragon, towering and grotesque, loomed over the battlefield, its form an ever-shifting mass of horror.


    Willow gritted his teeth, raising his spear high. ¡°I don¡¯t care what tricks you pull!¡± he yelled. ¡°I¡¯ll break through them all!¡±


    The dragon lunged, its massive claws swiping at Willow, who countered with a flurry of spears erupting from the ground. The clash sent shockwaves rippling through the forest, uprooting trees and scattering debris.


    Kel observed silently, the scythe in his hand dissolving into mist. He raised his hand, and the nightmare beast roared, its attacks growing more ferocious.


    ¡°You fight well, Professor,¡± Kel said, his voice carrying an eerie calm. ¡°But you can¡¯t outrun your own mind.¡±


    Willow smirked, even as he battled the beast. ¡°I don¡¯t need to outrun it,¡± he said, his aura flaring. ¡°I just need to shatter it!¡±


    With a roar, he leaped into the air, his spear glowing with blinding light as he aimed for the heart of the nightmare beast. The spear struck true, the creature exploding into a cascade of shadowy mist.


    Kel¡¯s expression darkened, his third eye glowing ominously as he prepared his next move. The battle was far from over, and both combatants knew it.


    The battlefield was a storm of destruction. Spears continued to erupt from every surface as Willow¡¯s power reshaped the terrain, forcing Kel to dodge and weave through the relentless onslaught. Kel¡¯s scythe reformed in his hand, its blade shimmering with an ethereal darkness. The third eye on his forehead flickered ominously, feeding him insights into Willow¡¯s every move.


    ¡°You¡¯re persistent, Professor,¡± Kel muttered, spinning his scythe to deflect another barrage of spears. ¡°But persistence only gets you so far.¡±


    Kel raised his free hand, and the mist around him coalesced into nightmare constructs once again. This time, they took on more personal forms¡ªvarious figures from his past. Each figure screamed accusations, their voices layered with unrelenting despair.


    ¡°You abandoned us!¡± one nightmare wailed.


    ¡°Is this what your strength is for?¡± another accused.


    Willow snarled, his red hair flowing wildly as his aura flared brighter. ¡°You can twist my memories all you want, boy. It won¡¯t work.¡±


    The Sentinel launched himself forward, his spear extending unnaturally to strike Kel. Kel dodged, his movements fluid and almost lazy, as though the battle were a game to him. He retaliated with a slash of his scythe, sending a wave of dark energy toward Willow.


    The wave struck Willow¡¯s armor, creating a deep gash, but the armor repaired itself almost instantly. Willow lunged again, his spear morphing into a jagged, crystalline shape that shimmered with lethal intent.


    Kel countered by plunging his scythe into the ground. The mist exploded outward, creating a labyrinth of illusions. Shadows danced and shifted, each one a mirror of Kel, moving erratically to confuse Willow.


    ¡°Running out of tricks?¡± Willow taunted, slashing through one illusion only for two more to take its place.


    Kel¡¯s voice echoed from every direction. ¡°Not tricks, Professor. Just inevitabilities.¡±


    Suddenly, from the corner of his vision, Willow spotted a figure. This one was different, it wasn¡¯t a nightmare or an illusion of his memories. It was a young girl, her long green hair flowing gently as though caught in an unseen breeze. She wore simple clothing, her eyes covered by bandages, yet her bright smile illuminated the dark battlefield.


    ¡°...Marie?,¡± Willow whispered, his spear faltering mid-swing.


    The girl tilted her head, her smile unwavering. ¡°Dad? Are you there?¡±


    The air around Willow grew heavier as the dream-energy construct approached him. ¡°Please stop fighting¡± she said softly, her voice filled with warmth and innocence.


    Willow froze, his feral transformation trembling under the weight of his emotions. ¡°Marie¡­¡±


    The moment of hesitation was all Kel needed. His scythe materialized in the girl¡¯s shadow, slicing upward in a devastating arc. The blow connected, tearing through Willow¡¯s armor and sending him crashing into the ground.


    Kel followed up immediately, summoning tendrils of mist to bind Willow where he lay. The mist coiled tightly, constricting his movements as Kel raised his scythe high.


    ¡°You let your guard down,¡± Kel said coldly.


    Willow looked up, his vision blurring from the damage. But then, with a low chuckle, he grinned. ¡°You almost had me, kid. Almost.¡±


    Before Kel could bring his scythe down, a spear emerged from the mist, piercing through his chest. The attack came so fast Kel didn¡¯t even register it until the pain hit. His third eye flickered and dimmed as his scythe clattered to the ground.


    Willow rose to his feet, black blood dripping from his wounds but his grin intact. ¡°You¡¯re strong. Stronger than most of the students here.¡±


    Kel coughed, his body trembling as the dream-energy construct of the girl dissolved into mist. His gaze softened as he slumped to his knees. ¡°I¡­ just wanted to nap¡± he murmured, his voice barely audible.


    Willow stood over him, his spear glowing faintly as he prepared to deliver the final blow. ¡°You did well, Kel. You should be proud.¡±


    With a final thrust, the battle ended, and Kel''s body vanished in a burst of light as he was eliminated from the exam. The mist dissipated, leaving Willow alone on the battlefield. He looked at the spot where the dream construct of his daughter had stood, his expression briefly softening before he turned away, ready for the next challenge.


    The forest was calm again, save for the faint rustling of leaves. Adam Willow¡ªonce the feral embodiment of night during his battle with Kel¡ªnow stood relaxed, his armor still crackling faintly with residual energy. His sharp eyes narrowed as he noticed a figure sitting casually against a tree trunk.


    It was a young girl, her azure eyes partially obscured by loose bandages. She seemed wholly unconcerned by his presence, twirling a strand of her long green hair as she glanced up at him with a mischievous smirk.


    ¡°Marie,¡± Adam said, his stern tone slipping into one of exasperated fondness. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t those bandages be tighter? You¡¯re still recovering.¡±


    ¡°Dad, I don¡¯t need them anymore,¡± Marie replied, rolling her eyes. ¡°Doctor Sanguine already fixed my sight. These are just for aesthetics now. Cool character design, y¡¯know?¡±


    Adam sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. ¡°Only my daughter would keep medical bandages as a fashion statement.¡±


    Marie chuckled and rested her chin on her hand. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you almost lost to that cheap knockoff of me?¡±


    Adam¡¯s lips quirked into a grin. ¡°Of course, I faltered. How could I not when I saw my adorable daughter in the middle of this exam?¡± He crossed his arms, his expression softening briefly before shifting back to his duties. ¡°Now, unfortunately for you, I¡¯m still the examiner here. That means I¡¯ll have to eliminate you.¡±


    Marie groaned theatrically as she got to her feet. ¡°Fine, fine. Let¡¯s get this over with. But before we start, I gotta ask¡ªwhat¡¯s the deal with that kid¡¯s cat plushie? It was so cute! I was kind of hoping to convince him to let me have it before you wrecked him.¡±


    Adam laughed heartily, his earlier tension dissipating. ¡°You really are my daughter. Priorities always in the strangest places.¡± His expression darkened, though not with malice. It was the look of a predator preparing to strike. ¡°But if you want to play, you¡¯ll need to be serious. I¡¯ve been holding back with the others, but not with you.¡±


    Marie smirked and crossed her arms. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry, old man. I¡¯ve got a few tricks up my sleeve too.¡±


    Adam shifted his stance, his presence growing oppressive as raw energy radiated off him. The ground beneath his feet cracked as he prepared to unleash his power. ¡°Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got.¡±


    Marie, still smirking, reached into her pocket and subtly grabbed a handful of dirt. She tightened her grip as an emerald glow began to envelop the particles, her fingers trembling with barely contained energy.


    Adam¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°What are you¡ª¡±


    In a flash, Marie flung the dirt at him with surprising precision. The emerald energy surrounding the particles caused them to accelerate unnaturally, piercing through his reflexive defenses and striking him directly in the eyes.


    Adam recoiled, snarling in surprise as he staggered back, rubbing at his face. ¡°Dirt? Really? You threw dirt at me?¡±


    Marie giggled and gave a mock bow. ¡°You¡¯d be surprised what a little ingenuity can do, Dad. And besides, it¡¯s not just dirt. You¡¯re not the only one who can weaponize the environment.¡±


    Adam¡¯s vision cleared as his feral grin returned. ¡°Clever, I¡¯ll give you that. But it¡¯s going to take a lot more than a cheap trick to take me down.¡±


    Marie¡¯s emerald aura flared around her as she readied her next move. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, old man. I¡¯ve got more than dirt.¡±


    The battle began in earnest, the forest trembling under the clash of father and daughter.


    The forest became a battleground as Marie cracked her knuckles, the emerald aura surrounding her intensifying. She picked up a small pebble from the ground, her smirk widening.


    ¡°Alright, Dad. Let¡¯s see if you can dodge this,¡± she teased, tossing the pebble lightly in her hand before hurling it forward.


    Adam smirked. ¡°A pebble? You¡¯re going to have to try harder than that¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish, the pebble curved mid-air with a sudden burst of speed. It zipped around him, striking the back of his knee with pinpoint precision, forcing him to shift his stance.


    ¡°Not bad,¡± Adam admitted, rolling his shoulder. ¡°But you¡¯re going to need a lot more if you want to take me down.¡±


    Marie picked up a handful of acorns, her aura enveloping them as they began to float in front of her like ammunition. She snapped her fingers, sending them flying toward Adam in erratic, unpredictable patterns.


    Adam¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement. He sidestepped the first acorn, deflected the second with his gauntlet, and caught the third in mid-air. ¡°Nice party trick, but predictable¡ª¡±


    The acorn he caught suddenly veered on its own, striking him in the side of the head. He grunted in surprise as the rest of the acorns pelted him, landing clean hits on his arms and chest.


    Marie clapped her hands together, laughing. ¡°You were saying, old man?¡±


    Adam¡¯s grin turned feral. ¡°Alright, enough playing around.¡±


    In an instant, he vanished, his speed too fast for Marie¡¯s eyes to follow. The ground cracked beneath her as Adam reappeared behind her, his hand reaching out to grab her shoulder.


    Marie whipped around, throwing a pinecone directly at his face, but Adam tilted his head slightly, dodging it.


    ¡°Not this time.¡± His hand clamped onto her wrist, locking her in place.


    Marie struggled, trying to aim a pebble at his leg, but Adam twisted her arm gently, disarming her momentum.


    ¡°You¡¯re clever, kid. I¡¯ll give you that. But you¡¯re still a few decades too early to beat me.¡± His voice was calm but carried a note of finality.


    With a sudden burst of energy, Adam¡¯s cloak of twilight flared around them, the oppressive weight of his power forcing Marie to her knees.


    ¡°Dad, you don¡¯t have to go so hard¡ª¡± she started, only for Adam to release her wrist and place a hand on her head.


    ¡°Sorry, Marie. Exam rules.¡±


    With a soft pulse of energy, Marie¡¯s aura flickered and vanished, the force of his attack enough to disqualify her without causing harm.


    Marie sighed, her playful demeanor returning as she appeared back in the auditorium ¡°He was way too powerful¡±

 Chapter 16-Snake Pit

    The party, now restored from their previous battles, pressed onward into the Black Witch¡¯s domain. The surrounding forest seemed to shift and darken with each step, as if protesting their intrusion. No trace of monsters could be found here, only the quiet rustle of corrupted leaves and the crunch of brittle bones underfoot. Skeletal remains, stripped clean of flesh and blood, littered the ground, turning the once vibrant forest into a grim graveyard of silent witnesses.


    A hush fell over the group as they advanced, each member feeling the weight of unseen eyes tracking their every move. A malignant energy permeated the air, pressing against their senses, and it took all their focus not to succumb to the dread creeping at the edges of their minds.


    Cyrus broke the silence with a wry comment, his tone low but carrying easily in the oppressive hush. ¡°I know you¡¯re the hero, Noah, but you¡¯ve garnered the attention of far too many powerful beings. Two gods, a Great Old One, and arguably the strongest non-divine, or primordial alive. Your luck¡­ or perhaps fate¡­ is unsettlingly impressive.¡±


    Ava, clinging gently to Noah¡¯s arm, offered a contrasting warmth against the gloomy backdrop. ¡°That¡¯s just how my Noah is,¡± she said, her voice soothing. ¡°His charisma can gather the attention of anyone, be it gods or monsters.¡± She rested her head against his shoulder, attempting to ease some of the tension.


    Adam exhaled, glancing back at the pair. ¡°Please, lovebirds. Save the cuddling for after the mission.¡± His voice was firm, but there was a note of amusement hidden in it. He turned his gaze forward, scanning the shadows for threats.


    Noah gave a soft nod, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed the dark forest. ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± he said quietly. ¡°I have no intention of lowering my guard. Not in a place like this.¡±


    A few paces behind, Lucy¡¯s eyes drifted toward Cyrus. She spoke softly to herself, almost inaudible in the gloom. ¡°I wonder if I could get that close to Cyrus¡­¡±


    Cyrus, ever vigilant, caught the murmur. ¡°Lucy, did you say something?¡± he asked, curious but unaware of her intent.


    Flushing slightly, Lucy shook her head quickly. ¡°Oh, nothing, nothing at all,¡± she insisted, averting her gaze as her cheeks warmed. Cyrus shrugged and continued forward, dismissing the odd exchange.


    Ava, attuned to the subtle dynamics within the group, leaned in to whisper to Noah, ¡°She definitely likes him, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Noah glanced back at Lucy and Cyrus, their silhouettes faint in the dim light, then gave a noncommittal shrug. ¡°Maybe. I¡¯m not really sure.¡±


    Ava sighed dramatically, stifling a giggle in the eerie silence. ¡°So dense,¡± she teased. ¡°When this is all over, we really need to play matchmaker.¡±


    Noah couldn¡¯t help but return her smile, if only for a moment. ¡°Sure. Whatever makes you happy,¡± he replied, voice softer than before.


    After venturing deeper into the Black Witch¡¯s territory, the group emerged into a wide clearing. At its center stood a massive castle that seemed to loom out of time itself. Moss and vines crept across its stone walls, weaving elaborate patterns as though the building had grown from the forest¡¯s heart rather than been constructed by mortal hands. Its towering spires brushed the canopy overhead, their silhouettes lost in the perpetual gloom. If the stories were true, this castle had stood here since the era of the First Apocalypse, a silent witness to centuries of strife and suffering.


    A heavy, ornate gate¡ªthick with wrought iron vines and twisted flora-like motifs¡ªbarred their entry. Yet in front of that gate, sat a single figure on the mossy floor, absorbed in a book. As the party approached, the stranger lazily turned a page, entirely uninterested in their arrival.


    The man¡¯s long purple hair fell around his shoulders, framing emerald eyes set in sclera of pitch black. His clothing was a simple black cloak, and white gloves covered his hands with meticulous neatness. Most unsettling, however, was the large scorpion tail curling behind him, its wicked stinger glinting even in the dim light. Scattered around him were numerous books, worn and dog-eared, as if he¡¯d spent endless hours here indulging in quiet reading.


    Noah, Ava, Cyrus, Adam, and Lucy studied him warily, weapons ready, tension filling the silent courtyard. The stranger slowly raised his gaze from the pages, his eyes narrowed with annoyance rather than fear.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t want to have to do my job,¡± the man said, his voice a drawl of disinterest. ¡°What a pain.¡±


    He rose to his feet, dusting off his cloak. His tail twitched, a subtle warning that he was no harmless bystander. He gently placed the romance novel he¡¯d been reading¡ªa lackluster love story about a mind-reading girl falling head-over-heels¡ªon top of a small stack of equally mediocre paperbacks.


    ¡°The name¡¯s Azio,¡± he continued, sighing heavily. ¡°It¡¯s not great to meet you. Do yourselves a favor and leave. I hate doing this.¡±


    Noah frowned, stepping forward. ¡°Then why don¡¯t you quit? If you don¡¯t want to do this, why stand in our way at all?¡±


    Azio¡¯s lips twisted into a sour smile. ¡°If I could, I would. But that damned Black Witch would kill me if I abandoned my post. So here we are.¡± He spread his arms, giving a half-hearted shrug that said everything about his predicament.


    Cyrus snorted, crossing his arms. ¡°We¡¯ll kill you if you don¡¯t step aside. At least you have a fighting chance if you run now.¡±


    Azio clicked his tongue, eyes narrowing. ¡°I¡¯ll take my chances with you novices.¡± He lifted his gloved hands, and a purple aura flared around his forearms. ¡°Ability activate: Psycho Cutter.¡±


    The aura shaped itself into two shimmering blades, violet arcs of energy that crackled with psychic might. Azio¡¯s body tensed, suddenly serious, as he rushed forward without warning.


    Noah barely dodged the initial slash, a blur of violet radiance passing just inches from his face. Azio¡¯s speed was astonishing, utterly at odds with his earlier, lazy demeanor, and the near-miss left Noah¡¯s heart pounding. He braced himself, gripping his sword tighter as he prepared for the next strike.


    The rest of the party tried to move in, hoping to overwhelm Azio with numbers. But the scorpion-tailed warlock only smirked, raising his tail high.  ¡°No you don¡¯t,¡± Azio said casually, ¡°Warlock Curse: Hellfire.¡±


    With those words, a surge of purple flames erupted from his tail, spiraling outward in a fiery vortex. The flames formed a searing ring that encircled Noah and Azio, cutting off the rest of the party. The eerie glow lit up the grim forest, painting the skeletal remains on the ground in sinister shadows.


    Ava cried out as she and the others were forced back by the intense heat. Cyrus narrowed his eyes. ¡°Of course he¡¯s a king¡¯s candidate. Noah, be careful, he¡¯s one of the black mist. Only the most skilled king¡¯s candidates can pull off this kind of ability!¡±


    ¡°Would¡¯ve been nice to know earlier,¡± Noah muttered, teeth gritted. He lunged at Azio, his blade cutting through the warlock¡¯s flesh, only to watch in shock as the black blood that spilled recoiled and flowed back into the wound, sealing it instantly.


    ¡°He¡¯s a warlock, how annoying,¡± Adam growled from behind the barrier of fire. ¡°At least he¡¯s not a monarch type.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯s voice was muffled by the roar of the flames. ¡°I¡¯m a dark knight type, and my ice should shield me. I¡¯ll join Noah inside. The rest of you, stand by and wait.¡± He reached into a pocket, pulling out a plague doctor¡¯s mask and placing it over his face.


    As Cyrus spoke, a dramatic transformation overtook him. Black liquid seeped over his lab coat, devouring it until not a stitch of white remained. His attire became completely pitch-black, and sleek, obsidian-like blades extended from his sleeves. The new armor and cloak he wore gave him a formidable, shadowy appearance, accented by the raven-feathered plague mask that now concealed his features. He looked like a harbinger of death itself.


    With a determined stride, Cyrus stepped into the flames. They flared hungrily around him, but his newfound darkness and ice abilities shielded him from harm. It was as though the flames parted for him, grudgingly allowing him entry.


    Azio tilted his head, curiosity sparking in his emerald eyes. ¡°A black knight? Why would another king¡¯s candidate fight me? The Black Witch outlawed us from fighting each other,¡± he said, tone half-amused, half-perplexed.


    Cyrus¡¯s voice hissed through the mask, cold and mocking. ¡°I¡¯m here to hunt her and rob her blind. What makes you think I care about her rules?¡±


    Azio chuckled darkly, amused despite himself. ¡°Fair enough. Then I suppose I¡¯ll just have to kill you two first,¡± he said, a whisper of a grin on his face as he summoned black flames from his tail. He used them to melt the shards of ice Cyrus hurled at him.


    Noah seized the opening Cyrus created. He channeled dark energy into his blade, the metal now wreathed in shadows. Each swing sent arcs of inky darkness through the inferno, aimed straight at Azio. At the same time, Cyrus carved ice weapons from the air, launching spears and daggers of frozen crystal at their opponent.


    Azio danced between them, purple aura flaring around his arms. He parried Cyrus¡¯s ice with whips of black flame and bent impossibly low to avoid Noah¡¯s slashes, his tail striking out to deflect a dark bolt of energy. Though outnumbered two-to-one, he moved with serpentine grace, never losing his wry smile.


    Azio¡¯s stance shifted, the violet aura around his arms flaring brighter as he prepared another strike. His psycho cutters glowed with malevolent energy, the edges crackling like distant thunder. With the ring of hellfire still searing the surrounding space, the battlefield was claustrophobic, forcing them all closer to the heat and each other.


    Cyrus stepped forward, intending to close the gap, but Azio¡¯s tail lashed out, spitting black flames that burst upward, forming a temporary wall of infernal fire. Cyrus snarled behind his plague doctor mask, thrusting his palm forward and conjuring razor-sharp ice shards. The shards hissed as they struck the flames, evaporating into bursts of steam before reaching their target. Azio smirked, satisfied with how easily he kept the dark knight at bay.


    Meanwhile, Noah found himself face-to-face with Azio. The warlock lunged, psycho cutters slashing in a brutal cross pattern. Noah ducked low beneath the first strike, his heart pounding as the second blade passed perilously close to his chest. Violet sparks leapt from Azio¡¯s cutters, casting jagged shadows on Noah¡¯s face. He could smell the raw energy in the air.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Noah retaliated with a swift upward slash of his own blade, wrapped in dark energy. Azio twisted aside, narrowly avoiding the strike, but this time Noah pressed his advantage, following with a downward cut that forced Azio to jerk his head back. The two exchanged blows in a deadly rhythm¡ªslash, parry, dodge¡ªeach testing the other¡¯s limits.


    Cyrus tried again to break through the wall of black fire, summoning a curved scythe of ice in one hand. He hurled it like a spinning blade, hoping to carve a path, but the flames intensified at Azio¡¯s silent command. The ice weapon melted mid-flight, droplets scattering uselessly at Cyrus¡¯s feet. Cyrus cursed under his breath. He could hear the clash of steel and aura behind that barrier, growing more frantic with every passing moment.


    With a sudden surge, Azio advanced on Noah. ¡°Psycho Cutter: Crescent Fang!¡± he roared, swinging both arms in a swift, overlapping arc. The blades of violet energy rushed forth in a half-moon shape, forcing Noah on the defensive. Noah raised his sword, and the dark energy around it thickened, absorbing some impact, but the force still drove him a step back. His muscles burned, and sweat trickled down the side of his face.


    Azio capitalized on Noah¡¯s momentary retreat, lunging again. He feinted left, then brought his right cutter in low. Noah barely deflected in time, sparks dancing off their blades. Azio¡¯s emerald eyes gleamed, his sclera so black they seemed to drink in the light. He pressed even harder, forcing Noah¡¯s sword arm to tremble under the strain.


    On the other side of the flame barrier, Cyrus narrowed his eyes. He was done playing this game. He concentrated, and the surrounding air cooled drastically, the sudden chill pushing back against the heat. With a grunt of effort, he shaped a long, needle-like spear of frost and hurled it at the barrier. This time he poured more energy than before. The spear struck the black flames with a thunderous hiss, drilling through inch by inch.


    Azio¡¯s tail twitched in annoyance as he felt the resistance give. He diverted a portion of his concentration to reinforce the hellfire, thickening it once more. In that instant, Noah took the opening¡ªa small hesitation in Azio¡¯s relentless assault¡ªand lashed out with a horizontal slash infused with darkness. The blade caught Azio¡¯s shoulder, slicing through cloth and drawing a line of black ichor that bubbled and hissed.


    Azio winced, staggering slightly, but the wound sealed almost as fast as it had opened. ¡°Persistent¡­ but you¡¯re losing ground, Hero,¡± Azio said through clenched teeth.


    Noah¡¯s breathing was labored, but he refused to give in. He mustered what strength he had, channeling a burst of dark energy through his sword and swiping at Azio¡¯s midsection. The warlock slid back, his psycho cutters spinning in a defensive pattern to ward off any follow-up strikes.


    It was a dance of lethal elegance¡ªNoah¡¯s blade of darkness against Azio¡¯s violet psycho cutters. Each clash echoed in the fiery ring, sparks, and embers swirling. Azio glanced momentarily at his flaming barrier and saw small cracks forming where Cyrus battered it with relentless frost attacks from outside. He needed to resolve this fight soon.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Azio hissed, stepping in with a flurry of slashes that forced Noah¡¯s arms to ache with each parry. The hero¡¯s sword rattled under the impacts, and he was forced into a retreat, step by desperate step.


    A triumphant gleam shone in Azio¡¯s eyes. He feinted high, drawing Noah¡¯s guard upward, then pivoted gracefully, aiming his other cutter low at Noah¡¯s leg. Noah realized the trap too late. He tried to shift his weight, but Azio was already inside his guard, psycho cutter angled for a crippling blow.


    Behind the flames, Cyrus let out a frustrated growl, sending another barrage of icy blades at the barrier, desperately trying to break through in time to help. But as the clash intensified within that fiery circle, it was only Noah, Azio, and the choking tension of battle that filled the space.


    Noah gritted his teeth, feeling the sting of Azio¡¯s relentless attacks. The violet psycho cutters had chipped away at his strength, leaving him breathless and battered. He staggered back, clutching his side¡ªbut as he did, a familiar warmth surged through his veins. His innate draconic ability stirred awake, radiating through his body.


    White scales began to form across his arms and shoulders, reflecting the glare of the encircling flames. His wounds knit together, healed by the mysterious draconic power coursing within him. Noah inhaled sharply, regaining his composure. His eyes, now glowing faintly, flickered with renewed energy and resolve.


    Azio tilted his head, momentarily startled by Noah¡¯s sudden rejuvenation. ¡°Still fighting? You really don¡¯t know when to quit, Hero.¡±


    Noah said nothing, instead raising his blade as radiant energy coalesced at the back of his throat. The air crackled with intensity, sparks of light dancing around his weapon. Taking a firm stance, he channeled his power.


    ¡°Light Dragon Roar!¡± he yelled, voice echoing through the flaming prison. A brilliant burst of incandescent light erupted from his mouth, a concentrated beam of pure radiance that struck Azio at point-blank range. The force slammed into the warlock¡¯s chest, blasting him off his feet and hurling him backward.


    Azio soared through the air, momentarily dazed and vulnerable. The flames of his barrier flickered and dimmed under the sudden shock of Noah¡¯s attack.


    Cyrus seized his chance. With a fierce cry, he drove an icy spear into the weakened wall of black fire. The hellfire buckled, cracks spider webbing across the blazing ring. With a shuddering hiss, the flames sputtered out, and Cyrus dashed through, obsidian blades of ice at the ready.


    Azio twisted midair, trying to regain his balance, but Cyrus moved with predatory swiftness. He sliced cleanly through Azio¡¯s body, cutting him in half with a resonant slash that echoed in the now flame-free clearing. For a moment, Azio¡¯s two halves drifted apart, black mist spilling into the air.


    But as quickly as he had been dismembered, Azio reformed. The black mist knitted his body together, restoring him in an instant. Azio¡¯s emerald eyes flashed with annoyance.


    ¡°Persistent fools,¡± he hissed, raising his psycho cutters again. ¡°I¡¯ll tear you apart until you have nothing left to heal.¡±


    Cyrus met his gaze, his expression calm behind the plague doctor mask. He extended a hand, and the temperature plummeted. Frost crawled across the ground, transforming dust and debris into shimmering crystals. Azio lunged, but his movement slowed as ice began to cling to his legs, then his waist.


    ¡°What¡ª?¡± Azio gasped, struggling as the frigid aura enveloped him. He tried to summon black flames to melt the ice, but Cyrus intensified his focus, channeling all his power into a single, crushing stroke of elemental might.


    In a heartbeat, the ice surged up Azio¡¯s body, encasing his chest, his arms, and finally his head. The warlock¡¯s scream died on his lips as his face froze in a mask of shocked fury, his psycho cutters dissolving into harmless sparks against the thick ice.


    Noah, still partly scaled and glowing with draconic energy, watched in stunned relief. The fight had taken its toll on both of them, but it was done now. With Azio sealed in a block of crystal-clear frost, immobile and defeated, the path to the castle¡¯s massive gate was clear.


    Cyrus exhaled slowly, the tension leaving his shoulders. He looked at Noah, giving a curt nod. ¡°Let¡¯s move on,¡± he said quietly, the final echoes of battle fading into the silent forest.


    Noah nodded, the white scales fading from his skin. Together, they turned toward the ancient castle, determined to face whatever awaited them inside.


    Before they advanced further into the castle¡¯s looming gate, Ava held up a hand, her expression thoughtful. ¡°Cyrus, earlier you mentioned different classes of king¡¯s candidates. Can you give us a quick rundown before we go inside? We need every edge we can get.¡±


    Cyrus nodded, adjusting his plague doctor mask now dangling from his belt. ¡°There are three main classes that king¡¯s candidates align with. You can multi-class, sure, but it usually dilutes your strength. First, there¡¯s my class: the Dark Knight. We harness black mist to form hardened armor on our bodies¡ªboth offense and defense rolled into one. That Azio we fought? He was a Warlock type, using the black mist to cast curses and conjurations, like those flames he trapped us with. Lastly, we have the Monarchs. They¡¯re rare and incredibly dangerous. Monarchs shape the black mist into soldiers¡ªcreatures that can only be truly destroyed by targeting their core. I suspect the Black Witch herself is a Monarch.¡±


    Ava absorbed this information, her brow furrowing. ¡°That makes sense. Monarchs sound the worst to deal with. In that case¡­¡± She glanced at Noah and Cyrus, both of whom looked worn down from the fight with Azio. Noah¡¯s breathing came in soft, ragged intervals, and Cyrus had a hint of fatigue behind his composed facade. ¡°For the next major battle, you two should hang back. You both look exhausted.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re perfectly fine,¡± Noah protested, though he was clearly still catching his breath.


    ¡°Yeah, that fight was easy,¡± Cyrus added, trying to sound casual as he released the darkness coating his attire, reverting to his normal state. Yet a faint tremor in his hand betrayed his weariness.


    Adam leveled them both with a knowing stare. ¡°If you rush in tired, you¡¯ll die,¡± he said firmly. ¡°We need everyone at their best for what¡¯s ahead. Let Ava, Lucy and I handle the brunt of the next big confrontation.¡±


    Lucy hesitated, then gently placed her hands over Cyrus¡¯s, her voice soft and earnest. ¡°Please, Cyrus. Jasper is counting on you. We all need you to make it back safely.¡± Her cheeks colored slightly as she spoke, her concern deeply sincere.


    Cyrus¡¯s eyes widened, caught off guard by Lucy¡¯s gentle touch and heartfelt plea. A faint blush dusted his cheeks. ¡°F-fine,¡± he relented, looking down at her hands. ¡°If you all insist, I¡¯ll hang back with Noah. Just don¡¯t do anything reckless.¡±


    Noah leaned closer to Ava, whispering with a faint smile. ¡°You¡¯re right, those two would make a good match.¡±


    Ava brightened, pleased. ¡°I knew you¡¯d come around,¡± she teased quietly, her eyes gleaming with a mix of relief and quiet amusement at their small group¡¯s evolving dynamics.


    Stepping into his role as leader, Noah nodded decisively. ¡°Alright. Cyrus and I will stay near the back unless things get dire. I trust the three of you to handle what¡¯s inside. Let¡¯s move.¡±


    They passed through the massive gates into the castle¡¯s interior. The corridor opened into a large meeting hall, silent and grim. The torches that should have lit the space were absent, leaving only faint daylight filtering through cracks in the ancient stone walls. Odd, serpentine shapes coiled about, revealing themselves as sleek, black snakes. Their scales caught what little light there was, glossy and unnerving, each slow hiss echoing in the still air.


    The group paused, instincts on high alert. The hush of the hall pressed upon them like a physical weight, the snakes¡¯ soft slithers a mocking whisper of what awaited deeper within. Behind them, the heavy gate closed quietly, sealing them inside the Black Witch¡¯s domain, each step now fraught with hidden perils and the memory of Azio¡¯s fierce resistance lingering on their minds.


    Deep within the heart of the castle, in a chamber untouched by light save for the eerie glow of runic lanterns, a woman lounged upon a throne of twisted vines and polished bone. The room smelled faintly of old parchment and faint incense, with thick draperies blocking any sign of day or night.


    The woman¡¯s attire was an intricate black cloak stitched with an emerald serpent motif, its pattern shimmering as though the snakes themselves might slither free at any moment. Her skin was milk-pale, contrasting sharply with the dark interior, and her eyes¡ªone purple and serpentine, the other yellow inscribed with a magic circle, peered into a crystal ball hovering before her. Each tiny reflection in the orb danced with the distorted images of the intruders now wandering her halls.


    Her hair, if it could be called that, was a writhing mass of black snakes, hissing softly as she absentmindedly ran her fingers through them. Each serpent¡¯s eyes reflected her cunning, and the subtle movements of their forked tongues mirrored her cold, curious thoughts.


    Medusa, the Black Witch, leaned forward, resting her chin on the back of her hand, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips. ¡°Guests,¡± she murmured softly, her voice smooth and quiet. ¡°It has been so long since I¡¯ve entertained any who dared step this far into my domain.¡±


    She watched the crystal ball intently. Within its depths, the party moved through her castle¡¯s corridors¡ªNoah, Ava, Adam, Lucy, and Cyrus. She observed the remnants of their battles clinging to them, subtle fatigue, yet unwavering determination. Her curiosity sparked when she noted that they had bested Azio, one of her reluctant guardians.


    ¡°How interesting,¡± Medusa purred, the emerald serpents on her cloak seeming to shimmer at her praise. ¡°Azio is no pushover, yet they managed. This will be more entertaining than I expected.¡±


    Her smile faded slightly as she focused on one figure in particular. She studied his stance, his attire, and the aura he emitted. Recognition flared in her mismatched eyes. The serpents in her hair hissed in what might have been surprise.


    ¡°Cyrus?¡± she said, her tone lingering between shock and fear. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    For a moment, the chamber grew utterly silent, save for the soft rustle of her snakes and the distant drip of water somewhere deep within the bowels of the fortress. Medusa leaned back, steepling her fingers thoughtfully as she considered the implications of Cyrus¡¯s presence. The crystal ball shimmered, showing the group pressing on, determined and unaware of the eyes that watched them so closely.

 Chapter 17-Library

    Medusa sat upon her throne, the dim lanterns casting flickering shadows across the ornate chamber. Her seat was carved from ancient ivory and petrified vines, its armrests curling like snakes about to strike. The air smelled faintly of incense, and the distant drip of water echoed through the silent halls. She reclined gracefully, one elbow propped on a twisted armrest, her mismatched eyes glittering with a quiet malevolence.


    ¡°Clementine,¡± Medusa called out, her voice smooth and commanding. ¡°Come in.¡±


    A door at the far end of the room creaked open. Clementine entered, her presence instantly easing the suffocating hush. She wore a pair of thick goggles over orange eyes that gleamed with keen intelligence. Medium-length orange hair framed her face, and from beneath it sprouted a pair of long, twisted horns¡ªreminiscent of a markhor¡¯s, grand and spiraling. Her maid outfit was unexpectedly elegant, tailored to perfection, and on her arms were black gauntlets tipped with purple claws. The combination of fine cloth and deadly weaponry exuded both refinement and peril. There was a poised dignity about Clementine, as if she were not just a servant, but a confidante and guardian.


    Medusa did not smile, but there was a certain satisfaction in her gaze as she examined her maid. ¡°Clementine,¡± she began, each syllable deliberate, ¡°I want you to remain here. We have guests¡ªuninvited guests.¡±


    Clementine tilted her head, curiosity lighting her orange eyes. ¡°My lady, you do not wish me to fight?¡± Her tone was respectful yet puzzled.


    Medusa shook her head gently, sending subtle ripples through the serpents entwined in her hair. ¡°No, not at this moment. The true threat is not those intruders outside. The most dangerous presences are here, in this very room.¡± She raised her voice slightly, and the serpents hissed in unison. ¡°You two, you can come out. I know you¡¯ve been lurking.¡±


    From the ornate ceiling beams, two figures dropped silently, landing lightly on the polished stone floor. The first wore a signature black cloak and a plague doctor¨Cstyle mask: Blank, the enigmatic leader of The Crows. His presence carried an air of dark humor and chilling intent. He stood with a certain easy confidence, folding his arms as he observed Medusa and her maid.


    Next to him was another figure, his attire simultaneously elegant and savage. A coat of white snow-fur framed his hood, and the rest of his garb blended into shades of pristine white and muted gray. A mask covered his face, featureless except for two cold eyeholes. Its texture seemed both crystalline and organic¡ªlike ice-sculpted bark. Blue chains floated around him, encircling his body as if held aloft by invisible currents of magic, their faint jingling the only sound in the chamber. Where Blank brought an unsettling mirth, this man radiated quiet menace.


    Medusa¡¯s eyes narrowed. She leaned forward on her throne, resting her chin in her hand, her snakes shifting restlessly. ¡°The rat in my walls was you after all, Blank,¡± she said dryly, no attempt to hide her disdain. ¡°But who¡¯s this companion of yours? You usually bring the fox or the snake mask. I admit I preferred the snake¡ªhe suited my motif. But today, you¡¯ve brought someone new.¡±


    Blank shrugged, a low chuckle escaping from beneath his mask. ¡°Viper¡¯s on leave, I¡¯m afraid. But do not worry, my dear Medusa. This is Jackpot, one of my Seven Wings. If Viper¡¯s absence troubles you, rest assured that Jackpot¡¯s power is no less significant.¡±


    There was a gleam in Blank¡¯s eyes as he spoke. The atmosphere tensed, Clementine instinctively shifting her stance behind Medusa¡¯s throne. The mention of Seven Wings, each a name whispered in hushed fear, was enough to make anyone reconsider their arrogance.


    Medusa¡¯s serpentine hair tilted as though listening. A slight smile curled her lips. ¡°So you¡¯ve come here with one of your strongest, Blank. How considerate. I¡¯m certain our conversation will be¡­ enlightening.¡±


    Blank offered a cordial smile, though it never reached his concealed eyes. ¡°I do have one more ally on the way¡ªa rookie, running a bit late. I¡¯m thinking of assigning him to Viper¡¯s unit. You¡¯ll encounter him often, I¡¯m sure. I¡¯m only here to offer you some assistance against your intruders.¡±


    Medusa leaned forward on her throne, her mismatched eyes narrowing. The serpents in her hair hissed softly, reflecting her annoyance. ¡°I fail to see how any of this is your concern,¡± she said, her voice smooth but edged with irritation. ¡°An inexperienced hero and a fledgling god don¡¯t worry me, and the rest of that group are hardly worth mentioning.¡±


    Blank chuckled lightly under his mask. ¡°Oh, spare me the bravado. We both know you¡¯d rather avoid a certain confrontation¡ªespecially one involving Cyrus.¡± His tone held a teasing note that only deepened Medusa¡¯s scowl. ¡°It¡¯s no secret you don¡¯t have the stomach to face him, let alone handle him.¡±


    Medusa¡¯s lip curled, exposing her frustration. ¡°Shut up,¡± she snapped. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in idle chatter unless you¡¯re delivering the usual shipment.¡±


    Blank bowed theatrically, spreading his arms wide. ¡°No need to worry. The corpses will arrive right on schedule, as always. I wouldn¡¯t dream of disappointing my favorite business partner,¡± he said, voice dripping with mock courtesy. ¡°I only came out of concern, but if you¡¯d rather we leave¡ª¡±


    Medusa cut him off, flicking her hand dismissively. ¡°Clementine,¡± she commanded, ¡°show these two out. Use force if needed.¡±


    The maid, still standing at attention, nodded. ¡°Yes, my lady.¡± Without hesitation, Clementine¡¯s form blurred as she teleported in front of Blank and Jackpot, her gauntlets raised. She aimed a swift punch, her strikes backed by lethal elegance.


    But before her blow landed, a wall of shimmering blue crystal materialized between them. It had a scale-like texture, refracting the dim light into shards of azure. Clementine struck it with a resounding clang, forced to recoil as it denied her advance.


    ¡°Please, wait,¡± Jackpot said, his voice calm and steady, as if addressing a minor inconvenience. His blue chains, hovering around him in a graceful orbit, began to hum softly with energy. ¡°I¡¯m in the middle of contract negotiations with my employer here, as facing you is not a part of my job.¡±


    Blank gave a long-suffering sigh. ¡°Are you serious? Now of all times? Fine, what do you want?¡±


    Jackpot inclined his head slightly, his masked face revealing nothing. ¡°My son¡¯s birthday is in a month. I¡¯d like the entire week off, not just the day.¡±


    From behind his mask, Blank gave a dramatic groan. ¡°Fine. Consider it done. Now handle this, please.¡±


    At the snap of Jackpot¡¯s fingers, the azure wall of crystals surged forward, pressing Clementine back against a cold stone column. She struggled, but the crystals melted and reformed around her, encasing her body in a cocoon of gleaming blue, leaving only her face exposed.


    ¡°Now, let us help you, Medusa,¡± Blank said, turning back to her with renewed confidence.


    Medusa pursed her lips, weighing the loss of face against the practicality of having two formidable allies. ¡°Fine,¡± she said tersely. ¡°Just let her go.¡±


    Another snap from Jackpot, and the crystal cocoon cracked and dissolved into a shower of scales that floated back to him, merging seamlessly with the blue chains around his torso. Clementine slid to her feet, visibly annoyed but unharmed.


    Medusa¡¯s voice was heavy with reluctant acceptance. ¡°Clementine, guard the throne room. If the intruders get past you, these two will deal with them.¡± She sighed, as if exhausted by the arrangement. ¡°Don¡¯t waste too much effort. Just slow them down.¡±


    Clementine bowed her head curtly, her eyes still brimming with quiet anger. ¡°As you wish, my lady.¡±


    Blank and Jackpot exchanged a glance, their body language betraying satisfaction. Medusa remained on her throne, her serpents settling back into a restless calm, and the distant torches sputtering softly as the castle prepared to greet its unwanted guests.


    Meanwhile, the party forged ahead through the castle¡¯s twisting corridors. A hush lay over the stone halls, broken only by the distant clatter of armored footsteps and the hiss of shifting shadows. Medusa¡¯s influence was everywhere, manifesting in the unsettling forms of her servants.


    The castle¡¯s ranks of maids awaited them¡ªan eerie parody of domestic staff. Each wore a pristine maid uniform, complete with aprons and lace collars. But beneath their skirts and blouses, pitch-black armor gleamed, and instead of human faces, their heads were bare skulls topped with wigs of various vibrant colors and intricate hairstyles. They carried a grotesque assortment of weapons¡ªaxes, swords, and bows¡ªheld in bony hands. When they moved, their joints creaked softly, like marionettes dancing on invisible strings of dark magic.


    Noah and the others stepped into a long, torch-lit hallway, its floor strewn with fragments of broken pottery and discarded weaponry. At the far end, a squad of these maid-warriors waited, their hollow eye sockets fixed on the intruders. As the party advanced, more maids emerged from side passages, forming a loose phalanx of undead servitude.


    ¡°There¡¯s more of them,¡± Noah said, his voice steady despite the tension. ¡°Everyone, get ready.¡±


    He positioned himself slightly behind the vanguard. Though he had strength to fight, the battles had worn him down, and he knew strategy mattered now more than ever. For the moment, Noah focused on healing¡ªchanneling his ability to mend wounds, absorbing the party¡¯s suffering and keeping them fighting at full capacity.


    Cyrus also stayed at the back, a calm observer, wielding ice as both spear and shield. Each time one of the skeletal maids lunged or loosed an arrow, Cyrus answered with a conjured spear of ice. His aim was precise, he struck at the glowing cores nestled deep within their armor¡ªdark orbs of black mist that animated their skeletal forms. Every time an icy spear shattered a core, the maid collapsed into a puddle of inky fluid, melting back into nothingness.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Ava moved fluidly through the hall, stooping to pick up a sword from a fallen maid. She took a poised martial stance, her eyes sharp, her aura focused. ¡°Sword technique: Wind Blade,¡± she murmured, blending the edges of martial arts with her own ability. ¡°Combined with Paralysis!¡±


    With a graceful slash, Ava sent a visible gust of wind slicing through the ranks of maid-warriors. The razor-thin current of air carved into their forms, not destroying them outright but leaving their limbs trembling and locked with paralysis. The hollow-eyed maids became statues, caught mid-attack, their weapons half-lifted and useless.


    Adam and Lucy seized this opening. Lucy, her greatsword flashing in the torchlight, darted in among the immobilized foes. Each swing was decisive, splitting the black-mist cores with lethal efficiency. Fragments of the dark orbs scattered, and the maids they powered crumpled into puddles of tar-like fluid that seeped into the cracked stones of the floor.


    At the same time, Adam hurled C¨² Chulainn with practiced force, the legendary spear seeming to have a mind of its own. After piercing one core and extinguishing its eerie glow, it pivoted mid-air, guided by Adam¡¯s will, and homed in on another target. One by one, the monstrosities fell like dominoes in a grim and silent procession. Each time the spear struck true, it ricocheted toward another enemy, scything through black mist and bone until the corridor was littered with dissolving remains.


    Noah watched as the last few maid-warriors faltered, disoriented by the onslaught. Ava¡¯s strategy and Lucy¡¯s brute force meshed perfectly with Adam¡¯s lethal precision, and Cyrus¡¯s silent support kept the enemy at bay. He felt a surge of pride and relief¡ªthis was teamwork at its finest.


    Within moments, the hallway was cleared, the ghostly maids reduced to dark stains. The party took a moment to catch their breath, the air still tinged with the smell of ancient dust and lingering malice.


    ¡°Good work,¡± Noah said quietly, releasing a final pulse to erase any minor injuries they had suffered. They knew that deeper within the castle awaited far greater challenges¡ªand somewhere, Medusa watched and waited, her nightmares lurking around every corner.


    They pressed on through the castle¡¯s twisting corridors, each hallway more oppressively silent than the last. It felt as though a hundred unseen eyes hovered in the gloom, studying their every move. The air was thick with dread, and even the distant torches provided little comfort¡ªeach flickering flame only deepened the shadows that danced along the ancient walls.


    Then, without warning, a chorus of inky black hands burst from a nearby doorway, their dripping fingers snatching Ava before anyone could react. She let out a startled cry as the hands pulled her into the darkened room beyond. Noah whirled around, shouting her name¡ª¡°Ava!¡±¡ªbut the heavy door slammed shut with a resounding thud before he could intervene.


    ¡°No!¡± Noah shouted, his voice echoing down the corridor. He rushed to the door, slamming his shoulder against it, trying to break it down. But the wood creaked and groaned, refusing to give way. Black liquid seeped from underneath the threshold, pooling and contorting into shape. In moments, towering Black Knights formed from that fluid darkness, their eyeless visages staring blankly as they interposed themselves between the party and the door.


    The rest of the group joined Noah at his side, weapons drawn, but no matter how swiftly they destroyed one Knight, another emerged from the ooze to take its place. An endless cycle of rebirth, trapping them in a stalemate.


    Inside that sealed room, Ava found herself in a space far grander than the modest exterior suggested. She stood in a sprawling library, its soaring shelves jammed with ancient tomes and grimoires bound in leather and bone. A haze of faint, star-like motes drifted in the air, illuminating floating ladders and hidden alcoves. Black hands crawled along the shelves, their palms adorned with unblinking eyes that observed Ava hungrily.


    At the center of this bizarre archive, perched on a sturdy desk, was an elegant figure with long cyan hair that shimmered as though woven from starlight. Her hair seemed to contain tiny constellations that shifted and twinkled with each subtle movement. She wore a pair of yellow-framed glasses that glinted when she turned her head, and her skin was tanned, contrasting with a long navy-blue robe embroidered with a pattern of glowing stars.


    Cradled in her arms was a sleek black cat, its emerald eyes mirroring the strange magic in the room. With each idle stroke of the cat¡¯s fur, a quiet tension grew.


    ¡°Hello there,¡± said the woman, her voice surprisingly soft, yet layered with a predatory undertone. ¡°Welcome to my library. My name is Celeste.¡± She parted her lips in a grin that showed just a hint of teeth. ¡°I¡¯m pleased to have such a lovely guest.¡±


    Ava steadied herself, a chill running down her spine. This wasn¡¯t just another minion¡ªthis woman radiated power and cunning. ¡°I assume you¡¯re another enemy,¡± Ava said, lifting her dagger, determined not to appear intimidated.


    ¡°Of course I am,¡± Celeste replied with a languid sigh, as though inconvenienced by the obviousness of her role. She tilted her head, cyan locks cascading over her shoulder, the star-like glimmers intensifying. ¡°You¡¯re my lovely prey, and I¡¯m so glad I get to play with you.¡±


    Ava¡¯s heart pounded, but her gaze was resolute. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in your games.¡± She took a step back, raising her free hand. ¡°Let¡¯s get this over with. Awaken, Robin Hood!¡±


    At her command, a vibrant emerald-green hoodie materialized over her shoulders, its fabric humming with latent magic. It bore intricate patterns of leaves and vines, and Ava felt the familiar surge of power that came with her Regalia. The blade in her hand glowed faintly, charged with potential.


    Celeste adjusted her glasses, eyes dancing with amusement behind their yellow frames. ¡°Ooh, a Regalia. How exciting.¡± She gave a short, mirthless laugh. ¡°Of course, it won¡¯t do you much good against me.¡± The black cat in her arms purred softly, as if in agreement, while the hands along the shelves stirred restlessly, as if eager to close in.


    Celeste stood poised in the library¡¯s eerie twilight, her cyan hair reflecting starlit hues as she observed Ava with predatory calm, the black cat purred softly in her arms. The quiet rustle of parchment and distant shifting of countless black hands filling the shelves set a tense, unsettling backdrop. The dim lanterns on the walls cast long shadows that stretched and twisted with each subtle movement.


    Her smile was gentle but chilling. ¡°Ability: Collapse,¡± Celeste said, her voice smooth and unhurried. As if obeying her soft command, the very fabric of reality around Ava seemed to buckle.


    Ava gasped as an invisible weight pressed down on her shoulders. The once-stable floor grew heavy beneath her feet. She tried to resist, to keep standing, but her knees buckled almost instantly. Her dagger dipped, and her emerald hood, Robin Hood, felt like a leaden cloak dragging her down. ¡°W-what¡­?¡± she managed, each syllable strained.


    Celeste¡¯s face was serene, her eyes glowing with a faint celestial shimmer. ¡°Gravity manipulation,¡± she said softly, her tone almost apologetic. ¡°I can make you feel as if the entire world rests on you. Isn¡¯t it marvelous?¡±


    Ava¡¯s heart hammered in her chest. Every breath felt labored, as if she were inhaling hot tar. She tried to lift her dagger, but her arm felt impossibly heavy, pinned to the ground by this oppressive force. She clenched her jaw, refusing to let terror show too openly. ¡°Da¡­ damn you,¡± she hissed through gritted teeth.


    Celeste chuckled, stepping closer with deliberate slowness. Each quiet footstep increased the gravity¡¯s intensity. Every soft tap of her shoes on the library¡¯s stone floor sent a new wave of crushing weight over Ava¡¯s body. Soon, Ava¡¯s knees hit the floor with a dull thud. She fought to stay upright, but the pressure mounted further. Within moments, she lay fully prone, pinned face-first against the cold stone, her limbs trembling and useless.


    ¡°Such defiance in your eyes a moment ago,¡± Celeste mused, stopping just beside her. The black cat jumped down, gliding away into the shadows, ¡°Now look at you,¡± she continued. ¡°Helpless.¡±


    Ava forced her head up a fraction, breathing ragged and shallow. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, more from the strain than fear, though fear was surely there too. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t want to die,¡± she managed, her voice small and pained. The gravity pressed her chest so hard it felt like her ribs might crack.


    Celeste¡¯s lips curved into a compassionate smile that contradicted her merciless actions. ¡°Oh, you poor dear. It¡¯s so sweet when you cry,¡± she cooed. The starlight in her hair seemed to shimmer more brightly, as if feeding off Ava¡¯s despair. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I can give you a painless death. The black mist will devour your blood from within. You¡¯ll slip into sleep, feel nothing at all, and fade into oblivion. Isn¡¯t that kinder than struggling?¡±


    Ava¡¯s vision blurred with tears. She tried to speak, to protest, but her lungs were compressed, her words suffocated. ¡°N¡­no¡­¡± she rasped weakly, struggling to find any leverage against this arcane weight. Her head spun, the edges of her awareness growing fuzzy.


    ¡°Shh,¡± Celeste whispered, kneeling gracefully beside Ava. Her presence radiated a calm malice, as if this were a soothing bedtime story. ¡°Just sleep,¡± she murmured, producing a small black serpent from the darkness surrounding them. It slithered in her hands, sleek and silent, its tiny eyes gleaming with hunger.


    With delicate care, Celeste guided the snake closer. Its forked tongue flicked out, tasting the air around Ava. Then, with a swift motion, it coiled around Ava¡¯s limp body. The weight of gravity did not relent. Ava tried to struggle, but her body refused, pinned and drained. The snake opened its jaws and bit into Ava¡¯s flesh¡ªjust a quick sting. Ava gasped softly, eyes widening in terror as she realized what was happening.


    Almost immediately, the snake¡¯s body liquefied into a slick black fluid, flowing into the small wound. Ava whimpered, her tears now spilling freely, as she felt the cold presence of the black mist inside her veins. It spread with chilling efficiency, numbing and consuming, a silent invader.


    Celeste watched with detached interest, tilting her head. ¡°There now,¡± she said softly. ¡°It won¡¯t be long. And you won¡¯t feel a thing.¡± She placed a finger under Ava¡¯s chin, lifting it gently as the tears rolled down her cheeks. ¡°Just let go.¡±


    Ava¡¯s heart hammered against her chest, struggling to pump what remained of her blood as the black mist devoured it from within. She felt her limbs growing heavy, her vision tunneling into darkness. Every breath became a monumental effort¡ªshe could taste metal and ash on her tongue, and her body felt chilled from the inside out.


    ¡°Noah,¡± she whimpered, her voice a frail echo in the quiet library. Tears welled in her eyes, sliding down her cheeks. The sound of her own plea rang hollow, as though lost among the towering shelves and the watchful eyes embedded in the black hands that lined the walls. ¡°Please¡­ save me.¡±


    Celeste observed with detached interest, stepping back a pace to admire her work. The starlit strands of her cyan hair shimmered as she tilted her head, half-smiling. Her yellow-framed glasses caught the faint glow of the room¡¯s lanterns, reflecting back at Ava like two suns in a dying sky. ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Celeste cooed, her voice dripping with false sweetness, ¡°go to sleep. Soon enough, you¡¯ll be nothing but a lovely puddle of black mist.¡±


    Ava¡¯s eyes fluttered. She tried to fight it, tried to summon an ounce of strength, but the mist was merciless. It replaced her blood, stole her warmth, and dulled her mind. She wanted to scream, to struggle, to break free of this crushing gravity and vile corruption, but her body refused to answer. Her thoughts drifted, wavering between panic and faith¡ªfaith that Noah, somehow, would burst through that door and save her. Or perhaps a miracle would happen, something beyond understanding. She could almost see him in her mind, his determined eyes, his unwavering resolve.


    But hope flickered like a dying candle. Her senses dimmed to a distant hum. Celeste¡¯s mocking smile blurred, the starry motes in her hair becoming faint pinpricks in an infinite night. The distant whisper of turning pages, of shifting shadows, all faded to a soft static.


    Ava tried once more to call out. The name formed on her lips, a silent prayer, Noah¡­


    Her eyelids drooped, too heavy to hold open, and a profound drowsiness wrapped around her heart. Her last coherent thought was a desperate wish¡ªthat somehow, against all odds, she would survive this nightmare. That Noah, or anyone, would save her before it was too late. The world grew quiet, and Ava slipped into unconsciousness, enveloped by the black mist and the haunting silence of the library.


    Beyond the sealed door, the party continued to fight, unaware of Ava¡¯s plight. And inside, Celeste watched her new victim succumb, wearing a satisfied smile, as if enjoying the final hush before the storm yet to come.

 Chapter 18-Determination

    Ava lay motionless, trapped in a twilight state between life and death. The black mist continued its relentless feast, siphoning away her strength, and leaving her body cold and unresponsive. Each labored breath was quieter than the last, her complexion fading to a pallid hue. The hush inside that isolated library chamber was absolute¡ªno sounds of battle reached through the thick walls. Only the faint rustle of pages and the watchful eyes embedded in black hands accompanied the grim process.


    Outside, however, the world was far from silent. Noah and the others fought desperately against an unending tide of monstrous maid warriors and black knights. The corridor rang with the clang of steel, the crackle of magic, and the anguished cries of newly formed abominations shattering back into puddles of black mist. Noah¡¯s resolve flared hotter than ever, his heart screaming for Ava even as his voice strained with each shout.


    ¡°Damn it, Ava!¡± he roared, cutting down yet another skeletal maid. Her wig fluttered to the floor as her core splintered. ¡°Please¡ªhold on!¡±


    His fury and desperation strengthened him, driving him onward, closer to the door that separated him from Ava. Each enemy he vanquished brought him one small step closer to the room, where the person he cherished lay in mortal peril.


    Within the library, Celeste stood over Ava¡¯s limp form, savoring the moment. She had diverted all her forces to halt Noah¡¯s rescue attempt, ensuring they would not interrupt her grim business. Her cyan hair shimmered with star-like glimmers as she surveyed her victim, the starlit threads reflecting in the lifeless eyes of the black hands lining the walls.


    ¡°Madam Medusa will be so pleased,¡± Celeste said softly, a smug grin curving her lips. She ran a finger along Ava¡¯s cheek, mockingly gentle. ¡°I¡¯ve managed to kill one of the intruders, after all.¡±


    Lifting Ava¡¯s body effortlessly, Celeste carried her over to a sturdy desk near the center of the room¡ªa desk previously adorned with books and grimoires. She placed Ava down as if laying out a precious specimen, smiling at her handiwork. The overhead lanterns cast shadows across the table¡¯s surface, making the scene feel like a twisted vignette in a dark museum.


    ¡°Now,¡± Celeste mused quietly, ¡°which one of them should I choose next? They must be tiring, fighting all those minions. Soon, they¡¯ll be ripe for the picking.¡± She licked her lips thoughtfully, the cat-like gleam in her eyes betraying her predatory delight.


    But then, a flicker of movement caught her eye. Ava¡¯s finger twitched¡ªjust once, subtle as a whisper. A flash of shock crossed Celeste¡¯s face, followed by a brief laugh of disbelief.


    ¡°No, no, that must¡¯ve been my imagination,¡± she murmured, tightening her grip on the table¡¯s edge. ¡°The odds of her being a king¡¯s candidate are essentially nonexistent. Surely not.¡±


    Yet the silence pressed on, and in that stillness, the finger moved again. This time, Celeste¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She leaned in, her yellow-framed glasses catching the lamplight, her breath hitching.


    ¡°Impossible! What is this bullshit luck?¡± Celeste hissed, a tremor of panic lacing her words. Ava¡¯s body began to shudder, her muscles convulsing as if awakening from a horrific nightmare. A ripple of energy coursed through her, dispelling some of the black mist¡¯s hold and restoring a faint glow to her features.


    Celeste¡¯s confidence wavered, cracks forming in her calm veneer. Acting swiftly, she raised her hand, summoning a surge of her ability. In an instant, the table beneath Ava collapsed under invisible pressure, buckling as if made of brittle clay. Splinters flew as the wood gave way to the crushing force of Celeste¡¯s ability.


    ¡°Die! Die! Be smashed into a puddle!¡± Celeste shrieked, her usually calm demeanor cracking under fury. Her starlit hair shimmered with concentrated energy, and the gravitational force around Ava intensified brutally. The air crackled as unseen pressure built, pressing Ava down as if the entire castle lay upon her shoulders.


    For a heartbeat, it looked as though Celeste¡¯s triumphant roar would be the last sound Ava ever heard. But in that final, desperate moment, Ava¡¯s eyes flashed, and suddenly Celeste froze. Her limbs locked in place, her muscles refusing to obey her will. Gasping in shock, Celeste felt her ability flicker and fail. The crushing weight vanished, leaving Ava free.


    Ava stood up, staggering slightly as if awakened from a trance. The sclera of her eyes had turned pitch-black, a stark contrast to her usual gentle gaze. Black vines of energy snaked along her arms, twisting like living ink beneath her skin. A similar vine-like marking encircled her neck, and her face held a distant, glazed expression, as if her consciousness drifted somewhere beyond the confines of this grim library.


    Celeste¡¯s heart hammered as she struggled against Ava¡¯s mysterious hold, snarling in frustration. ¡°Damn¡­ damn it! Duvet, help!¡± She called to her cat, a desperate edge to her voice.


    Duvet, the once-dainty cat that Celeste petted earlier, now rushed forward, transformed and enormous. Its sleek black fur bristled as it lunged at Ava, fangs bared. Yet Ava, despite her trance-like state, slipped aside with surprising grace, leaving the monstrous cat swiping at empty air.


    With her cat¡¯s intervention, Celeste found herself freed from Ava¡¯s paralysis. She inhaled sharply, relief mingling with fury. ¡°How¡ªhow are you still alive?¡± she demanded, eyes narrowing behind her yellow glasses, her mind racing to understand this turn of events. ¡°How can you still move?¡±


    Ava¡¯s expression remained distant, but her lips curled into a faint, eerie smile. ¡°I wonder,¡± she said softly, her voice oddly detached. ¡°I guess I¡¯m just lucky.¡±


    Celeste¡¯s indignation flared. She refused to believe such a simple excuse. ¡°Lucky?¡± she spat. ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m losing to a newbie king¡¯s candidate. You probably don¡¯t even know how to use any proper class abilities yet!¡± Frustration and resolve mingled in her words.


    Drawing on the black mist in the chamber, Celeste conjured a new armor of midnight hue that encased her legs beneath the robe. Her arms sprouted black gauntlets, their edges gleaming wickedly. A black metal headband appeared around her forehead, and behind her, numerous black hands emerged, each clenching a different weapon¡ªaxes, swords, and spears¡ªlike a deadly crown of limbs. It was a grotesque fusion of classes: the armored presence of a Dark Knight interwoven with the controllable minions of a Monarch. Each hand was a summoned soldier of black mist, impossible to destroy without shattering its hidden core.


    Celeste breathed slowly, centering herself. Her body felt lighter now¡ªshe was in control. With a subtle shift in her gravitational ability, she adjusted her own weight, making herself nearly weightless. Weapon-laden hands hovered around her like a phalanx of deadly satellites, all aimed at Ava.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think you¡¯ve won anything yet,¡± Celeste said, voice icy and composed once more. The faint, star-like glimmers in her cyan hair flared, reflecting her renewed determination. ¡°I¡¯ll show you what it means to face someone who understands their power completely.¡±


    Ava stood quiet, the black vines on her arms pulsing with each heartbeat. Beyond the library¡¯s high shelves, the distant sounds of the party¡¯s struggle against Celeste¡¯s minions echoed faintly. Inside this shadowy heart of knowledge and brutality, two awakened forces now prepared to clash, their destinies twisting like the dark roots creeping along the library floor.


    Duvet, the cat-like creature, rushed to Celeste¡¯s side, its massive form rippling with black mist. Without hesitation, Celeste plunged her hand into the cat¡¯s jaws, her fingers closing around a solid, dark sphere hidden in its throat. The cat¡¯s body trembled and shimmered, its form collapsing into roiling shadows as Celeste withdrew its core¡ªan orb of concentrated black mist.


    For an instant, the cat¡¯s shape destabilized, a swirling, restless darkness. Then, with a subtle flex of Celeste¡¯s will, that darkness contorted and fused itself around the core, reshaping into a large, living blade. The weapon twitched in her hand, its surface undulating like a blade forged from liquid midnight. Even in the dim library light, it gleamed with lethal promise.


    ¡°Let¡¯s play, newbie,¡± Celeste purred, her voice dripping with scorn. Her eyes burned with hatred, all traces of languid amusement gone. The starlit cyan strands of her hair seemed to blaze with new intensity, reflecting the wrath simmering beneath her calm exterior.


    Ava stood across the room, arms still marked by ink-black vines, her sclera a deep, uncanny black. She tried to channel the scant black mist within her blood¡ªhardly more than a trickle, since she¡¯d only just awakened this monstrous power. With trembling concentration, she formed two daggers of black mist, their edges hazy and unstable. She was painfully aware that a king¡¯s candidate depended on blood consumption to fuel their strength. Without that resource, her abilities were stunted, half-formed illusions of what they could be.


    Her paralysis power, too, was limited. She could freeze foes she touched easily enough, but imposing her will from a distance required tremendous mana, mana she simply didn¡¯t have right now. At best, she could infuse her ability into weapons or martial arts techniques to extend her range slightly, but her options were slim. Every strategic angle she considered ended in a disadvantage.


    And then there was Robin Hood¡¯s invisibility, a subtle advantage under normal circumstances. But here, dozens of black hands were hidden among the shelves and rafters, each palm bearing a vigilant eye. Even the faintest footstep would draw their notice. Invisible or not, Ava would be detected the moment she moved¡ªher every motion reported to Celeste.


    She clenched her jaw, acknowledging the grim truth: despite her newfound powers, she was still at a profound disadvantage. Celeste held all the cards¡ªraw experience, a monstrous arsenal of black mist constructs, and a room rigged with watchful sentinels. Ava¡¯s abilities, fledgling and half-formed, paled in comparison.


    Yet, she refused to surrender to despair. The library was silent but for the soft crackle of distant lanterns and the relentless slither of countless black hands. Ava swallowed hard, summoning what courage she had left. If she was going to survive, she would have to outthink Celeste, exploit any weakness, and rely on the slimmest margins of luck.


    Celeste watched her, smiling as if savoring the tension. ¡°Go on,¡± that smile seemed to say. ¡°Make a move.¡±


    Celeste allowed herself a small smile, her cyan hair flickering with star-like sparks as she manipulated gravity with frightening ease. She had just displayed the potency of Collapse, her ability that could multiply a target¡¯s weight to unbearable levels. Now, by inverting her mana through a warlock¡¯s curse, she¡¯d rendered herself nearly weightless, granting her unusual speed and agility. Among Medusa¡¯s elite, Celeste stood as a formidable force with proficiency in all three king¡¯s candidate classes¡ªDark Knight, Warlock, and Monarch¡ªmaking her a fearsome opponent for Ava¡¯s nascent abilities.


    ¡°Let me explain something,¡± Celeste said, voice dripping with a condescending kindness. She raised her living sword, formed from her cat Duvet¡¯s core, and pointed it at Ava. ¡°When a king¡¯s candidate truly wants to kill another, they devour all the black mist in their enemy¡¯s body.¡± Her tongue grazed her lips in a predatory gesture before she lunged forward, weapons spinning in a wicked flourish.


    Ava jerked aside just in time, dodging the flurry of blades that slashed at the air where she¡¯d been standing a heartbeat before. Her heart pounded. Every second counted. She met Celeste¡¯s gaze, forcing a grin that belied her trembling limbs. ¡°You really shouldn¡¯t have told me that,¡± Ava said, voice taut with determination.


    Before Celeste could react, Ava¡¯s sclera-dark eyes narrowed with focus. She poured a burst of mana, painful and draining though it was, into her ability. For a mere second, Ava¡¯s paralyzing power extended beyond her usual range. The effect was fleeting but enough to freeze Celeste mid-attack, limbs locking, hair shimmering to a halt.


    Ava dashed forward, pushing through the agony in her muscles. She swung her weapon, aiming not at Celeste¡¯s core or major limbs, but at one of the black mist hands orbiting around her foe. With a precise slash, she severed a single finger from the hand¡¯s grip. The finger plummeted toward the floor, still dripping with black mist. Without hesitation, and with a grimace of distaste, Ava reached down and consumed it, swallowing the condensed black mist within.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    The effect was immediate and electrifying. Ava¡¯s battered body hummed with renewed energy, the black veins on her arms darkening as she absorbed the stolen essence. The finger¡¯s loss was trivial to Celeste¡¯s forces, and it regenerated almost instantly, but the damage was done, Ava had grown stronger.


    Celeste¡¯s eyes widened in fury as she recovered from her brief paralysis. ¡°You impudent whelp!¡± she hissed, the star-like glimmers in her hair intensifying as she prepared to strike again. Now both women understood the grim stakes of their duel: the devouring of black mist had transformed a contest of strength into a battle over vital resources.


    Meanwhile, outside the sealed room, Noah and the rest of the party had finally dispatched the last of the endless waves of minions, leaving heaps of dissolving black mist where enemies once stood. But as they drew nearer to the door that imprisoned Ava, a new challenger appeared with cruel timing.


    A sudden projectile whistled through the corridor¡ªa spiked ball of black mist and metal, hurtling toward Noah. His instincts screamed, and he dived aside just as the orb expanded like a blooming iron flower of spikes. It skewered the air where he¡¯d been moments before, landing heavily in front of the door. The spikes settled into a lethal barricade as the black mist within the orb bled out, spreading over the doorway and forming a spiked, macabre obstruction.


    Noah rose from his crouch, eyes blazing with hatred as he turned to face the newcomer. This man¡¯s short cyan hair had the same star-like sheen as Celeste¡¯s, reflecting the lantern light in tiny constellations. His eyes were a vivid crimson, and he wore a perfectly tailored tuxedo with dual holsters at his sides. A tall top hat perched atop his head, twitching ever so slightly, as if alive with its own eerie magic.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this,¡± Noah growled, fury rolling off him in waves. ¡°Get out of my way, or I swear I¡¯ll kill you.¡±


    The newcomer, Evander, smirked. His crimson eyes flashed, relishing the challenge. ¡°Try me, brat,¡± he said, voice low and menacing.


    ¡°I¡¯m handling this,¡± Noah said, voice low and steady, his knuckles whitening around his sword¡¯s hilt. ¡°Everyone, save your strength.¡± The lingering echoes of monsters and shattered armor filled the corridor. Before them stood an obstruction of living metal and malevolent intent¡ªcreated by Evander¡¯s warped projectile¡ªyet Noah stepped forward alone, body tensed, heart aflame. Inside that chamber, Ava needed him, and he would break through if he had to tear the castle itself apart.


    Meanwhile, within the enclosed library, the atmosphere was suffocating. Ava gasped, her lungs straining against stale, dust-laden air that tasted of ink and sorrow. She faced Celeste, a seasoned foe who wielded gravity like a sculptor¡¯s chisel. Every second that passed, Celeste tried to crush her under oppressive weight or tear her asunder with dark magic and shifting mist-crafted weapons.


    Ava¡¯s strategy had emerged from desperation. She learned that devouring Celeste¡¯s black mist granted her renewed strength. With each successful paralysis and quick slash¡ªeach stolen fragment of Celeste¡¯s body¡ªAva¡¯s power grew. It was a grisly method, but survival required brutality now. The room¡¯s macabre decor of books, staring hands, and alien starlight in Celeste¡¯s hair served as a grim audience to their struggle.


    Celeste snarled, twisting her fingers in intricate patterns. ¡°Ability: Collapse,¡± she hissed anew. The gravity around Ava intensified, pressing her downward. Yet, this time, Celeste invoked a warlock¡¯s curse, inverting mana to send Ava violently skyward. Ava slammed into the high ceiling, her spine jarring at the impact. With a pained grunt, she found her footing¡ªif it could be called that¡ªon the ceiling¡¯s beams, defying conventional orientation.


    In a flash, Celeste rushed upward, a blur of cyan and star-like motes. If Ava used her long-range paralysis now, she risked plummeting onto the ground below. She hesitated, searching for a window of opportunity. Celeste¡¯s blade, once a cat named Duvet, now mutated into a ravenous mouth of black mist, snapping and snarling.


    Ava gritted her teeth, reshaping her fingers into vine-like spears of black mist. Her sclera was dark, her veins coursing with stolen power. She dodged Celeste¡¯s lunges, weaving between shelves and floating ladders. With each successful strike, she plucked away pieces of Celeste¡¯s body¡ªbits of flesh and mist that she devoured immediately, grimacing but determined. Celeste screamed in fury, trying to maintain form as she sprouted new limbs and weapons from the endless black mist at her disposal.


    ¡°I refuse to lose to you, brat!¡± Celeste shrieked, voice echoing off the cramped shelves. Her living sword¡¯s mouth opened wide, biting deep into Ava¡¯s arm.The black mist of both users intermingled, and Ava cried out, half in pain, half in mocking laughter. Before Celeste could relish her advantage, Ava poured mana into her paralysis ability, channeling it through the sword itself. Celeste¡¯s eyes widened as her limbs locked once more, surprised by Ava¡¯s cunning.


    They began to fall, gravity reasserting its cruel dominion as Celeste¡¯s ability faltered. Hurtling downward, Ava grimaced, making a snap decision. She tore free from the blade¡¯s jaws by ripping off her own arm¡ªan agonizing but calculated move. In mid-air, she flung the severed limb downward. Black mist swirled around the disembodied arm, morphing it into a monstrous spear that embedded itself in the floor below.


    As both combatants descended, Ava twisted her body, using her legs and remaining arm to steer Celeste¡¯s helpless form onto the spear¡¯s waiting tip. The impact was brutal and brilliant, a sickening crunch as the spear impaled them both. Ava, however, crafted the weapon from her own flesh and mist, granting her unnatural control. She easily disengaged from the spike, leaving Celeste skewered. Black vines erupted from the spear, coiling around Celeste¡¯s torso and limbs, sprouting ghostly black flowers that bloomed with malicious grace. The flowers sapped Celeste¡¯s remaining energy, devouring her from the inside out.


    Celeste¡¯s screams faded into a pitiful rasp as her body dissolved into black mist fragments, drawn into Ava¡¯s spear and claimed by Ava¡¯s growing power. Ava staggered back, clutching her wounded shoulder, her mind foggy with pain and new strength. She had won.


    Outside the sealed room, Noah confronted Evander in a hallway strewn with the remnants of prior battles. The air smelled of burnt fabric and iron, and the distant cries of felled monsters echoed through the castle. Lantern light wavered on the old stones, casting flickering silhouettes as these two forces squared off.


    Evander, with cyan hair shimmering like a starry night¡¯s reflection and crimson eyes blazing with fervor, stood poised with a calm malice. He gripped two strange firearms¡ªtwin holsters at his hips¡ªand each time he fired, the bullets crackled with black mist. Every shot was more than a projectile; it held a twisted core of living darkness, ready to morph into chaotic shapes.


    Noah¡¯s draconic instincts kicked into high gear. He could feel the tension in his muscles, the prickle of energy running through his veins, and the primal heat in his chest. Each spiked ball Evander shot hurtled toward him at unnatural angles. But Noah¡¯s sword arm moved with a fluid precision born of rage and desperation. Before the bullets could expand into deadly traps, he slashed them apart mid-flight. His blade sparked with each collision, sending tiny shards of black mist scattering harmlessly to the floor.


    Inside each shattered projectile, he glimpsed a core¡ªslippery and dark, the heart of a monarch¡¯s creation. This realization confirmed Evander¡¯s nature as a monarch-type black mist user, able to shape and reshape his bullets into monstrous forms.


    ¡°I refuse to let you harm my lady,¡± Evander snarled, voice cracking with fanatical devotion. ¡°Without her¡­without her, we¡¯d be nothing.¡± He fired again, and this time the bullets contorted midair. They twisted into fists that slammed at Noah¡¯s guard, became gnashing mouths that snapped hungrily at his wrists, and formed chains that tried to entangle his legs. The corridor became a bizarre menagerie of ephemeral monstrosities, all born from Evander¡¯s will.


    Cyrus, standing guard alongside the rest of their allies, watched Noah struggle through the barrage. ¡°Noah, are you sure you don¡¯t want backup? This is dangerous!¡± he called out, concern bleeding into his normally calm tone.


    Noah tightened his grip, refusing to yield. He would not call for help, not now, not when Ava¡¯s life hung in the balance behind that barricaded door. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± he shouted back, voice firm, cutting through the chaos. He dodged another snapping maw, then sliced upward, cleaving a claw-like bullet in two. He had no time to spare for cautious tactics¡ªhe had to break through, had to rescue Ava.


    Evander smirked, assessing Noah¡¯s desperate heroism. ¡°Ability activate: Pendulum,¡± he whispered, low and threatening. A surge of mana rolled out like a silent wave, enveloping Noah. Instantly, Noah¡¯s movements slowed, as if wading through thick syrup. His sword, once quicksilver in his hands, felt ponderous and heavy. The hallway, once clear in its dangers, now seemed an endless gauntlet of impossibly fast attacks.


    Evander rushed forward with blinding speed, his fists a flurry of motion. With each punch, Noah felt his body bruise. He tried to raise his sword in defense, but the weight of the Pendulum ability pinned his limbs down, turning him into easy prey. Sparks flew as Evander¡¯s blows rained down, sending Noah skidding backward, body scraping against the stone floor.


    ¡°Noah!¡± Cyrus called out, panic edging into his voice. Cyrus lunged forward, determined to intervene, but Evander anticipated this. He activated his ability on Cyrus has he fired another shot, another bullet flung from his gun and expanded into a spiked wall of black mist, blocking Cyrus¡¯s path. The prickling aura of the spikes forced him to halt. The monarch¡¯s cunning turned the battlefield into Evander¡¯s own playground.


    Yet Evander¡¯s ability had a critical flaw. He could only siphon speed from one foe at a time. When Cyrus was forced back, Adam took his turn. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Adam broke into a sprint, making it past before the wall had formed, with that, Evander¡¯s attention was divided.


    No longer pinned by Pendulum¡¯s effect, Noah felt his speed rush back into his limbs like fresh adrenaline. His eyes flared with renewed anger. This time, as Evander turned¡ªjust slightly¡ªto track Adam¡¯s approach, Noah saw his chance. He swung his sword in a savage, upward arc, striking Evander across the torso. Black blood splattered, each droplet sizzling as it hit the ground.


    ¡°Damn you! I won¡¯t let you harm her!¡± Evander roared, voice trembling with rage and desperation. As he stood opposing Noah and Adam, memories surged through his mind like a rushing tide. He recalled the day Medusa found him and Celeste¡ªbarely alive, starving, riddled with disease. They had been nothing more than walking corpses until Medusa¡¯s mercy and kindness had saved them. From that day forward, their lives belonged to her, and Evander would not let anyone threaten the woman who had given them everything.


    Gritting his teeth, Evander reached up and snatched his top hat, a bizarre accessory that concealed deadly secrets. He drew out its core¡ªa pulsating black orb¡ªand retreated a few steps. In the blink of an eye, that core warped, reshaping into a monstrous gatling gun forged of living black mist. Its barrel gleamed ominously in the flickering light, dripping with inky residue. With a guttural cry, Evander unleashed a hail of bullets, each round twisting into new horrors¡ªbarbed chains, snapping jaws, spiked spheres.


    Noah¡¯s eyes narrowed, igniting with draconic fury. He let his sword fall aside, no longer necessary. Scales erupted across his body once more, and as he took a step forward, his hands transformed into formidable claws. He charged into the barrage, swatting aside each bullet as though batting away leaves in a storm. Sparks and droplets of black mist burst around him, his roar muffled by the relentless chatter of Evander¡¯s living firearm.


    Alarmed by Noah¡¯s unstoppable advance, Evander tried to invoke Pendulum again, intending to slow Noah¡¯s movements. But a blur of motion from the side caught his attention¡ªAdam, hurling C¨² Chulainn with terrifying precision. Evander snarled, forced to focus the Pendulum effect on Adam to rob him of speed, stalling the spear¡¯s deadly arcs. But this choice cost him precious moments.


    Before Evander could re-aim, Noah was upon him. The hero¡¯s scaled claws clamped around Evander¡¯s neck like a vise, lifting him effortlessly off his feet. Evander¡¯s eyes widened in terror. He tried to summon more bullets, more tricks, but Noah¡¯s gaze¡ªburning with draconic light¡ªtold him it was too late.


    Noah closed his eyes, concentrating. His ability flared, draining the black mist directly from Evander¡¯s body. Evander gasped, feeling his powers unravel, the mist siphoned away. The black veins across Noah¡¯s own body deepened, absorbing Evander¡¯s strength. In seconds, Evander¡¯s monarch powers vanished, leaving him an ordinary human once more. Without the life-sustaining mist, his frail mortal shell failed him. His struggles ceased, and he died there, his body slumping lifelessly to the floor.


    Noah released Evander, not sparing a glance for the man who had so arrogantly blocked his path. He bolted down the corridor, past the debris and fading enemies, until he reached the library¡¯s threshold. The door, once barricaded, was now battered open by their combined efforts.


    Inside, the air smelled of old paper and spilled ink, tinged with the metallic tang of blood and bitter black mist. Ava sat propped against a battered bookshelf, her clothes torn, her arm missing at the elbow. Yet her eyes met Noah¡¯s with relief and a weary, triumphant smile. Nearby, Celeste¡¯s remains had dissolved into puddles of black ink and scattered fragments of mist.


    ¡°Ava!¡± Noah cried, his voice cracking with emotion as he rushed to her side. He pulled her into a fierce embrace, tears gathering at the corners of his eyes. His draconic transformation faded, the scales receding into smooth flesh as he held her close.


    Ava managed a soft chuckle, her breath hitching. ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± she said quietly. ¡°I can regenerate this arm easily.¡± She demonstrated by reaching toward the black spear formed from her body, absorbing it back into herself. Bone and muscle began to weave anew, flesh stitching together until her arm was whole once more. The process left her pale and trembling, but functional.


    ¡°I was so worried,¡± Noah murmured, his forehead against hers, voice still thick with concern. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t get here sooner.¡±


    Ava shook her head slowly, smiling despite the exhaustion etched into her features. ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± she reassured him, hugging him gently in return. ¡°Normally, I¡¯d enjoy this attention more, but we still have a mission to complete, don¡¯t we?¡± Her tone was light, trying to ease his guilt.


    Noah managed a small, relieved laugh, face warming slightly as he realized their dangerous surroundings. ¡°Yeah,¡± he agreed softly, ¡°you¡¯re probably right.¡±


    As they separated, Ava caught his gaze and, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, leaned in to kiss him. It was brief, delicate¡ªan instant of tenderness stolen in the heart of chaos. Then Ava stood, brushing dust from her clothes, and gave him a confident smirk that belied her injuries.


    Noah blinked, momentarily stunned and blushing softly. But he caught the determination in her eyes, mirroring it in his own. Hand in hand, or side by side, they would continue, pushing deeper into Medusa¡¯s domain. A united front, even in the wake of near tragedy.


    Behind them, the remnants of Celeste and Evander¡¯s ambush faded into silent echoes. The castle still loomed with untold horrors, yet the bond forged by blood, fear, and courage had only grown stronger.

 Chapter 19-Provoke the Sentinel

    A hush fell over the forest as the four companions paused beneath the dense canopy. Twisted tree roots and mossy undergrowth, while rustling leaves and distant bird calls stood in for echoing footsteps. The air was heavy with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves, and faint beams of sunlight filtered through gaps in the foliage, casting long, wavering shadows.


    Markus turned his head slightly, a thoughtful smile tugging at his lips. ¡°I can sense numerous powerful individuals nearby,¡± he said quietly. ¡°If we play our cards right, they could make excellent allies.¡±


    Isaac¡¯s shoulders tensed, his gaze drifting deeper into the forest¡¯s tangled depths. ¡°I recognize one of them,¡± he murmured, voice tight. ¡°Things will be difficult if we meet her. She¡¯ll definitely try to eliminate us.¡±


    Karma glanced over, one brow raised. ¡°Is it Lyra?¡±


    ¡°It is indeed,¡± Isaac confirmed, sighing. ¡°She¡¯s pretty angry with me. It¡¯s all my fault.¡±


    Markus adjusted his stance, boots sinking softly into the fern-laden ground. ¡°You know Lyra? We grew up in the same territory. I¡¯m sure I could reason with her, as long as you didn¡¯t commit some truly unforgivable act.¡±


    Isaac grimaced, his eyes reflecting quiet regret. ¡°I¡¯d rather not take my chances.¡±


    Kenji, leaning against a wide tree trunk, folding his arms over his chest, asked bluntly, ¡°How badly did you screw things up?¡±


    Isaac exhaled, the forest¡¯s silence wrapping around them like a veil. ¡°Very badly,¡± he said, voice barely above a whisper. He glanced at Karma, resolve hardening in his features. ¡°We have no other choice. Karma, bring out the ¡®space whale.¡¯¡±


    Kenji and Markus exchanged baffled looks, speaking in unison, ¡°Space whale?¡± The notion seemed utterly foreign in this shadowed grove, where twisted branches and brush whispered secrets to the breeze.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call it that,¡± Karma sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. ¡°Fine, whatever. Awaken medium-class spatial spirit: Pluto.¡±


    Karma stretched out his hand. The hush of the forest grew even quieter, as if the woodland itself held its breath. Suddenly, the space beside them shimmered. A medium-sized whale appeared, floating a hand¡¯s breadth above the ground, its body swirling with galaxies and distant starscapes, as if a fragment of the cosmos had drifted into this earthly realm. It had four graceful fins and a vast, gaping mouth reminiscent of a black hole, ready to swallow light and matter alike. The soft hum it emitted was like distant cosmic winds passing through ancient treetops.


    The forest¡¯s pale sunlight played over its cosmic skin, highlighting flickering constellations that winked in and out of existence beneath its translucent surface. It circled Karma lazily, star-flecked fins stirring up motes of silvery pollen from the nearby ferns.


    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll be right back¡ªjust give me a moment,¡± Isaac said calmly, stepping into Pluto¡¯s cosmic embrace. The strange whale-like spirit shimmered softly, starlit patterns rippling across its translucent body as it enveloped him. The forest¡¯s murmurs faded to silence outside, while Isaac¡¯s companions exchanged perplexed looks.


    When Isaac emerged moments later, his entire appearance had changed. His once-white hair was now dyed a vivid crimson, streaks of scarlet glinting under the muted forest light. A jester¡¯s mask concealed his features, leaving only the gleam of intent visible behind its eyes. His outfit bore hints of a pirate¡¯s garb¡ªloose-fitting trousers, a tunic with tattered edges, and sleeves rolled up to reveal his forearms. Across those exposed arms, intricate magical circles had been drawn in blood, their lines pulsing with a quiet, baleful energy.


    ¡°This shall be my disguise,¡± Isaac announced, his tone steady behind the mask. ¡°From now on, call me Fyodor.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s stupid,¡± Markus snapped, his voice dry. ¡°Even if you change your appearance, you can¡¯t just alter your ability and fighting style.¡±


    Isaac¡ªFyodor¡ªchuckled, the sound muffled by the jester mask. ¡°But I can. Karma has a high affinity with the spirit realm, allowing him to form contracts with any spirits. As his friend, I enjoy those privileges too.¡± He held up an arm, letting the trees cast shifting shadows on the blood-carved symbols. ¡°Using my blood as a catalyst, I¡¯ll summon demons from Gehenna. I¡¯ll make it seem that demon summoning is my ability. As long as I have blood¡ªand with my power, I¡¯ll never run out¡ªI can sustain these summons.¡±


    Kenji crossed his arms, leaning against a thick oak trunk. ¡°Alright, so why the ridiculous outfit?¡±


    Isaac shrugged, unbothered. ¡°Oh, shut up. Your outfit is no masterpiece either,¡± he retorted, rolling his eyes beneath the mask. He turned and began walking toward the nearby fight without waiting for another quip.


    As the four of them set off, Karma leaned closer to Markus, whispering, ¡°He really hates it when people judge his questionable fashion sense.¡±


    ¡°I heard that,¡± Isaac said, not breaking stride. He cast a mock glare over his shoulder, making the bells on his jester mask jingle softly. The others suppressed smiles. Despite the tension, their small band still managed these sparks of humor.


    Eventually, they emerged into a clearing alive with chaotic motion. Four figures¡ªLyra, June, Mars, and Xander¡ªwere locked in a precarious three-way struggle. Flames flashed and lightning crackled as they tested one another¡¯s mettle. Leaves swirled and scattered under their boots, the forest floor chewed by frantic footwork and errant strikes.


    ¡°Hello, hello everyone!¡± Isaac¡ªFyodor¡ªcalled out, raising a hand in greeting. He made sure his voice carried a confident, cheery lilt as he approached the ring of contenders. ¡°Good to meet you all. I¡¯d like to propose an alliance to hunt down the sentinel.¡±


    All four paused, startled by the new arrivals. The tension thickened as they weighed Fyodor¡¯s words and the presence of his three companions.


    Xander sneered immediately, looking Isaac up and down with a scornful eye. ¡°I have no interest in teaming up with losers,¡± he snapped, launching himself at Isaac with a fist coiled for a brutal punch.


    Before Xander could react, one of his blood-etched magic circles flared, summoning a ghastly demon¡¯s fist from thin air. Sickly green and patchwork in appearance¡ªstitched flesh and mismatched hues¡ªit swung forward, connecting with Xander¡¯s jaw in a dull thud. Xander hit the ground hard, a gasp rippling through the silent witnesses. With a flex of will, Isaac summoned part of that ghoul, a foot, stomping Xander into the dirt, and pinning him there.


    Ghouls are vile, low-class demons condemned to the eternal torment of Gehenna. Once individual souls of the damned, they were twisted into grotesque amalgamations through an unholy cycle of cannibalism, consuming each other in a desperate bid for dominance. Their warped forms are a patchwork of mismatched limbs, jagged teeth, and hollow, glowing eyes, embodying the chaos of their existence. While ghouls are often seen as weak and expendable, they hold a dark potential, by devouring one another, they can ascend, evolving into medium-tier demons or even higher forms, becoming far more dangerous with each twisted transformation.


    ¡°So, care to team up?¡± Isaac asked lightly, adjusting the tilt of his jester mask. Behind him, Kenji and Markus watched in astonishment, while Karma held a careful, neutral smile.


    Suddenly, June¡¯s voice rang out, recognition lighting her face as she spotted Karma. ¡°Hey Karma, remember us? We met earlier! Where¡¯s your friend? Did he get eliminated?¡± She waved excitedly.


    Mars leaned in, whispering to June, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure the masked guy is his friend.¡±


    June shook her head confidently, ¡°Nah, I doubt it. Trust my instincts¡ªthey¡¯re razor-sharp.¡±


    Meanwhile, Lyra studied Isaac with narrowed eyes. ¡°I accept,¡± she said, carefully deliberating each word. ¡°You seem useful enough. I assume you¡¯re a summoner specializing in demons?¡±


    Isaac nodded, ensuring his tone remained even. ¡°Yes indeed. You may call me, Fyodor. My comrades are also quite useful.¡±


    Lyra¡¯s eyes narrowed as the name rang in her ears. It wasn¡¯t just any name¡ªit was the name of the protagonist in the cherished book she and Isaac had adored as children. The book, penned by none other than Sirius Blackwood before his descent into infamy as the world¡¯s Fourth Apocalypse, had been a masterpiece of hope and imagination. Once hailed as a visionary leader, Blackwood had revolutionized the world with his contributions to literature, agriculture, art, and architecture. His words inspired countless generations, and his creations shaped the world¡¯s foundation.


    But time had warped his legacy. His name was now whispered in fear, and his revolutionary brilliance was overshadowed by his fall into madness. Yet, some questioned whether the true villain of that era was not Blackwood himself but the current emperor¡ªthe man who now rules with an iron fist, casting a shadow of oppression across the world.


    For Lyra, the name was a spark of bittersweet nostalgia, tied to her fondest memories.


    Moments later, Lyra, June, and Mars noticed Markus among the group. Their faces brightened, and they rushed over to him. June¡¯s expression softened, remembering old times. ¡°I¡¯m glad we found another familiar face! I tried to locate Shadar and Sera but no luck.¡±


    ¡°With you joining us, this hunt is almost guaranteed,¡± Lyra said, a rare smile tugging at her lips.


    ¡°Oh, you know Markus?¡± Mars asked, curious.


    Lyra nodded warmly. ¡°Yes, we were close childhood friends before he moved away.¡±


    Isaac cleared his throat, injecting a note of urgency back into the conversation. ¡°Ahem, I hate to interrupt this charming reunion, but we should get started, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°We still need to wait for the sentinel to come to us,¡± Lyra pointed out, folding her arms calmly.


    ¡°Nah, we don¡¯t have to wait,¡± Isaac said, one of his magic circles beginning to glow faintly. He summoned a low-class demon in the shape of a fleshy megaphone. Its surface squirmed and pulsed, and a wet, organic hum filled the forest.


    Handing the grotesque, fleshy megaphone to Karma, Isaac¡¯s eyes gleamed mischievously behind his jester mask. ¡°Provocation is your specialty, isn¡¯t it?¡± he said, his voice laced with a wicked grin. ¡°Take it away.¡±Stolen novel; please report.


    Karma adjusted the pulsating megaphone in his hands, its organic surface writhing slightly, emitting a low hum. Clearing his throat theatrically, he began. ¡°Ahem, testing, one two, one two. Can everyone hear me?¡±


    The sound echoed unnaturally, reverberating across the forest. Every remaining exam taker froze, glancing nervously in the direction of the voice. Even the sentinel, who had been prowling through the shadows, paused mid-step, his sharp, predatory gaze narrowing in interest.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll just assume you all can hear me,¡± Karma continued, his tone shifting to a mocking drawl. ¡°So anyway¡­ I just want to say¡ªcan that bitch-ass, limp-dick excuse for a sentinel hurry the hell up and get over here already?¡±


    A wave of horrified silence rippled through the forest as his words reached everyone¡¯s ears. Students exchanged alarmed glances, some instinctively crouching lower into their hiding spots, as if the sentinel¡¯s wrath might find them by association.


    ¡°Karma, what the hell are you doing?¡± Kenji hissed, wide-eyed.


    ¡°Honestly,¡± Karma continued, ignoring him, ¡°this entire exam has been a boring shit-show. I¡¯ve already eliminated more than enough of these pathetic weaklings to pass this lame excuse of a test. So tell me, Sentinel¡ªare you just sitting on your ass the whole time? Or are you actually too scared to face me?¡±


    June turned to the group, panic etched on her face. ¡°Um, are we sure this is a good idea?¡±


    Mars, already pacing, looked ready to bolt. ¡°This isn¡¯t just a bad idea¡ªit¡¯s suicide.¡±


    Karma, undeterred, raised the megaphone once more. ¡°Oh, and look who I have with me! The one and only Kenji¡ªthe only guy to ever escape you. Come on, buddy, say something! Rub it in his face!¡±


    Karma shoved the megaphone toward Kenji, who recoiled like it was a venomous snake. ¡°Wh-what? Wait, no¡ªI don¡¯t know what to say! Don¡¯t give it to me!¡± In his panic, Kenji threw the squirming device into the air.


    Mars lunged forward, trying to catch it. ¡°Someone stop him before he pisses off the sentinel anymore!¡±


    Before Mars could reach it, a ghoul¡¯s arm burst forth, snatching the megaphone midair and handing it back to Isaac. Isaac lifted it casually to his masked face, his voice calm but menacing. ¡°Hey, old man. I¡¯m going to cave your skull in, so do me a favor¡ªdon¡¯t keep me waiting.¡±


    As the last word echoed, Isaac¡¯s hand clenched, crushing the megaphone. The grotesque device let out a low groan before dissolving into a pool of blood, tendrils curling upward like smoke.


    ¡°You two are insane!¡± Markus shouted, exasperated, pinching the bridge of his nose. ¡°This is probably the worst decision I¡¯ve ever been a part of.¡±


    ¡°Probably?¡± Karma retorted, incredulous. ¡°It¡¯s definitely the worst.¡±


    Isaac shrugged, nonchalantly, the jagged markings of his blood magic faintly glowing as he turned to Markus. ¡°It¡¯s because we¡¯re strong. Admit it¡ªyou¡¯d be bored without us.¡±


    Markus glared at him, letting out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Fyodor, Karma¡­ why did I ever team up with you two?¡±


    ¡°Because deep down, you love us,¡± Karma teased, flashing a playful grin. ¡°And let¡¯s be honest¡ªwe¡¯re your best shot at surviving this.¡±


    Various groups of students heard the bold provocation echoing through the forest. Some were intrigued, while others froze in fear.


    ¡°Oh my, how delightfully vulgar,¡± Charlotte said, her soft voice carrying a faint tone of amusement. Her long white hair shimmered faintly under the sunlight filtering through the dense canopy. ¡°Though, I must admit, I¡¯m glad others share our enthusiasm for hunting that man.¡±


    Shadar grinned, his crimson eyes gleaming with mischief. ¡°Indeed. Let¡¯s go greet these beautiful fools. Maybe we¡¯ll join forces¡ªif only to see what kind of lunatics have this much courage.¡±


    Alice, ever the voice of reason, frowned deeply. ¡°Sir, this seems like an exceptionally reckless idea. They¡¯ve just poked the most dangerous creature in this forest.¡±


    Shadar shrugged with an easy laugh. ¡°So was deciding to hunt the sentinel in the first place, and yet here we are.¡±


    Charlotte stretched her wings lazily, a playful smile curling her lips. ¡°I agree. If nothing else, it should be entertaining. Let¡¯s see if these bold challengers can actually live up to their words.¡±


    The trio began making their way toward the source of the commotion, the light-hearted banter masking the growing tension in the air.


    Elsewhere, Deon and Cylene were having a much different reaction to the announcement. The amplified voice rang painfully in Cylene¡¯s sensitive ears, causing her to clutch her head in discomfort.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Deon asked, his usually composed expression faltering with concern. ¡°Your hearing¡­ it must be overwhelming.¡±


    Cylene forced a nervous laugh, straightening, despite the lingering echo reverberating in her skull. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine. Though hearing those words ringing so loudly isn¡¯t exactly my favorite experience.¡±


    Deon chuckled softly. ¡°Should we assist those idiots? They¡¯re practically begging for a fight.¡±


    Cylene tilted her head thoughtfully, her orange eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°They can handle themselves¡ªfor now. If they¡¯re eliminated, the exam will likely end anyway.¡±


    Deon leaned back against a tree, his posture relaxed but his mind racing. ¡°True. Still, I think they¡¯ve got a shot. Something about them screams ¡®chaotic brilliance.¡¯¡±


    Cylene gave him a curious look. ¡°You¡¯re oddly optimistic about this.¡±


    Deon smiled faintly, his Spear Lord composure unshaken. ¡°Chaos attracts chaos. I¡¯m excited to see how this will end.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the observation room where the professors monitored the exam, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of amusement and surprise.


    ¡°That¡¯s insane,¡± Fraser said, leaning forward in his chair, barely containing his laughter. ¡°Do you think they have some master plan, or are they just suicidally confident?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯d better have a plan,¡± Professor Jupiter replied, shaking his head. ¡°After Akira¡¯s son provoked the sentinel earlier, I doubt he¡¯s going to hold back now.¡±


    Akira, sipping his coffee leisurely, smirked. ¡°My son was the strongest participant. If he couldn¡¯t defeat the sentinel, these kids don¡¯t stand a chance.¡±


    Headmaster Ashe, ever calm and collected, set his teacup down with a small smile. ¡°You underestimate them, Doctor. I have a feeling this group might surprise us.¡±


    Akira raised an eyebrow, his expression skeptical. ¡°I¡¯ll admit, that Isaac boy is intriguing, but I wouldn¡¯t bet on him pulling through.¡±


    Headmaster Ashe¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Speaking of bets¡­ Shall we, Doctor?¡±


    Akira sighed, exasperation clear on his face. ¡°No. The last time I bet with you, I ended up working overtime without pay for a year.¡±


    ¡°Only a month this time,¡± Ashe teased, his eyes gleaming with humor. ¡°But very well¡ªI¡¯ll wait to see if I¡¯m proven right.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the forest, the rest of the students, apart from Isaac and Karma, stared in stunned disbelief.


    ¡°You know, Dad¡¯s ability is literally called Provoker, but you might just give him a run for his money,¡± June said with a nervous laugh.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯d actually pay to see who¡¯s better at getting under someone¡¯s skin¡ªthis psycho or Dad,¡± Mars added, crossing his arms as he watched Karma smugly bask in the chaos he¡¯d unleashed.


    Lyra, however, had her eyes fixed firmly on Isaac. ¡°So, Isaac, what¡¯s your plan?¡± she asked, her tone cool but sharp.


    Isaac froze, his posture stiffening. ¡°Isaac? When did you figure it out?¡± he asked, trying to feign ignorance.


    Lyra rolled her eyes, her lips curling into a knowing smirk. ¡°Let¡¯s see, your disguise is garbage. You didn¡¯t even bother to hide your horns. Your fighting style still revolves around blood manipulation. And, oh, you used the name of our favorite book character from when we were kids.¡± Her golden gaze narrowed, piercing through him like a blade.


    Isaac sighed, running a hand through his crimson-dyed hair. ¡°Bring out the space whale,¡± he muttered, defeated.


    ¡°Space whale?¡± June and Mars said in unison, their eyebrows raised in confusion.


    Karma sighed dramatically. ¡°It¡¯s Pluto. Not space whale,¡± he grumbled as he resummoned the medium-class spatial spirit.


    Isaac disappeared momentarily into Pluto¡¯s swirling galactic body and reemerged moments later, dressed in his normal clothing but keeping the magic symbols etched in blood. His head hung slightly as if disappointed in himself for thinking the disguise would fool anyone.


    ¡°Told you it was him,¡± Mars whispered to June with a sly grin.


    Before Isaac could respond, Lyra¡¯s hand snapped up, her draconic scales shimmering faintly as she delivered a resounding slap across his face. The sharp crack of impact echoed through the clearing, leaving everyone stunned into silence.


    ¡°That¡¯s for being a stupid, stubborn jerk!¡± Lyra shouted, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and emotion. ¡°Now, when this exam is done, you¡¯re going to tell me everything. Got it?¡±


    Isaac sighed, rubbing his cheek where her scaled hand had left a faint mark. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll tell you. Everything.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Lyra said, her expression softening, though her hands still trembled. Before anyone could process what was happening, she grabbed him by the collar and kissed him, swift and sure. As she pulled back, her eyes glistened with unshed tears. ¡°And that¡¯s because I¡¯m glad you¡¯re still alive, you idiot. I missed you. Don¡¯t push me away again.¡±


    The entire group froze, jaws dropping in unison as they stared at the scene before them. Even Karma, who usually had a witty comment for everything, was briefly speechless.


    ¡°Well,¡± Isaac said awkwardly, his cheeks blazing red as he struggled to regain his composure, ¡°ahem, anyway, we should probably focus on the upcoming battle.¡±


    ¡°Smooth, Romeo,¡± Karma muttered, shaking his head.


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Isaac grumbled, turning away to hide his embarrassment, though the faintest smile crept onto his lips.


    As the group prepared for the battle ahead, Lyra stepped forward, her gaze steady but determined. ¡°Before we face this monster, we should go over everyone¡¯s names, abilities, and class roles, so we can coordinate effectively,¡± she suggested.


    The group nodded, a tense silence hanging in the air.


    Isaac stepped up first, his eyes sharp beneath his horns. ¡°My name is Isaac. My ability is called River of Styx. It allows me to have endless blood and manipulate it freely. I can heal myself and others and have a few extra tricks that I¡¯ll show during the fight if necessary. My class is Hell Caller, which combines the traits of a Berserker and a Summoner.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Karma,¡± the masked man said smoothly, leaning on his bow. ¡°I specialize in fire spirits but can summon others when needed. I¡¯ll act as a Curseweaver, it''s the multi-class of Summoner and Debuffer. My ability is a secret for now, but let¡¯s just say it¡¯s powerful enough to debuff our enemies and buff all of you.¡±


    Kenji adjusted his gauntlets, smirking. ¡°I¡¯m Kenji Metallica. I¡¯ve got two abilities: Forgery, which lets me recreate any item I¡¯ve seen before, and Enchantment, which allows me to apply buffs to myself and allies. I¡¯m the tank. Keep close, and I¡¯ll keep you alive.¡±


    Lyra smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯m Lyra Tiamat. My ability, Heavenly Rain, lets me summon lightning to strike down enemies. I¡¯ll be working as a ranger.¡±


    Markus crossed his arms, his crimson gaze unwavering. ¡°Markus Lovecraft. My ability is Compass. I can manipulate the direction of objects, making me a master of precision. I¡¯ll act as a Deathshroud, a hybrid Assassin-Debuffer class.¡±


    June raised her hand cheerfully, her phoenix-like wings shimmering faintly. ¡°I¡¯m June Jupiter! I don¡¯t have an ability per se, but as a descendant of the Phoenix, my feathers can heal or unleash fiery destruction. I¡¯ll be your healer for this battle.¡±


    Mars smiled at June¡¯s enthusiasm before speaking. ¡°I¡¯m Mars Jupiter. My ability is Masterchef. It lets me use souls to create weapons, I specialize in close-range combat. I¡¯m a Berserker.¡±


    Xander leaned against a nearby tree, glaring at the group. ¡°Ugh¡­ fine, whatever. Name¡¯s Xander. My ability is a Self-Made Future. The more I believe I can do something, the stronger and more skilled I become. I¡¯m a Berserker. And screw all of you.¡±


    Adam Willow stepped forward, his spear gleaming faintly in the dim light. ¡°I¡¯m Adam Willow. My ability is Trumpeter. I summon the Grim Reaper to fight alongside me, though you won¡¯t be able to see him. My role is Vanguard, a mix of Ranger and Tank.¡±


    The group exchanged glances, a mix of tension and determination radiating between them.


    But before anyone could strategize further, the shadows shifted unnaturally, the air growing heavy with an oppressive presence. Slowly, the Sentinel stepped out, his towering form radiating menace. His black armor gleamed in the dim light, his spear twisting slightly as if preparing for bloodshed.


    Every muscle in the group tensed. The Sentinel had found them.


    A cold chill swept through the clearing as they faced the towering figure of death itself.


    ¡°Prepare yourselves,¡± Adam said grimly, stepping forward. ¡°I won¡¯t go easy, especially after all of your trash-talking.¡±

 Chapter 20-Famine

    ¡°You know,¡± Professor Willow said, his voice echoing through the forest clearing, ¡°I say I¡¯m a Vanguard, but to be honest, the class system doesn¡¯t really bind me. I can fill any role I damn well please.¡± He rested a hand on the long spear by his side, eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°Need me as a Berserker? I¡¯ll crush you in close combat. Need a Tank? Nothing breaks my guard. I can throw spears quicker and deadlier than any Ranger¡¯s arrows. Assassination? Child¡¯s play, I¡¯ve silenced mafia bosses without them even knowing who ended them. And if I really wanted, I could Summon, Buff, and Debuff just as well as anyone else. The only thing I can¡¯t do is heal¡­ so don¡¯t expect a patch-up after I beat you into the ground.¡±


    A hush fell over the group, each member absorbing the cocky declaration. Overhead, sunlight wove through the canopy, catching motes of dust and dappled leaves. In that filtered light, the professor¡¯s armor glinted ominously, like a steel promise of violence.


    Isaac was the first to act, unwilling to let Willow¡¯s braggadocio go unchallenged. The blood-etched magic circles on his arms flashed with crimson energy, and a swarm of ghoul hands burst into existence around him. Each gnarled, patchwork limb lashed out at Willow with frenzied force.


    Willow¡¯s smile deepened, his spear at the ready. He watched, almost languidly, as the ghoul hands swarmed. Then in a single sweep of his weapon, he shredded them, dark fingers dissolving mid-air into roiling wisps of blood. ¡°Is that all?¡± he murmured, feigning disappointment.


    His nonchalance was infuriating. The others took their turns, testing him with quick slashes and bursts of power. Lyra launched arcs of lightning, Karma conjured a swirling mass of fire spirits, but Willow simply parried and sidestepped with fluid ease. He barely moved his feet, batting aside each assault, almost bored.


    ¡°Guess I should warm up too,¡± Willow finally remarked, settling into a more aggressive stance. A predatory gleam shone in his eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s make this more interesting. Ability activate¡ªTrumpeter.¡±


    In an instant, a glimmering golden trumpet materialized in his hand. He lifted it to his lips, yet no one could hear a single note. Instead, a sudden pressure seemed to crush the surrounding air, and a dull ringing filled their ears, enough to make them hiss in pain as faint droplets of blood trickled from some of their eardrums.


    ¡°Awaken, Famine,¡± Willow intoned, his voice echoing unnaturally despite the quiet.


    A wave of invisible force swept across the clearing. Only Isaac, focusing his demonic eye, could see the monstrosity that materialized behind Willow. The thing looked like a half-starved corpse granted wretched life, its skin a sickly green clinging tight to its bones, fungal growths sprouting from its sunken skull. It wore a tattered cloak that dripped with pestilential ooze instead of fabric. Where legs should have been, a serpentine tail of skeletal bones trailed behind it, scraping the dirt.


    Eyes empty and hollow, the creature cradled a basket of rotten apples in clawed, black-nailed fingers. A rancid green vapor seeped from its maw, the stench of decay curling in the air. As Willow finished the summoning, the monstrous figure drifted forward like a herald of plague.


    A chill shot down Isaac¡¯s spine. Even though only he could see it, everyone felt the suffocating aura that Famine exuded, an oppressive dread that suggested an ancient hunger, bound in service to Professor Willow¡¯s command.


    Willow lowered his phantom trumpet, the corners of his mouth curled into a confident smirk. ¡°Now,¡± he said, scanning their tense faces, ¡°let¡¯s see if you¡¯re worth all that trash-talk.¡±


    Famine hissed softly, lifting a basket of decaying apples, each one mottled with sickly green veins. One by one, it crushed the fruit between its bony claws, the rotten pulp melding into a viscous, black liquid. With eerie grace, Famine hurled glob after glob of the liquefied apples at the gathered students.


    No one, not even Isaac with his demonic eye, could fully evade the barrage. The sticky black paste clung to clothes and flesh, burning with a searing, acidic sting. Their lungs felt tight as soon as it touched them, breathing became a labored task.


    Willow¡¯s eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he surveyed their discomfort. ¡°I¡¯ll be generous enough to explain,¡± he said, voice carrying over the crackle of distant fire and the thunder of clashing steel. ¡°Any physical activity you try will consume more of your stamina, and using your abilities will drain extra mana. Consider it a parting gift from Famine.¡±


    Before Isaac could respond, Willow lunged with his crimson-tipped spear. The blade slashed at Isaac¡¯s torso, yet it stopped short of a fatal blow, as though weakened. Willow frowned, exerting a sudden burst of force that cleaved off Isaac¡¯s arm, sending droplets of blood spraying across the nearby ferns, and then drove a brutal kick into Isaac¡¯s face.


    Isaac staggered backward, pain roaring through his senses. With a ragged gasp, he summoned a ghoul to snatch his severed arm, pressing it back against his shoulder. Tendrils of regenerating blood spliced the limb into place, leaving him panting but whole once more.


    ¡°Keep your ability up,¡± Isaac hissed through clenched teeth, cutting him off. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when. Until then, use it on everyone.¡± He made sure not to name Karma outright, preserving some semblance of secrecy.


    Not far away, Markus drew in a shaky breath, his lungs still struggling under Famine¡¯s curse, and thrust out his regalia, conjuring threads that snaked around Willow¡¯s spear arm. He tried to bind Willow in place, but the sluggishness in his limbs sapped his strength. Either Famine¡¯s dark power or Willow¡¯s cunning left him feeling weaker than he expected.


    Meanwhile, Karma hung back, weaving a subtle spell of his own. His eyes flicked to each skirmish, carefully sapping the force behind attacks. Stockpile, his ability, allowed him to siphon power from the battlefield, weakening both friend and foe so that he could later amplify someone¡¯s strike at a critical moment.


    Willow parried Markus¡¯s binding threads, rolling his shoulders in mild annoyance. ¡°So there¡¯s a debuffer among you. How¡­ inconvenient.¡± His scowl deepened as Xander charged in, fist cocked for a punishing blow. Karma had deliberately spared Xander from his Stockpile effect, letting the Berserker¡¯s unbridled will remain intact.


    Xander¡¯s gauntlet slammed into Willow¡¯s chest, the impact echoed with a dull thud. Willow staggered back a step, genuine surprise flashing in his eyes. Before he could counterattack, Kenji flung a newly forged shield toward Xander, glimmering with protective enchantments. Xander, never one to show gratitude, grunted brusquely, ¡°Thanks¡­ bastard,¡± as he used it to block Willow¡¯s retaliatory strike.


    High above them, Adam Willow leapt into the air, seizing strands of his hair to fashion them into spears. Each twisted spear whirled in a deadly arc toward the group. Mars and Kenji combined their abilities, Mars shaping souls into ephemeral weapons, Kenji forging replicas from memory, to meet the onslaught midair. Sparks flew as conjured blades collided with Willow¡¯s spines, shards of metal and mist scattering across the forest floor.


    Observing this furious exchange, June spread her phoenix wings, ignoring the painful curse draining her strength. She channeled the warming flames of rebirth, radiating a gentle heat that began to burn away the black paste covering her allies. As the curse lifted from their skin, she heard them gasp in renewed relief.


    ¡°Good work, June,¡± Mars called out, summoning a massive greatsword of soul-forged steel and diving at Willow, the curse¡¯s malaise mostly gone from his veins.


    Willow parried with smooth efficiency, stepping away to let Famine reassert its curse. The invisible specter loomed behind him, preparing to fling more of its rotten apple mixture. Willow¡¯s expression was tinged with smug calculation¡ªhe was content to let June waste her energy on purifying curses rather than saving it for healing. After all, in a drawn-out fight, stamina and mana were often the deciding factors.


    Lyra stood at the edge of the chaotic fray, heart pounding as she readied her final, decisive move. All around her, the forest crackled with tension. Spears clashed against enchanted shields, lightning spat across the canopy, and the oppressive aura of Famine¡¯s curse pressed on the group like a physical weight.


    Yet Lyra¡¯s focus never wavered. She clenched her teeth, muscles coiled, and quietly channeled the roiling storm in the sky above. Flickers of electricity danced along her arms, crackling with unspent power. She was waiting¡ªwatching for the perfect opening.


    Professor Willow, high above, lunged into the air again, his hair-turned-spears swirling around him in a whirling dervish of deadly intent. June, realizing Lyra¡¯s imminent plan, closed her eyes and summoned every ounce of her phoenix-based healing flame. With a burst of soothing warmth, she purged the curse clinging to Lyra¡¯s body, freeing her from Famine¡¯s draining grasp.


    That was all Lyra needed.


    ¡°Get ready,¡± Isaac commanded, his voice ringing out through the clearing. ¡°Release the stockpile!¡±


    Nearby, Karma nodded. He exhaled and opened his hands, letting out the pent-up power he had meticulously siphoned from both friend and foe. Energy rippled outward¡ªa pulse of raw might intensifying the swirl of thunderclouds overhead. A violent wind whipped through the forest, sending leaves spinning into the gloom, as the heavens rumbled in response.


    A furious storm began to coil, converging with pinpoint accuracy around the airborne Willow. The sky flickered between shades of purple and white, each peal of thunder reverberating through the ancient oaks. Lyra¡¯s eyes burned with a fierce determination as she let the power of the storm sink into her very being. Her draconic heritage awakened in a flash of brilliance, iridescent scales rippled across her arms and legs, and her horns elongated into elegant spirals. Azure sparks crackled around her, making the air taste like ozone and salt, as if the sea itself had taken form in her veins.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    The wind howled, the ground trembled. Lyra raised her hand skyward, her voice thunderous as it cut through the tumult,


    ¡°Trump Card¡ªSkyfall!¡±


    A monstrous bolt of lightning, surging with every color of the rainbow, tore from the storm¡¯s heart. Cracks of pastel lightning branched outward, each branching fork glimmering with the combined energies of her dragon form, Karma¡¯s Stockpile, and June¡¯s healing spark. In that single moment, the storm¡¯s wrath manifested as a cosmic hammer, descending upon Willow with a godlike force.


    It struck him dead-on, bathing the sky in blinding light. The impact detonated in a cacophony that drowned out every other sound, the roar of thunder so deafening that it pressed on the chest and rattled the teeth. As the flash subsided, Willow plummeted from the heavens, trailing smoke, his spears dissolving mid-air, snuffed out by the sheer magnitude of the blast.


    For a breathless second, nobody moved. Willow¡¯s body crashed into the leaf-strewn earth with a dull thud, skidding a few feet before coming to a stop. His black armor was scorched, smoking tendrils rising from the molten edges of metal. The mighty Sentinel¡ªthis fearsome professor who seemed invincible¡ªlay sprawled, struggling to push himself upright, shock plain on his usually stoic features.


    Around them, the forest quieted to a stunned hush. June¡¯s wings fluttered gently, sending faint embers dancing, while Karma slowly lowered his hands, the last of his Stockpile drifting away like a fading echo. Isaac, still grimacing in pain from Famine¡¯s curse, tried to catch his breath, a glint of triumph in his eyes as he steadied himself.


    Lyra lowered her arm, the last traces of dragon-scale flickering off her body. She swallowed, her breath coming in ragged gasps, adrenaline still surging. A small, satisfied smile curved her lips.


    She had done it, they had done it. Willow was down, at least for now, and the forest, for all its shadows and terrors, momentarily bowed to the power of their alliance.


    A hush fell as smoke curled off Professor Willow¡¯s scorched armor. Even with his chest heaving, he let out a wild, throaty laugh, one that sent a chill through the battered students. ¡°Holy fuck, that was strong,¡± he wheezed, his smoldering eyes filled with twisted amusement. ¡°I¡¯m not sure how Leonardo or that newcomer Mr. E would handle that, but it¡¯d have easily roasted Fraser. Once again, it seems I was a fool for holding back.¡±


    Nearby, Lyra gulped, her breath ragged from unleashing her trump card. Sweat trickled down her brow; she had poured so much into that lightning strike, and yet, here was Willow¡ªstill upright, cackling in near-delirious glee. The rest of the group shared her disbelief, their expressions shadowed by exhaustion and the eerie glow of the lingering storm.


    Meanwhile, in the Headmaster¡¯s Office, the professors were enveloped in an awestruck silence. All eyes were locked on the floating screen showing the forest battlefield.


    ¡°He¡¯s still holding back,¡± Fraser muttered, knuckles whitening as he gripped the back of a chair. ¡°Good God, how strong is he?¡±


    Headmaster Ashe sipped his tea with calm poise, though the faint tremor in his free hand betrayed his excitement. ¡°Adam is a pure monster. He hasn¡¯t even summoned all four of his apocalypses, nor tapped into his black mist abilities.¡± Ashe¡¯s voice carried the barest hint of reverent delight. ¡°I¡¯d love to see if, at full power, he could challenge you, Doctor.¡±


    Dr. Sanguine, seated leisurely across from them, waved the idea away with a dismissive hand. ¡°Tch. I left him in shambles our first time around. Sure, he didn¡¯t use all of his summons, but I doubt the outcome would change now.¡±


    Professor Jupiter folded his arms, his gaze unwavering on the scene. ¡°It still baffles me how Deon replaced the Spear Lord while we have a monster like Willow wandering around.¡±


    Each professor remained on the edge of their seat, drawn into the lethal dance below.


    In the forest clearing, Adam Willow rolled his neck, charred armor creaking ominously. Smoke drifted around him in lazy tendrils, evidence of Lyra¡¯s scorching thunderbolt. Yet even in his singed state, there was no trace of surrender¡ªonly excitement.


    ¡°Let me share something with you,¡± Willow said, voice alive with a perilous gleam. ¡°My regalias, fused as they are, grant my spears certain special properties. I can form a spear out of anything, and once thrown, it¡¯ll always hit its target, punching through any defense. So unless you can parry or conjure some special trick like Kenji has, you¡¯re as good as dead.¡± A small smirk tugged at his burned lips. ¡°Remember that. I¡¯m done playing around.¡±


    Before anyone could respond, Willow reached behind him, his gloved hand clasping around the writhing spine of Famine. The invisible specter let out a tortured scream that ricocheted through the clearing. A collective shudder rippled through the students¡¯ ranks as Famine, now forced into view, was revealed to be a grotesque abomination of bone and rot, its greenish skin clinging to emaciated limbs. Drops of decaying liquid splashed across the grass, where they sizzled and withered any plant life unlucky enough to catch them.


    Realizing its fate, Famine dropped its rotten apples, batting them away with frantic urgency to avoid injuring Willow. In agonized protest, it shrank and contorted, its body dissolving into a spear¡¯s shape. A hissing swirl of greenish-mist coiled around the forming weapon, culminating in a gruesome length of bone, most likely a spine, tipped with a broken-jawed skull. The eye sockets glowed faintly, and a menacing spearhead jutted from the ruined cranium.


    Professor Willow let out a soft chuckle as he hefted the macabre weapon, giving it a lazy twirl as though testing its balance. Each slow spin exuded a sickening miasma, leaving the students faintly dizzy.


    ¡°Time to see if that magnificent strike you did was your last hurrah,¡± Willow murmured, amusement dancing in his smoldering gaze. ¡°Because I promise you¡ªthis next move won¡¯t be so gentle.¡±


    A raspy croak sounded from the transformed spear in Willow¡¯s hands¡ªa black apple, slick with foul-smelling residue, emerged from the gaping throat of the skull embedded in the spear¡¯s tip. Willow pierced the apple with the spearhead, the crimson metal coating it in glistening, inky sludge. A malignant aura pulsed from the weapon, coiling through the forest air like a venomous serpent.


    He sprang toward Mars with uncanny speed. Mars barely had time to raise his weapon before Willow¡¯s spear cut a jagged line across his chest. A burst of foul poison seared into Mars¡¯ veins, eliciting a raw scream of agony. Black markings spread like spiderweb cracks over his face, throbbing with each labored breath.


    ¡°June can cleanse my curses, Kenji can block my blows,¡± Willow muttered under his breath, taking measure of his opponents. ¡°They both need to be removed first.¡±


    ¡°Mars!¡± June cried out. Without hesitation, she darted forward, wings aflutter with phoenix fire. Her wings glowed brightly as she channeled healing energy, ready to purge the festering curse.


    Intent on preventing June¡¯s success, Willow lunged once again¡ªbut Isaac cut him off, intercepting with a vicious slash that forced Willow to shift his stance. ¡°Mid-class demon, Possessed Weapon!¡± Isaac roared. A large bident materialized from the swirling magic symbol, its wicked prongs glinting with unholy energy. With a deft command, Isaac hurled the bident at Willow, followed by a rapid volley of identical conjured weapons streaking through the air.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± June breathed, taking advantage of Isaac¡¯s cover to focus on purifying the curse. Her phoenix flames washed over Mars, banishing the black markings little by little.


    ¡°N-no problem,¡± Isaac stammered, flustered yet resolute. ¡°I have to keep our healer safe.¡±


    Sensing an opportunity, Xander and Markus rushed in on Willow. In a blur of motion, Willow vaulted backward, hurling his spear upwards. Markus¡¯ threads ripped into him, but Willow¡¯s armor and deadly grace spared him any crippling blow. In a flash, Willow snatched Xander¡¯s head in a crushing grip. He slammed Xander against a massive oak with such force that the trunk groaned and splintered on impact. Before the Berserker could even cry out, he vanished in a swirl of teleportation magic, instantly ejected from the exam. The tree collapsed in a storm of leaves and creaking wood, standing as a testament to Willow¡¯s ruthless strength.


    The spear Willow had hurled into the air spun like a hungry predator, its jagged skull-tip throbbing with malevolent energy as it locked onto Markus. At the last second, Markus invoked his Compass ability to redirect the spear¡¯s deadly trajectory. Though he narrowly avoided being skewered, the blade still slashed his cheek, leaving him gritting his teeth in agony. Black markings crept across his skin as Famine¡¯s curse dug its claws into him. From across the clearing, June, still tending to Mars, could only watch in dismay.


    With his weapon recovered, Willow closed in on Markus, spear raised for a killing blow. But the professor had overlooked one crucial detail. Though descended from the Primordial Madness, Lovecraft, through his mother¡¯s lineage, Markus¡¯s father¡¯s bloodline connected him to Randall Ashborn, the world¡¯s Second Apocalypse¡ªa legacy granting him near-immunity to curses and corruption after the initial shock. Now that his body had adjusted to the pain, he was free to fight.


    ¡°Hey, old man,¡± Markus called out, voice echoing with grim determination as he clutched the golden ring at his neck. ¡°I summon you in body alone¡ªgrant me your power, but keep your knowledge. I want to fight as myself. Soul Release!¡±


    The air instantly plummeted into biting cold, frost spiderwebbing across the ground. Trees cracked and splintered under the sudden chill, their branches glazed in shimmering ice. Markus¡¯s tentacle-like hair turned snow-white, each strand moving with alien grace, and his sclera blackened to a terrifying pitch. A pair of black angelic wings burst from his back, feathers edged with lethal shards of ice. The ring fused into his skin in a flash of eerie light, and from the swirling gusts of frozen air, Markus summoned a massive sword of glacial ice. Ancient runes glowed across its surface, each pulse radiating raw, elemental power.


    ¡°This man can¡¯t be caught off-guard,¡± Markus growled, hefting the sword, ¡°and I can¡¯t safely redirect his attacks. So I¡¯ll act as a Berserker¡ªno mercy!¡±


    He lunged at Willow with a snarl, ice crystals trailing in his wake. But Willow¡¯s attention had already shifted. In a blur of motion, he spat another black apple from the spear¡¯s skull. It shot toward Markus, who twisted away to dodge. Willow used that momentary distraction to hurl his spear straight at Kenji with breathtaking speed.


    Kenji raised his shield, newly enchanted by his own Enchantment ability, prepared to meet the attack. Yet Willow performed an unexpected twist of his regalia, warping Kenji¡¯s shield into a spear. Turning an enemy¡¯s shield into a potent weapon normally might prove disadvantageous to him¡ªbut for Kenji, who desperately needed its protection, this sabotage spelled doom. With no shield to block the spear¡¯s lethal thrust, Kenji vanished in a burst of mana, back to the gymnasium¡ªeliminated from the exam.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± Isaac hissed, biting hard on his fingernail as frustration gnawed at him. ¡°I could stand losing Xander, but Kenji¡¯s defense was crucial. We needed him.¡±


    Willow¡¯s grin gleamed across the frost-rimed clearing, his eyes glinting with dangerous glee. ¡°That¡¯s two down,¡± he said softly, letting his words hang in the frigid air. ¡°Six to go.¡±


    A tense silence stretched between them as the group realized their precarious situation. Frost crackled underfoot, and the malignant aura of Famine still lingered. Whether by cunning or brute force, Willow seemed unassailable¡ªyet the fires of determination still burned in the hearts of those who remained.

 Chapter 21-War and Conquest

    A pall of silence clung to the forest after the brutal exchanges. Leaves crunched underfoot as everyone shifted positions, each fighter more ragged and battle-worn than before. And yet, a piercing resolve flickered in their eyes as they stared at Professor Willow, who stood tall¡ªsmoke still curling from his charred armor. He tilted his head, regarding them with a strange mix of amusement and respect.


    ¡°You should all be proud of yourselves for pushing me this far,¡± Willow said, his voice echoing through the clearing. A slow grin tugged at his scorched lips. ¡°No matter the outcome, you have more than proved your worth. Your acceptance is guaranteed, so don¡¯t feel too bad when you lose.¡±


    With that, he summoned the ghostly trumpet once more. The moment it appeared in his grasp, an eerie hush seized the forest, as if every living creature held its breath. Willow lifted the trumpet to his lips, and without warning, a pulse of oppressive energy billowed out. The clearing resonated with dissonant, inaudible notes. Their ears throbbed under the pressure, some even feeling fresh trickles of blood from their eardrums.


    ¡°I prefer to summon these two together,¡± Willow continued, his words lilting with a twisted sort of pleasure. ¡°They both buff me beautifully. Awaken¡ªWar and Conquest.¡±


    A tremor shot down Isaac¡¯s spine. He alone could see the ghastly figures coalescing behind Willow. The first¡ªa towering, skeletal abomination, wore a once-white cloak, now saturated with fresh gore and blood. Its head was encased by a horned helm, and two curved horns protruded from its design, resembling a demonic crown. A tattered flag perched in its massive, bony hand, snapping ominously in an unfelt breeze. The stench of decay clung to its rib cage, riddled with rotting tissue. With an impassive, almost casual gesture, Willow bent down and tore a heart free from the creature¡¯s leaky torso. As the heart fell into his waiting hand, it flickered into the group¡¯s shared reality, and everyone felt a surge of malice as Willow bit into it. A horrifying burst of power radiated from him, stifling and inexorable.


    To Willow¡¯s left, another nightmare emerged¡ªa skeletal figure draped in a cloak riddled with arrow holes, revealing a grotesquely throbbing heart in its open rib cage. Its head was missing entirely, leaving a ragged stump. Multiple limbs extended from its sides, each clutching a different wind instrument. It struggled to blow into them, it had no head to play its instruments. These two specters¡ªthe first, seething with martial fury, and the second, pulsing with weird, rhythmic energy¡ªcircled Willow like demonic satellites.


    Willow¡¯s lips curved into a languid smile, relishing the mingled horror and disbelief in the students¡¯ eyes. ¡°Since I¡¯m feeling generous,¡± he said, voice laced with sinister glee, ¡°I¡¯ll explain. War¡¯s ability cuts my mana cost and stamina usage in half, whether for my ability or physical attacks. That means I can use my most devastating techniques without much strain. As for Conquest, I love this one. Whenever you speak, he¡¯ll siphon the sound, using it to ¡®charge¡¯ those instruments. Once he starts playing for real, I get a massive, albeit temporary, boost in every aspect¡ªenough to end this fight decisively. So, choose your words very carefully.¡±


    A weighted hush followed, charged with fear and determination. Some students instinctively bit their tongues, while others glared defiantly, hearts pounding. Overhead, branches swayed and rattled in a gathering wind, as though the forest itself braced for the next onslaught. Famine¡¯s remnants still lingered, a faint, rotten stench on the breeze, but these new summons exuded an even stronger aura of doom.


    Willow spun his bone spear with casual grace. ¡°I suggest you come at me with everything you have left. Otherwise, this will be over very, very quickly.¡±


    Against the dim green backdrop of the forest, the assembled students exchanged tense looks. Blood trickled from open wounds; curses still sapped their strength. Yet in their eyes flickered something akin to defiance¡ªand perhaps a shred of hope. The moment hung on a knife¡¯s edge as they steeled themselves for the Sentinel¡¯s next move, fully aware that a single misplaced word could tip the scales in Willow¡¯s favor.


    A streak of crimson flared across Isaac¡¯s arm as he summoned a small stream of blood, the shining droplets forming intricate patterns in the air. With practiced precision, he tapped out a series of subtle pulses¡ªmorse code¡ªdirected toward Karma. It was a cunning communication method devised by the Mad Emperor Sirius Blackwood, whose decryption methods had made information leaks during the war nearly impossible. Rumor had it that even his private diaries and coded texts remained unsolved, written in a cryptic language he once drunkenly referred to as ¡°Russian.¡±


    The instructions Isaac sent were concise but critical:


    <ol>


    <li style="font-weight: 400">Only use your Stockpile ability on Willow.</li>


    <li style="font-weight: 400">If Lyra prepares another major attack, pour every ounce of stored power into her strike¡ªeven reserves from before this exam.</li>


    <li style="font-weight: 400">No matter how bad things get, I won¡¯t ask you to remove your mask.</li>


    </ol>


    As soon as he finished tapping out the code, Isaac lunged back into the fray. A dark glimmer shone in his eyes¡ªhe intended to test something. He¡¯d noticed that Willow¡¯s new summon, Conquest, did not siphon off Willow¡¯s own voice. Gripping the opportunity, Isaac called upon his ability to modify his own physiology.


    It was an unsettling transformation. His infinite blood¡ªnormally used for offensive techniques, healing, or summoning ghouls¡ªcould also be harnessed for far more intricate modifications. Over time, Isaac had discovered he could reconstruct his organs, realign tissues, and circulate mana-rich blood directly to his brain to stave off exhaustion. The strain on his body was immense, but it was a price he willingly paid to avoid succumbing to nightmares.


    Now, he put that mastery to use by reshaping his vocal cords to mimic Willow¡¯s tone and pitch perfectly. His chest expanded as he inhaled, then exhaled in a voice indistinguishable from that of the imposing Sentinel.


    ¡°High-Class Demon, Terror Drake, I¡¯d like to form a contract,¡± Isaac declared, every nuance of Willow¡¯s deeper inflection captured in his own. As he¡¯d hoped, Conquest did not react; the skeletal figure only absorbed the sound not produced Willow himself, this included those who sounded exactly like him.


    A deep rumble surged from Isaac¡¯s blood-etched magic circle. Flames licked across the runic patterns on the ground before bursting outward, revealing a large, twin-headed draconic beast cloaked in dark scales and flickering purple fire. Tattered wings flared out from its back, showering the clearing with sparks. The Terror Drake glared at Isaac with murderous interest.


    Isaac seized the fleeting moment to strike a deal. ¡°If you survive this ordeal and allow me to graft you to my body,¡± he said in that eerily accurate Willow-voice, ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance to escape Gehenna. I¡¯ve been authorized to make these arrangements.¡±


    The drake hesitated only briefly, its malevolent eyes glimmering with possibility. Then it roared¡ªan ear-splitting, demonic cry that echoed through the forest. Almost instantly, flames whooshed around Isaac, and the Terror Drake fused with his body, forging a bizarre symbiosis. Black wings, wreathed in purple fire, burst from Isaac¡¯s back, and his arms and legs sprouted glossy, onyx-hued scales. Sharp claws tipped his newly draconic limbs, a partial manifestation of his own inherited dragon traits.


    Struggling to steady himself under the fresh wave of scorching power, Isaac braced his clawed feet against the soft, damp earth. Though it strained him to attempt a full set of wings on his own, the drake¡¯s partial fusion granted him a way around that limitation.


    Isaac exhaled, bracing himself. The subtle rasp in his throat was the only sign of the curse already gnawing at his lungs. ¡°I¡¯ve mimicked Willow¡¯s voice,¡± he said, forcing calm into his tone. His eyes flickered over each ally, lingering on Lyra and June. ¡°Listen carefully. I need all of you to trust me.¡±


    He pointed at Lyra first. ¡°You and June stay back¡ªboth of you are vital to this plan. June, if Willow curses me, ignore it and focus on healing the others. I can handle it.¡±


    Lyra nodded, uncertainty in her gaze but determination in her posture. June stood beside her, phoenix flames shimmering faintly around her hands, ready to purge curses or mend wounds.


    Isaac¡¯s gaze slid to Markus. ¡°Use your Compass and ice to throw off Willow¡¯s strikes and pin him if you can. Even a slight shift in his spear trajectory could save a life.¡±


    Markus¡¯s eyes flashed with resolve as he flexed his frost-covered fingers, mentally preparing to freeze the Sentinel¡¯s movements.


    ¡°Mars,¡± Isaac continued, ¡°if you¡¯re running low on souls for your weapons, hit up Karma. He can summon spirits, and if your conjured weapons break, they¡¯ll just return to the Spirit Realm. No risk of losing resources.¡±


    Mars gave a curt grunt, adjusting the soul-crafted blade in his grip, eyes flicking to Karma in acknowledgment.


    Finally, Isaac turned to his masked friend lurking at the fringes. ¡°Karma, aside from the instructions I sent earlier, do as you please.¡± A small, confident smile ghosted across Isaac¡¯s lips, despite the black lines of pain creeping up his neck.


    ¡°Impressive.¡± Willow¡¯s voice sliced through the air, carrying a note of genuine curiosity. ¡°To adapt so quickly to my attempt at disabling your teamwork¡­ You¡¯re the pest I need to eliminate first.¡±


    Without further warning, he charged, spear in hand. Its tip glistened with Famine¡¯s malevolent sludge, swirling with unholy energy. Isaac stepped forward, raising his scaled arms to parry. The spearhead drove against his forearm¡ªKarma¡¯s Stockpile mitigating enough force to spare Isaac from losing the limb, but not from the curse. The black sludge invaded his flesh, and agony ripped through him. Lines of inky darkness streaked across Isaac¡¯s skin like fracturing glass.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    He clenched his jaw, biting down on his lip until fresh blood spilled. His breathing grew labored, but he refused to relent. Summoning purple flames, courtesy of the Terror Drake¡¯s power, Isaac met Willow blow for blow. When Willow¡¯s spear came too close, Isaac vanished into shadowy dips in the terrain, reappearing behind him with vengeful strikes of blazing fists.


    Encouraged by Isaac¡¯s words, the rest of the group sprang into coordinated action. Markus lunged in from the side, ice seeping from his fingertips, creeping along Willow¡¯s ankles to freeze him in place. He also used Compass to warp the angle of Willow¡¯s thrusts whenever possible, forcing even the Sentinel to compensate mid-strike.


    Mars conjured heavy spears laced with chains, each forged from the souls of monsters, to try pinning Willow¡¯s limbs. Whenever one shattered, he created another, unafraid to push the limit of his ability if it meant containing the Sentinel.


    Lyra channeled arcs of lightning, careful to avoid friendly fire as she aimed them skyward and then down, thunderbolts crashing at Willow¡¯s flank. The bright flashes lit up the clearing, momentarily distracting Willow from Isaac¡¯s shadow-laden assaults.


    June knelt beside any ally struck by Famine¡¯s curses, wings unfurling to send waves of phoenix flame over them. She kept an anxious eye on Isaac as well, painfully aware of his escalating curse, but following his directive to focus on others.


    At the edges of the battle, Karma surveyed it all, eyes half-lidded in concentration. A small, low-class flame spirit flickered at his feet, transmitting Isaac¡¯s next coded instructions via morse code using subtle pulses of heat. He silently gathered power into his Stockpile, letting the course of the fight dictate where he would unleash it next.


    Under the flickering canopy of forest light, the clash intensified. Willow deftly knocked aside several of Mars¡¯s chained spears, ignoring the lances of ice snapping around his ankles. Whenever he saw an opening, he lunged for the kill, only for Lyra¡¯s lightning or Isaac¡¯s fiery onslaught to drive him back. Famine¡¯s invisible aura still lingered, conjuring glimpses of black sludge, and as Willow spun his spear, the clearing filled with sickening darkness and scorched ozone.


    Isaac¡¯s body trembled with every breath he took, the curse pressing in on his heart, but the defiance in his eyes never waned. His wings flickered with purple flame, each ragged beat pushing him to keep pace with the unstoppable Sentinel. They were running on borrowed time¡ªeveryone knew it¡ªbut for now, the synergy they¡¯d forged was just enough to keep Willow from overwhelming them completely. And in that synergy, perhaps, lay their only chance of survival.


    ¡°This is so much fun¡ªyou¡¯ll all make wonderful students,¡± Willow said, voice crackling with excitement as he leveled his gaze on the embattled group. ¡°What a fascinating year this will be. Oh, and do be kind to my daughter when you meet her. She¡¯ll be attending as well.¡±


    A half-rotten apple, dripping with that vile black sludge, plopped from the skull of Willow¡¯s spear and splashed to the ground, fizzing. He crushed it underfoot, releasing a rancid stench that churned everyone¡¯s stomachs. ¡°No need to hold back now,¡± Willow murmured, stepping out of the dissipating slime. His burned armor still clung to him, and yet his poise suggested boundless stamina, as though he drew confidence from each savage exchange.


    Mars, still breathing heavily from earlier wounds, steeled himself and lunged. Channeling his Masterchef ability, he converted three more souls into a brutal tri-headed flail. Sparks flared in his eyes as he whirled the flail in a dizzying arc, roaring as he brought it down in a thunderous strike aimed at Willow¡¯s torso. For a split second, it appeared Willow would finally be overwhelmed¡ªhis position seemed compromised, off-balance, with Conquest¡¯s dissonant instruments distracting him.


    But that fleeting advantage vanished in an instant. Willow pivoted on his heel, driving his spear upward to clash with the flail¡¯s spiked heads. The clash sent tremors through the forest floor. In the same fluid motion, Willow jerked the spear downward, and a fresh wave of Famine¡¯s decaying curse flooded Mars¡¯s veins. Gasping in pain, Mars stumbled¡ªjust enough to expose an opening.


    ¡°Poor timing,¡± Willow said, almost regretfully, his crimson-tipped spear thrusting like a blurred afterimage. With lethal accuracy, he pierced through Mars¡¯s chest. The curse smoldered in the wound, black lines of necrotic energy erupting across his flesh.


    Mars let out a strangled cry, the shock of the strike robbing him of speech. Before he could collapse, he vanished in a soft burst of teleportation magic¡ªviolently ejected from the exam. His tri-headed flail clattered to the ground, dissolving into sparks of stolen souls and black smoke. The shattered trees rustled in the ensuing hush.


    The remaining fighters froze, dread settling like a shroud. Willow retracted his spear with a lazy twirl, unspoken triumph dancing behind his half-lidded eyes. ¡°That makes three,¡± he noted, voice faintly tinged with satisfaction. ¡°Who¡¯s next?¡±


    Suddenly, a rain of obsidian arrows streaked down from above, each projectile radiating a dark, pulsing energy that sizzled against Willow¡¯s armor. The Sentinel scowled, momentarily forced on the defensive. High in the canopy, three figures perched on a broad tree branch, like predatory birds surveying their prey.


    The first figure¡ªlean and poised, armed with a sleek bow¡ªraised his head in challenge. It was Shadar, flanked by Charlotte and his attendant Alice. Moonlight, or something similar to it, radiated off Shadar¡¯s bow, highlighting the confident smirk on his face.


    ¡°So you¡¯re the famed Sentinel I¡¯ve heard so much about,¡± Shadar called out, voice laced with anticipation. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking forward to this.¡±


    From below, Isaac¡¯s pained shout echoed through the clearing. ¡°Don¡¯t speak! Conquest absorbs speech to strengthen Willow!¡±


    Shadar paused briefly, brows knitting in curiosity. ¡°A curious ability¡­¡± he murmured, then lifted his bow. ¡°I¡¯ll just obliterate it. Trump Card¡ªBlack Sorrow!¡±


    He fired a single, dark arrow straight into the sky. Mid-flight, the projectile burst apart, dissolving into a swarm of leathery, violet-tinged bats that fanned across the battlefield. Their collective wings beat in a frenzied flurry, coating the entire exam site in a false night. The oppressive darkness rippled with countless pinpricks of purple stars, illuminating the clearing in an eerie, cosmic glow. Within this star-laden gloom, Willow felt his Cloak of Twilight stutter and weaken, the introduced darkness interfering with his own.


    ¡°How annoying,¡± Willow muttered, casting a wary glance upward. ¡°I¡¯ll remove you first.¡±


    Before he could move, a violet arrow shot down like a falling star, tearing through the veil of night and piercing Willow¡¯s leg with uncanny speed. His reflexes, formidable as they were, couldn¡¯t keep up with the arrow¡¯s precipitous descent. A hiss of pain escaped him as black blood oozed from the wound.


    Shadar lowered his bow, the corners of his mouth curling in cold satisfaction. ¡°Forgive me, but it¡¯s a king¡¯s duty to watch over his subjects,¡± he said, voice laced with regal disdain. ¡°You¡¯d do well not to delude yourself into thinking we stand on equal ground, Sentinel. Alice, Charlotte¡ªjoin the battle.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my lord,¡± Alice answered crisply, while Charlotte merely nodded once. Both vaulted down from the branch, landing gracefully on the forest floor.


    ¡°I can see that infernal creation with the instruments,¡± Shadar said, his gaze fixed on Conquest. ¡°Each time it dares to absorb sound, I¡¯ll fire another arrow and send it back to whatever hell it crawled from. Don¡¯t even try it.¡±


    In the flickering purple starlight, Isaac felt a surge of gratitude push through the burning pain of Famine¡¯s curse. He managed a grin¡ªsmall, yet genuine. ¡°This is perfect¡­ Thank you,¡± he called, forgetting for a moment his own agonies.


    Shadar¡¯s bats wheeled overhead, their eerie keening blending with the hum of spectral insects. The Sentinel, pinned by the arrow, grimaced as he tugged at the projectile lodged in his leg. All the while, the newly arrived trio stood poised, ready to exploit the fragile advantage they¡¯d created.


    A sense of hope flickered through the battered ranks of Isaac¡¯s allies. They were still wounded, still exhausted¡ªbut with Shadar¡¯s reinforcements and the veil of Black Sorrow muting Willow¡¯s might, the fight suddenly felt less impossible. The stage was set for the next decisive clash, a swirl of curses, conjurations, and cosmic darkness that promised no easy end for either side.


    ¡°Alice,¡± Shadar said, his voice a calm yet commanding murmur, ¡°you must not be eliminated¡ªno matter the cost.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my lord,¡± she replied softly, unsheathing a katana that seemed to drink in the ambient light. A thin veil of shadow-like energy oozed along the blade¡¯s edge, giving it a haunting, almost ethereal glow.


    Willow let out a low chuckle, glancing at the katana with growing curiosity. ¡°So that¡¯s where so many students were hiding¡ªwithin your shadow. By my estimate, you¡¯re carrying a solid ten percent of them, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Alice¡¯s gaze remained cool, her tone flat. ¡°My lord has given me two instructions: survive, and eliminate you. If you simply surrender now, it would make my job far more convenient.¡±


    A derisive smile tugged at Willow¡¯s lips. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that won¡¯t work for me. There¡¯s a handsome bonus for taking out every student.¡±


    ¡°Then it is a pity.¡± Alice shifted her stance, the katana¡¯s dark aura intensifying. She raised the blade and lunged, the weapon slicing a silent arc through the night air. Despite her stoic manner, Isaac sensed an odd resonance with the sword¡ªa faint pull in his gut that he couldn¡¯t explain, as though something in its shadowy energy answered to his own.


    Seizing this moment, the rest of Isaac¡¯s team closed in, following the tactics Isaac had laid out. Lyra and June held back, focusing on cleansing and coverage, while Markus and Karma probed Willow¡¯s defenses for openings. Kenji was gone; Mars was gone¡ªbut they still had numbers. Every slash, every summoned demon, every bolt of lightning¡ªeach blow was carefully orchestrated to grind down Willow¡¯s stamina, or at least prevent him from retaliating too severely.


    Meanwhile, up in the canopy, Charlotte unfurled her feathery wings, drifting upward until she perched beside Shadar on a thick branch. They observed the battle from there¡ªnight air swirling around them, punctuated by the sizzling sparks of magic in the clearing below.


    ¡°Shadar,¡± Charlotte murmured with a hint of exasperation, ¡°my ability will only disrupt your spell if I use it now. There¡¯s little else I can contribute.¡±


    Shadar sighed, resting one hand on the bow he¡¯d used to cast Black Sorrow. ¡°I didn¡¯t factor that in,¡± he admitted, gaze never leaving the swirling melee. ¡°Then hang back for now. Stay close to me¡ªwe¡¯ll strike the next blow when we see a clear opening.¡±


    Nodding, Charlotte settled on the branch, her wings quivering faintly. Below, Alice dashed around Willow, the katana in her hands arcing with silent precision. Each time it clashed with Willow¡¯s spear, a low thrumming echoed across the darkened field, and Isaac couldn¡¯t shake the subtle, magnetic pull he felt toward that sword¡¯s shadow-laced power.


    But any moment¡¯s distraction could be lethal. Even cornered, Willow exuded an aura of lethal unpredictability, shifting with barely visible slashes, summoning more of Famine¡¯s curses, or twisting the battlefield to his advantage. Yet the reinforcements, Shadar, Alice, and Charlotte, brought a renewed sense of morale. Their arrival granted Isaac and his allies a renewed foothold in the war of attrition against the seemingly unstoppable Sentinel.