Novel The Odyssey of Dalis (Contains Arrogant Young Master as a MC)

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  1. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Memories lost, Powers buried, Dalis spends three years in the Caleyar Orphanage listlessly. Unlike his peers, he will not become a Vanquisher. Protecting the borders against the demonic beasts? No, Dalis’s fate was far beyond that. Dalis's very presence was destined to cause the world to quake, and the impending crisis to be overturned.
    And yet, this was only the beginning…
    Heaven     and Hell await his return.
    Was everything Dalis lived in those times of lost memories for naught?    ​

    Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Martial Arts, Romance, Slice of Life
    Content Warning: Gore and Profanity
    Notable Tags: Age Progression, Arrogant Characters, Beasts, Character Growth, Family, Heartwarming, Heroes, Magic/Mana System, Memory loss, Quirky Characters, Past plays a huge role, Romantic Subplot, Saving the World, Teamwork.

    Unlisted Genre: Tragedy (Once deep in the novel).

    Copied from disclaimer: Some tags have not been added due to being massive spoilers. Tags will be added in conjunction to the latest chapter.

    "Light-hearted” and very comedic adventure novel with a grand overarching plot. As the plot progresses, the story becomes more serious. It also has quite a load of dialogue. There are references from other works too and even an ambitious arrogant young master. Not as an antagonist but as a MAIN CHARACTER.This is about a Great Journey/Odyssey.

    Schedule: 1 Chapter per week.

    Credits: Ellygretta for illustration <3

    You can also read this on RoyalRoad and Scribble Hub

    DISCLAIMERS:

    1. Some tags have not been added due to major spoilers. Tags will be added in conjunction to the latest chapter.

    2. Dalis is a complex character and will take a while to understand.

    Stylistic Choices. Read if you wish:

    4. I use British/Australian English.

    5. I apologise for my horrible tensing and will do my best to improve. I tend to maintain as much as I can in the past tense.

    6. All use of parenthesis ( ) is used to show the thoughts of characters in their exact words.

    For example: (I wish people can kindly accept this.) Dalis shook his head dismally. He understood that this was mere wishful thinking.

    7. Italics in the novel are used as emphasis. It can be also used whenever I make a reference of another work. If it's too subtle, I will not bother to use it. Every flashback is written in italics. This will start with the transition *Flashback* and closing *Present*

    8. If a sentence ends and I wish to use to an ellipsis as well, I will not bother appending the period. Same case if the ellipsis requires a comma to be followed. It will be omitted.

    For instance: leave me alone. ...

    Instead: leave me alone...

    9. Commas in parenthesis or speech will indicate a pause in that thought/speech.

    For example: 'Hey man what's up, how are you doing?

    It would be more grammatically correct to do something like this: 'Hey man, what's up? How are you doing?

    The reason why I will not follow the grammar is to show that the speaker is running on the speech/thought until a pause/break is taken.

    10. I will do my best to keep consistent!!!!

    Synopsis: Dalis is unable to recall his memories of his past. With the passage of time, having extinguished the fire to seek his lost memories, he spends three years in the Caleyar Orphanage listlessly. In a few years, he would follow the path of his peers to become a Vanquisher; a soldier tasked with protecting the borders against the demonic beasts from The Land of Demons. However, the turns of fate have another role in store for Dalis. The hidden forbidden power lurking within Dalis’s body could not be concealed forever. Urged by his dearest sister, he unwillingly abandons his home to venture alone into the wilderness of the world. There, his presence will cause the world to quake, and the impending crisis to be overturned. And yet, one can argue that this was only the beginning.

    Table of Contents:
    Book 2:
     
    Last edited: Jun 27, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  2. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Many grey clouds filled the sky. The winds felt unsettling. It seemed as if a storm was approaching.

    Towards the south of the Pedlar Continent, close to the borders of The Land of Demons, there was a young black-haired boy. The boy wandered around miserably, his clothes tattered and worn as he traversed the dark forest. Every step he took appeared to be a struggle. His legs continued to limp while he gasped for breath heavily. And his eyes were tired and struggling to keep open. However, if one were to look within his dark brown eyes, they would notice an aggressive restlessness.

    "I have to . . . go on . . . I must not die . . . I have to . . ."

    All that accompanied him were the sound of rustling wind and the occasional cries of beasts echoing around him. The black shadows cast by the woodland appeared to dance and follow him, engulfing his silhouette in the darkness.

    Eventually, his endless walk was halted to a stop. He saw a young girl, who appeared to be roughly around twelve years of age, running towards his direction. Seeing this girl brought some clarity to his exhausted body. He began to move at a slightly faster pace to approach this female figure.

    The young girl was startled when she saw the boy. Her full attention was focused elsewhere. Gazing at her turned posture, the boy deduced that she must have been cautious of what was behind her. Perhaps she was running away from something?

    The girl raised a battle-like posture, and her eyes began to turn a little fierce. Though it appeared she was like some kind of experienced fighter: to the boy, it looked as if she were a feeble kitten scared by its owner.

    "Are you one of them as well?" the girl slowly asked.

    Her voice was slightly shaky. It seemed she was indeed, afraid.

    "Them? . . ." the boy replied.

    The girl was silent for a bit as she muttered to herself.

    The boy attempted to focus his hearing on listening in. With his condition, he only managed to grasp a few words from the girl: 'same age’, ‘can't be’, ‘underestimate’. The boy was able to understand the general idea of what she was thinking about.

    "Forget it," the young girl said. She slipped passed him and began to continue running again. Before she could leave, her arm was grabbed by a small hand that was unwilling to let go.

    "Ah? You dare to touch this princess?" she exclaimed.

    "Princess . . ." the boy mumbled. Her words only agitated his grip to become even tighter and firm.

    "Off me!" She slapped the debilitated hand off with her strength and fired a stream of small flames at the boy.

    Due to the sudden appearance of the flames, the boy was caught in the flames. Normally, the flames would continue to blaze and burn its target; however, to the young girl's shock, the boy was left unscathed without any scorch remaining on his delicate body.

    Could he be immune to flames?

    "Wa . . . how . . . impossible. Could you be a body consolidator? How can someone of your age be able to completely resist my flames?!"

    " . . . “Flames”? What “flames”?"

    It seemed the boy had no clue as to what she was talking about.

    The young girl was stupefied.

    "Ah! Whatever! Whatever!" the girl squealed, stamping her feet a couple of times before leaving.

    Though she was allowed to leave—it did not last very long.

    "Why are you following me?!" the girl lamented, feeling indignant. She was unable to understand why he was following her.

    The boy did not reply. He believed that if he voiced his true thoughts, he would only end up angering this child.

    " . . . "

    Since the girl was ignored, she grunted and continued to look straight ahead. No longer bothering to argue.

    A period of time later.

    "If you continue to follow me . . . You will die, you know?" the girl simply stated.

    The girl stopped walking and slowly faced herself towards the boy. Her whole demeanour came across being very different. The vibe of the location appeared to magnify her presence. It felt unexpectedly a little pressuring and somewhat cold to the boy—it seemed to be very familiar to him.

    Despite her age, with one look from her eyes, anybody could tell that it was a serious declaration.

    " . . . You must really be a princess . . . Your parents have groomed you well," the boy said in a somewhat sincere manner.

    For the most part, his impressions were more or less a lie. There were many faults within her bearing and much to improve. On the other hand, she had strangely exuded a unique flair of liberty. It caused him to greatly envy her and feel more respect than she should deserve.

    In any case, he was simply trying to curry favour. He needed to.

    The girl's brow twitched a little, revealing an amused expression. It seemed she didn't expect to hear that answer.

    "Stupid . . . stupid . . . " the girl replied.

    She turned her back against him and, once again, continued to walk. The weather and lack of light in the forest made it difficult to notice, but there were, in fact, small red marks that had appeared across her tiny cheeks. She was happy with the out of the blue compliment in spite of its peculiarity.

    The two children walked together alone in this forest. Whether they were lost or not is a question that was unknown. The two were unfamiliar with one another. It was negligible to even deem them as acquaintances. Yet, their short encounter and idle interactions brought rise to a strange sensation. Unknowingly, a sense of bonding was established between a peculiar boy and a self-proclaimed princess. It had a pleasing sense of comfort, lifting the dark and gloomy atmosphere of the forest.

    *Cough* *Cough*

    "Ugh . . . "

    The boy started to cough and moan in pain.

    He seemed to be reaching his limit. He leaned one arm on the bark of a tree to retain his balance; however, to no avail. The boy collapsed, his back against the tree.

    The girl noticed this. She briefly stopped moving, slightly hesitating to check up on him. In the end, she meekly rushed towards him. Slowly, she sat next to him with care.

    It appeared the barrier between them had somewhat diminished.

    "Um . . . have you been walking all this time while being . . . sick?" the girl asked, somewhat guilty. Her facial expressions tried to cover up her concern for the boy.

    "Yes," he blatantly said.

    "Ah!" she let out a gasp of concern.

    Indeed, she was still just a child. Oblivious to the world.

    Slightly tilting her head up, the girl moved a finger towards her chin. She appeared to be in thought.

    Suddenly, the girl's body then suddenly shuddered as if being jolted awake. She quickly turned her head across all directions, back and forth, surveying the surroundings.

    The forest became eerily silent.

    The girl silently breathed in and out quietly. Swiftly, she looked over towards the boy.

    To her surprise, he appeared to have noticed the irregularity of the situation. A cautious outlook could be seen through his countenance. The girl was impressed that he could keep his cool even with his haggard condition. She complimented him inwardly.

    The two stared at the eyes of one another. As if understanding each other, they maintained watch of the situation in silence. Waiting for the inevitable occurrence.

    Three minutes have passed.

    Five minutes have passed.

    Nothing had occurred.

    Could it be just a misunderstanding?

    The girl's posture seemed to slightly relax. She turned herself away from the surroundings to speak to the boy.

    "Is the coast clear?" the girl whispered to him.

    "No."

    "Huh?"

    Amidst the suspense, a cheery rhythmic voice could be heard. Each passing second ticked the hands of the clock. Slowly, but steadily, the volume of the eerie voice ever grew ever so louder.

    "Ta, ta, ta, ta ta ta ta taa . . . ta, ta, ta, ta ta ta ta . . . "

    "DAAAAA!"

    *FLASH*

    Unknowingly, the once dark forest was now filled with hundreds of gleaming lights. It was glaringly apparent that these lights are not just for show.

    No, perhaps this was a show?

    Revealed under the spotlight of the show were the boy and the girl. It was not the hundreds of lights that caused the two of them to freeze in place, but rather the identity of the lights. If one looked closely behind the shining lights, they could see sharp, steel reflections shimmering.

    They were weapons for slaughtering:

    Knives, daggers, swords, axes, spears, lances, tridents.

    And the list goes on . . .

    "Ah . . . Ah . . . "

    The girl struggled to keep her legs calm. But, her body and mind were shuddering at this inconceivable scene. At this point in time, she was ready to throw in the towel and beg for mercy.

    "Gate of Baby**n? No, these are blasphemy compared to what I have seen. Alas, these numbers . . ." the boy lamented. He shook his head dismally.

    *WHISTLE*

    Hundreds of whistle sounds erupted at once. Levitating mass weapons of slaughter flew straight towards the two of them. The attacker clearly showed their intention to kill.

    Act of mercy?

    There was never such an option.

    The boy acted swiftly, embracing the girl into his arms. He used one arm to tuck her head in deep into his chest and the other arm to hold her waist.

    A second before the weapons reached their target, a small dark vortex appeared out of thin air. Its size was small albeit sufficient enough for the two children to enter in.

    In the end, all that remained was a cluster of weaponry impaled in the ground. The two children were nowhere to be seen.

    The girl's eyes were deeply shut since the moment her head was tucked into his chest. She knew that there was no hope for the two of them. She could feel the sharp edges of weaponry stabbed into her body as the warm liquid ran across various parts of her body. The girl's consciousness was beginning to fade, and her body began to feel cold.

    (Ah . . . this is it . . . isn't it . . . I should've listened to mama and papa . . . I'm so sorry . . . I promise to be more obedient . . .)

    Memories flashed through her mind of everything she had done up to this point. There were many good times to the point she couldn't recall anything bad. Inevitably though, regrets began to fill her mind. It was a strange phenomenon to her. She believed that she had an endless sparkling future ahead of her.

    It all felt unreal.

    Yet, amidst the unreal reality filled with pain and regret, she had a sudden epiphany.

    It wasn't too bad?

    The reason stemmed from the sense of comfort that she was feeling. She wasn't alone in the impending death. She had someone by her side; a boy she had just met today. A boy around her age had tried to be a shining knight before their demise. It was funny to her. She couldn't help but leak out a smile.

    "You're not bad . . . but not good enough for this Princess. Mama and papa wouldn't approve of you," she softly said.

    "Little Princess. Do not have yourself resigned to death. I shall be needing you for a while."

    "Wha—What?"

    "Indeed, you heard correctly."

    The girl with all possible haste opened her eyes. She tilted her head up to see the boy's head. He had a cheeky grin on his face. She felt that there was something off about that face, but the streams of blood trickling down distracted her from his facade. Confused, she quickly surveyed herself.

    The girl discovered herself facedown, her head on top of the boy's chest. He was laid on his back, on the ground. Blood could be seen profusely bleeding out by the second, forming a puddle, and dyeing the scattered weapons blood red. His firm hands slowly lost their grip on the girl, slipping downwards just before the sides of her back. It seemed he had lost his energy to hold her.

    The escape was successful. The surrounding area had changed to a clearing of a forest. But, their bodies were drenched with blood. For the boy, the discrepancy could not be compared.

    "We . . . we're . . . alive?" she couldn't help but gasp those words.

    "Yeah, that's right . . . " *cough* *cough* *cough* as those words were said, the boy coughed out some fresh blood.

    "Ah . . . you . . . "

    "It's fine . . . I can't die here anyways . . . " the boy struggled to reply.

    " . . . "

    There was only silence in the next few minutes. The girl may be naive, but she was clever. She knew what was going to happen next. She felt anguished at herself. She hated herself for being useless. Even though she knew this was bound to happen, the very fact that he saved her, a stranger, made everything seem so ridiculous to her. All she could do was give the boy some sense of relief rather than subject him to the cold, crude floor. She carefully got off him and held him in her arms, tightly embracing him. She looked at him, and he looked back at her. Their eyes remained lingered on one another.

    If anyone saw this scene, they would assume this was a pair of lovers sharing love with one another before their final moments.

    However, in truth, the boy had his mind drifted elsewhere. His crumbling gaze was just inadvertently drawn to the girl.

    "Hey . . . I never managed to get your name . . . how silly am I . . . What is your name?"

    The boy did not seem to hear her. Blood was not the sole liquid that trickled down. Unwilling tears flowed down the river track. As the tears mixed with the blood, they desperately fought to overturn the red tide: a reflection of the boy's desire to live. Unfortunately, no matter how many tears were spent, it could not reverse his fate. The liquid continued. Continued to dye blood red.

    Not hearing a response, the girl's awareness jolted into shape. Brimmed with tears, she noticed through her glossy eyes that the boy was finally shedding, akin to herself. As soon as she saw him, her heart felt immense pain.

    (He looks so . . . so . . . so . . . horrible. Cheeky face? No, that face is nothing remotely like that.)

    It was not a face that can be scrutinised. At most, one would only be able to derive the agonising and vigorous emotions exuded to the world. It was a blend of great derision, utter regret, and beggarly guilt.

    Despite the girl being centimetres away from him, she was unable to catch his words, spoken so low, that were murmured under his remaining breaths.

    "My name . . . "

    "—Ahh?? Yes! " She leaned her ear, touching his soft lips. It was a miracle that she managed to discern his words.

    " . . . "

    " . . . The name . . . yes, hmmm it is . . . Dalis."

    "I see . . . My name is . . . "

    But before the girl could tell her name, the light in his eyes faded, leaving behind the despair. At the very least, it was eased a little, just a little from the girl's presence.



    ***



    At a particular place.

    At a particular time.

    At a particular moment.

    A girl's cries could be heard weeping for a long time.

    At times there were screams of hate towards a particular someone.

    At other times it was lamented towards the person she was screaming for.

    And finally—

    Screams of self-degradation.

    After a long period of time had passed.

    The cries were no longer heard.

    "I hate myself for doing this . . . but this will serve as a memento to me."
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  3. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "How much longer do you plan to continue sleeping . . . Daaaaaaliiissss?"

    Dalis opened his eyes to a scene he had seen plenty of times since his life at the dormitory. A sixteen-year-old girl stood next to him. Staring down at him with a grumpy look. The girl's name was Stilla. She had brown, bobbed shoulder-length hair, with vivid green eyes. Her body was toned, defined with muscle where needed, and balanced. It was shaped through work and served as physical proof of her capabilities. Consequently, this accentuated her softer curvier parts. This meant that one “notable” part was unexpectedly . . . still developing, considering their already impressive size.

    "Annoying . . . " Dalis mumbled careful not to invite a beating—this was not a girl Dalis would usually disobey if he had a choice. One look at her expression and Dalis knew what was coming. It wasn't that Dalis feared Stilla. It was more to do with regards to the punishments that she had in store. Furthermore and most importantly, he couldn't be bothered.

    "What are you mumbling about?" Stilla asked in a voice laced with annoyance.

    "Let's go," Dalis stated.

    Dalis stood up from the bed and slipped past Stilla who continued to view him with hawk eyes. He headed towards the usual hall where they ate their morning breakfast.

    "Always doing what he pleases! Wait for me!" Stilla grumbled, and then quickly followed Dalis from behind.

    "Stop running in the hallway." Dalis lazily turned his head to see Stilla who had caught up with him.

    "I wasn't running! I was jogging! You left me behind!" she angrily retorted.

    "Yeah yeah," he casually remarked.

    He slowed down his speed to match her pace. The two walked side by side, idly chatting until they reached the dining hall.

    The dining hall of the Caleyar Orphanage would make anyone feel surprised by its large interior. Although the Caleyar Orphanage was, indeed, an orphanage, the institution was quite excellent in quality. After all, it was an orphanage that not only takes in children who have lost their homes, but also a facility that educates children and trains them for real-life combat.

    In particular, the Dining hall was one of the few places of the Orphanage one would be able to encounter other children that you wouldn't be able to normally see. This was because each dozen or more children would be supervised by a Sister. Considering that there are over two thousand children, this would mean having at least a hundred sisters. To be able to hold that amount of people, only areas such as the Dining hall would be applicable.

    "Hurry, look everybody is waiting," Stilla shouted to Dalis as she dragged him with one arm towards their designated table.

    When they approached the table, they saw a few unpleasant faces coming from their roommates. Some of the children began to voice out on their arrival.

    "Ah look Dalis is getting dragged again by Stilla~"

    "Haha ha . . . she really pampers him, doesn't she?"

    "It's about time . . . I can finally eat . . . "

    " . . . That insect."

    "Ahhh, sorry everybody for the wait," Stilla said apologetically.

    "It's fine, it only happens from time to time. Besides, our group is barely religiously strict, in regards, to such practices," Sister Edna kindly said.

    Dalis's group was one of the many combat-oriented orphan groups. In the future, they will be tested to become soldiers-in-training. From that point, they would be eligible to take the next step—become Vanquish Soldiers. Vanquish Soldiers are often referred to as “Vanquishers”.

    Thus, the Church was not as strict with regarding rites of the Church towards them, nor were they required to be devout to the Church. This is because there would be complications pertaining to people's backgrounds since they are not all solely from Church soil or picked up. Though the majority of children, or "Orphans" they could be referred to as, are genuine orphans that have been taken in.

    One instance is the issue with Mana seeds that each individual has.

    Mana seeds tend to dictate one's background, so those with a "blessed mana seed" are likely to originate from the Church. While those who don't, are likely to be residents of other nations. If so, they're boarding children who have applied for an internship program.

    The majority of children who have been picked up or have yet to transform their seed usually ask to be officially baptised. In doing so, their "dormant mana seed" is turned into a "blessed mana seed". As a result, they would be able to use basic lesser artefacts and become fully eligible to learn the arts of the Church. Lesser artefacts are man made artefacts formed from blessed alchemy.

    While children have the option to pick other pathways, they would need to learn the necessary usage from people who can use them. This task is difficult due to the focus on artefacts and the lack of people comparative to Orphans

    However, it is important to know that the Church requires a minority of people to not have blessed mana to serve them. After all, the Orphanage encompasses many other children that are not of Church origin. Naturally, these children do not wield blessed mana.

    Having these other types of powers are substantial for the construction of a strong military force, especially here in the Missionary Church of Vanquish.

    Stilla and Dalis sat quickly on to the vacant seats of the table. Despite being empty, the seats were not really vacant: the spots were tacitly reserved. When they sat, Sister Edna clapped her hands in attention.

    "Now everyone let us recite before we eat: May Caleyar, bless upon our mortal selves."

    Everyone: "May Caleyar, bless upon our mortal selves."

    "Good, now you may all dine-in!"



    ***



    "Mmmm today's food is also very delicious. Thank you, Sister Edna!" Stilla cheerfully said as she proceeded to take small-sized munches out of her sandwich and tangy mayonnaise-dressed salad.

    Stilla always took small-sized bites in order to savour the food she had been given. However, that was a whole nother different story when there was more food on the table . . .

    "Yep, it is good as always."

    "Yum yum yum, Sister Edna is the best!"

    "It's not half bad."

    "Hey be more appreciative Koji!"

    "It is my pleasure," Sister Edna kindly said as she looked at everyone eating their food. She always felt satisfied after watching people enjoy the food she made.

    "Stilla," Dalis called.

    "Hmm? What is it Dalis?"

    "Your face." He pointed to where pieces of food had stuck to her face.

    "Ah!" Stilla let out a gasp.

    She placed her utensils on the table and then quickly reached towards the handkerchief to wipe off the grains that had stuck to her face. She looked a little embarrassed.

    "Thank you Dalis."

    "What a waste of food, you always reprimand me if I don't finish eating my supper, big sister. Maybe I should have taken it off you," he nonchalantly said with a sense of mockery.

    "Eh?"

    *TING*

    The fork and knife used by the boy named Melvin Serven sitting next to Stilla suddenly fell onto the plate.

    "Oh boy."

    "Here it comes again."

    "Melvin and Dalis?"

    "Good thing that I haven't finished my breakfast, I needed some extra spicing."

    "Hmph."

    The table went silent as a dismissive scoff echoed from beside Stilla.

    An impatient tapping rhythmically rang out, time slowed, and the air grew still. Melvin straightened his back, as his right hand was raised above his mouth, and his left slowly picked up the knife he had dropped. He looked down upon the shorter Dalis before swerving his head away from him as if he were disgusted by the mere sight.

    "It appears a little boy has accidentally found his way to the grown-up table. My neck would hurt if I were to bend it enough to see you down there. Go on now and return to whence you came," said Melvin as he elegantly tried to cover up his dropped utensils.

    "If you're so worried about bending your neck . . . I could show you Stilla's massage technique she showed me the other day."

    "When did I—"

    "Oh? A massage technique? I'd be delighted, but I doubt a pipsqueak like you would be able to satisfy me." Melvin then ignored Dalis before focusing his attention towards Stilla, lowering his head and mustering in a voice as suave as he could achieve—

    "Would you provide me with the honour to witness your massaging technique?"

    Stilla's expression flashed in apprehension but quickly returned to a smile before Melvin could move his head up to see.

    Dalis wore an expression of bewilderment. He turned back to his food and chose wisely to wash his hands off of Melvin's perversion.

    As Melvin continued to bother Stilla, Sister Edna had returned to the table to find nothing out of the ordinary.

    After breakfast had finished. Sister Edna gathered the children at the table and lead them outside the Church doors to do their daily village rounds. The children would talk to the villagers, provide food offerings, make idle talk, and preach or recite their Lord Caleyar.

    Dalis was grouped together with Stilla and Melvin against his will once again. Thus, he strove to quickly finish his rounds to escape from Stilla's coercion and Melvin's insufferable personality.

    During their trip to the next house, the group spotted a woman walking towards them with three children, two walking aside her and one toddler cradled in her arms. She was the Head Mother of Caleyar Orphanage, Mother Michelle.

    "Good morning Mother!"

    "Greetings, Mother."

    "Hello."

    Greeted Stilla, Melvin, and Dalis respectively.

    "Good morning children." Michelle replied as they approached each other.

    "Who are these children, Mother?" asked Stilla with a sparkle in her eyes.

    Anyone could tell that she found them adorable.

    "These children are soon going to be your younger siblings. They lived towards the southeast coast and lost their homes to a beast attack. So I picked up the poor souls to come to live with us in the Orphanage. Please take care of them well."

    "Worry not, Mother! We will welcome them with open arms," affirmed Melvin enthusiastically before shooting a glance at Dalis.

    "Hehe, they're so cute. Let's quickly bring them to the Orphanage Mother. They need a bath after all this travelling," chimed Stilla.

    "Yeah, let's head back," Dalis agreed.

    This was a convenient opportunity to keep both of his companions in check.

    The group headed back alongside Mother Michelle. Along the way, they exchanged idle chatter and talked to their new siblings. Before long, they had arrived at the Orphanage. The group then separated from the Head Mother and individually began preparations to start studying under Scholar Somal's tutelage.

    Author note: It may appear slow, but the story picks up quite fast, especially by chapter 15. Some info dumping in the first few chapters or so. Please bear with me!!
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  4. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "Alright everyone, as you all know in today's class, we will be having a mock exam about the principles of mana and its contemporary use in society. You will also need to briefly mention about the foundation of mana in general. This is of vital importance to prepare yourselves for the final examination. After all you will soon be in the future, our brightest stars, as vanquishers, fending off the demonic beasts at the southern border of the continent."

    The sound of an impatient tapping could be heard around the otherwise silent room.

    "Alright, you may begin!"

    At his signal, all of the students flipped their pages in haste. The concentration in the room escalated to a peak. Dalis scanned the first page. Eyes brimmed with calm confidence.

    The first question on the page read: "What is Mana? Explain how it can be used." With a click of his charcoal pencil, he began to write.

    "Mana is the energy of all things. An organ to control this mana is born within every living creature—it is called a “mana seed”. This mana seed dictates how a creature controls their mana, and there are five conventional methods to develop your mana seed. Mana seeds are needed in living beings because they can't naturally control and contain mana."

    Swiftly and unceasingly, Dalis eyed over the next question as his right hand kept writing.

    "What is mana strengthening, and what can result of it?" He answered:

    "Each living being starts their life having a dormant mana seed. Having a dormant mana seed means that your mana seed has not transformed into the five other conventional mana seeds. These are Movement, Body, Free, Reinforced and Blessed. By process of mana strengthening, the mana seed is able to go through a transformation that will only ever happen once, and this transformation changes the way mana can be controlled."

    Dalis's first page was now filled with writing emanating intelligence and grace. Each character placed as if it were a soldier in a grand formation of a steel-tempered battalion. And as the page was flipped, the army only continued to grow.

    The third question read: "Describe each of the results mentioned in your previous answer."

    To any other student, this question might be a cause of stress and lament. For the more you answered previously, the more you had to answer now. But Dalis did not waver. He continued to write with unwavering finesse.

    "Movement Mana seed:

    Grants the ability to move mana freely outside of their own body, including natural mana found in the environment, creating spell formations through formulas to conjure [much like a circuit that runs off of mana instead of electricity]. People who have this mana seed tend to be recognised as mages, and their techniques may be sometimes referred to as spells."

    Like the fall of a dynasty, one of the results were fully fleshed out. The conquering movement had only just begun.

    "Body Mana seed:

    Individuals are able to strengthen their own bodies through the use of mana, but they cannot control mana outside of it. They take in the natural mana in the environment and consolidate their bodies. Users who have chosen this mana pathway are known as body consolidators."

    Bodied beyond belief, the next result was decisively written such that Dalis was already onto the next before the charcoal even had time to settle.

    "Free Mana seed:

    They can control mana they are in contact with, changing their state to make the mana fundamentally different. Their fundamental training is to shift and play with the states of their body. For instance, becoming solid, liquid, or gas. They even have control over conductivity, adherence, malleability, and others of the like. Free mana is very versatile and is known to be adept at the vast majority of jobs."

    The pencil seemed to weave in and out with an ebb and flow that bordered on illusion and transformation to elusively write the conclusion of the third result. Its fourth target was already in sight.

    "Reinforced Mana seed:

    They can infuse their mana into separate objects enabling users to control and strengthen them at a distance. Through the consumption of magical stones, plants, and other sorts, they can imbue special effects into the given object. However, this process is very arbitrary in results and very often fails. It is extremely difficult to successfully create special functional enchantments. Only the most talented enchanters are able to do this. Those who have this mana type tend to be considered as enchanters."

    Like a never-ending supply of troops, reinforcements of the previous page of soldiers continued to align in formation, defining the fourth result; resolute soldiers were threatening to burst from their paper confines.

    "Blessed Mana seed:

    Their mana energy is different from the rest of the other seeds. The seed is said to hold Caleyar's power blessed unto a mana seed. It will make the mana seed carry some of Caleyar's power but be unable to develop into any of the others. Its elemental properties are a mixture of light and divinity. The primary use of power is through genuine artefacts and lessor artefacts. However, for genuine artefacts, there is a restriction of not being able to unleash the full power. Often times when an artefact was referred, people would consider it as a lessor artefact because of how rare genuine artefacts are.

    By having a dormant mana seed whilst living around the Head Church over a long period of time, if one does not seek other transformations, then it will naturally be transformed to this. Otherwise, they can be directly baptised. Blessed Mana is unique as you are unable to transform a dormant mana seed into it. Unless, one is baptised or living around the Head Church, located northeast of Cresuilge Kingdom."

    And at last, the full battalion was assembled as the largest group of soldiers descended upon the field to conquer its next territory—the third question was vanquished.

    Silently, a girl raised her hand.

    Scholar Somal walked over to the girl's desk and asked silently: "Yes Sharron. What do you need?"

    "Would we be required to write about mana involving heroes and demonic beasts?"

    "Excellent question!" Scholar Somal said in a cheerful voice. He raised his arm with one index finger pointed to the ceiling and began his announcement to the class.

    "Sharron just asked a very important question, and this may come in handy in the actual exam regarding heroes and demonic beasts. She asked if you all will be required to write about mana involving heroes and demonic beasts. While it isn't necessary to write about them, by appending that knowledge to your writing it will indicate to me that you have considered other mana aspects which are not conventionally taught. Critical thinking is a must, everyone. I would like to know everybody's individual theories and understandings of mana whether it is mentioned or not! Fret not! You will gain more marks if you do so."

    "However teacher, you said before that nobody has an actual clear understanding with regards to mana of heroes and demonic beasts. How would you be able to allocate marks if even teacher Somal is unable to be certain?" one of the students asked.

    "Hmph, have you ever been listening to Scholar Somal? That question has already been answered!" irritated, Melvin interjected with a look of disdain.

    The atmosphere of the class became livelier. (Why had the mock exam turned into a class discussion?) Dalis pondered meaninglessly.

    "Ah, Melvin could you tell us about it?" Stilla asked spontaneously. It seemed she wanted to avoid a possible conflict.

    "Of course Stilla. I will make sure to fully educate everybody about Scholar Somal's teaching intentions to make a few of our . . . not so bright students understand well."

    He stood up with beaming confidence with much elegance as he began his speech.

    "While marks indeed determine our grade, they're obviously not a complete measure of one's correctness. Unlike multiple-choice, in the upcoming writing exam, as he said, we are marked based upon our understandings of mana. There is no complete right or wrong answer. After all everything is just a theory of what our seniors and ancestors have recorded. While our conventional laws have been recognised and established as common knowledge, there is much to learn and discover about. Revisiting your silly question, our teacher would like to know our own thoughts, ideas, and judgements in order to provide a response that details your outlook on the fundamental laws. As long as you provide evidence, whether it could perhaps support your theory, or contradict known laws . . . then appropriate marks would be given, especially if they're unconventional."

    "OOOooooo"

    The class awed in admiration and respect.

    "Melvin although your attitude is a little . . . disrespectful. That was a magnificent answer as to the objectives of the test. While the content and knowledge is vital, it is more important to view your individual argument, and understanding of laws, and principles. There is a great difference in grades between a B student with detailed textbook answers compared to an A student who are able to come up with their own theories and conclusions," Scholar Somal said as he expressed his impressed attitude.

    "I will make my utmost effort to "fix" my attitude to be a role model for my fellow peers," Melvin replied, giving a light bow.

    Melvin then inconspicuously looked towards Stilla. Stilla was seen to be seriously taking notes on her scrap sheet, which brought forth a surge of satisfaction. It boosted his self-centred ego to higher levels than before.

    Melvin, feeling very conceited, then shot a glance towards Dalis. Dalis appeared to be simply staring into space. His attitude seemed to suggest that he wasn't paying attention at all to the discussion, nor did he hear his "magnificent answer".

    Dalis's aloof attitude ticked off Melvin. This would usually result in Melvin pestering Dalis in a roundabout way. However, as his mood was very good, he decided to let the matter slide. After all, it was his fault for failing to listen to the discussion. If he were to fail or fall beneath Melvin, he would be able to boast and undermine him for his lack of attention, especially since he missed the "magnificent answer" of his.

    Yes, this all happened during a mock exam.

    After the mock exam with Scholar Somal, Dalis's group was required to meet at the Training Facility of the Caleyar Orphanage. This was where students would individually workout in order to strengthen themselves in their respective mana pathways besides the battlegrounds.

    The Training Facility was said to have undergone many expansions and refinements over the years with each modification reflecting the wishes and training philosophy of the Church, Kingdom, and other nations to a minor extent.

    The interior walls were indestructible as it had been reinforced with powerful magical inscriptions from Feeria and enchantments from Cresuilge Kingdom. Superimposed on top was another separated layer wall with blessed mana from Caleyar. Therefore, there is no worry as to how wild one could be in their training.

    Inside the Training Facility, the accessories and clothing one can find include countless weapons of combat stored in the weapon racks and wardrobes.

    Notable mentions include battle armour used by the Vanquish Soldiers, blessed robes, and uniforms that are imbued with Caleyar's mana. They may offer various types of resistances, such as a reduction in fire elemental power.

    Although one is unable to utilise the superior quality equipment such as the Vanquish Soldier's armour, they're able to view it with admiration. If children gained permission, they could, in fact, use it for a period of time.

    In regards to training that is offered, there are mechanisms that are placed to help simulate actual live combat. For instance, there are summoning circles which can summon common low-level demonic creatures or beasts. The devices could also conjure up entities that are similar to particular known beasts and emulate them.

    There are also soldiers-in-training or teachers that are assigned at particular times to be in the training facility. Their role is to guide students and to be on duty, making sure that everything is going smoothly.

    Furthermore, there are particular specialists who enter the Training Facility periodically. They're assigned to scout talents, measure strength, and even give specific lecturing or demonstrations. Although there are numerous specialists, a large majority of them are involved with guidance in the blessed mana pathway.

    Author note: The biggest info dump you will ever get. I hope Dalis's writing skills were able keep you engaged. Battles will be coming very soon.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  5. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "Looks like Sister Edna's children have arrived," a young woman said.

    "Cool, we can get our teachings out of the way," replied the young man aside from her.

    "Halio, if you keep up that attitude I'm gonna be leaving you behind."

    "Heyyy we are friends. You don't gotta be like that."

    These two were volunteer teachers: Halio Garyson and Karen Miller.

    They are official soldiers-in-training who have volunteered to impart their knowledge, regardless of what it is, unto the children of the Orphanage. Usually, they spend the majority of their time teaching students general self-defence knowledge and basic outdoor survival or vanquish techniques. After a year of service, they will be promoted to become official Vanquishers. Once Vanquishers, they will fight in the frontlines around the borders of The Land of Demons.

    "Sister Edna's children, today will be a rough day. I hope you all are ready to go as it's going to be difficult," Karen shouted to the group.

    "Group battles?" a student asked.

    "Correct kid, but it ain"t gonna be you kids messing around with each other." Halio laughed before putting on a serious expression.

    "You will be facing us."

    "Oh?" Dalis let out a voice of surprise.

    "Facing teacher Halio and teacher Karen?"

    "Ah . . . we are screwed."

    "You guys are joking right?"

    The children let out cries and shouts of misbeliefs. Although some seemed eager to take on the challenge, the vast majority of them were anxious.

    "Settle down everyone. I know that you're all used to training against those mechanisms, peers and likewise. However, this would be a great opportunity to display and apply the skills you have been taught in this orphanage. Many of you are still taking it easy, and are truly underestimating what it truly means to become a part of the Vanquishers. We are not even Vanquishers yet, and you all have your tails between your legs."

    "The chick is right on, grow some balls and man up," Halio proudly said.

    *BAM*

    "Uggghhh . . . "

    A groaning sound can be heard.

    "Damn gurl, it's gonna take a lot more than that to make me budge. I didn't even feel a sweat."

    Yet, a groaning sound was clearly heard.

    "Hey. If you wanna act tough, you can continue all you want. Stilla could I have you do a special job for me?" Karen said with a very sweet voice.

    "Hm? Okayy, I happen to be good at this."

    Her words sent a cold breeze to sweep over the class; everyone became a little tense.

    Melvin, in particular, seemed to have turned his face away from the scene as if he recalled some particular memories. Even Dalis was surprised that he himself, slightly shuddered after those words were spoken by Stilla.

    "A’ight, a’ght, I give I give," Halio said in a panic as he waved his hands back and forth.

    "Alright enough games, it's time to get to business. I want all of you to get your usual weapons and head to the Training Grounds in ten minutes. Got that? Oh yeah, also. You may bring some light armour if you would like," Karen declared.

    Everyone soon scattered to obtain their equipment and made preparations to head towards the Training Grounds within ten minutes.

    "Okay you all, I want you guys to split into groups of three. It can be your usual three. Rather, it should be your usual three for this training."

    "Let's do it together guys," Stilla with a stern voice said as she went in between Dalis and Melvin putting one arm out at the front, facing downwards. Noticing that the two were not doing the usual procedure, she grabbed Dalis's arm with her spare arm and placed his hand on top of hers. Then she repeated the same action to Melvin.

    "You guys, don't need to be so stubborn . . . it's not embarrassing, you know!" Stilla indignantly said.

    "That isn't the issue. The issue is having my hand touched by that piece of trash," Dalis blatantly said with disgust.

    "Ohhh? To think I would have something in common with an insect? That's news to me," expressed Melvin with a haughty smile.

    "Why don't you guys ever start it yourselves?! Then I can be in the middle, so there won't be any fights that breakout! Jeez, always having to make this big sister force you two," Stilla cried her discontent.

    The two did not reply. Dalis couldn't imagine himself initiating such a task and Melvin was, in truth, too embarrassed to initiate an act that was unbefitting for his status. Even though he would always “reluctantly” join in.

    After a few seconds, Stilla removed her arm which was followed by Dalis and then Melvin.

    "It appears you have all formed your groups. Good. We will have a ten-minute group rotation battle. As there are fifteen of you, Halio and I will be each taking on a group. Once you have finished facing one of us, you can either take a small break and then head back to the Training Facility. Or, you may watch your peers spar and try to learn something from them. The rest of you waiting . . . just watch carefully."

    "The victory condition for ya guys and girls is simple. Y’all just need to make me move at least a half a step. While for the lass, make her move at least two steps."

    Karen affirmed the conditions with a nod.

    "Wait . . . wouldn't it mean that whichever group gets Halio, they would have an easier time?" a student asked.

    "No. I will be using a basic vanquisher lessor artefact weapon. While Halio will be using his own weapon. Besides I'd hate to admit it but . . . Halio is probably stronger than me; therefore, these conditions are fair."

    "WHAT!!"

    Edna's students cried in disbelief.

    "Even with these conditions . . . Halio would probably be tougher . . . " a voice said.

    "You think so? How hard could half a step be, especially if he's being attacked by three at the same time," someone retorted.

    "Alright enough chatter, Edna's children. We will begin in a moment's time."

    Karen and Halio separated from the group of children, and each moved a little far from the group. They made sure to allocate enough space for the upcoming fights.

    "Koji Itou, Steffanie Stratis, and Allen you will be facing me," Karen announced.

    "Sienna Galatas, Elliot Gonce, and Jessica ya better be ready," Halio yawned.

    "Aiii . . . we're up first!" Allen said in a pained manner.

    "Don't worry I'm sure our teachers will take us a bit more lightly since we are the first group up besides Jessica's," Steffanie said in a slightly confident tone.

    "Let's not take things lightly," Koji said in a low but stern tone.

    "Haha Halio that arse . . . Always picking the group with more women," Jessica irritably said, raising a fist. She was ready to beat someone up.

    "Let's not get too worked up," Elliot said as he tried to cool down the ticked off Jessica.

    "Time to show him what we girls are made of," Sienna said a little pumped up.

    "Ah . . . you are forgetting that I'm a guy . . . " Elliot cried in a disheartening manner.

    The groups walked towards their respective teachers. Then they each briefly had a group discussion to figure out a plan to defeat their powerful opponents.

    Although they were next in line to become soldiers-in-training, the children were up against their self-defence mentors. They have taught them how to brawl, survive, and use weapons.

    However, that was not all.

    In their eyes they were considered to be the top of the batch, already eligible to become Vanquishers.

    After all, not anyone could become a Vanquisher. It wasn't simply them being posted as guards to defend the Church of Vanquish.

    They were usually required to risk their lives in the frontlines against the demonic creatures, and, on some unique cases, travel across the Pedlar Continent tasked with special missions.

    "Ready Karen? We may be your students, but we won't go easy on you," Allen declared.

    "Cheeky brat, you took the words out of my mouth," Karen replied.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  6. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "Koji!" Allen shouted.

    Koji nodded his head in acknowledgement. Suddenly, Koji's body became very conspicuous. His body seemed to appear as if he was melting. No! It was dissolving! He was turning into a slime-like creature; he was liquid!

    "Hidden Technique: Liquify."

    This was one of the three primary arts of the Swamp.

    The hidden technique liquify!

    For those who have chosen the free mana path, they have the ability to control mana that they're in contact with and are able to change their state into many forms. In this case, liquid!

    "Steffanie . . . " Koji called in a soft peculiar voice.

    "Right," Steffanie replied.

    She held a hand-sized cross object and started chanting words.

    "Let thee, shine of light fend off thee, indecorous."

    All of a sudden, a speck of light was being emitted on top of the crossed artefact. The light increasingly became larger around the cross until it swelled to become a ball of light the size of Steffanie's head. The outward appearance was blinding, and the artefact could scarcely be made out under the intense glow.

    However, for people who have blessed mana or keen eyes, it was clear as day that the cross artefact was shrouded in light!

    "Light wave!" shouted Steffanie.

    A wave of light flashed towards Karen, threatening to engulf her in its blinding brilliance.

    "Hmm . . . it's better compared to last time I"ve seen it . . . However . . . "

    Just as she was about to finish her sentence, Koji, who had been stealthy moving during Steffanie's cast, tackled Karen with his body of liquid. Normally, this wouldn't even make Karen budge with Koji's small height and physical aptitude.

    However, as he was in liquid-like slime form, Koji could simply utilise his jelly-like body to hold the target captive, locking her mobility, hindering her movements, and effectively making her vulnerable. Unlike a normal liquid, he wouldn't easily dissolve as he predominantly has a human body. Furthermore, Koji's liquid art was not normal liquefaction. He trained himself to have a trait of exceptional adhesiveness.

    "Ugh . . . I didn't sign up for this," Karen said with disgust.

    "Haha teacher watch your head~."

    As that line was spoken, Karen tilted her head up towards the direction of the voice.

    Before Karen's eyes, she saw a young boy holding a stone broadsword descending upon her; he was using the momentum of his fall to strike at her from above.

    *SMACK*

    Karen was hit directly on her left shoulder. Although the chain mail aided in resisting his direct attack, she felt as if a large boulder had been dropped down onto her left shoulder.

    "Ahhh the hell??! That sword!" Karen cried in pain.

    Allen's stone broadsword was an artefact. The stone broadsword had the ability to apply a greater force than usual upon hitting a target. As a result, the target would feel a weighted blow significantly heftier than what the broadsword should be capable of delivering.

    Moreover, the user is unaffected by this "phantom weight", meaning he would be wielding the broadsword normally the entire time! While the enemy would feel as if she were facing an opponent with an enormous boulder on a stick. Deadly!

    As the impact landed, Koji swiftly retreated away a fair distance from Karen.

    The strike had also dealt a sizeable degree of damage onto Koji. The impact of the strike also swelled up the surrounding sand from the ground into the air.

    "Koji, you alright? You didn't need to keep holding her," Allen asked worriedly.

    "No problem. Can"t underestimate her . . . "

    "That's true, but it looks like it's over . . . "

    Or so they thought.

    "What??" The three shouted in confusion.

    As the collected sand from the aftermath began to fade . . .

    A silhouette appeared in front of the group's naked eyes . . . and then, finally, Karen.

    Karen had not moved from the spot where she last stood.

    "Seriously . . . "

    "Ah . . . "

    " . . . "

    "Ouch . . . you guys really didn't show any mercy to me at all. Well, that's good, because if you weren't serious enough . . . then I'd have to rough things up a bit. Now It's time for some payback." She gave a devious smile and prepared to spring towards them. She clearly was going to rough them up a bit.

    "Oh, but you children were close. I actually moved half a step. That's pretty impressive . . . I guess I never really was cut out for being on the defence~"

    Karen seriously disclosed as she used her one remaining step to instantly close the distance between the group—one could see the terror in their eyes.



    ***



    "It seems this challenge is not a simple walk in the park". Melvin commented as he watched Karen face Allen's group.

    "No need to worry. Although Allen's group is strong, we aren't any weaker than them!" Stilla said encouragingly with fiery eyes.

    "You two should've focused your attention to Halio. He is much more fearsome than Karen, as he doesn't appear to be showing mercy." Dalis spoke with a slight tone of seriousness.

    Stilla and Melvin, who were immersed in Karen's fight between Allen, Steffanie, and Koji, switched their attention towards Halio.

    "Playtime is done kids, off ya go."

    However, before the two could have a chance to view Halio fight. It was over.

    !!!

    Students who had seen the fight between Jessica, Sienna, Elliot and Halio expressed unpleasant faces and wariness.

    "That guy . . . is he actually taking it easy? Or is that a facade?"

    "He didn't even use any special moves! All he did was swing his halberd for a while and then the next moment they're all on the floor!"

    "What a bastard. He always acts like a lazy scumbag. When it comes down to training like this, he actually does his job?"

    Chatter began to fill the air after witnessing the defeat of Jessica's group.

    "Alright y’all settle down. I know I'm popular and all but if ya want to get my autograph, come after class." Halio announced smugly.

    "A bastard . . . he's truly a bastard!" Jessica shouted as she rubbed her already dishevelled hair.

    "Haha . . . I hope the next group doesn't suffer the same fate as us . . . " Elliot said in a defeated tone.

    "Your right Elliot, whoever is up next needs to win!" Sienna clamoured. It seemed she could take the loss well, unlike her fallen teammates.

    "Feeria boy, little filly and hotshot you're up."

    Determined to win, Melvin, Stilla, and Dalis walked over to where Halio awaited them. To their surprise, it seemed that Halio acknowledged them as he stopped leaning back on his halberd and chose to keep his guard up.

    "I'm sure since it's you fellas, I may be worked up a bit."

    Incensed, Melvin felt words ready to blast through the floodgates but seeing Dalis's silence and Stilla's concentration washed away the thought. He began to go over what they had discussed earlier in his mind to topple Halio.

    Glancing at Dalis's steel bo staff eager to strike, Melvin began to mentally chant spell invocations before Stilla kicked off the floor to quickly approach Halio. A subtle stream of mana could be seen manipulating the air around Stilla and Dalis's legs to aid in their movements as a strong tailwind was evoked.

    "Hmmmm . . . . Woooaaahhh."

    In order to cast a spell, an incantation is usually required. For instance, Steffanie had to chant words that would enable her to activate her artefact. Many of the arts, techniques or spells across the various nations are no exception to this rule, especially the case when the word “hidden” or “forbidden” is in the name. However, Melvin is a boy who is both gifted and hard-learnt in movement arts. He had read and grasped the concepts within hundreds of books, detailing the fundamental movement arts in the Great Feeria Library. To this boy, the physical chanting requirement was null. There was no difference even if he uttered the chant.

    Although he acknowledged them, he still did not take it seriously.

    While the sudden boost in speed came as a surprise to Halio, Dalis seemed as if he had been waiting for this opportunity. He thrust the staff in his hands into the solid floor and used the rebound to vault above Halio. At the same time, Melvin quickly cast six bolts of condensed mana towards Halio, and Stilla started to erratically dash towards his flank, adopting a kickboxing stance and preparing to strike as Dalis landed.

    Facing the incoming onslaught, Halio reacted by somewhat lazily lifting the groove in his halberd's blade above his head to catch the oncoming bo staff. He bent his knees and used his free left hand to block Stilla's punches and push her away before twisting the halberd downwards, lifting his left leg and rotating his body. This pulled Dalis downwards while allowing Halio to sweep a clean crescent with his halberd, accurately slashing a straight line through all six of Melvin's mana bolts and returning his foot to the exact place it once stood.

    "Damn, you kids sure don't know how to hold back. Or, was that part of your plan?"

    Although they didn't manage to make Halio move a single step from his original position, he was now surrounded. Melvin was in front of him, Stilla to the left, and Dalis behind. He could at most see two people at once. Although the children had slightly hoped to make him flinch from the earlier assault, this had all still gone according to expectations.

    One of the key disadvantages of the halberd was the fact that it was a polearm and was effective only at a certain length. In closer combat, halberds were rather useless despite its splendid versatility. By keeping at least one of the group members unseen, it was much easier to approach Halio and force him to make a move.

    Halio acknowledged that he was now in a disadvantageous situation. He freely swirled his halberd about as if it were a toy before fiercely gripping it and getting in stance. He wore a slight smile that seemed to beckon to the children.

    "I know you kids wanna come up close and personal, but do ya think you're up to the task?"

    His display of control over the halberd would dishearten anybody, but to his dismay, the three kids weren't even remotely swayed. Dalis's eyes were still as water, Stilla wouldn't be perturbed by a show of strength, and Melvin looked to be too egotistical to notice. The three slowly approached him.

    "Hmm . . . You kids really are something else."

    Without notice, a light, cold fog seeped through the floor surrounding Halio. It very slightly obstructed his vision, but it was enough. As if a predator were evoked within Dalis, he began to subtly follow the movements of the fog, nimbly melding into the current as he soundlessly approached Halio . . . and fast!

    "What the hell . . . that kid . . . "

    Unfortunately, he had no time to pay attention to him as Stilla chose to rush in while Halio was visibly distracted. Although the fog would barely affect his vision, it could hinder his battle sense. The chilling fog would distract him from the flurry of blows threatening to hit him. Stilla's techniques were displayed without pause; each strike stronger than the last and varying unpredictably. Sometimes, Halio would be greeted by the cold steel of her brass knuckles. And other times, a relentless palm or a sharp kick. Halio blocked each and every advance using the blade of his halberd, but as planned, this allowed Dalis and Melvin to come closer. It was never-ending, and the pressure became harder to bear, especially because he had no idea where Dalis was. He could catch a glimpse of dozens of mana bolts surrounding Melvin as he continued to harness a large amount of mana from his surroundings.

    "Tch. Let thine might conquer, and thou, concede!"

    A bright glow could be seen coalescing from Halio's hands and up to the halberd blade. This was unexpected to Stilla. She chose to hurriedly stop her advance and block Halio's next attack with her metal armguards. This was a mistake. Regrettably, for her, nobody knew what Halio's weapon could accomplish as nobody could force him to use it the way she had.

    "Girl. It's time for a break."

    Halio's halberd slashed at her armguards, and to the children's surprise, Stilla was knocked two steps backwards and lifted off-balance. It must be known that Stilla was one of the Orphanage's brightest students in martial arts. Her balance and posture were so immaculately perfect that it would be at most a myth or a joke for her to fall out of stance.

    And yet she did.

    Stilla could feel the air and mana around her quake in chaos and disorder as Halio's halberd struck her. Before she could regain her wits, Halio held the halberd in one hand and thrust the pike once more towards Stilla's chest. Stilla managed to hurriedly block the pike with her other arm, but the force of it threw her several meters across the Training Grounds, and her arms couldn't muster the strength to cushion the fall. She received a concussion upon landing and was knocked out.

    Clearly agitated, the floodgates could be held no longer as venomous words made their way out of Melvin's mouth.

    "YOU MOTHER FUCKER!"

    Halio turned his attention to Melvin before being jolted at sight.

    Was it a night sky?

    Or maybe it was snowing?

    The area around Melvin was densely populated by suspended bolts of mana ready to surge and annihilate their target. As if reflecting his mood, the bolts were trembling intensely.

    . . . And within the fog, the predator stalked.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  7. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "Oi . . . oi . . . I reckon I took things a little too far."

    "A little . . . too far? You . . . you . . . FUCK!"

    Looking at the state of Melvin, Halio immediately knew that Melvin had lost his mind. While Halio did feel quite guilty for what he had done, there was no time for that. Although the suspended bolts of mana around Melvin did not seem to be any different from before, the intensity, strength, and quantity were clearly magnified! Moreover, he was still continuing to channel mana to conjure many more bolts! If he were to be left unattended, he would be unsure if he would lose control. Halio knew that he was pushing his limits.

    "Feeria boy, this is for your own good."

    Deepening his stance, Halio tightly held the halberd with both of his arms to prepare to create a great sweep. Slowly lifting his left leg up to rotate his body, gathering momentum and force he kicked off, swinging the halberd towards the direction of Melvin.

    "OOOAAAHHHH!!"

    Usually, Halio would not need to take longer than a few seconds to initiate such an act. However, due to the restrictions of being unable to take a step, Halio was required to kick off his leg without taking a step as a means to increase the swinging potency.

    Before Melvin could finally finish his conjuring of bolts, he was slashed by a wave torrent of powerful strength. It is important to note that the halberd itself, did not hit Melvin as he was positioned metres away appropriate for a mage. It was the generated force that struck him.

    If Melvin were to release the bolts much sooner, instead of conjuring up his repository of materialised anger, then the severity of the situation would have been completely different.

    "BAAAAAAAA!!" Melvin cried in anguish.

    Not only was Melvin injured by the force, but the sudden disruption of channelling mana also backfired to inflict critical damage to Melvin.

    After the passing of the scream, Melvin soundlessly fell to the ground. Melvin's state of condition was unknown. Even Stilla is probably in much better shape.

    "Ahh . . . Shit . . . I hope that fella is alright," Halio said in remorse.

    It was at this moment that a contour of a predator launched its attack.

    Halio's body shuddered as his instincts informed him he was in grave danger. Danger than was much more alarming than Melvin's previous actions. Furthermore, he understood that his very own life could be taken away from him at this moment. Who could have the balls to dare try to kill him in the broad light of day at the Caleyar Orphanage?

    *SMACK*

    Halio felt the back of his neck grazed by a long object until he felt an acute pain on his shoulder.

    "AHHHH!" Halio groaned as he took a few steps back and fell on one knee looking down.

    As he put one arm around his injured shoulder and looked his head up, he saw the face of a young boy he was very familiar with. It was Dalis. Dalis's eyes were restless and hazy. The two stared at each other for a brief while, but Dalis, who could no longer handle the pressure, turned his eyes away. There was a very awkward silence between them.

    If Dalis had not redirected his initial attack from the back of Halio's neck, to his shoulder, then the consequences would have been unimaginable.

    "Go quickly to them, don't cha worry about me." Halio was the first to break the silence.

    " . . . "

    Dalis nodded his head in affirmation and quickly jogged away. However, after a few seconds of moving towards his fallen comrades, he turned his back to see Halio watching him.

    "Sorry . . . Teacher . . . " Dalis said uncomfortably, before quickly turning his back and walking towards Stilla's side.

    " . . . It's my bad, I escalated things too far." Halio replied. However, he was unsure if Dalis had heard those words.

    The incident had stirred the Caleyar Orphanage. Those who had watched the fight had seen Halio knock out two students and another student almost deal a lethal blow against Halio. It was fortunate that Stilla and Melvin's injuries were not as bad as it had seemed. Stilla was able to recover in half a day while Melvin would require at least a week of recuperation. Melvin had not suffered any real internal wounds and much of it was external due to the halberd's ability to disrupt mana.

    As authorities had gotten wind of the incident, they investigated and questioned Halio's actions. Testimonies, verifications from students, including the victims, had significantly helped alleviate and solve the misunderstandings of the situation. However, Halio was still required to be punished due to his actions being unlawful against the Church's policies and teachings. Fortunately, his privilege to become a future Vanquish member was still intact as talent can't be wasted, and desire to atone was evident. Halio was judged to have three years of community service and required to work as a soldier in training for another year. This was considered to be a rather light punishment.

    As for Dalis . . .

    "Come on in my daughter." A gentle voice resounded.

    "Yes mother." A Sister replied.

    They were Mother Michelle and Sister Edna.

    Sister Edna had entered the darkroom of Mother Michelle's personal office. Here, Mother Michelle would work, signing papers of various documents, and meet up with special guests or authorities. There was a large window behind her work desk where one would be able to view the front yard of the orphanage. Yet, at this moment, the curtains were closed, and two lamps had been lit on each side of the work desk. The atmosphere felt in some measure . . . disturbing.

    Sister Edna felt a little tenser than she was expecting as she slowly took a guest chair and sat quietly while Mother Michelle continued to face her back towards her. Through discerning Mother Michelle's posture, it appeared that she was pondering something.

    After the time it took for an incense stick to burn, Michelle turned her figure towards Sister Edna.

    "Edna what do you think of that boy?"

    "Boy . . . Dalis . . . Mother?"

    "Yes."

    "When I initially took him in 3 years ago from your care Mother, I thought he was a mysterious and peculiar boy. Dalis would always give off this demeanour as if he was different from all of us . . . No rather . . . It's best to say he seemed to be too mature for his age, even if he had grown up in some kind of sophisticated environment. Dalis appeared to lack something that most of the other kids had, and he didn't try to open up with the rest of the children. I find it hard to believe that it was because he was introverted or unsociable. He was able to communicate fairly well if necessary with his peers or us adults.

    "What do you think he lacked?" Mother Michelle asked in an intriguing manner. She moved a little closer towards Sister Edna.

    "I'm not quite sure . . . Many of our children lacked family members or relatives . . . So perhaps it was a sense of belonging . . . or love . . . Yes, I believe it's more towards the need for a sense of belonging. Strangely though, this belonging was different as the empathy wasn't quite there.

    "I see . . . What about now? After you have watched him for 3 years, has anything changed?"

    "Yes!" Sister Edna excitedly jumped out of her chair.

    "Ah . . . Apologies mother!" Sister Edna embarrassingly returned to her seat.

    Sister Edna paused for a bit as she cleared her throat and began to speak.

    "Thanks to the influence of Stilla and . . . . Melvin. Dalis has become a much brighter boy than the lonesome boy he once was. Back in the day, Melvin would be a handful to the rest of the children probably because he felt distraught about his circumstances. As a result, he would occasionally let a little of his anger out against the other children. But for some reason, he would mainly pick on Dalis, even though they were a little similar. I thought eventually something bad would happen, so I was very worried about what to do . . . But that was when . . .




    *Flashback*

    "DAAALISSSSSS!!!! MELVIN!!!!! From today onwards you can't fight anymore because I'm going to be your Big Sister! Got that?! No more fighting! Or Big sister will not forgive you!!!"

    "Hmph! What nonsense! Little orphan girl, do you think you can have the qualifications to be, my big sister? Or my sister, for that matter? If you want to . . . come and try! I will show you the Great arts of Feeria!" - Melvin

    "There is no need for a big sister . . . If I wanted a big sister . . . Sister Edna can be my big sister." - Dalis

    "WHAAAATTTT DID YOU SAY??"

    *SMACK* *BOOM* *BANG* *POW* *WHAM* *CRASH* *SCREAMS*

    . . . .

    . . . ..

    . . . . . .

    "HMPH! YOU! YOU! THINK I WILL SURRENDER TO THIS? THEN YOU MUST BE NAIVE! I AM MELVIN SERVEN FROM FEE . . . ..RRRIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!"

    Never had Melvin in his life, been so disgraced as he had been now.

    On the other hand, Dalis had already given up to fight against his fate.



    *Present*

    *giggle* *giggle* *giggle*

    Mother Michelle moved one hand towards her mouth to cover her laughs.

    "To think that girl that Karen picked up was . . . Alright, alright enough of the past. Tell me how Dalis is now?"

    "Mother Michelle, he is always seen to be around Stilla or Melvin. While his demeanour hasn't changed much and he still maintains this invisible distance . . . He is much more open to talk to if you were to speak with him, especially if you are close to him. In addition, he can get along much better with his fellow children. Occasionally, I can even see him let out smiles that are definitely genuine. In the past 3 years ago, he would smile, but it seemed forced or inauthentic. I am very happy with him," Sister Edna sincerely said with a heartwarming tone.

    The atmosphere of the room, unexpectedly, became rather warming over time.

    "Alright Edna you may leave now," Mother Michelle gently said.

    "Eh? Is that really all you wanted to ask?" Edna quizzically asked.

    "Hmm . . . well . . . Just watch over him for me . . . My daughter . . . "

    "Yes Mother I understand!"

    Sister Edna carefully rose from her chair and prepared to respectfully leave.

    "Oh yes just one last thing . . . "

    "What is it mother?"

    "Could you check that boy's mana seed growth? The last time I had heard about it. The seed was still dormant."

    "Ah . . . Yes your right . . . Would you like me to check it now and report back?"

    "No need . . . you may report to me about it anytime . . . Besides . . . "

    "Besides?"

    "Oh nothing . . . "
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #7
  8. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Meanwhile at a particular dormitory room . . . The boy in question was, likewise, having a private conversation.

    "Daaalisss. I'm coming in!"

    "You don't need permission to enter your own room. Idiot."

    "Well then I'm coming in!"

    Stilla, lively and energetic, entered the room. Maintaining her energy, she lunged towards him to sit by his side on the bed.

    "Everyone is worried you know? Although there are rumours circling around, the people who were at the scene know exactly what had happened," Stilla said casually as she rocked the bed a little by swinging her two legs.

    "And yourself? Unlike me, you were actually injured." Dalis, who had been staring vacantly into space, turned his head towards Stilla to look at her.

    "No one needs to worry about big sister! Big sister is always healthy and dynamic!" Declared Stilla as she moved the sleeve of her slender right arm to flex her bicep out, reassuring that she was completely fine and recovered!

    " . . . "

    Dalis stared at Stilla's jolly face as his eyes soon turned into a look of tenderness and concern. Stilla, having noticed this uncommon reaction, couldn't help but stare back at his captivating eyes.

    The two stared for a period of time until Stilla broke this unusual state of affairs.

    "Ah . . . Jeez . . . Stilla is fine . . . alright?"

    "You're not using big sister?"

    Stilla's face turned a little flushed, and she embarrassingly shouted.

    "Don't tease your big sister!!"

    After the two idly charted for a few minutes . . . a much more serious conversation was brought up.

    "Stilla, are you not going to ask me about what I tried to do . . . ?" Dalis asked in a weighty tone.

    "Hmm?" Stilla cutely tilted her head as if she had no clue as to what he was talking about.

    "Forget it." Dalis stood up from his bed and then headed towards the door.

    "Dalis." Stilla called out.

    Dalis abruptly stopped himself from turning the doorknob. Then, he turned around to see Stilla approach him, slowly with gentle eyes.

    Faintly tilting her head to the side, she said.

    "Dalis, I'm glad you had changed whatever thoughts that had lingered in your mind during that fight. We may of lost big time this time, but we would definitely be able to win next time! Or . . . at least in the future, yeah! Big Sister believes it!"

    Dalis was silent for a few seconds before moving a hand towards his mouth to let a little chuckle. Then he approached Stilla and gave her a soft karate chop to her forehead.

    "Thanks. You don't need to worry. "

    Dalis then walked back to the door to leave the room but . . .

    "Your not gonna ask about Melvin's condition?" Stilla Interrupted.

    "Oh right . . . Is there any chance that he will be required to be in bed for more than a week?

    "Oh Dalis you!" Stilla pouted, putting her hands on her hips.

    After Dalis left the dormitory, he headed towards the main hallway. On the way, he spotted a few of his roommates chatting. When he listened closely, it was unsurprisingly about the incident with Halio.

    Jessica, Elliot, Sienna.

    "Halio, that damn good for nothing teacher of ours! To think he'd actually go so far as to knock out Melvin and Stilla!" Jessica asserted.

    "Mmm . . . it's quite unforeseen . . . When we faced him, he just told us to leave after sparing for a bit because it was apparently enough? Elliot queried.

    "Sigh . . . . You guys . . . Did you even see the overwhelming difference between the way we fought and Stilla's group? There was a clear difference between their teamwork, coordination, strength, and other areas. It made me realise how much our group was lacking compared to the others," Sienna disclosed the truth.

    "Ah . . . well you're right, but I don't think we are that behind! Besides, their group is filled with monsters! Stilla is a crazy body consolidator fighter with unnatural-like physical power. Melvin, though irritable, is one of the very few Feeria orphans in this orphanage and considered to be quite talented for his age even in Feeria. While Dalis, though I'm not exactly sure what mana pathway he has chosen . . . That guy he's . . . weird. Definitely not weak at all. He may even be stronger than Stilla and Melvin . . . Nah that's impossible," Jessica retorted with a bit of anguish due to her inferiority.

    "Dalis did in fact, almost deal a serious blow to Halio . . . If he committed through without changing his course at the last moment . . . " Elliot shuddered as he expressed those words.

    "Although Dalis may seem unapproachable, he can be surprisingly easy to get along with you know? You guys should know that through watching him, especially when he's with Stilla and Melvin. We have been roommates for quite a while now." Sienna attempted to shed some light on Dalis.

    "Yeah but the fact is he almost . . ."

    "Elliot!"

    Sienna cut him off.

    "You know Dalis wouldn't do that. Dalis just lost his cool in the heat of the moment. If I saw you two like that, even I may end up doing the same mistake he did."

    "Hey Sienna could you perhaps be . . . Oh, speak of the devil. "

    Looking at the finger that Jessica raised in the air, Sienna and Elliot turned to notice that Dalis was only meters away from them. The trio had no idea as to how long Dalis had been standing there.

    "Oh, um . . . Dalis did you perhaps just arrive? Dinner will commence soon in a quarter of an hour." Elliot tried to smoothly inquire him.

    "Yes." Dalis blandly said.

    "Oh that's . . . pleasant to hear." Elliot relaxed.

    "Could there perhaps be something you're unwilling for me to hear you say?" Dalis's eyes glinted with menace."

    "Ah no! It isn't something to bother about anyways!" said Jessica with laughter as she walked up towards Dalis and sneaked an elbow attack onto Elliot's abdomen."

    "Did you really just arrive?" Sienna asked puzzlingly with a bit of doubt.

    "Yeah, about five minutes ago."

    The air around them became very awkward.

    "D-D-D-Dalis we were simply discussing about the incident today! Y-your actions today were very understandable and justifying! H-Halio t-that . . . "

    Elliot was given a direct elbow to his abdomen once again. This time, Jessica did not bother to even try to hide it.

    "Ah well, the cats out of the bag anyways so we're sorry about concealing it! However no matter how wrong Halio was. No matter how much of a bastard that guy is. You can't try and kill him for such a reason. It wasn't a life and death battle. It's against the teachings of our morals," Jessica sternly confessed.

    "Jessica is right, but in the end you didn't do the deed. So you are still the Dalis we know," Sienna commented.

    (We aren't even close to him besides him being our roommate . . . ) Elliot thought.

    Seconds passed without a word being spoken.

    "Thank you for the advice. Don't worry, I won't do it again . . . "

    Dalis gave a short wave and then turned away from the three of them to continue walking down the main hallway. As dinner was starting soon, he planned to head there early for once as he felt it was necessary. Usually, Dalis would either casually be one of the last few to arrive, or he would be a little late. This was, of course, neglecting the thought of Stilla or Melvin dragging him forcefully to the dining hall.

    Upon arriving at the dining hall, he saw Sister Edna approach him. For some reason, he had a feeling that there was going to be something important coming up. Dalis had an uneasy hunch about it . . .

    "Sister Edna are you perhaps looking for me?"

    "Yes Dalis, I'd like to talk to you in private. It may take a little long so please follow me."

    "Understood Sister Edna. However, what about dinner? Isn"t it necessary for you to be present at the table?"

    "Yes . . . but I have made arrangements for somebody else to take my place. There is no need to worry Dalis."

    "Everyone is going to be upset with a dinner that is not hand-cooked by Sister Edna, especially a tiring day like today." Dalis said, somewhat playfully.

    "Dalis. You are underestimating this big sister of yours. Of course, I"ve already made preparations," Sister Edna retorted with a face filled with pride.

    "As expected."

    "Oh? You knew?"

    "Yes. I was just teasing you."

    "You can tease your big sister Stilla with your heart's content, but not towards me young man," Sister Edna reprimanded.

    "Yes Sister Edna."

    "Now then Dalis, let us go."

    "To the dorms?"

    "No. To . . . "
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #8
  9. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Author note: To move things along, I decided to combine 3 chapters which were split into 3 parts into 1.

    Dalis and Sister Edna departed the Caleyar Orphanage and set foot in the centre town of The Missionary Church of Vanquish.

    Although the Town of Vanquish was quite large, relative to other towns across the Pedlar Continent, this town was a little different. Unlike most towns, the Town of Vanquish was firmly situated near several villages, only separated by a few kilometres apart. As a result, it was often that one would see itinerant villagers around this land visit the Church of Vanquish as their home ground. This is because the Town of Vanquish wasn't just a town; it was also a military base that was home to a vast number of Vanquish soldiers and village escapees. The town was located on the inside of a defensive brick wall, spanning many tens of thousands of kilometres, separating the Pedlar continent from The Land of Demons. In fact, it was placed right near the middle of the wall as it contained the Church of Vanquish, which was their military command.

    About every fortnight, some traders from Cresuilge Kingdom visit here to exchange products and services. These traders are not to be undermined as it was not rare for officials or some honorary knights to appear to exchange pleasantries and discuss serious business transactions, usually military-related.

    To the Church of Vanquish, besides the provisions from the Head Church in Zetral, Cresuilge Kingdom is considered to be their arms and legs. It was known that Cresuilge Kingdom provides 40% of the Church's equipment in aid in defence of their territory. After all, it was close to the outskirts of The Land of Demons. It should be known that the sole existence of the Church of Vanquish is to nurture and develop warriors to combat against the demonic creatures. Though it was constructed 94 years ago, it was relatively strong due to the implemented training facilities and programs.

    Moreover, as it was not rare to encounter a demonic beast, many lives are forfeit here, and the Missionary Church of Vanquish provides homes for those who have lost them in battle.

    Children who are sickly or have elderly and other relations go to domestic educational boarding schools to help support the combatants, who live in the main Caleyar Orphanage, to train for self-defence and battle against the beasts.

    This is open to everyone.

    Melvin, who originates from Feeria, was one of the few hundreds of children from other nations, not from the Head Church, who had entered the internship program.

    "Let us hurry, It would be a problem if someone were to recognise me," Sister Edna warned.

    "Understood."

    Sister Edna and Dalis soon arrived at one of the residential areas of the Town of Vanquish. This residential area tended to be quite wealthy in comparison to other district areas. This is because it was home to many of the combatants and officials who live in this town. Although occupied, it wasn't rare for houses to become on sale or to be used by other people due to the passing of the owners. The landlord is said to be strict and thorough in maintaining order to avoid conflicts and abuse.

    "Sister Edna . . . Isn't this?" Dalis whispered.

    "Yes, that is why at this point we need to be extra careful."

    "Where exactly are we going?"

    "To my house."

    "What . . . your house??" Dalis almost shouted.

    "That's right, so keep those sharp eyes of yours intact."

    "Sister Edna, I thought you lived in the Caleyar Orphanage with the other sisters . . . That's what you said right?"

    "That's right, and big sister isn't lying. I live there but I also have a home here too."

    "Eureka . . . " Dalis mumbled.

    There were times in the past where Dalis would visit this area in order to carry out errands. Usually, these errands would involve sharing some of the morning rounds with these residents. However, the privilege to be able to perform this was only given to the responsible orphans. Dalis was seen to be mature and responsible. Besides his occasional tardiness, he was often picked to come here along with other children. This was to help them gain experience by engaging and creating relationships with these distinguished residents.

    Dalis overtook Sister Edna and continued to keep his pace as he walked at a particular direction.

    "Eh? Dalis?"

    "Sister Edna, it's this way correct?"

    "How do you . . . "

    "Let's go. We need to hurry, right? If we are away for too long it could arouse suspicions. I will race ahead. Try and keep up with me."

    Dalis smiled and turned his back away from her. He then continued to carefully power walk towards the direction of Edna's house.

    "That boy . . . "

    Sister Edna slightly quickened her pace and attempted to catch up with Dalis. But, she noticed that Dalis maintained the same distance away from her.

    Sister Edna was soon about to lash out at him. However, she then saw that Dalis was standing still, waiting for her, to check if she wasn't left behind before continuing to walk on ahead. This was repeated about five times before they had reached their destination.

    "Dalis . . . you . . . "

    "Sorry I couldn't help it. It was fun."

    Dalis still retained the exact same smile he had before; it was a mischievous smile.

    "Jeez . . . But from here on out you have to be obedient, alright? No more games," proclaimed Sister Edna. Dalis noticed that she didn't seem to mind at all.

    "Understood," Dalis concurred, appearing a little disappointed.

    Sister Edna's house was considered to be quite high quality. The house was made of bricks, it had a couple of windows, had a chimney, and even two more floors. The interior was layered with floor tiles of purified demonised wood. There were a couple of furnishings here and there too.

    "Sister Edna I'm quite awed that a lone sister is able to have such a house."

    "I can't tell if you're making fun of me. This was where I lived before I worked in the orphanage. My parents’ house."

    "It's a good house deserving for my Sister Edna. But I'm surprised, I didn't think you were allowed to own this type of floor tile."

    "Yes. Back in the past, it was a conflicted issue as to whether the construction of these was allowed. After all no matter how durable and surprisingly appealing they are, the wood was still demonised wood. However, thanks to the blessings of the Church, that is no longer a problem. In fact, many of the main infrastructures in the Town of Vanquish use this. You have likely to have seen them in some parts of the orphanage itself."

    Dalis knew this as he had asked about this peculiar wood in the past, but he didn't reveal this.

    "Alright then, please make yourself at home. I shall brew you some tea and get you to eat something, as it is dinner time."

    "I will do so then. Sister Edna please prepare yourself with a serving as well. Otherwise, I will leave some food for you to eat."

    "Very well. Always considerate towards me, aren't you? You need to show this side of you more often towards your peers."

    (She prepared dinner for everybody else but forgot to make dinner for me. Was this intentional? We were supposed to be in a hurry right?) Dalis pondered as he sat on the rocking chair, swinging back and forth.

    A couple of minutes passed by. Fresh aroma began to seep the living room. Dalis couldn't help but gulp at what was to come.

    "You may come to the dinner table now. I have prepared everything. I hope you will enjoy it," Sister Edna called.

    Upon entering the Kitchen, Dalis saw Sister Edna standing beside the table. She waved her hands to gesture Dalis to sit down on the left out chair.

    Dalis did not stand on ceremony and hastily sat to show his eagerness to eat. Seeing this, Sister Edna expressed a bright smile.

    "Sister Edna, I won't start until you sit with me to enjoy this gourmet meal," Dalis sternly stated.

    "My apologies."

    Sister Edna took a chair next to him.

    "Roasted rosemary citrus hen. Did you make this in those couple of minutes?"

    "No no no, these are just leftovers. Unless there was a spell or some other sort, it would be impossible to make this in a span of a few minutes. I used a lessor artefact and other preparations which made the hen seem like it came straight out of the oven."

    "Oh . . . this is still quite deserving of praise though," Dalis commented as he continued to take bites in the delicacy.

    "Meals should be freshly made! This is already pushing my borderline!" Sister Edna declared.

    (Ah I see now . . . )

    Dalis stared at Sister Edna with an understanding look. While he was drowsed in this enlightenment, he had noticed that Sister Edna had been staring at him too. Sister Edna had rested one of her arms on the table with the free hand being rested on her chin.

    "Sister Edna . . . Are you not going to eat?"

    "Oh sorry . . . I was just satisfied watching you eat <3 hehe."

    Dalis's body froze as his face flushed bright red with embarrassment. Dalis, in his life, had probably never ever felt his chest tighten to this extent. A strong feeling that was quite surreal to him swelled his heart. No one would believe that Dalis out of all people who always remained so level-headed and cool would ever act like this.

    "S-Sister Edna . . . W-what did you mean by that?" Dalis stuttered the words he tried to convey.

    "Hm? I just was pleased by watching you eat . . . What's wrong Dalis? Your face is red. Could you perhaps be . . . "

    Sister Edna left her chair and worryingly approached Dalis. She raised an arm to place on his forehead. The distance between them had suddenly become very close to the point where each of them could hear each other's breathes.

    Consequently, Sister Edna's scent naturally crossed over to his nostrils. Sister Edna's warm hand was also placed on his forehead. Dalis's heart felt like it was ready to explode as it continued to race non-stop.

    "Sister Edna . . . Please mercy . . . I give in . . . Do whatever you want with me."

    Dalis had been defeated.

    Sister Edna was very confused and tried to question him. However, this was to no avail as Dalis remained utterly silent. Refusing to speak nor look at her.



    ***



    "We have spent a little more time than necessary, but it's alright. It's time to tell you why I wanted to talk to you in private. There will be a few things, so be prepared."

    Dalis nodded.

    "Firstly, did you intend to kill Halio?"

    Sister Edna straightforwardly asked apathetically.

    Dalis was silent for a bit before speaking up.

    "In truth, I saw an image overlap with Stilla the moment Stilla was knocked out. However, it was so vague and transient that I can barely remember it now. Admittedly, my emotions were genuine: I wanted him to pay for hurting Stilla and Melvin. I was angered when Stilla was knocked out, and then after Melvin fell . . . I lost my cool. I'm unsure as of present whether I wanted to kill Halio. Nevertheless, I know that such a reason is unacceptable and is against the Church's teachings. At the last moment, it was not a slip up when I missed the back of his neck. It was an intentional change of direction. I'm still conflicted about it."

    Sister Edna listened carefully to Dalis's words and then asked.

    "Do you resent Halio for what he has done?"

    The response was quickly brought up; it was a contrast to the previous question.

    "During that time I did, as of now, I no longer harbour such feelings. While I believe that Halio was perhaps maybe too harsh in the training, one can argue that Halio was carrying out his duty. After all we are all becoming future vanquishers in the future. If he was lenient, It might come back to bite us on the back someday. Later, I learned that he was forced to unleash that violent strike against Melvin, in order to prevent him from imploding his mana."

    "Yes . . . Dalis you're very clever and observant. If it was the usual you, you would be able to notice the irregularity with Melvin." The disheartened Sister Edna sighed.

    Sister Edna pondered for a little and then asked another serious question.

    "Dalis, do you think killing is wrong?"

    " . . . "

    "I want you to be honest with me, tell me your true thoughts." Sister Edna firmly pressed.

    "If I had to be honest . . . I don't think it's right or wrong. I only remember three years of my life and from what I understand, it is considered to be morally wrong. I can understand why, but at the same time, I don't really understand. It's not something I particularly thought about . . . I think?" An odd complexion was worn over Dalis's face. He shook his dazed head and continued: "I am sorry, Sister Edna. I do not have an answer."

    Sister Edna's eyes slightly widened from his response as she began to utter.

    "Dalis, there is no need for you to say sorry. Even though at times you act so mature, you are still a young child. I'm sure you will find your answer in the future. However, you must understand that killing is . . . unacceptable. I don't know how you lived before we found you three years ago, nor do I know what is truly correct regarding the weight of human life . . . But in the orphanage you live in now, you can't have such ideas. That way of thinking is dangerous. Not only for others but also for you. Human life is precious Dalis."

    "Weight of human life . . . " Dalis mumbled softly.

    "Understood Sister Edna, I will make an effort to imbibe these values into my mind. " Dalis nodded to affirm.

    He had an inkling feeling he somewhat understood this very well. Yet, at the same time, it was confusing.

    "Good. If you have anything you ever need to talk about you can discuss it with me okay? Big sister will always be there to help you."

    Dalis felt that some of his thoughts that weighed in his mind were put to rest after that discussion with Sister Edna. Once more, he had become ever so closer to Sister Edna.

    "Now it's time to move onto the next topic. Dalis do you really not recall anything besides the three years of your life at the orphanage? Are you certain you are unable to recall that moment with Stilla?"

    Dalis's shoulders drooped, following a sole no.

    Sister Edna looked at him with pity. "This memory loss is too strange . . . it's as if they are locked away . . . or perhaps your memories are repressed unconsciously?"

    !!! (Locked away? Me suppressing my memories?)

    Dalis felt his mind quake at Sister Edna's remarks. In these three years, especially within the past two, Dalis had, for the most part, accepted that his memories were lost and realistically wouldn't return. However, the vague image he saw and Sister Edna's words sparked a curiosity that had lurked deep within him. It had risen up once again. It was extremely strong, and for some reason, he felt that these three years of obliviousness was absurd and deplorable. This compelled Dalis to intensively ponder Sister Edna's previous question.

    "Sister Edna . . . Unfortunately, I barely remember a thing or two. From what I remember, I was very exhausted on one particular day, and my consciousness was on the verge of fading. Yet I was vigorously trying to continue on in order to fulfil something . . . "

    "Fulfil something?" Sister Edna couldn't help but interrupt.

    "I had to carry something . . . "

    "Carry something . . . ?"

    "I had to carry something . . . something . . . . something . . . "

    "You were tasked to carry an item of some sort?"

    "No, it wasn't an item . . . it was more abstract . . . "

    "A dream . . . A wish . . . A will?"

    "Dream . . . Wish . . . Will . . . Ahh, it's very close."

    All of a sudden Dalis's eyes lit up with great emotion. It became a reflection of his spirit.

    "Hope . . . " Dalis slowly said as his eyes flashed.

    Dalis's demeanour underwent a drastic change. The presence that Dalis emitted was not one of a young boy would have. It had power, a mysterious charisma, and distinguished standing.

    Sister Edna, who had inexplicably noticed this sudden change, felt the person she was standing before him was not Dalis. Or was this the real Dalis?

    "Sister Edna I also recall meeting a young girl . . . I don't remember her facial features, but we travelled together. In addition, I was very likely to be wounded severely as the feeling of pain from being stabbed comes to mind."

    "That's certainly strange. When Mother Michelle brought you back 3 years ago, you didn't seem to have such wounds." Sister Edna said. Oddly, her tone had altered to be a little respectful.

    "Allow me to reaffirm, Mother Michelle was the person who had found me in the borders of The Land of Demons."

    "Yes, she was the one who picked you up."

    "She stated that I was barely conscious at the time, to the point where I could barely talk."

    "That is so . . . The first time we were able to know about who you are as a person, was when you woke up in the infirmary. You had lost entirely any memory of who you were as a person. Yet, you had retained the necessary abilities to communicate, understand, and adapt to the environment around you. While you may have been very reclusive . . . nevertheless, you were able to perform essential human functions.

    "Yeah, and Mother Michelle was also the one to tell you my name was Dalis, am I correct?"

    " . . . Yes, she was the one who introduced you as Dalis. She said that you mentioned it to her after managing to remember your name."

    " . . . When was this exactly?" (My name was not given?!!!)

    "It was when she picked you up. Before you arrived at the infirmary."

    "Why would I have mentioned to her that I managed to remember my name . . . Did I perhaps briefly fall unconscious and then after awakening tell her that I was unable to recall a thing, with the exception of my name? Or was I from the very beginning unable to remember who I was?"

    "Eh? Wait . . . your big sister is not seemingly able to follow." Sister Edna panicked in confusion.

    "Did she ever mention anything about this?" Dalis questioned as he raised an eyebrow.

    "No Mother Michelle did not mention such a thing . . . I didn't even consider such a thing . . . "

    (Mother Michelle . . . She likely knows something or perhaps hiding something) Dalis thought.

    The room turned eerily silent for a while. Even the slight sound of a pin dropping would be heard.

    "Sister Edna . . . has Mother Michelle asked anything particular about me?"

    Sister Edna was a little hesitant, but she told Dalis the truth.

    "Yes she did, but it wasn't anything concerning. Much of it was small talk such as wanting to know about your wellbeing. However, there was indeed one particular request she handed to me that may be in question."

    "Could it perhaps be about my mana seed?" Dalis guessed.

    "Ah, you are correct Dalis. Mother Michelle wanted me to report back about the state of your mana seed. Though she said that it wasn't necessary to let her know right away. Rather there wasn't a time limit."

    (Not right away . . . then it may mean I'm just overthinking too much. Maybe it's because it's likely deformed as she is worried? Or . . . Mother Michelle may be intentionally hiding things. Perhaps the degree of importance is not to her concern . . . Perhaps as long as things stand the way they're as of now, then nothing needs to be revealed?)

    Dalis's intuition is ascertaining him that Mother Michelle holds the key towards learning about who he is.

    "Will big sister check my mana seed?" Dalis asked virtuously.

    Sister Edna felt as if she was in a deadlock. On the one hand, she had been ordered specifically to check the mana seed of Dalis. On the other hand, it was natural as his Sister to be up to date with Dalis's progress. After all, Sisters are in charge of overseeing the development of the children they are allocated to.

    Yet whichever option she chose, she was forced to contend with a sense of guilt. It was likely that the relationship between them would deteriorate due to the circumstances if she were to check his mana seed.

    Dalis, who saw Sister Edna in a pickle, couldn't help but force himself to make a gracing comment.

    "Sister Edna. If you'd like to check my mana seed, then you are more than welcome to. After all you're one of . . . You're my big sister. I trust you."

    Hearing this, Sister Edna felt a mountain of guilt weighing on her mind. How could she be so stupid for thinking along those lines?

    "As your big sister I have disappointed you Dalis." Sister Edna shook her head to dispel her past self.

    Sister Edna approached Dalis and placed the palm of her hand onto Dalis's chest. A faint, magical, blue glow appeared around the contours of her hand. Sister Edna Edna glimpsed into Dalis's body and detected the mana seed. The mana seed was seen to be vigorous and a little larger than regular mana seeds. This tends to be an indication of the individual's aptitude being higher than the average. Sister Edna would be overjoyed to see her child be lucky enough to have such characteristics. Though reality was cruel, Dalis's mana seed was dormant and did not appear to have any signs to indicate a prospect of transformation. Dalis may be one of the few people in this world to never be able to undergo a transformation in their lifetime.

    A deformed mana seed.

    Sister Edna's face was immersed with sorrow and a great sense of pity. To Sister Edna, Dalis was one of her most treasured children, in actual fact, Dalis was her favourite. While it may seem wrong for a caretaker to have preferences over another, Dalis was an exception. Perhaps it's due to her kindness and care, Dalis would always look after her in some way or another whether it was subtle or direct. Dalis would always seem to appear to know when she was in trouble and actively attempt to aid her in her problems. Dalis maturity for his age accompanied by his reliability was mystifying for Sister Edna. Sometimes she would even subconsciously rely on Dalis and Dalis would exploit this as if to allude to her that she should depend on him.

    Fortunately, that saddened face of Edna could not remain for much longer as Sister Edna had discovered a very eccentric matter about Dalis's body . . . It was unlike anything she had seen before . . .


    ***



    In the body of a mana practitioner, mana was controlled by the mana seed organ in their bodies. By learning to control this seed through acts of physical training or mental means, one would be able to effectively transfer the mana to be circulated across each and every one of the bodies cells and tissues. In doing so, they're able to dictate and strengthen the mana energy in their bodies into practical uses which vary depending on their mana seed.

    However, one would need to have a degree of understanding with the laws of their mana to accomplish this. Each mana type has their own uniqueness, which usually makes it quite difficult for one mana pathway to be able to perform acts of another pathway.

    Movement mana tends to be seen as an exception as they're able to manipulate the natural mana of the air along with their own mana. If competent enough, users are able to bring forth effects that appear to mimic other mana types.

    For instance, the Principal of Feeria, Acclaimed Research Professor Norman was able to perform complicated incantations such as “Reinforce body”. The incantation consolidates and compresses the natural mana onto the body of the user to strengthen them, likewise to the average training body consolidator.

    In the body of Dalis, Sister Edna discerned that Dalis's anatomy had a strange flow. The passage of mana seemed to not flow out from its, mana seed, origin. Instead, the circulation was arbitrary and ubiquitous.

    It suggested that Dalis's figure was a container of mana.

    Much like an ocean: unfathomable and formless.

    Yet, it was not water that Dalis gave the impression of embodying. It was a bottomless pit of darkness. Notably, the darkness was very dull in saturation. It was barely considered black. To Sister Edna, this darkness was not at all dreadful. It merely existed naturally. Moreover, she felt unexplainably secure when touching this darkness with her mana. Regardless of how weak it was, it felt pleasant. It was very different from her preconceived beliefs. This was the darkness element.

    Sister Edna had an epiphany if Dalis was to develop this darkness . . . he would be able to obtain immense strength that would be able to compensate for his lack of mana seed power. However, the impact of doing this would be . . .

    After a reasonable period of contemplation, Sister Edna removed her hand from Dalis's chest. Dalis was the first to speak.

    "Sister Edna . . . "

    "Dalis, your mana seed is likely to never be able to transform again in the future. It is most likely a deformed mana seed."

    " . . . "

    "However, perhaps Lord Caleyar may have blessed with you this deformed mana seed on purpose. To balance something else that resides within you."

    "Something else that resides within me . . . " Dalis softly uttered.

    "Yes, deep within you, there is a powerful darkness that shrouds you. That darkness is mysterious, and contrary to what I expected, it wasn't dreadful. Rather it felt like a safeguard when I used my mana to explore it. Perhaps this is because it knows that I wasn't a threat to you."

    "It's as if you are saying that dark energy or dark mana is living," Dalis commented. (Our Holy God shrouded me with darkness eh . . . silly Sister Edna.)

    "Yes, it honestly might be . . . In any case I believe that this darkness should be used by you Dalis. If you're unable to take advantage of this, I really worry for what is to come in the future. Since you don't have a transformed mana seed."

    "I see.. but there's always the option of having blessed mana correct?" Dalis suggested.

    "Blessed mana won't work on a deformed mana seed. Three years ago we asked if you'd like to be baptised and you rejected it saying you would desire to pick another pathway. I can't blame you for that after all blessed mana is not suited towards who you are as a person. Besides, my Dalis wouldn't accept blessed mana whether he had a deformed mana seed or not."

    "That's right, your Dalis wouldn't do that," Dalis voiced in an obedient manner.

    The two intimately smiled at each other.

    Blessed mana was truly a god's magic. For blessed mana users, one would not require to work as hard or put in any effort as the other paths. Almost their entire foundation was focused on controlling the artefact, unleashing its powers, and consolidating faith. If they were to be unarmed, their power source would be cut off. Although this path may seem unpleasant and off-putting, it was still seen as a representation of Caleyar's descendants and the Church. Furthermore, they were respected as the majority of blessed mana users were Vanquish soldiers. One could not merely choose this path and expect to be able to defend against the outbreaks of the demon beasts threatening the border. Without proper education and training, it was foolish.

    "Did you ever know about this darkness within you?" Sister Edna asked.

    "I always had a nostalgic . . . resonate . . . sensation when I stared deeply into the darkness. Whether it was looking at the darkness of my room in the middle of the night or staring at shadows, I always thought it was just a reflection of my solitary nature, or just a strange delusion of mine to break free from being in this Church. I frequently felt as if I don't belong here, and I can't remain here. This feeling became stronger after bonding with you and the others . . . my comrades. That is why I abandoned this darkness. I no longer stared at this darkness, that seemed to follow me like a shadow, and pretended it didn't exist.

    "Moreover, nobody in the Church practised dark elemental arts, since it was considered to have a linkage with those demons from The Land of Demons. The darkness element was borderline heretical. That is another reason as to why I abandoned it and the main reason as to why I never told you Sister Edna."

    " . . . "

    Sister Edna, having heard this, felt awkward and ashamed of herself. She never knew about Dalis having to handle such a personal dilemma. It was unlike the dilemmas of the other children in the Orphanage. His confession revealed some clarity to his behaviour in the past.

    She pondered to choose her words carefully before speaking.

    "Dalis, I urge you to leave the Vanquisher territory," Sister Edna requested with a severe dead look in her eyes.

    Dalis's posture abruptly shuddered.

    "Sister Edna . . . so you did say those words." Dalis felt a little disappointed.

    Sister Edna approached Dalis and placed her hand on top of Dalis's shoulder. Her eyes were tender and strong, yet there were clear ripples. Was she trying to hold back her tears?

    "Dalis, that darkness within you can't be hidden forever. If there is a chance that any of the authorities get a word of this, then even I won't be able to save you. Besides, that darkness . . . perhaps it could be one of the keys to uncovering your past," Sister Edna prompted.

    "Yes, you are right . . . but even so."

    The eyes of Dalis presented a glimpse of fiery desire, yet simultaneously there was an apparent show of unwillingness: unwillingness to leave.

    Sister Edna held back the feelings that she really wanted to convey.

    "Dalis do you love the Church that much?~" Sister Edna sweetly teased as if to break the tension.

    "Ah well, despite the restrictions and lack of freedom it has indeed treated me well. But to answer Sister Edna's question . . . not as much as you would probably think," Dalis flatly said.

    "EH?!" Sister Edna was taken back.

    "I just treasure my kinship with a particular few." Dalis turned his head to the side to hide his embarrassment

    Sister Edna's palm of her hand closed in her face as her mouth was agape. Her cheeks rose to a blush.

    "Dalis you're so cute! I'm taking it home with me!" [Omochikaeri!]

    Sister Edna hugged the unaware Dalis and started rubbing her face onto his cheeks intimately.

    "S-sister Ed-edna . . . you're now saying the opposite of what you have been saying. Or are we going to elope?" Dalis stammered as he remained docile from Sister Edna's sudden cute assault. He felt troubled.

    It appeared that Sister was not listening as she was busy fawning over him.

    "Ahem . . . sorry about that . . . Sister Edna couldn't help it," Sister Edna said as she used her index finger to wipe off the two tears that were let out, unknowingly.

    "It's fine, I don't mind," Dalis said casually. He had clearly seen that action but chose to not mention it.

    "Going back to where we last left off, would you listen to Big Sister?" Sister Edna sternly asked.

    At the given moment, Dalis felt as if most of his inner turmoil has been eased.

    "Understood. I will listen to Sister Edna's request and make sure to comply with it to the best of my capabilities." Dalis nodded his head.

    "How diligent of you. I haven't even discussed the plan."

    There is an upcoming annual expedition event where soldiers-in-training and Vanquishers take groups of children out into various parts of the Pedlar continent for experience and voluntary church work. However, only the most qualified children of the Orphanage are allowed to partake, and this is determined strongly through academic test results and combat tournaments. Thus, Sister Edna advised Dalis to achieve well in the, soon to be held, Academic Exam and Pre-Soldier Exam. Therefore, he will be able to take the opportunity in the expedition to swiftly disappear and escape the influence of the Church.

    "Would they be willing to track me down across the whole Pedlar Continent?" Dalis asked.

    "No, you should be fine. They don't have the time and personnel for tracking you down. However, there would likely be a notice of it. So if you were to encounter Church authorities, then there is a likelihood of being taken away. Make sure to avoid them if possible," Sister Edna warned gravely.

    "Understood. On another note Sister Edna, when would I be able to see you again after that? . . . " Dalis asked apprehensively.

    "That is . . . " Sister Edna struggled to reply.

    The room began once again silent. It was unknown how many times this had happened this very day.

    " . . . "

    " . . . "

    "Whenever you'd like. As long as my Dalis becomes powerful enough that he can do anything he pleases~" Sister Edna winced and teased with a wry smile.

    "Hmm . . . ." Dalis tilted his head up a little and appeared to contemplate.

    "Understood. Then you don't have to worry. It's a promise."

    "A promise with Big Sister? Hehe alright then, it's a promise." Sister Edna smiled. She felt a little more at ease from his response.

    "Oh wait! I forgot to append a very important matter onto that promise!" Sister Edna exclaimed.

    "What is it?"

    "You must remember to use your power to protect those in need. If you can do this, then I don't think I will need to worry." (About you straying from the right path)

    "Power to protect . . . " Dalis repeated.

    "Likewise to your actions in the past to defend your peers and me. Don't ever forget it. But know the limits and the extent of your actions. However if it is n-necessary . . . t-then . . . "

    "Understood Sister Edna, there is no need to go on further."

    "Good . . . now with regards to Mother Michelle . . . "

    "Ah, yes when it comes to her . . . "
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #9
  10. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Three weeks had passed. Spring had arrived. The trees and flora of the surrounding land had flourished with vividness. The crops of the village farms have sprouted many sprouts that seemed to be in a race to see who would mature faster. The pleasant breeze was accompanied by the laughter of village children, and the adults were anticipating the upcoming harvest, ready to work extra hard and celebrate harder.

    It appeared to signify the start of a new beginning.

    The Academic Exams were finished last week. Dalis had achieved quite the exemplary mark which had caused Melvin to feel somewhat pressured despite having achieved the top mark of the class. Usually, Dalis would only bother to suffice for a score that was considered to be B grade. However, this time, Dalis had obtained an A.

    "A little closer than usual. However, behind me as always. Perhaps you should've tried a little harder." Melvin snickered.

    "I'm good. I don't want to make a particular someone too upset after I stomped them in both the Academic Exam and the Pre-Soldier Exam. What do you think, Melvin?" Dalis fired back with a mocking smile.

    "Ohhh Ohh . . . Ah . . . could those be the words of a child who dreams big and high only to fall under the naivety of reality? Such a pity such a pity. Oooh but don't misunderstand, it is good to dream big, just make sure to know your limits. Melvin shook his head side to side as he expressed those words.

    "Hmm . . . It appears you have an idea of who I was referring to?" Dalis chided with a surprised look on his face.

    *Giggle* *giggle* *giggle*

    Stilla, who was in between the two of them, let out giggles of laughter.

    "Could something be amusing to you Stilla?" Melvin asked.

    "Hehe, the two of you seem a little closer than before that's all."

    "Myself? Close to that insect? In what way, shape, or form? May I ask for the specific details?" Melvin replied.

    "You must be referring to the Academic Exam results," Dalis commented.

    "Hmm . . . I wonder . . . " Stilla said curiously as she gave a knowing look towards Dalis.

    Dalis averted his eyes and looked ahead.

    "Oh, by the way, we are here." Dalis said.

    The trio was tasked by Scholar Somal, a few hours ago, to deliver a particular weapon artefact to him after their training at the Training Facility. The artefact was supposedly one of the weapons to be used in the upcoming Pre-Soldier Exam. This had piqued the interest of the three children, so they had quickly taken the task for delivery. Perhaps they would be able to gain a head start if Scholar Somal "accidentally" leaked a little of the information. Stilla had felt somewhat guilty but was unable to contain the curiosity and agreed to take on the task when urged by Dalis and Melvin. Little did she know that Dalis would soon shamelessly ask questions which may or may not be advantageous to the upcoming Pre-Soldier Exam.

    The place they were asked to meet was at Scholar Somal's office in the Caleyar Orphanage. Scholar Somal's office was a little special as it was specifically made for him. Scholar Somal, in actual fact, was a Vanquisher. Contrary to most Vanquishers, Scholar Somal department was to focus on the management of affairs.

    Scholar Somal as a Vanquisher was similar to a logistic. However, his main task is simply to teach the children of the Orphanage and oversee the soldiers-in-training. After all, there needed to be Vanquishers who would guide the soldiers-in-training, like Karen and Halio, to ensure they're accomplishing their duty correctly. However, this did not mean that Scholar Somal was exempted from his duties to aid in the frontlines. Every now and then, he would take a day off to join the front lines.

    *Knock* *knock* *knock*

    "Scholar Somal, may we intrude into your office? We are here as requested, to deliver the artefact," Melvin stated towards the door.

    After a brief moment . . .

    "Yes, yes, yes! Come in children, come in!" A voice resounded behind the door.

    Melvin took the handle, twisted it, and opened the door. The trio entered the room. The room appeared to be similar to a regular office except a little larger but smaller than a living room. The room had one half of the room as a proper office. There was a working desk with a few chairs and neatly ordered documents and other accessories such as stationary. There was also a bookshelf containing an extensive collection of books with visible bookmarks sticking out the sides.

    However, the other half was much different. It seemed more like an unorganised goods store. The ground was, to some extent, littered with various enchanted items. Several long wall shelves held and rested the more pristine conditioned goods. There was also a large stone desk suggested to be where Scholar Somal inspected and played with his enchantments. The most striking feature about this part of the room was that each artefact appeared to occasionally glitter with a shine, especially the large stone desk. This signified that they were enchanted items.

    "Wooow, this room looks unique as I remember it, teacher!" Stilla awed.

    "Indeed. It is quite fitting for Scholar Somal," Melvin commented with approval.

    "The enchanted equipment . . . I'd like a closer look teacher," Dalis asked.

    "Haha, my students! Please, please look around more! Dalis let me show you my prized weapon." Scholar Somal expressed his joy.

    Dalis proceeded to head towards Scholar Somal who had stood up from his work desk to his enchanting station.

    "Ahem, Dalis do not forget our given task," Melvin reprimanded.

    However, Dalis ignored him and continued onwards or so it seemed . . . Just before he reached Scholar Somal, he turned back.

    "Come. It's a rare opportunity."

    He quickly turned to Scholar Somal after he had said those words.

    "Eh? . . . Might as well . . . Mmm . . . Indeed . . . " Melvin mumbled as if convincing himself. He appeared to be perplexed.

    "Dalis . . . ?" Stilla was likewise perplexed, albeit not to the extent of Melvin.

    The two followed hastily.

    "Ah, students behold this is the staff I personally use to slay those evil fiends from approaching the borders of our home: The Scholar's Staff of Teachings!"

    (That name . . . ) The three thought as they looked at each other with understanding.

    "Teacher. What are the properties of your staff?" Dalis took the initiative to ask.

    "Ah, Dalis allow me to explain thoroughly of the characteristics, and features of this staff that I, have personally forged!" proclaimed Scholar Somal.

    "Ahaha, Teacher just give us a brief rundown," Stilla requested seeming fazed with a forced smile.

    "Hm, alright then Stilla if that is what you wish." Scholar Somal felt somewhat disappointed, but that expression soon disappeared as he began his explanation.

    "As you students know, I have a reinforced mana seed. I have the ability to infuse my mana into separate objects enabling me to control and strengthen them at a distance. By dabbling with particular mana properties of my mana seed through the consumption of magical stones, plants and other sorts, I can imbue special effects onto the given object. For my staff, I had managed to not only amplify is strength, but I had even been able to append a passive effect. When I recognise people around me as allies. Those allies around me are given a positive buff that concentrates and clears the mind to a state of calm. How is that students, quite the treasure ain't it?"

    Melvin felt disappointed and started mumbling in an inaudible voice about Feeria spells. Stilla winced but continued to retain the smile on her face. She was pitying Scholar Somal.

    Dalis, however, appeared to be interested.

    "If I remember correctly, enchantments with mental effects are considered to be high-tier enchantments?" Dalis asked quizzically.

    Hearing those words coming from Dalis's mouth Stilla was startled. While Melvin still felt derided. Stilla had forgotten entirely about this. Melvin . . . well, it doesn't matter.

    "Hehehe, that is correct. A mental enchantment is considered to be a high-tier enchantment. It is in the highest tier possible of enchantments which are followed after basic and mid-tiers enchantments respectively. Unfortunately, adding another effect onto this staff would be very difficult and would likely constitute to malfunctions. However, if I were to acquire aid from a Feeria mage . . . then my staff would become an even greater treasure! Hahahahah."

    After the last sentence was said by Scholar Somal, Melvin's attitude was briskly replaced with pride and satisfaction. When Dalis looked at Melvin, he saw a face that seemed to spell the words, "naturally". Dalis expression became insipid.

    "Mmm on another note teacher, you don't have artefacts here at all?" Stilla asked in a sceptical manner.

    "That is right Stilla. I have no interest in things that I won't be able to fiddle my enchantments with. In the past, I had tried to enchant an artefact to prove that such a thing was possible. However, no matter what, I was unable to even establish a mana connection with the artefact. It is indeed impossible," Scholar Somal griefed as he let out a heavy sigh.



    ***



    "Scholar Somal, this is the weapon artefact that you have requested for."

    Melvin gracefully handed the packaged weapon artefact over to the arms of Scholar Somal.

    "Ah thank you Melvin, this artefact may be the key to the future of enchanting. Hahahahaha!"

    "What do you mean by that?" Stilla asked.

    However, Scholar Somal was deaf to his surroundings as he hastily removed the packaging of the weapon artefact.

    "Ah, so this is the special model? Yes, yes, yes! I can feel the traces of imbued mana flowing very peculiarly. Much like a genuine artefact!" Scholar Somal exclaimed as he carefully caressed and inspected the artefact.

    "Teacher what exactly do you mean by special model and a genuine artefact?" Dalis asked a little intrigued.

    "Hm? Oh Dalis! Yes, yes, yes! This research had been in the works for several years already and finally, it is at its finished result! Behold the . . . "

    "The?" The three simultaneously spoke.

    "The . . . Well . . . . Eh? . . . Did this have a name in the first place?"

    The three children's bodies fizzled out.

    "So exactly what is it? Teacher! Jeez don't leave us hanging with something like that . . . "

    Stilla whined.

    "Ah . . . Well, I actually am unable to say. After all, this is to be used in the upcoming Pre-Soldier Exam. Disclosing the details is prohibited," Scholar Somal stated firmly with guilt.

    "How unfortunate. Though, It is to no matter. I will look forward to it on the day of the event," Melvin said, seemingly unconcerned.

    "Yeah, It would be bad if we had known about this before the event. Teacher has already kindly said enough," Stilla remarked.

    On the other hand, Dalis was unwilling to let things end off like this.

    "Teacher, could you at least tell us what exactly you mean by this weapon artefact being "much like a genuine artefact"? Is teacher implying that this artefact is special and can't be simply called an artefact, or perhaps it's not an artefact at all?" Dalis asked as curiously and innocently as possible to mask off his cheeky intentions.

    Scholar Somal was silent and remained restless. He appeared to be struggling internally to whether he should spill the beans or not with regards to Dalis's question.

    Dalis at the time continued to express with his body mannerisms his great inquisitive desire to know. As he seemed to inadvertently, or rather intentionally, stare fixedly at Scholar Somal.

    "Dalis you impudent fool! Exhibit some integrity to Scholar Somal! To think you'd be unable to show your restraint. Such an insolent child!" Melvin lashed out to Dalis.

    Having this shout reverberate in their ears, Scholar Somal was snapped out of his dilemma. He appeared to give the impression that he had made his decision.

    "Now, now Melvin. There is no need to go that far. Your fellow friend is simply very curious."

    Melvin appeared repulsed having heard that an insect was considered his "fellow friend".

    "Dalis, with regards to your question I shall merely state that one of your conjectures is correct."

    "Understood. Thank you, teacher, we will be dismissing ourselves now."

    Dalis gave a light bow, dragged Stilla and the bickering Melvin out of the room.

    The three then walked towards the hallway.

    "Dalis I didn't even say goodbye to teacher, you don't need to rush!" Stilla cried.

    "Sorry Stilla, I just wanted to say what I had figured out," Dalis said as he gave a satisfied smile with a gleam in his eyes.

    Melvin appeared displeased and looked away. Melvin had also deduced what Dalis had gathered through Dalis's impertinent interrogation.

    "Ah? You really did?" Stilla gasped. She wasn't unaware of Dalis's actions as she had known him for a long time. This was one of Dalis's "acting performances". Though, he would only enact such antics if he had a hidden motive or was simply in a good mood. Stilla believed that for this case it wasn't the former or the latter, rather unexpectedly both.

    "Yeah, you see, that artefact is as he had said. Not a "genuine artefact". It is most likely to be an enchanted weapon."

    "Huh? But how can enchanted items be considered as artefacts? Teacher just said that it's impossible to enchant artefacts. So it can't be enchanted even if it was an artefact that was a little different then normal . . ." Stilla questioned quizzically.

    "The naming is a throw off, but isn't necessarily wrong, it is likely due to the complications behind it. You see Stilla, do you not find it weird that teacher is interested in an artefact? He had told us in his own words that he had no interest in things that he wouldn't be able to enchant. Thus, we can logically rule out the possibility of the weapon being an artefact as he said.

    "Hmm, you're probably right but what if it was an artefact that was a little different than normal? Wouldn't he try and enchant something like that even if it was impossible?

    "Considering it is teacher, Scholar Somal, your probably right with regards to that. However, I still have my doubts. Let's recount and take a step back. We were tasked to deliver a weapon artefact that teacher specifically requested for."

    "Yeah?" Stilla tilted her head.

    "Now why do you think he asked for it be specifically delivered to him?"

    "Eh? Well . . . " Stilla pondered for a bit, putting an index finger onto her chin as she crossed her arms.

    "Ah! Maybe it's because of the Pre-Soldier Exam. Teacher probably wanted to inspect the weapon artefact before the exam since he is likely to be one of the exam overseers."

    "You're on the right track. However if that was so, then I doubt he would need to have it specifically delivered to him. Teacher and other people involved in the exam would have likely already gathered together to inspect these products. After all, the exam starts in a week. It would be quite disorganised of them, to be inspecting them now for such an occurrence. Furthermore, if it was an artefact then why would they have teacher to inspect it. Teacher's vocation and mana path are not the forte of artefacts."

    "Mmm it's starting to make sense." Stilla expressed her understanding.

    "Right? Teacher also said, 'so this is the special model". He didn't state it was a special artefact and instead "much like a genuine artefact". In addition, he felt the "traces of imbued mana". The way he meticulously examined it seemed to give off the impression that he was able to analyse it. If it was a blessed artefact, then we would've seen teacher grumble and such. So it's safe to assume that it was an enchanted weapon. While it's entirely just conjecture, when you add these small things, the picture becomes clearer, and an educated guess can be drawn. Now if we go back to when I questioned teacher with those two options, then the answer was probably the latter—perhaps not an artefact at all."

    "Ahhh Dalis you're so right! As expected from my little brother. Hehe!"

    Stilla started clapping as she began to dance, filled with happiness.

    Dalis felt a little embarrassed while Melvin snorted and opened his mouth.

    "Hmph, well done. It seems you have grown up a little. However, isn't there more to this "educated guess"?"

    "There's more?" Stilla asked.

    As if that was the queue to mark his entrance, Melvin elegantly moved closer towards Stilla.

    "That is indeed, true. Allow me to place the icing on the cake. The enchanted weapon, that is considered to be a 'special model" may in fact . . . "

    "May in fact . . . ?" Stilla repeated.

    "Be able to be used by blessed mana users."

    "Eh???!!" Stilla shouted loudly in surprise.

    People across the hall turned to their attention to the direction of the trio.

    "Ah sorry everyone! Nothing's wrong." Stilla quickly apologised.

    The hallway soon returned to its usual state.

    "So what do you mean by that Melvin?" Stilla asked determined to know. She had already created a ruckus, she wasn't willing for things to end here

    Melvin smirked and began to explain

    "In general, we know that blessed mana users can technically use enchanted weapons as they are buffed to the core. Still, they wouldn't be able to use any powerful abilities embedded in that artefact. Returning to the discussion, as that slightly intelligent thing said, calling the enchanted weapon an artefact may not be necessarily inaccurate. The enchanted weapon is a 'special model" and is also said recognised as an "artefact". One simply needs to contemplate the reason behind this. Thus, the most plausible answer to this is that the enchanted weapon can be utilised by blessed mana users. "

    After taking those words in, Stilla face was abruptly frozen solid. Then, as if a ray of sunlight was bombarded upon her, Stilla's figure slowly melted.

    "Ahh . . . I feel so dumb when I'm with you two sometimes . . . " Stilla whimpered.

    Seeing this, Melvin's composure was unsettled and began to panic.

    "Ah, Ah, Uhm. Big sister Stilla, that was just a deduction! There's no guarantee if what I deduced was right! P-perhaps I could be completely off from the answer . . .

    Dalis watched the scene with a lukewarm smile.

    Sigh.

    If only these days could continue forever.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #10
  11. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    In the centre of the Town of Vanquish stood a robust, majestic and welcoming building decorated with Zetral symbols and constructed with drab aged brick. It was surrounded with lush gardens, sprawling flowers of various colours, and multiple short-trimmed and well-maintained shrubbery. This building was the beloved Church of Vanquish, respite to the masses and military command to the many Vanquish Soldiers. Unlike its dignified aged look, the inside of the Church was maintained daily by the clergy and seemed to glow ever so slightly as if to prove that it was a holy place. The interior furnishings were surprisingly mismatched; however, with some old artefacts and pottery clashing with various pieces of modern furniture.

    At the entrance of the Missionary Church, a stout righteous man stood diligently, waiting for the arrival of the distinguished guests. Contrary to his appearance that suggested he was a man between the age of the late twenties and early thirties: he was a man in his late thirties.

    This man was Apostle Wrau, the Apostle of Vanquish, one of the Seven Apostles of the Church. He was responsible for the seemingly random pieces of modern furniture and technology imported from Cresuilge Kingdom. Apparently, he insisted on "keeping up with the times" as it would bring them closer to the children. Although he was entitled as the "Apostle of Vanquish", he did not have full authority of the Missionary Church. The duty was also split with two other Apostles of the Missionary Church of Vanquish.

    The seven Apostles are people appointed by the Pope to be the leading heads of the several dioceses. They often meet together to discuss political matters and undergo congregation. Underneath their god of worship Caleyar, they represent the seven disciples that Caleyar once had. However, they are not a reflection of the actual disciples that served Caleyar. It is simply a placeholder name with respect to Caleyar.

    Apostle Wrau also had another name which was known throughout the Pedlar Continent . . . “The Holy Reaper”.

    He is extremely warm to those in need and steadfast to those who rely on him, but those who oppose him will only have nightmares of the chill in his gaze. Apostle Wrau does not act like a proper apostle and is more like an elder brother, but his devotion and strength define his place among the Apostles.

    Apostle Wrau is the apostle most familiar with combat and is a formidable force against many. His word is treated as the absolute command unless authorities from Zetral overrule it. He is greatly respected and feared by many.

    As Apostle Wrau waited patiently, three people had entered into the vicinity of the Church.

    The single woman of the group was dressed as a nun. A rosary necklace dangled across her neck.

    The other two were men.

    One of which who wore a raiment of wealthy value that seemed to emit a powerful divine aura, while the other wore a suit of blessed armour. They were headed together towards Apostle Wrau and had soon arrived at their destination.

    "Greetings, Apostle Wrau," the woman spoke as she gave a slight nod.

    "Hello, Mother Michelle," Wrau warmly responded.

    "No need for the formalities, please drop the Mother."

    "Haha, I'm not one to care about differences of status. But, you're a mother in the Orphanage and a mother to the children, so therefore your my mother too. Isn't that fine?"

    "If that pleases you Apostle Wrau, then Mother Michelle is fine."

    "Apostle Wrau, your subordinate has arrived," the man who wore a suit of blessed armor proclaimed.

    His name was Baseth Miller. He was the father of Karen.

    Basteh was one of the Vanquish Generals. These people may not be the strongest, but they have the mind for peerless strategy, charisma, and leadership. They lead the Vanquish troops around the world and are the highest-ranked Vanquishers. These powerful people are pivotal players in the battlefield against the demonic beasts from The Land of Demons.

    "Baseth, good work."

    Apostle Wrau turned to look towards the last remaining man.

    "Has my youngster entertained your arrival?" Apostle Wrau asked the man.

    "Indeed, so there is no need to worry. He had informed me of the current state of affairs and the new programs of the Orphanage since my arrival. It was pleasant to hear, Apostle Wrau."

    "That's good. It's been a while since we have been together alone like this without the other Apostles, Apostle Farden."

    Apostle Farden Gray was a little older than Apostle Wrau. Unlike Apostle Wrau, Farden was much more slim. However, well built in muscle likewise to Apostle Wrau.

    Farden was a man of principle. He was a very loyal devout of the Church and was, in actual fact, considered to be one of the closest to the Pope as the “Pope's aid”.

    Apostle Farden was usually in charge of organising many large rites and was the strongest preacher of the teachings of the Church. He ensured that all religious ceremonies are properly conducted with a great degree of piety.

    He is known to be an Apostle that conducts his duties predominantly inside the Head Church of Zetral. Travelling tends to be a rare occasion. As of now, his task was to oversee the Pre-Soldier Exam with Apostle Wrau and deepen relations with Cresuilge Kingdom officials.

    "Yes it has been a while. I'd like to spar with you as well later on after the diplomatic talk. I need to shape myself to maintain my image of a healthy man. Also . . . to see how much you have improved."

    "Hahaha, that's the spirit Farden! You got the right attitude, it's time to take a break from all the handiwork duties. You"ve been closed up every day in the Head Church." Apostle Wrau put his arm over the shoulder of Apostle Farden as he laughed in joy.

    (He's dropped the formalities to the wrong person . . . ) Apostle Farden groaned in his mind.

    As if to help Apostle Farden who had been latched onto by Apostle Wrau, Mother Michelle spoke.

    "Apostle Farden, when would you like to drop by to see the children at the Orphanage?"

    Apostle Farden moved away the loosened arm of Apostle Wrau.

    "Anytime, as long as I see them at least once before the event if possible. Most preferably to view the ones that are training at the Training Facility. I'd like to see our vigilant children in combat and view the effectiveness of the facility, to see if it continues to be up to the required standard."

    "Hahaha, you sure are a hard worker. Looking for talents eh? Just wait until the exam starts, it would be a good surprise. Besides, you will need to entertain the guests of Cresuilge Kingdom."

    "That wouldn't be a problem Apostle Wrau. Cresuilge Kingdom officials would likely also want to view the children at the orphanage. After all, we do have a sizeable amount of children from their homeland," Mother Michelle interjected.

    "Mmm, your right Mother Michelle. Let us all go together sometime this week with our friends from Cresuilge Kingdom!" Declared Apostle Wrau.

    "Excuse me for interrupting your conversation. However, the distinguished guests have arrived." Baseth cut in politely as possible.

    The sound of horse hooves treading on the cobble-stones had soon reached the ears of the four individuals. A gleaming silver carriage was pulled behind the horses’ backs. It was evident from anyone's eye that the carriage belonged to the royal family of Cresuilge Kingdom as the crest of the golden sword and crown was embedded on the lower half of the door. The whole exterior was decorated in small jewellery with refined patterns of artisanship that seemed to magnify its wealth. The horses were not to be left unattended either although they weren't decorative like the carriage. Instead, they wore silver armour that suggested they were warhorses, fitted to be mounted by the calvary. Above all, the whole spectacle was enchanted with mana of powerful prowess by enchanters from Cresuilge Kingdom. It was unknown to what enchantments the carriage and horses were layered with.

    The carriage stopped a metre before the four individuals, and two men walked out the door gracefully upon the carriage steps from both sides of the carriage.

    "This junior, Crown Prince Kayle Hindebrandus Relza greets with the distinguished seniors of the Church," the Prince proclaimed as he stepped down from the carriage step onto the pavement.

    "Apostle Wrau, Apostle Farden, Mother Michelle and . . . ," the other man spoke and turned towards Baseth.

    "I am Baseth, one of the generals of Vanquish. There is no need to pay heed to me Distinguished High Noble Travis Brown."

    Travis nodded his head and continued.

    "It is a pleasure to meet you all."

    "Crown Prince Kayle, there is no need to call yourself a junior. You will become the future heir of Cresuilge Kingdom, so you must not lower yourself to others," Apostle Farden advised.

    "My apologies, you are correct. I'm still young, so I believed that paying respect to distinguished seniors such as yourselves was the right attitude to take." Crown Prince Kayle slightly nodded his head.

    "However you will have to wait a little longer for myself to become the future ruler, as there is a person much more fitting to that position than me." Crown Prince Kayle smiled.

    "Hahaha Crown Prince sure loves to dote on her sister. A siscon that ought to be right."

    As those words were spoken, the air became awkward . . . Apostle Farden's face had turned somewhat ugly.

    "Apostle Wrau, how could you show such rudeness to the Crown Prince?! You should be able to have a much better choices of words to express his brotherly care."

    "Don't mind it Apostle Farden, it was just a joke . . . It has been going on for a while after I told him some silly rumours . . . *Sigh*" Crown Prince Kayle said dejectedly as if he had given up hope.

    "Hahahaahahha, see Farden there's no worry at all! Me and Crown Prince are actually great buds, and we don't need to stand on ceremony."

    Apostle Farden looked towards the individuals around them. They each held faces that seemed to suggest understanding, layered with resignation. Though, this was ignoring the one outlier Baseth who seemed to be surprised at how daring Apostle Wrau was.

    Apostle Farden stared at Mother Michelle as if to silently ask about it. Mother Michelle was quick to respond as she slowly spoke in a troubled voice.

    "You see . . . Apostle Farden . . . Apostle Wrau loves children and is very fond of them. Since Crown Prince Kayle is only twenty-three years of age, he is still considered a child in Apostle Wrau's eyes despite him being a Prince . . . Furthermore, Apostle Wrau has taken a considerable liking to the Prince due to his personality and talent. Whenever an opportunity arises, Apostle Wrau would ask specifically if he would be able to meet with one of the three heirs from Cresuilge Kingdom in diplomatic matters. However, since a majority of matters are unable to be dutied by the other two due to their maturity and age . . . Crown Prince Kayle is often left to please Apostle Wrau."

    Apostle Farden was speechless.

    "Mother Michelle, you make it seem as if Crown Prince Kayle is forced to be with me. I only asked if it was possible to meet with them. It's not like they're obliged to adhere to my request you know?"

    There was a sullen atmosphere around the carriage.

    (The one time when Crown Prince Kayle couldn't come, your mood remained so low spirited that the King couldn't help but feel pity towards you. Fearing this may tarnish Cresuilge Kingdom's relation with the Missionary Church of Vanquish. The King made a silent declaration that one of the three children were required to attend him if it was possible in the given opportunity.) High Noble Travis felt indignant and sympathy for his Prince.

    Consequently, this had inevitably lead to a significant increase in the relationships between the two nations. After all, Apostle Wrau was not only an Apostle, he was also one of the people who managed the trading of militaristic commodities of the Missionary Church of Vanquish. Thus, the benefits outweigh the cost . . . the cost of the Prince's freedom . . . .



    Chapter 13 The Week Before the Pre-Soldier Exam (Part 4) (Edited)

    The group of distinguished guests headed towards the Caleyar Orphanage, on foot, for a brief tour around the Orphanage. Although the Orphanage was not a first-time visit for them, the majority were still curious to watch the children who were preparing for the upcoming Pre-Soldier Exam and to see the current state of the Orphanage.

    "Apostle Wrau, have the special models been delivered to you in time?" High Noble Travis asked.

    "Yeah we had received them last week as scheduled. Many of the folks are impressed at its usual fineness, not to mention the unique properties this time are quite befitting for the Church. As resources required to manufacture artefacts are not as abundant as Kingdom commodities, it is a saving grace to us," Apostle Wrau replied.

    "That is pleasant to hear. If the Church would like more sales, then we would have to trouble Jackchanter, for more of these products. Not to worry, as long as we satisfy his ego he will manufacture the goods in due time."

    "Hahahaha, understood. We shall have a drink tonight together and exchange pleasantries before going down onto those details. Prince you are onboard too!" Apostle Wrau laughed.

    "Yes . . . I'd prefer not to drink though . . . " Crown Prince Kayle replied unenthusiastically.

    "Hmm . . . I had heard about these goods in a report. May I personally inspect the products later?" Apostle Farden asked interestedly.

    "Of course. The Head Church too needs to evaluate the esteemed products. I'd like to know Apostle Jeremiah's impression on the products. " High Noble Travis nodded with pride.

    Apostle Jeremiah Ricco, he is a philanthropist who loves the Church and its people. He leads a branch of specialised Church people who work as blessed craftsmen and artisans to produce artefacts. Through years of work, he was entitled as the Product Apostle. Apostle Jeremiah was one of the Apostles who are primarily stationed at the Church of Vanquish. For the most part, he would be on the Underground floor of the Church of Vanquish as that is where his base of operations is located. He is often recalled to the Head Church to personally deliver the manufactured special artefacts or other product requests there for demonstration.

    "Jeremiah is in the Head Church, so you won't be able to see him for now," Apostle Wrau disclosed.

    "That's a shame."

    "If the products are as exceptional as reported, then we may provide substantial funding. While they could be manufactured for other uses such as infrastructure, the military usage is desirable for our upcoming plans," Apostle Farden stated.

    "Upcoming plans?" Crown Prince Kayle furrowed his brow.

    "Right. In our last congregation two months ago, we had a discussion pertaining to the growing restlessness of the demonic beasts in The Land of Demons. Within the last hundreds of years and especially as of recent years, the number of outbreaks has dramatically increased in The Land of Demons. Not to mention in spite of the Great War five years ago against the Mavens, the number of demon beasts have not declined as much as we had expected. This had drawn our suspicion and so we have conceived and discussed measures to deal with it. The current consensus is to form a group of powerful units to investigate the land," Apostle Wrau revealed in a stern tone.

    "Do the other nations know of this plan? We have been noted about the progressive, continuous growth of demon beasts and their outbreaks. However, it is the first I have heard about this plan. Do you plan to make it joint with the other nations?" Crown Prince Kayle asked.

    "As of the given moment, we are still in the phase of consideration for collaboration. After all, you know about those particular absurd rumours about us since that war. As much as we would prefer working with other nations to purge those vile fiends, those higher up snobby Feerias and dubious Swamps do not trust us," Apostle Farden bleated.

    "That is troublesome . . . If you need a pair of arms, Cresuilge Kingdom would happily send in their best personnel for the investigation. The Gigans wouldn't mind either as that war had been responsible for hundreds of thousands of innocent lives from each of our respective territories. It would be our duty and obligation," Crown Prince Kayle responded.

    "We appreciate the offer, and we will keep it in mind." Apostle Farden nodded.

    "Speaking of rumours, there have been talks about the potential existence of Maven remnants still being active," muttered High Noble Travis.

    "Cresuilge Kingdom as well has been quite concerned with regards to the truth of this matter. Do the Church know if its just nonsense or fact . . . ?" Crown Prince Kayle asked grimly.

    The expression of the young Crown Prince surprised Apostle Farden.

    "Besides that one particular case from two years ago, there have been no such occurrences. Neither has there been any evidence to suggest so. It is simply a rumour," Apostle Farden replied.

    " . . . I see then . . . Then that is pleasing to hear . . . "

    The air around them felt somewhat heavy.

    "Oh Crown Prince, the knight tournament is coming up too ain't it, in Cresuilge Kingdom?" Apostle Wrau suddenly brought up.

    "Hm? That is right. This year's 93rd Knights of Kingdom Tourney is about to commence soon in a couple of weeks. Are you planning to pay a visit to our youngsters and veterans?" Crown Prince Kayle asked.

    "Hmm . . . we have our hands full nowadays so I'm quite busy despite how I am. Although, If I do go, I will be able to meet Crown Prince, Little Princess, and Little Prince. I haven't seen your siblings, for a long time so I'd be damned to let this chance slip! Ahhh but work! Those bloody demon beasts keeping me at work," Apostle Wrau lamented as he fought with his internal conflict.

    "Ahahaha . . . " Crown Prince Kayle weakly laughed.

    The rest of the group maintained their position to observe. Even Apostle Farden had given up. Years ago, he had tried to fix his childish attitude that he showed against a distinct few, however, to no avail.

    "Oh yeah will this tourney have anything special to offer? Two years ago, the winner of the tournament was entitled to become one of The Knights of Majesty. To think the Little Princess was able to obtain a win in the hardest tournament at that age . . . She's as talented as your mother."

    "Yes, my sister created quite a stir across the whole Pedlar Continent. She will definitely reach unpredictable heights in the future. With regards to your question, the survivors will become a well-privileged knight. There will be something else this year as well. We actually plan to let particular individuals be eligible to participate in the tournament. Those individuals refer to the children who perform remarkably in your Pre-Soldier Exam. Of course, it is to provide the children with experience as they will be the future soldiers for The Land of Demons.

    "WHAT? THIS IS THE FIRST I"VE HEARD ABOUT THIS?!" Apostle Wrau shouted very loudly.

    "Apostle Wrau would you please calm your voice, we are almost at the Orphanage. The children will be scared of you," Mother Michelle reprimanded.

    "Ah, sorry, Mother Michelle. Don't want the kids to be running away from their Uncle Wrau," Uncle Wrau apologised.

    The word "uncle" was muttered among the group.

    "Yes, Apostle Wrau. We were actually planning to discuss it with you. Mother Michelle and other senior figures sometime this week," Crown Prince Kayle said.

    "My major concern is, if by some rare unexpected chance somebody from the Orphanage wins, what would this entail? A well-privileged knight, not a new member of the Knights of Majesty? " Apostle Farden asked. His eyes glinted knowingly.

    "If a child wins, then we would need to discuss that in more detail. There is no need to worry Apostle Farden," Crown Prince Kayle replied with a bright smile fitting for a well-mannered prince.

    "You would be popular with the ladies if you keep up that smile Crown Prince. Hahahaha!" Apostle Wrau spoke in a joking manner.

    "Eh . . . " Crown Prince Kayle felt embarrassed.

    (He usually has that smile, but for some odd reason you never see it.) High noble Travis thought.

    "Will this time's tournament involve any of the Knights of Majesty such as yourself, Royal Highness?" General Baseth asked.

    "Yes, the top thirty individuals will be challenging one of the Knights of Majesty in battle. If they were to stand ground until the time limit in battle, then they would automatically become a well-privileged knight and would be able to choose to become a disciple of one of the Knights of Majesty. Unfortunately, they would not be able to become a winner of the tournament. However, it is still an honourable concession and not to be looked down upon. If they were able to win . . ."

    (Disciple?) Apostle Farden was pondering with a bemused smile.

    "Haha! Win? If such a thing happened, I'd be surprised. Regardless, that is quite an honour. It is too bad that I can't participate," General Baseth said with a tone of that expressed a little disappointment.

    "That's right Baseth, leave the fun for the youngsters. We gotta be the ones protecting the homeland until they grow up," Apostle Wrau said as he patted his arm over the back of General Baseth.

    "Yes sir."

    "Keep in mind some of the mentioned facts are classified. Allow me to take the role of disclosing what should be shared to others," Crown Prince Kayle warned.

    "Distinguished guests we have arrived at the Orphanage," Mother Michelle announced.

    As the distinguished group approached the main front door of the Caleyar Orphanage. Three children around the age of fifteen appeared in sight: Dalis, Stilla, and Melvin. They were on their way outside to obtain the weapon artefact requested by Scholar Somal.

    "Uncle Wrau!" Stilla greeted with delight.

    Some faces of the distinguished group twitched.

    "Heyyy, your Uncle is here, looks like the three of you are together as always." Apostle Wrau greeted with familial warmth. He gave a forced hug to the three of them.

    "Senior Wrau greetings," Dalis and Melvin said simultaneously. They were trying their best to embrace the impact of those iron arms.

    "You kids, training hard? Need Uncle Wrau to warm you guys up?"

    Apostle Wrau gazed at Dalis and Melvin in particular.

    "No no . . . It's fine . . . " Melvin panicked.

    "Another time Senior Wrau. We are tasked by our teacher Scholar Somal to deliver a package to him. We are now on our way to pick it up."

    "Ah I understand Dalis. No problem, no problem. It's a shame I couldn't show you guys off early. Hahahahaha. Off you guys go!"

    When they took their attention off Apostle Wrau to head out, they had realised that the figures behind him were distinguished guests; Dalis was an exception. They were quick to pay their respects and leave, to not intrude in their important business. It is not every day to see such individuals gathered together. Dalis was for some reason very cautious and attempted to not show actions that would attract attention during their slight exchange.

    "Were those children candidates for the Pre-Soldier Exam?" Crown Prince Kayle asked.

    "That's right, they're an odd bunch. But you will be surprised."
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #11
  12. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    At an isolated area of the Training Grounds, a young teen boy could be seen swinging a bo staff diligently against the bark of a tree.

    The boy did not express any excessive movements and simply swung his bo staff back and forth. He alternated his stance from time to time and took different approaches to swing his bo staff.

    Although the boy was neither fast nor slow, each proceeding strike bore consistent power no more and no less than the one before it. He would take breaks occasionally and would switch to barks of other trees when he felt it was enough. It may seem he was taking it easy, which he indeed was to some extent; however, the degree of control he displayed was astonishing. It was a difficult feat to accomplish proven by the clear tracks of sweat that trickled down his face.

    Before long, a young man in his twenties approached him.

    "Ain't it time to take a rest, kiddo. Ya don't wanna break a sweat before the exam."

    "Yeah. I'm about ready to go. If I don't leave soon, Stilla will end up dragging me to the exam. I'd rather not trouble her."

    "What ya saying? You're always troubling little filly."

    "Arguable . . . *sigh* Always insisting that she's my big sister . . . I already have one . . . "

    "Hahaahaha. So the hotshot is into the older chicks, eh? Ain't surprised. Glad that somebody will take her in tho, it's about time she finds a man."

    The two are now an arm span away from each other. One would think there would be an awkward air around them due to the incident. But, if anyone were to see this conversation, they would be heavily surprised.

    "That large boulder over there, why don't we sit there and chit chat for a bit. I'm sure little filly won't drag ya back in the next couple of minutes."

    "I don't mind."

    The two sat on the sturdy large boulder. There was a brief moment of silence before Halio began to open his mouth.

    "So kiddo, you anxious for the exam? Or are you ready to rumble?"

    "You were watching me earlier behind the trees over there. What do you think?"

    "Heh, you have a sharp eye. It's dark over there from this distance, I didn't think you'd be able to see me from there."

    " . . . "

    " . . . "

    It was silent. Only the sound of people training could be heard in the distance. Other than that, the breathing of two young males was audible.

    "After that incident,I've thought to myself that I should try a little harder, ya know?"

    Seeing that Dalis did not completely understand what he meant by those words, he started to explain.

    "You know what I mean, my attitude has always been lax and carefree. I can only get in the mood if I find it amusing or interesting. Because of that, Karen and the others always smack me around. Following the incident, you can say this bloke has opened his eyes a bit. Heck, I wouldn't have minded if they'd give me a harsher "punishment" than that. Halio shrugged his shoulders.

    "You still don't seem suited to be a teacher."

    "Never said I was perfect."

    (This guy . . .) Dalis couldn't help but shake his head side to side.

    Seeing Dalis's response, he let out a faint chuckle.

    "Any advice for a no-good teacher like me?"

    "Advice . . ."

    After the trailing of that one word, he went silent. Halio was a little perturbed, but he did not make a sound in concern that it will affect his concentration.

    Only the occasional chirps and pitched cries of small critters filled the quiet field. It was not long until Dalis found an answer.

    "I thought of a couple of things; however, I believe that there's only one thing that needs to be said."

    "Righto, let's hear it."

    "Just do what you think is right."

    "Hey, hey—"

    “ “Try a little harder.” That's what you said right?"

    "Yeah."

    "Then follow through with your words. It's the conclusion you reached correct?"

    " . . . "

    Halio was mute, but a splurge of laughter came from his mouth by the next moment.

    "Hahahahaha." Halio continued to laugh until he was satisfied. Dalis was very troubled; he had no idea what was going on with the bloke.

    (Is he drunk on laughter?)

    Yaaa

    Halio suddenly pushed himself away from where he sat and landed safely onto the ground.

    "Righto kiddo, before we end up chattering away it's about time ya head over there."

    Dalis was speechless.

    "Right on, just gotta try a little harder," Halio said, feeling very refreshed. "Crap, how long have we been in here? Ya should probably get going. Sorry for taking up your time," he added.

    "Yes, I will get going now teacher. Thank you for keeping me company."

    "Any day kiddo, if ya wanna chit chat just head to me. I'd be doing some errands here and there for the most part."

    (Community service . . . ) Dalis thought.

    Dalis then began to walk towards the direction of where the exams were taking place.

    "Oh yeah one last thing."

    Dalis stopped and slightly turned his head around.

    "What you did ain't necessarily wrong. Just make sure the circumstances are right. That time was a definite no no. Otherwise, you'd regret it."

    A breeze swept over.

    Dalis was unfazed by the sudden chill.

    "Understood."

    "Oh yeah! Now show ‘em why you're the hotshot."



    ***



    It was approaching midday. Dalis walked towards the site of where the exams would be held. On the way there, the surrounding vegetation grew more lush, flowing with natural vitality.

    Entranced by the seemingly drastic change from their usual prairie clearing, Dalis had arrived before he knew it.

    In front of him was the Maizan Forest. A fenced wall blessed with Caleyar's magic surrounded this forest, but it could not contain the large overarching vines peeking from behind the gates and through the walls.

    At the main gate, he could see hundreds of candidates with a conjured stage present.

    The stage was made of interlaced marble and vegetation, shaped like a rhombus that closed in towards the Maizan Forest gate and was enough to stand the sizeable amount of participates at the scene. Despite the many participants on the stage, there was a large clearing towards the front where only a number of people stood.

    They were the examiners.

    Dalis headed towards Sister Edna's group for the roll call at a steady pace.

    "Daalis . . . You're late."

    "Daaaaliissss. You're almost late."

    The voices of two familiar females reached his ears.

    It was Sister Edna and Stilla.

    Stilla was the first to approach him.

    "They're about to begin explaining the rules! I was going to drag you over here but everybody here stopped me wuuuu." Stilla pouted with two fists clenched raised below her chin.

    "Obviously."

    "Naturally."

    Two people came behind Stilla.

    It was Sister Edna and Melvin.

    Although it seemed both were here to criticise him, Melvin was aloof. It seemed he didn't need to dirty his washed hands as Sister Edna was there.

    Sister Edna went closer to Dalis. Her arm could be seen slowly and gradually raising.

    (Crap, she isn't thinking of doing the classic “dragged by the ear” trope is she?)

    Dalis was ready to scurry away as he moved back a few steps. However, he eventually stopped and let the reckoning take place.

    Pat

    " . . . "

    "Dalis don't be late for such occasions; otherwise, you will keep us worried. Okay?"

    "Okay."

    " . . . You didn't think I was going to do that classic trope did you?"

    There was a brief second of hesitation by Dalis.

    "No, of course not. Sister Edna has never done such a thing and would never do such a thing anyway."

    (Though I've been dragged by the collar by Stilla.)

    "Sister Edna knows everything Dalis~" Sister Edna teased.

    Stilla seemed to give out a little pout while Melvin was flabbergasted. If he had known, he would've thrown in a few words or too before Sister Edna was present. Due to them being in the Pre-Soldier Exam, he was restricted to act much more maturely.

    There were whispers around them by the other children guessing that last line by Sister Edna was a tease with more meaning to it. Though, the majority were sceptical and dismissed it as nothing but imagination going awry.

    "Everyone may I have your attention please." A deep voice resounded across the field.

    All the people present had stopped their conversations and turned towards the direction of the voice. Around thirty or so individuals were standing firmly. From first glance, one could tell that they were the authorities and organisers for the exam. Several faces were recognisable by Dalis. For instance, Scholar Somal, Mother Michelle, and Apostle Wrau.

    The man who stood before the candidates was Vanquish General Zelgius.

    "Today is the day of the Pre-Soldier Exam. It is the day where you and the rest of your fellow comrades are tested. We are here to see how much you have grown over the years, how much your abilities stand, and how much you fare against your peers. Above all, to see if you have the calibre to become a soldier-in-training.

    "The two hundred and forty-seven of you youths are the most qualified children eligible to partake in this exam. You may not all be from the same origin. You each have different histories and reasons for being here today. However, all of you are certain to be the next Vanquish soldiers in the near future.

    "Whether you are from the Church or not, all of you will be proud of aiding in defence of our continent from the vile demon beasts who caused tragedy upon our homeland five years ago. We cannot let such a war happen again! That is why you must all perform to the best of your capabilities. Prove your worth! Prove that you want to be Vanquishers! This is only just the beginning!"

    "OOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!"

    Children cheered as their bodies became ablaze with fighting spirit. Ready to take on the challenge. They were indeed the next generation to become Vanquish soldiers.

    After the outcry, a handsome man in his early twenties began to move towards the speaker. Each step he took was graceful and elegant. Just by this, it was obvious he had been well-groomed at a young age.

    Whispers were exchanged across the crowd.

    "Could that be . . . "

    "Oh he's so gorgeous."

    "The number one most handsome man in the Cresuilge Kingdom. That's for sure."

    "It's the Prince, the Prince, our Royal Highness!"

    "Why can't there be any decent guys around me that are somewhat as handsome as him?"

    "Hmph."

    The picture of royalty, integrity, and composure. He donned a regal sash decorated by the royal seal lined with bright gold and layered over a thin iron plate that held up his stout appearance. An ebb and flow of magic power could be seen coursing through his garments as a light runic inscription surfaced on his robes and seemed to be alive.

    The man had cascading maroon hair, cut short above his shoulders that danced with the wind much like his sash but failed to hide the gleaming amethyst eyes that lay underneath. His countenance radiated with composure. Yet, it was all-encompassing.

    He didn't seem to be above anyone yet not one of the participants would claim to be in his league, especially when they caught a glimpse at the sheathed claymore poised by his side.



    ***



    "Greetings everyone. It is an honour to be able to have the privilege to speak here today. As you may know, I am Kayle Hindebrandus Relza, the Crown Prince of Cresuilge Kingdom. I am here today as a special guest to watch over the fine youths of our Pedlar Continent do their utmost best in their exam. While it may seem exaggerated that a future heir of Cresuilge Kingdom is here to witness this exam—let me disclose something enticing for you all. In the upcoming short weeks, this year's 93rd Knights of Kingdom Tourney will commence. The surviving top participants of the tournament will have the opportunity to perhaps obtain the honour to become one of the well-privileged knights of Cresuilge Kingdom. Now, what exactly does this have to do with you all? The individuals who perform remarkably in this Pre-Soldier Exam will be eligible to participate in the tournament."

    "WHAAAAAAAATTTTTT WOAAAAAAAAAHHHH"

    The uproar of the candidates became even louder than the previous roar. It was even getting slightly out of control. Faces of the authorities varied. Some had forced smiles, others seemed approved of the motivation, while others felt a little grieved at the difference from the previous speech. After all, this was the exam to become future Vanquishers, not to become a winner of the upcoming Kingdom tourney.

    "I would like to thank the Missionary Church and everyone else who had collaborated to make this event real."

    Crown Prince Kayle delivered a bright smile to all the authorities. Many fell in a trance by the young adult's countenance

    "There is more to be said, but I will leave that until after the results are in. To those ones who triumph over this challenge. I will be watching you all."

    Clap, clap, clap, clap, clap, clap

    Wild applause filled the stage. Crown Prince Kayle gracefully left the spotlight as another Vanquish General took his place.

    It was Vanquish General Marie.

    "Listen, well candidates, as I will be explaining the content and rules of the exam."

    The stage became very silent.

    "This year's Pre-Soldier Exam will be a Hunting Competition. One could say it's similar to the Hun*** Games. All of you will be scattered across the Maizan forest located within the Vanquish walls. This forest is under the direct jurisdiction of the Vanquishers, and it has been routinely kept in condition to grow medicinal herbs and contain beasts for training purposes. However, today it is to be used for something different. The monsters occupying this forest for this occasion will be especially fierce. They were selected specially to test you, young future Vanquishers.

    "At the beginning, you will be teleported into the forest with no equipment at hand. It is to note that enchanted armour and runic armour is also considered as equipment. For those who have brought equipment, please give them to your respected Sisters for care until the exam is over. Now, throughout the forest, there will be chests filled with weapon artefacts scattered across the forest. That will be your source of equipment necessary to not only defeat the beasts, but also to track your score. These weapons artefacts supplied by Cresuilge Kingdom are special models tailored to be usable by all practitioners, while also imitating the effects of artefacts so that candidates with blessed mana can use them. The weapons will absorb the mana from fallen beasts to gauge your score for the hunting section and that mana will be extracted and graded once the examination has concluded.

    "The stronger the beast, the denser the mana will be when extracted. Thus, stronger beasts are ideal. However, do not get ahead of yourselves! The beasts have keen senses and are not to be underestimated. There is one particular beast, known as "The Monster" and is one you must avoid. You will know which it is if you were to encounter it. If you want to blindly go ahead and get yourself killed, go ahead. We are not responsible for children who bite off more than they can chew.

    "You will be in there for five days. In those five days, you will be tasked to seek nourishment and water to survive like you have been taught in the Orphanage, as these will not be provided for you. Your choice of artefact or weapon will be more vivid in colour the more mana it absorbs. Thus, there is no sure way to verify exactly how much mana you have collected. If you wish to retire for whatever reason, whether you're unable to go on further or feel satisfied with the mana you"ve accumulated. Say the words "I wish to retire". You will be teleported out. Keep in mind at noon on the fifth day you will be forcibly teleported out. Moreover, we will be watching you all through the artefacts in the chest."

    A few murmurs of chatter spread across the stage.

    "Are there any questions?"

    "Yes! What is the identity of "The Monster?" Is it something we are aware of?"

    "That is a secret. Curiosity killed the cat. Do not ask about it."

    "Are fighting with other candidates allowed?"

    "That is a good question. You may fight with other candidates, but it isn't recommended as the time you waste could be spent hunting other beasts. While squabbles are allowed, if we see anything that can be deemed unjust, then prepare for the consequences!"

    "What happens if we can't escape?"

    "If such an event occurs and we recognise and see that your life is at high risk, our surveying force will be dispatched at first notice. Then you will be sent to the Medivan Hospital. Keep in mind, our surveillance is limited to the weapon and is periodic. If you were to be unfortunate to not be viewed at a moment of crisis, then your life may be lost. So you should not rely on the teleportation as a perfect talisman."

    In Pedlar Continent, there were a few hospitals spread about, which are owned by the Church. The Medivan Hospital was the main hospital of the Church, headquartered in the Town of Vanquish. The owner and operator of the Church was Apostle Medi. For the most part, Apostle Medi was in charge of the Medi-Brigade. The Medi-Brigade was tasked with providing immediate first aid to the frontlines. In addition, overseeing the Medical Combat Department of the Medivan Hospital. This department focused on nurturing individuals to become future Medi-Brigade members. When enlisting to become a future Vanquisher, one had the option to join the Church Orphanage or the Medi Combat Department to be educated and trained.

    "No more Questions? Good! The Pre-Soldier Exam begins now!"



    ***



    Dalis's eyes which were squinted from the dazzling light slowly dilated. The world before him was no longer the stage where he stood a few seconds ago. His line of sight only captured trees, vegetation, and other plant life. He was now officially in the Maizan Forest. The teleportation circle had separated him from his familiar peers and Sister Edna. He was all alone.

    "Wow it feels as if I'm alone in this world. I feel weirdly at peace."

    There was no Stilla to drag him around. No annoying Feeria snob to pester him. Nothing constraining him. Since his time at the Orphanage, Dalis was never truly isolated. The Orphanage was a place where individuals gathered and interacted with one another. Relationships and harmony with one another were standard. Living together was normal. Being tied together by the Church and its teachings was expected.

    "Yet, at the same time, I feel a little lonesome . . . "

    He stared at his right hand. The warmth from a moment ago was still present. A series of words echoed in his mind.

    "Listen up, we are going to find each other and I'm not taking no for an answer! There was no mention of anything saying we can't work together. So if we get together, I know we will be able to beat this exam to a pulp!"

    (Yeah I wonder what exactly will be beaten to a pulp if we disobey.)

    (Tsk, to think I'd have to work with this gnat again. No, considering how vast this forest is, the chances for me to come across him are . . . )

    Unknowingly, Dalis's mouth curved upwards.

    "Well, I guess I should go find them. After all . . . "

    Dalis's mutter progressively trailed down.

    Dalis explored the area. Due to the trees blocking out a sizeable amount of sunlight, it was a little dark. As he trod carefully through the forest, he saw a couple of beasts. Although none of them were particularly noteworthy, if he were to engage in combat now, he would be minced meat for certain. Thus, Dalis's first objective was not to find his comrades or find the hidden chests, it was to find a clearing of some sort to make camp. That way, he would be able to have a base where he could return to and not worry too much about beasts sneaking behind his back. Dalis may have extremely observant eyes that are not too hindered by the dark, however without a weapon, he was still a lamb waiting to be slaughtered.

    Behind a large mossy rock shone by a cone of sunlight, Dalis had discovered some herbs.

    (Oh these herbs? Isn't this a remedy for demonisation? If I were to mash this and mix it with other materials, it would gain properties resistant to demonisation. It was said to be flora blessed by Caleyar. Hmm . . . . These will be useful.)

    Dalis began to carefully crop the herbs one by one with the utmost care. These herbs were definitely something that needed to be preserved at its best quality. Unfortunately, Dalis did not have any special tools that will help him maintain the purity of these herbs. Nevertheless, it would be sufficient.

    As Dalis was about to reach his hand to harvest the final two herbs, he froze. Dalis's instincts were shouting at him that if he were to pluck the final herbs, he would be in danger. Dalis attempted to calm the upheaval of breaths that had escaped his mouth. He then tried to sense if a presence was nearby. Indeed he felt something . . . something behind him . . . something was watching him . . .
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
    #12
  13. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    (Something is watching me, but I'm unable to pinpoint its location.)

    Before Dalis had taken the opportunity to crop the herbs, he checked his surroundings to ensure that the situation was safe. However, the reality was, it was anything but safe.

    (Did I make an oversight? Perhaps I should've double-checked. In any case there's no point brooding over spilt milk. I need to first locate where it is watching me from. I'm unable to use mana abilities to track its general location. So I will have to rely on my instincts. Unfortunately, my instincts are exercised to its extent in regards to this predicament. Where have I not checked. . . Or perhaps I should reverse that? Where have I been unable to check?)

    Two most likely locations had come to Dalis's mind. Underground and above.

    (I feel no vibrations, it must be . . . above!)

    KOAAAA

    Dalis immediately twisted his body and sprung himself away to the side. A green aerial beast with a pair of knife-like wings had barely grazed the skin of his arm. In actual fact, a sharp tear had been left on his sleeve, where he had been struck. A trail of blood started to seep out. When Dalis had turned to look at where he stood two seconds ago, he saw the large mossy rock sliced into two pieces, perfectly.

    (You're kidding me right? Why have I already encountered such a beast here? This is a freaking Green Razor Wing. The other beastsI've come across don't even compare to this raptor. At least let me obtain a weapon first!)

    The two figures stared at each other. Dalis wanted to run at that very moment. However, if he were to be hasty with his actions, then he would probably slip and that would be the end of him. He wouldn't make such a rookie and classic mistake.

    Dalis then noticed with his watchful eyes that the beast had subtly turned his attention away from him. He could see the eyes of the bird being vaguely downcast. Dalis promptly knew that the beast was interested in the two remaining herbs that had been crushed underneath its feet.

    (Oh. So that's why . . . It makes sense now . . . )

    The herb known as the "calpufer herb" was a herb that was quite well known throughout the continent. It was one of the few herbs that held resistant properties towards elements that were considered demonic. While its quality was considered "average", it had great utility. Due to its abundance, it was a substantial herb for the Church as they simply needed to obtain a sizeable amount. Not only was it not difficult to vegetate, but it was also considered as possessing Caleyar's blessing, causing its value to rise higher than expected. The main issue was . . . it was supposed to be one of the favourite treats of many beasts. Thus, the Church would not hesitate to station a few individuals to watch over a farm of sole calpufer herbs.

    (Even if the Church views this as one of the many "Caleyar's blessings," or beasts see this as some kind of delicacy . . . This herb is not worth crap in my eyes.)

    The beast was mortified at the loss of the herbs beneath its feet. It locked its gaze onto Dalis before moving on to the herbs clutched in his hands.

    Dalis, having seen the beast's priorities, hastily stood up and distanced himself while maintaining eye contact. The beast took slow, menacing steps and began to charge at him but abruptly stopped with a screech as it witnessed the most horrifying action it had ever seen in its ten years of living.

    Before the beast was a sadistic human who clutched his treasured herbs with both hands, one grasping the feeble, fragile leaves and the other gripped onto the stalk. Tension could be seen building up in the herb stalk as the human threatened to tear it apart.

    "KUWAAAA" [stop it u bastard]

    With a sinister smile, Dalis began to increase the pressure in his arms as the pitiful beast before him began to writhe in agony as if it were he instead who was being torn asunder. Noticing that the beast's mournful cries would very likely attract other predators, Dalis decidedly threw two of the herbs he held towards the beast before turning tail and seeking cover. If the examiners were to see what just happened, their jaws would meet the earth.

    Dalis proceeded with care, his senses stretched tautly. It was exhausting, to say the least, but this degree of caution was necessary to avoid incidents like the earlier encounter. From his experience, he realised that the calpufer herbs were valuable to bargain with the beasts, especially the majority of the intellectual beasts. For those who could not be bargained against, they were either dangerous muscle heads or beasts too weak to mention. Therefore, the herb was an important safeguard. While Dalis was silently harvesting more herbs on the move, a curtain of darkness enveloped the forest. Upon looking up, roiling clouds could be seen forming above. It seemed like rain was on its way down.

    Among the many towering trees, perched up on an unusually thick branch, sat Dalis. He was sheltered by a leafy roof he had made on the spot to protect himself from the rain. On the trunk he leaned against were vines, spiralling down towards the ground and carrying fresh rainwater through its canals. Dalis had made use of this to gather water and drink. While the rain brought many disadvantages such as muddier terrain, slippery roots, and obscured vision, this was true for the beasts too. So as long as someone kept stationary, rain would become the safest natural cover a survivor could ask for.

    (Is this a forest? Or a jungle?) Dalis complained in his mind.

    And so a day passed.

    By now, Dalis's tongue was numb to the flavour of calpufer herbs. It really wasn't that great, in fact, he thought it was disgusting. Unfortunately, it was all he had. Perhaps after eating them for long enough, he too would begin to see them as a delicacy like the beasts.

    (To think all I could find yesterday was calpufer herbs . . . My luck is really high on the other end.)

    By the amount Dalis had gathered to this point, he would be considered to have struck gold. Three weeks of living costs!

    As the rain cleared, Dalis surveyed his surroundings to find the forest covered in a moist gleam. A solid foothold was hard to see and even more so were any signs of surrounding beasts. As he was prepared to spend another day chewing on calpufer herbs, a glint caught his eye in the distance. Squinting to see further through the clearing mist, a metallic surface revealed itself. It was a silver chest nestled deep within the shrubbery. It would have been hard to notice if it wasn't for the glimmering dew coating it.

    With nimble steps, Dalis slid down the spiralling vines and planted his feet onto the moist soil. Being careful to keep silent and lay low, he soundlessly trod in the direction of the silver chest.

    When he was a scant few meters away from the shrub containing the silver chest, Dalis stopped his movements and slowed his breathing. He could just make out a rocky silhouette subtly moving up and down behind the shrub. It seemed to be breathing. Dalis then took note of his surroundings. This was the clearing he had been looking for earlier but unknowingly for him, it seemed to be occupied.

    Luckily, however, it didn't seem to have noticed him as he slowly approached the chest. Dalis prayed to himself that the examiners wouldn't play a cruel joke and play fanfare like certain Z*lda games when opening a chest, and he carefully lifted the silver lid.

    (Phew. Looks like I didn't draw aggro.)

    Surprisingly, the metallic lid was light and easily unclasped without a sound before opening up. To Dalis, it was like witnessing the blooming of his favourite flower. And instead of finding nectar, it was his sweet, sweet staff he had dreamt of last night.

    Like a child receiving a gift from Santa Claus, Dalis grasped the sheeny steel rod in his hands and lifted it up from the chest. He admired the simplicity of the staff and appreciated its design. One of his arms clasped the top half while the other held close to the bottom.

    "Yes, this surface . . . this feel . . . It fits right into my hands."

    *Click*

    *Klang!*

    Dalis's pupils shrunk to a pin prick as sweat threatened to cascade down his forehead. His beloved staff fell apart in his hands as it split into three sections. From its dismantle, a glowing, blue, translucent chain emerged from the gaps. This wasn't a bo staff: it was a tri-section staff!

    Caught off-guard, the blue mana chains continued to lengthen until the middle section of the staff thudded against the moist soil, and the rattling of the chains created a dreadful sound much louder than the feared Z*lda fanfare.

    Dalis slowly looked up to see the breathing rock split down the middle and rise.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 17, 2020
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  14. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    What was before an unassuming boulder was now a towering behemoth. The creature that stood before him had a rocky bronze carapace, opened up to reveal large wings underneath, and jaws of stone that looked to deliver a crushing bite. It had six legs, three on each side, and a large horn that was once a simple outcrop atop the boulder.

    (Rhinearian Beetle!)

    Dalis stared at the beast with wide-open eyes and tried to rack his brain up with any ideas to deal with this situation. His initial thought was, in actual fact, to try and contend against the beast. After all, a Rhinearian Beetle was a beast that would provide him with a sizeable degree of mana for his collection. In addition, a day had already been passed, and he is yet to have any points to be measured. Dalis was very likely to be already very behind the other candidates. Moreover, Dalis had not a single thought of the mechanisms behind utilising a tri-section staff. The issues continue to go down south as the anatomy of the beetle was known for its solid defence. It was difficult to penetrate. Thus, from the moment he had opened the chest, obtained an artefact, and disturbed the beast. Nothing had been fortunate for him.

    (Sigh . . . looks like I have to try Plan A once again.)

    The beast approached closer. Each past stamp seemed to quake the very earth. Dalis dropped one of his arms that held the tri-section staff and reached towards his pocket. He made exaggerated ruffling sounds as if he was desperately searching for something particular in his pocket.

    "JA JA JA JIAN! CALPUFER HERBS!"

    Dalis stuck out with pride his only source of value in front of him. The beast briefly stopped its movements, eyeing the herb. Dalis couldn't help but unleash the smile of the devil. He then attempted to proceed to enact his sadistic torture. However, before he was able to undertake his barbaric practices, the beast relentlessly charged at the despicable human with full force. Its eyes alone were an indication of its intense fury. It was going for a full-force takedown!

    (Are you . . . freaking kidding me?)

    BOOM!

    Dalis was struck by the furious onslaught. He had tried to dodge the attack, but the unexpected velocity had caught him off guard. The impact of the charge had caused the surrounding debris, grass, and sand to swell up, and spread through the air.

    As the air began to be slowly cleared up from the aftermath, an unexpected scene emerged in view. Dalis was laid on the beetle's back, tucking his legs and leg locking the beast's thorax. His arms were tightly grasping the two ends of the tri-section staff, coiling the neck to lock the beast as if it was a collar. He was not a beast master, nor was he riding a horse. This was just an amateur attempting to tame a beast . . . or at least that is what it was supposed to be.

    "The more you continue to wriggle and struggle. The harder I'm going to twist your neck. I was almost killed by you just then, and it was an even closer call than the damn Green Razor Wing.I've had enough of this place."

    Dalis steadily applied pressure to the tri-section staff as the middle section continued to tighten and choke the beast. Realising that death was imminent if it were to continue as it is, the beast reluctantly calmed down.

    Dalis breathed out a short sigh of relief and raised his tattered shirt up. He checked the wound on his abdomen: the right upper quadrant. There were no signs of bleeding. However, it was very evident that his abdomen was very swelled up as a large bruise the size of his hand had appeared. Dalis was thankful that he was fortunate enough to not be pierced by the horn of the beast. Otherwise, he would probably be forced to retire with the resources he had at the given moment to treat the wound.

    (Now seriously . . . Can somebody tell me what to do next?)

    A couple of minutes pass by. Dalis sat nonchalantly on the beast and thought of his next course of action. He had planned to make a small hut or some sort as he had finally found a clearing. However, as it stands, he was literally glued onto the beast. For some reason, he had not taken the opportunity to kill the beast. When that thought had arrived into Dalis's mind, he questioned his prior actions. He felt that if he were to slay it now, it would be a waste. This was mostly due to the fact that the beast had become very docile. Which honestly, somewhat put his mind into turmoil. How could such a ferocious beast be so compliant?

    So Dalis decided to do something ridiculous . . .



    ***



    "Two day have almost passed. All contestants should have an artefact by now."

    A group of individuals sat at a small dinner table, enjoying their delicacy.

    This was one of the small dining halls reserved for the highest authorities of the Missionary Church of Vanquish. It was a dining hall that was usually used to serve esteemed guests. Its lack of space was an indication of how special it was. Not even generals were allowed to take a step in.

    However, the preceding five days are a special case. After all, it was the Pre-Soldier Exam. The individuals were enjoying their gourmet meals, watching the exam, making comments, and exchanging pleasantries.

    The large marble screen that hung on the wall near the dinner table was the main source of talk for the individuals. The screen showcased the views of the various candidates for the exam, and it periodically changed every few minutes. Due to a large number of participants, the screen was incapable of focusing its cast on a particular few. Thus, it was impossible to focus on the best future prospects that usually gave an entertaining show.

    Of course, this did not displease the viewers. After all, it was their job to oversee them. They were required to observe and assess all the candidates.

    "Indeed General Baseth. Though it's a shame that a surprising amount of candidates have already retired," General Maire lamented.

    "Do you have a figure?" Crown Prince Kayle asked.

    "Your Royal Highness, out of the two hundred and forty-seven participants . . . seventy-five have retired. Thus, there are a hundred and seventy-two left," General Zelgius reported.

    "Ayyy, the children need to step up their game!" Apostle Wrau complained.

    "I'm a little disappointed. However, it was close to my expectations. After all, the circumstances and situations they're put in are arduous. In a realistic setting, without the proper experience, it is inevitable for such things to occur. Even unreliable notions such as luck could play a vital role in one's survival," Apostle Farden disclosed.

    "Like that one candidate who came across the Green Razor Wing."

    "It's a shame that we were unable to see the outcome of what happened to that boy. He was really unlucky to encounter such a beast from day one."

    "Hahahahah, Marie. That boy will be fine without a doubt! He's one of a kind."

    "That boy was undeniably talented and coolheaded. However, if I remember correctly, his mana seed was dormant. He wouldn't be able to get that far even if he managed to escape," Zelgius stated.

    "Dormant mana seed? At his age? What a pity, what a pity."

    "Apostle Farden, you are interested in that boy?" Crown Prince Kayle questioned.

    "In my eyes, that boy surpasses the two peers of his. I could tell from his calm attitude and his cautiousness that he is far above the others in the mindset of an ideal Vanquisher."

    "Interesting. I too thought along the same lines but was unable to appraise him that far. Though, I believe that his two peers deserve a little more credit. Especially that boy with his spells. As we saw before, he was quite composed as he swiftly struck those Valimites."

    (I heard that Feeria child cussed quite vulgarly during that incident a few weeks ago, with one of our soldiers-in-training.) Marie thought.

    "That girl named Alexia Mae and boy named Hayate. Those two will probably be the top rankers for this Pre-Soldier Exam," General Zelgius believed.

    "What does Apostle Wrau and Apostle Farden think of those two?" General Baseth asked curiously for their insight.

    "Hmm . . . well they're certainly talented children and very skilled . . . I can't deny that . . . " Apostle Wrau muttered.

    "Then? . . . what is it they're lacking?

    Apostle Wrau was hesitant to speak.

    "They lack discipline. As expected from internship students from Feeria and the rising prodigy of the Swamp. Their arrogance is hindering their growth. Without diligently following the teachings of Caleyar, they are just a bunch of spoiled children," Apostle Farden grumbled.

    "Well in retrospect, their organisational structures and systems of government are very different from ours," Crown Prince Kayle commented.

    "There are also those two, Li Jun and the son of the Commerce Apostle, Benito Carter," Marie mentioned.

    While the individuals continued to be immersed in their discussion. An unexpected scene was brought to the spotlight.

    *NNNGH* *NNNGH*

    The sound of choking was heard next to General Marie. It appeared that General Baseth was choking on a glass of water he had just drunk. This sound had naturally brought the attention of those present on the table.

    "Are you alright Baseth? I know you're excited with all the food and chatter, but you gotta have some self-control," Apostle Wrau admonished.

    *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*

    "Excuse me for the disturbance. I simply couldn't maintain a straight face after what I had just witnessed."

    "Hmm? Was there an issue with what we were conversing about?"

    "No no no, please look at the screen."

    When the group of highly notable status turned their heads to view the screen, they were startled.

    *TING*

    Only the sound of dropped utensils reverberated the room.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 18, 2020
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  15. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    The room was hushed after the sound of the utensils faded away. Many faces of the individuals seemed to wonder who would be the first to utter a word about what they had just seen.

    Calmly, the Crown Prince was the first to speak a word.

    "To clarify, that is . . . a Rhinearian Beetle . . . correct?"

    "Yes. Judging by its exterior appearance and its overall figure. It is probably . . . no definitely a Rhinearian Beetle."

    It seemed like a rhetorical question. However, it was not an inappropriate inquiry to ask.

    "So what exactly is he doing? . . . I can't seem to put my finger on it."

    "HAHAHA!! That boy!!!" Apostle Wrau couldn't help but laugh out loud in amusement.

    "That child . . . is he using that tri-section staff as a whip to exert control over that Rhinearian Beetle?"

    On the screen displayed, Dalis could be seen whipping the Rhinearian Beetle. His posture was upright, and his movements are exaggerated.

    The beetle had knocked down several trees. It cut down the fallen trees with its pair of mandibles and steel horn. Dalis's gestures appeared to suggest that he was trying to teach something to the Rhinearian Beetle.

    It was as if he was training a pet.

    However, with how tyrannical he looked through his mannerisms and supposed shouting . . . this was simply animal abuse . . . no beast abuse!

    Although they were able to see his mouth open and close, it was unfortunate that sound was incapable of being transmitted.

    "It's not that simple either . . . he's using the tri-section staff to provide directional guidance for the beast to slice those trees and encourage its movement!" Apostle Farden was impressed.

    "That boy where is he from, Apostle Wrau?"

    "He's an orphan, Mother Michelle picked him up somewhere nearby."

    "Nearby? That's too ambiguous, but I suppose he couldn't be from the north?"

    "Are you thinking about that beast master clan from long ago? I heard that they had perished mysteriously three hundred years ago."

    "Yeah . . . but even so . . . "

    "You kidding me? Those beast masters were said to have used a strange art to tame their beasts. Wasn"t it said a few minutes ago that he only had a dormant mana seed. Besides he's clearly imparting pain through his whip! It's pain compliance!"

    "Enough with the foolish talk you two. That isn't the main issue at hand. Apostle Wrau, although I have been an overseer for the past few years for the Pre-Soldier Exam, I have never seen anything like this. Technically this is not a breach of the rules . . . but is this considered to be legal or . . . just? As they will grow to become future Vanquishers, this may be problematic or even detrimental. I ask senior Apostle Wrau for advice. Please do not put personal feelings into this," General Marie solemnly asked.

    "For now we will watch over him. In the first place, what Dalis is exerting control over is a beast. Not a human or a . . . demihuman. They were tasked to kill them. Dalis simply chose a very different approach which was to tame it. Who knows, we may learn something from the youngster. However, if his actions reach a point which could be considered overboard . . . then I will make sure to give him a talk about it."

    "L-learn something? . . . Understood. Then we will remain vigilant in our watch. Should we send someone in to personally watch over him?"

    "Unnecessary Marie."

    "Learn something . . . hmmm. I'm a little excited to see what actions he would showcase later," Crown Prince commented as he sipped on his glass of fine red wine.

    "Apostle Farden is there something you wish to inquire? You appear deep in thought."

    "Oh, I was just contemplating about that boy. It is such a pity that he has a dormant mana seed. By his age, he would very likely not go under any transformations."

    "Ah . . . a deformed mana seed . . . "

    "Heyyy Baseth don't say his seed is deformed! He is still young! In the coming future with his talent, I'd reckon he will shake the world up! Even if he continues to have his dormant mana seed. Who knows . . . maybe he will become the next big hero, like Crown Prince's mother years ago!"

    "That would be splendid news to hear for your Church. It's been a very very long time since the last person from a Church background became a hero," Crown Prince Kayle politely commented.

    A few faces slightly contorted. Unlike the other nations, it was known throughout the Pedlar continent that the amount of heroes that have been birthed from the Church was relatively much less.

    "Ah . . . it looks like the screen has switched to another perspective."

    "The Pre-Soldier Exam is not all about that boy. Let us watch the other candidates. But he is definitely of interest. After all, he is one of a kind."



    ***



    "Alright, that should do it. Good work."

    Dalis used his tri-section staff to give the beetle one final flail as a pat on the back. Or rather, a smack on the back. The Rhinearian Beetle had thought it did something wrong as it released a little screech. No, it was probably a whimper . . .

    "No. You did nothing wrong. Instead, you did a staggering job . . . here this is your reward."

    Dalis walked towards the beast and carefully took out the calpufer herbs from his pocket. He raised the arm which held a few calpufer herbs into the air and waited for the beast to take its well-deserved reward. At the beginning of his taming lessons, he wouldn't dare feed the beast with his bare hands and instead threw the herbs mercilessly onto the hard floor. This was not only because he wanted to avoid being bitten or attacked, but it was also to explicitly drill the idea that he was the master, and he was the servant. Not a slave . . . no he was unquestionably not merciless because of their past conflict. Working conditions were definitely in accordance with the welfare of pets.

    The beast understood and made a joyful cry as it slowly but carefully savoured the calpufer herbs in his hand. Dalis was pleased with the result and as a matter of course, provided the beast with extra fillings. Watching the beast made him feel a sentimental attachment to it. Dalis used his other arm to stroke the beasts head. If Stilla was here, she would definitely say the words "how cute!"

    (Hmm . . . I can't possibly take the Rhinearian Beetle back, can I? Wait am I thinking of taking this beast back home as a pet? How ridiculous.)

    Dalis shook his head from side to side to rid those thoughts. It was very unlikely that the Church would accept this. Sister Edna would probably be able to be won over. However, she is just a sister, and her authority only reaches so far. In any case, it was impossible. After all . . .

    When the Rhinearian Beetle had finished its meal, Dalis proceeded to start work. The trees had been roughly sawed into logs and were notched at each end. Although the pieces varied, it was sufficient to construct a hut or a cabin. He utilised thick vines blessed with Caleyar's mana to tighten and assist the hold of wood together. While various other materials were used to construct the rooftop such as fern and branches, similarly held by the thick vines. A little after dusk, Dalis had finally finished his construction.

    "Not bad, not bad at all." Dalis could not help but compliment himself.

    He subtly moved as though he was skipping around the cabin, admiring his finished product. Not even once did he touch his splendorous creation, after all, he was busy. The serene black eyes were sharp, mounted in his sockets, magnifying, and penetrating the naked cabin. Each layer of the design was scrutinised and examined without question. From his discovery, he found that there were actually several loose areas that did not appear to adequately affix of which, some parts revealed gaps that may become a point of concern. This was especially the case with the rooftop, which was no surprise, considering the variety of materials used unlike the logs.

    "Upon closer examination, there is much to be improved." He nodded to himself.

    (On second thoughts, was it really necessary to build a lodging with the small number of days we have? Ah, forget it. This was a good experience in putting my learnt skills to work. It may even be amusing to see the reactions of others when they see my "residency".)

    Dalis then gave a posh turn towards the Rhinearian Beetle. The Rhinearian Beetle seemed to jitter a little as if it had noticed the peculiar behaviour of its master.

    "Rhinearian Beetle would you like to be the first to enter into my residency?"

    Dalis bowed and swayed his arms towards the cabin like a butler, serving the way.

    The beast seemed to be confused and was ultimately unable to take its master's offer.

    "Ah, that's right with that body size of yours, you wouldn't be able to fit in. It would be an iteration of the Three Little Pigs. That is not good. How unfortunate. Perhaps when I renovate it in the future, I should add adjustments to allow you to enter in."

    The beast had been tamed to understand the general gist of its master's wishes. However, as of this moment, the beast was utterly confused. Dalis chuckled at his pet's reaction.

    "It is time to step foot into my lodging."

    Dalis leisurely walked towards the cabin doorstep. Although there was no door, there were ferns, and other materials hung down the roof to create a doorway.

    Just as Dalis was about to take the first step in . . .

    AHHHHHHH
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 19, 2020
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  16. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    A shrill scream disturbed the tranquillity of the night. It had only lasted a matter of seconds before it ceased. There was no longer any other commotions. Dalis having heard this sudden scream immediately thought of his next course of action.

    (Tch, my mood is ruined now. However that is not important. I should go to investigate the scene. If I were to delay my actions, then it would be troublesome. That scream had in all likelihood attracted the attention of nearby beasts. Furthermore, the time of day does not help. Though, that's an exception to me.)

    It seemed that Dalis had been snapped out of his eccentric state by the scream from earlier. Dalis prepared himself and began to walk towards the supposed origin of the voice. However, before he did this, he pondered as to what to do with regards to the Rhinearian Beetle.

    (If I were to take it with me, it would attract the noise of other beasts which would be troublesome. I do not know if the beast is able to maneuver in the night either . . . and it would be a pain to explain why I'm riding a beast that I'm supposed to kill in the first place. That is enough reasons to not bring him along.)

    Dalis stopped his train of thoughts and called out to the Rhinearian Beetle.

    "Hey! I order you to remain and guard my residency. I do not permit you to sleep until I am back."

    The beast gave a short cry in response as it moved its body up and down. It seemed to have understood its master's order.

    "Good. I won't be long."

    Dalis then advanced cautiously through the night forest. As Dalis's eyes were exceptional, even in the dark, he was able to avoid the resting beasts and the predators of the night. Having passed many beasts, he felt it was a waste to not kill them along the way. After all, up to the present time, he had not collected any mana for his artefact. Dalis was very far behind the other candidates. Unfortunately, he had no time to lose, so he was forced to bury his urging desires and move on.

    After a while, Dalis came up to a small, slightly lit, spacious glade. He could see flickers of nearby beasts hiding in the surrounding shrubbery. Alert from the scream and conscious of the surrounding predators, he decided to quietly climb up a nearby tree to hide as well. Upon gaining a steady foothold atop the tree, he decided to scan his surroundings to find three familiar figures running through the glade away from a beast.

    They were Sienna, Jessica, and Elliot!

    (Oh? It's those three. To think I'd be able to come across them. Those three would be the first candidates I came across. Wait a second . . . that's their usual party. My luck . . . )

    Dalis took a closer look through the darkness to make out what they were running away from. It was a reptilian creature with large slit eyes, a wide maw rowed with sharp teeth, and a tongue dripping a thick viscous substance. Its back was covered in hollowed spines narrowing down to a whip-like tail that had clear scars and signs of tearing. It was a Spliz!

    Dalis could see what the problem was in an instant as a white trail of thread was left behind Jessica's left-half of her body adhered to the floor, and a patch of silvery silk was covering her mouth. Even if she wanted to retire, she couldn't utter the words! Moreover, her sword was quite a distance away from her, she had likely dropped it during the battle!

    Clearly, Elliot and Sienna were unwilling to abandon their comrade. Elliot could be seen hastily scrambling about with his staff to find a way to unbind Jessica. By the white splotches on his fingers, it seemed simply ripping off the threads had not worked out. Meanwhile, Sienna was doing her best to ward off the Spliz, but she was getting slower and slower with each layer of thread that threatened to bind her. The situation was looking dire. Jessica had used all of her effort to distance herself from the Spliz, but it only managed to get her five meters away before the thread locked her right in place, barely a few meters away from the centre of the glade.

    "Elliot! Hurry up! At this rate it won't be just Jessica that will be in dire straits!"

    "I'm trying! But this artefact ability is not enough to unbind her! All the threads that break get replaced by the next second!"

    "I can see that! For a reptilian it's irksome! How about you try charging it up?! So Jessica can escape before the damn lizard vomits again!"

    "Ah! Right sorry I will do it right away."

    Dalis who had watched this moment of exchange was hit with disbelief. Their coordination and communication were not on the same page. They were in a literal bind! He felt a little sympathy towards Sienna. While she may be struggling, she had not lost her cool to the extent that Elliot had. Elliot was too panicked to even think straight.

    (Protect those in need!)

    Words from Sister Edna crossed his mind. Dalis felt that he had a duty to rescue them. While Dalis was not planning to abandon them in the first place due to a petty reason like reduce competition or ignorance, he felt that abandoning his roommates that he lived with for the last three years was cruel, ridiculous, and unforgiving. To Dalis, they could be considered part of his family even if their relationship were far off to be regarded as siblings. After pondering these thoughts, Dalis's conviction deepened and was ready to take action without waver.

    He withdrew the tri-section staff that was on his back. Earlier on before leaving, Dalis had used one of the solid vines leftovers from the construction to strap the staff onto his back. What he had noticed during his flailings was this tri-section was unique in its design. Unlike a regular tri-section staff which would have the chain and its connected segments, this weapon was able to be connected to form one or two whole sticks. He was overcome with joy when this was discovered. Thus, he was able to avoid using the staff's primary use and instead exploit and indulge in his familiar usage as a metal pole. Having said that, he has never received the chance to deploy this. Now the chance he had been waiting for had appeared right before him.

    (First off.. how to take care of those beasts.)

    Those beasts referred to those who were hidden. They were waiting for their moment to take advantage and pounce. Unfortunately, even with Dalis's exceptional eyes, he was unable to determine the identity of the beasts. This was due to the cover of the night and objects they attempted to camouflage in. Hence, Dalis's options were limited.

    (Damn . . . this would be my only real option . . . )

    "Hang on Jessica, just a few more seconds!"

    A dazzling shroud of light was displayed on top of the staff. The light within the shroud glowed ever so brightly as each second ticked. One could see brief layers of light slowly cascading down towards Jessica. Through his desperate concentration, the light seemed to layer itself upon the threads that rooted Jessica and was careful to avoid touching her bare skin.

    Jessica, who watched Elliot charge up his ability, wore a face of extreme urgency, frantically flailing her available moveable body.

    "Don't worry! It's complete!"

    It was at this moment, Jessica's face transformed into despair itself.

    "ELLIOT LOOK OUT!!!"

    Elliot, who was about to unleash the ability, suddenly perceived a large familiar silhouette tower over him. Long strands of shadows can be seen sloping down. His body was immediately dead in its tracks when he saw the sticky liquid on the ground. He embraced himself and turned his head slowly behind him to find the one thing he didn't want to see . . . The Spliz!

    A scream of terror wrecked the night sky. At the same time, in the sky above the glade, an umbra was seen distinct to the blackness of dusk. Despite the night not reaching its prime, the figure's appearance was only briefly perceivable as its outline reigned down.

    Who?

    Who was it?

    Was it a beast who had noticed the commotion and decided to join the fray?

    Indeed it was a beast . . . it was the beast who prevailed in the cover of dusk.

    It was . . .

    "Batman."

    SMACK

    An anguished groan of a beast was followed afterwards. Dalis had landed a direct blow onto the Spliz's forehead. The collision had caused the beast to be knocked hard down on the ground. Traces of green liquid was seen dripping down the beast's face, which was entwined with the white liquid in its mouth, making it viler than ever. Though one could argue, it was a picture to illustrate the defeated.

    "B-Batman?! No wait it's you Dalis!"

    Hurried footsteps could be heard behind Dalis. It was Sienna. She was covered with spots of sticky liquid remains.

    "Ah! Dalis! It's you! Ah, um, uh, thank you thank you thank you. You saved my life!"

    "No need. It was the natural thing to do."

    Dalis, who seemed very nonchalant, began walking his way to free the nearby Jessica. He did not speak a word, but his carefreeness was shown by him leisurely swinging the tri-section staff back and forth.

    "You will be fi—"

    *Klang!*

    His beloved 'staff" fell apart once again! However, this time it had also slipped out of his hands. It fell onto the floor, exposing its split three sections, and a glowing, blue translucent chain that detained the gaps.

    " . . . "

    " . . . "

    " . . . "

    "D-Dalis?"

    Dalis did not utter a word. No, he refused to utter anything. It would simply make him feel derided and look like an idiot for making excuses. Thus, Dalis ordered himself—the right to remain silent.

    He attempted to act as casual as possible, walking towards the fallen tri-section staff and picking it up. Dalis remained there briefly, adjusting the staff to its "original form". However, for some inexplicable reason, he was unable to return it back within those twenty seconds of fiddling.

    (fffffffffffffffff)

    Hence, Dalis stopped his actions and made himself give off the impression that he was checking its condition.

    "Hmm, it doesn't appear to be damaged . . . "

    Dalis muttered in a tone that was audible enough for the bystanders to hear.

    Jessica and Elliot wore troubled faces. They were a little awkward. On the other hand, Sienna had a wide smile that seemed to be forced. She had seen through his cover and was trying her best not to laugh.

    While the stage of comedy was being televised, sounds of rustling could be heard in the nearby bushes . . .
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 19, 2020
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  17. Elim

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    *Rustle* *Rustle* *Rustle*

    The sudden intrusion of sound had triggered the alarm of the children.

    Dalis, without delay, raised an arm straight out to the side.

    "Maintain caution."

    Sienna and Elliot understood. They nodded in agreement and prepared to engage in combat with their unknown enemy. Dalis maintained his eye on the rustling bush and backed up towards Jessica. Although Dalis was focused on that particular bush, he was wary of the other beasts who have yet to make an appearance. If more beasts were to enter this "arena", then he would be forced to flee as soon as possible.

    *Thump*

    A thick, brown, scruffy leg was revealed through the bush.

    "Get ready."

    When everyone had thought the beast would reveal itself, it had quickly retracted its foot back into the bush. The bush rustled violently . . . no in fact, many of the other bushes surrounding them began to rustle.

    "What's going on . . . "

    "Are they coming?!"

    "No . . . "

    Aoaarr

    Everyone turned their attention to the origin of the sound. When they had seen it, their faces contorted grimly. The Spliz, who was supposedly knocked out, had remained back onto its four feet. Its bleeding had stopped, but there were clear traces of dry green blood on its rough skin. Its mouth drooled with even more white oozing liquid. However, the problems escalated further as the back, which was covered in hollowed spines, was now also oozing white liquid within each of the countless holes. The beast was slightly trembling as its tail rose to match the shape of a scorpion tail, sting like!

    "Oh mama . . . "

    "Not good!"

    "Dalis! What do we do?!"

    "Sienna! What is it doing?"

    "Wait, you don't know?! How about you Elliot?"

    "T-that is the Spliz's final defence mechanism! When the beast is threatened, it will profuse out oozing white liquid through its orifices across all directions. I heard its tail becomes similar to a scorpion. However, instead of injecting venom from its tail, it becomes an acute lethal spear! Right now, its a volcano that could erupt any minute. We have to leave!!"

    "It seems like there are other beasts in our surroundings, we can't just flee! It's not that simple. Are we forced to retire? Aghh, but Jessica . . . "

    "Elliot, I recall that you focus on artefacts suited to support. Do you have anything in your arsenal?"

    "I don't . . . these artefacts are restricted and can only use the most basic abilities. The best I can do is to create a small shield around us if we huddle close. But to be able to take the full front of this attack . . . "

    "Understood. Ready the spell! Sienna! Can you create a pit?"

    "It won't be as big as you hope for! But I should be able too . . . are you thinking of a bunker?"

    "With the time we have that's all we got!"

    Dalis quick as a flash picked up Jessica's sword from nearby and attempted to slash the thread liquid which ingrained Jessica. He chose to not use the tri-section staff as he was worried that he would wound Jessica through his lack of skill. With careful precision, he cut the threads off one after another. Since it was an enchanted artefact, it was usable by anyone. Dalis was able to use its remarkable power to speedily cut it down. Eventually, the majority of the threads had been removed. All that remained were blotches of sticky liquid remains and her covered mouth that was yet to be removed.

    "HAAAAAAAAAAA!!" Sienna began to smash the ground to create a sizeable hole.

    *Crumble* *Crumble*

    It seemed like Sienna had finished creating the hole.

    (Seems like preparations are complete . . . I have to be careful here.)

    Dalis meticulously used the sword as if he was carving a wooden doll to extract the final remains.

    "Ah.. ah . . . *cough* *cough* ah . . . It's about time damn time! How long were you guys going to keep me waiting!" Jessica vehemently scowled.

    "You can scold those two later, for now, follow me."

    AOAAAARRRRRR

    The great cry of the Spliz reached the eardrums of the children. Simultaneously, a slight trembling could be felt beneath the hard ground. When Jessica and Dalis looked, they could see ooze of artillery, erupting from its back, shooting out in all directions.

    "Hold this."

    Dalis did not even take a second glance as he forcefully shoved the sword to Jessica, grabbed her by the other arm, and dived towards the bunker. He saw Elliot and Sienna peaking their heads out in no man's land.

    "Sienna duck! Elliot do it!!"

    WHISTLE WHISTLE WHISTLE WHISTLE

    SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT

    WHISTLE WHISTLE WHISTLE WHISTLE

    SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT

    WHISTLE WHISTLE WHISTLE

    SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT

    The barrage of ballistic sticky ooze continued. Unlike before, the ooze was like arrows as denting sounds can be heard from not only the barrier being attacked, in addition, the cries of beasts that were unlucky to be hit.

    After a minute had passed . . . the barrage had ended. Only the moans and groans of injured beasts could be heard. Although there was one exception . . .

    "Haa . . . ha . . . ha . . . "

    Elliot's gasped deep breaths. He was drained from maintaining the barrier. Despite the area of effect damage, much of the "bullets" were concentrated on the children. Elliot for the entire one minute had protected his comrades. It was a splendid feat; an eye-opener for Dalis. Dalis felt goodwill towards Elliot's desperate resistance and believed he had redeemed himself.

    "Elliot!"

    The girls huddled him. Elliot was struggling to stand, but the girls kept his balance to prevent him from falling.

    "Sorry . . . looks like I will need to rest for a bit . . . "

    "What do you mean sorry? You did damn good there!"

    "Jessica is right! You were a man Elliot. A man!"

    "Ha ha . . .I've longed for those words for a long time."

    (These lines . . . )

    However, their sweet moment could not go for much longer . . . the beast was approaching.

    "Damn beast! Can"t it rest for one moment?!"

    "Elliot just rest here, we will take care of the rest."

    "No."

    That word did not come from Elliot's mouth. Instead, it was from Dalis.

    "What the hell do you mean?" Jessica shouted.

    "He has to retire. It's unfortunate, but he must."

    "Screw off! We can just beat the hell out of this beast and escape!"

    "Do you really think that?"

    "You just beat its head in a few minutes ago! If we combine our strength I'm sure we can overcome it."

    "Look around you."

    Jessica and Sienna surveyed the area.

    The beast approached slowly, each step it took it wheezed its mouth, dropping leaked ooze. However, if one were to look, they could see that the beast was preparing to build up more spit from its unsavoury mouth.

    The area was covered with liquid threads, resembling a jungle of vines or perhaps webs from an arachnid. To make matters worse, there were beasts around the area. Whether they were injured or not, these beasts certainly posed a danger. It was truly a sticky situation.

    "Haa . . . Dalis is unfortunately correct. You will need to retire Elliot," Sienna reluctantly lamented.

    "Sienna . . . "

    "Ah . . . Dalis is right. I will only be a burden if I were to stay."

    "No don't say that Elliot!"

    "I wish to retire."

    In the blink of an eye, a divine shine spread across the perimeter of Elliot. It soon closed in, and in a flash, Elliot disappeared.

    There were only three of them left.

    "Damn it, damn it," Jessica vented.

    She gave an aggrieved look at Dalis, then turned her head towards the beast. Her face became even more twisted.

    "What's the plan . . . " Jessica unwillingly asked Dalis.

    "We"re out of options to be honest: we have to fight."

    "Gameplan?" Sienna inquired.

    "I will be the main source of distraction. You two flank from the rear. Be wary of your surroundings. Once you get caught in the spider's den, it's over."

    "Hmph, "spider's den". Sucks I can't refute that."

    The three split into action.

    Dalis held the lowest section of the tri-section staff and raised in the air with one arm. He began to steadily swing the staff around and around perpetually. Each round of swinging increased the momentum and striking power. Sienna, who looked behind her, saw the figure of the helicopter and Dalis. He wore a heavily concentrated face with his remaining eyes still as water. She couldn't help but be impressed.

    (Dalis uses a bo staff . . .I've never seen him use a chained weapon . . . Ah! Come to think of it there was that period of time when we trained with ropes. He was pretty skilled there.)

    Contrary to the thoughts of Sienna's mind . . . Dalis's mind was a completely different story.

    (The hell is this? This is so damn HARD! If I lose my control for even a split second, I will definitely be hit by the recoil for sure. Keep your composure . . . keep your composure . . . )

    Concurrent to his thoughts, he began to subconsciously mumble.

    "Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless, like the chain. When the chain is spun, it becomes a typhoon. When the chain is swung, it becomes a mountain, when the chain is wielded, it becomes your weapon. Chains can flow, or they can lock—become the chain Dalis . . . "

    Absolute nonsense was spout on the battlefield. In spite of this, none can contradict the effectiveness of this supposed chant, neither could anyone hear it in the first place. How would a listener respond to these profound words? That is the real question.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 20, 2020
    #17
  18. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    "That guy, all he's doing is swinging . . . shouldn't he attack so the damn reptilian will be preoccupied at the front? At this rate . . . "

    The beast was staring down at Dalis, watching his movement. It instinctively knew that he was the biggest threat. This was not solely due to his prior blow; rather, it was afraid of the tri-section staff that has yet to be unleashed. Thus, the beast decided to vomit its extra gross serving.

    However . . .

    "Haaaaaa!"

    *Slash*

    A concentrated strike had been dealt onto the beast. The beast felt a great pressure equaling the strength of a boulder. This was the strength of a body consolidator. Sienna had successfully landed an adequate blow onto the tail of the beast. In retaliation, the Spliz immediately shifted its attention towards Sienna on its back and launched a flail at her. Sienna was ready for this and dodged the opposing counterattack, thus flogging itself instead.

    "Nice Sienna!"

    Jessica followed up, delivering swift consecutive strikes on various parts of the Spliz's body. Although her strength was not on par with Sienna, each strike of her sword artefact built up considerable damage. One must not forget that these weapon artefacts were enchanted to augment its core—strengthened and sharpened.

    AOAAAAR

    The beast roared from the pain and splurged his mustered up spit into a convex shape, through the air, downwards to his back, where its foes were. The liquid inevitably trapped the two girls, who had not expected the degree of vomit, not to mention targeting itself!

    "The hell? Is it trying to take it us down with him?"

    "No . . . look at the tail! Even though its milked with its own spit, it seems to be moving just fine!"

    Just as her last word was said, Sienna took a sweeping pound.

    "Ugghhhh"

    Sienna flew with great velocity and crashed onto the ground.

    "SIENNA!"

    Jessica, driven mad by her comrades fall, relentlessly cut down the threads tying her down, following the dispatch of mighty waves. She was not going to let things end here.

    "Let thee divine strike thy foe!"

    *SLASH*

    The final strike of her merciless pursuit inflicted great damage onto the Spliz. The Spliz groaned with anguish as green blood can be seen trickling down various parts of its body. This was especially noticeable through the two dire blows that each girl had done. These locations had been forcefully pierced through, destroying the exterior of its once rugged skin.

    "Ha . . . ha . . . ha . . . "

    While the girls may of accomplished significant damage . . . it was not enough to fully take it down. Jessica was kneeling down on one knee as she used her sword to retain balance. She could see the tail of the beast. It was sprung back, ready to launch straight at her. In the state she was, it was impossible to avoid. It wouldn't be short of saying, she would be pierced to death. Owing to the fact that she was incapable of propelling up a defensive posture to minimise the incoming assault.

    It was at this moment, the boy, who was supposed to be the leading combatant, entered the battlefield.

    "Sorry for being "afk." Just leave the rest to me."

    Jessica glanced towards Dalis, who had just entered her peripheral vision. She saw the outline of his figure, masked by the cover of dusk to be hidden from view. Although her eyes were half-open, it was conceivable to her that she wouldn't need to involuntary retire. As she mused this, one crucial thought overrode all other thoughts.

    Where was his weapon? That Tri-section staff was nowhere to be seen.

    Did he abandon his weapon?

    Is he stupid?

    Yes.

    But this had gone too far.

    (Wait . . . what's that . . . )

    If one were to examine closely, glints of small blue lights can be seen above Dalis's head. These lights, not once had they changed their position of sightings. It was perfectly perpetual.

    Whoosh Whoosh Whoosh

    The soughing of the wind could be heard in the direction of Dalis. Jessica was so focused on making out the brief outline of Dalis she had not discerned the subtle sound. It was subliminal to her.

    The tri-section staff was, in fact, still being held by Dalis, but the rotation of the tri-section staff was so fast that it was invisible to the naked eye. The only thing one could make of it was the perpetual sound it made when cutting the wind.

    Despite all this, the notion that had baffled her the most was his ability to be one with the dark. If Jessica hadn't heard Dalis call out to her, she wouldn't have noticed him at all. Even if the whooshing sound had come relatively close to her.

    She looked back to the beast. Though the beast had not seen or heard Dalis, it was about to unleash its strike.

    WHOOOOOSH

    AOOOOOOAAAAARRRRRRRRR!!

    The tri-section staff was released from Dalis's grip, and the moment it did so it became a spinning embodiment of death. Before the beast's tail could reach Jessica, it took the full ferocious blow to the face. The tri-section staff flew with such speed that it was invisible to the naked eye as if it were a large razor shuriken.

    A gust of howling wind accompanied the staff as it struck squarely onto the beast's face before wrapping around it and crushing it outright. It did not stop there; however, the force of the throw was significant enough that the beast's head was wrenched from its neck and impaled into the tree behind it. It was so unsightly that Jessica had unawaringly, turned half of her head to the side. Sienna was dazzled by the brilliance brought in front of her.

    How could he produce so much force?

    A tri-section staff is not meant to be a projectile weapon.

    Yet, he had accomplished such a feat to make it work.

    "W-what was that?" Jessica had to gasp out to ease her urging curiosity.

    "Dalis Style: Tri-Section Shuriken."

    "When did you learn to do a move like THAT?"

    "Just now. It was inspired by a certain ninja with orange clothes and yellow hair."

    Dalis then walked towards the fallen beast; careful to not tread on any of the webs. He could see that the beast was indeed defeated as its body appeared to be fully given up. Only its eyes barely remained awake, refusing to surrender to the enemy. Dalis looked at the tri-section staff. It maintained skewered. While this may have locked the beast in place, Dalis could not rejoice. The tri-section staff was smudged with green and white liquid. Dalis would be willing to abandon his weapon if it wasn't for the large mana he would gain from this beast. He believed that this Spliz was a matured adult, much stronger than the average Spliz. Dalis then slowly reached out his hand to scavenge and return his weapon.

    "Ughhh . . . to think I'd want that guy here now."

    Dalis was referring to Melvin. As a Feeria, he naturally could conjure water to wash off this filth. Yes. Dalis wanted him to be used as a dishwasher.

    Dalis then looked over to Sienna. He saw her weakly stood up next to Jessica, who had sat down.

    Before he could regroup with them, he abruptly froze from the things that came to view. Several beasts that had been spectating the fight have now come to join the after-party. They were not invited.

    (These guys won't even give us a rest . . . at least let me extract the mana from the Spliz.)

    Dalis rushed over to the two of them. He could see their pale faces look at him.

    What should we do?

    He surveyed the situation to determine their next course of action. Although the beasts were unable to be compared to the Spliz, their vast numbers covered their lack of strength. Rather, for Dalis who was suited for surprise attacks and one on fights, the circumstances were worse than before. In spite of this, it wasn't that troubling as it seemed. Dalis had noticed that the beasts were not a pack of beasts. Instead, a group of solitary figures. Therefore, Dalis would not have to worry about any meddlesome teamplay. Moreover, the liquid ooze threads, which encased the clearing served as a defensive fort. The beasts were required to watch their step if they wish to have a meal tonight.

    "Can you girls last?"

    "Ha..ha . . . don't look down on me. I could go another round if I wanted to."

    "Although I took a direct hit. With my body, it would take a lot more than that. I'm a body consolidator for your information."

    "Understood. It should be noted that my style of combat is through the element of surprise. So try not to expect much from me."

    "Is that so? I have my doubts about that. Didn"t you win every one on one fight against Melvin?"

    "He's easy to pull around."

    "Haha, I remember the last time . . . "

    "What's the game plan? Dalis."

    "We will stick together. I will be the lead distracter. You two attack from the sides and try to shove or lead them towards the webs. Once they are caught in the spider den, it's over."

    "Huh . . . those words are somewhat familiar . . . "

    "Dalis your not going to try that Tri-Section Shuriken again are you?"

    "No."

    "Alright, I look forward to working with you."
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 21, 2020
    #18
  19. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    The three went into their battle stances and prepared their weapons. Dalis was seen to be holding something else in his other arm.

    "What's that?"

    "My life savings."

    "In any case, you have something in mind right Dalis?"

    Dalis nodded his head in response to Sienna.

    "Alright."

    "They're coming!"

    A scruffy, brown, boar beast charged in front of them. It was quite agile as it maneuvered through the webs with ease. Its hooves could be heard, growing louder by the passing second.

    Dalis remained still and simply pulled out his life savings. Surely this boar beast would not fall into the category of "muscle head".

    Unfortunately for him, the beast fell into that very category. It continued its relentless assault. Dalis panicked inwardly. He then thrust the bundle of herbs towards his left side. He hoped to redirect the aggressive charge towards the left.

    "What the hell are you doing?! Use your weapon!" Jessica criticised.

    The two girls had already left his side and maintained a distance behind him.

    The very next moment, the beast had changed its direction towards the left. It was aiming directly at the herbs in his hands.

    "@#$%#$%*?"

    Seeing this Dalis let out a conceited smirk. His posture became even more firm than before as he stood triumphantly. He knew that there was nothing to worry about. The boar had finally reached him. Two seconds before the moment of impact, he turned his stance 90° anti-clockwise. The beast had magnificently missed its target by the skin of his teeth!

    Jessica's jaw dropped to the floor. Sienna couldn't help but ingrain the scene in front of her into her memory.

    The beast was not done yet. It continued its endeavour, rotating its body and charging towards Dalis once again. Dalis, who had not moved since his last movement, prepared his cape . . . no, herbs as previously. He returned to his original stance though facing the beast and repeated his former actions.

    Unexpectedly, it had worked for the second time. For the third round, Dalis had even dared to perform the verónica! This was where he let the bundle of herbs trail over the beast's head as it ran past him.

    At this point, even Sienna was speechless of him. Could Dalis be a matador?

    However, this amusement act could not go for any longer as two beasts had stealthily approached the girls.

    Arrrrrrrrr

    A furry, grey wolf beast pounced on to Sienna. Sienna was aware of this sneaky beast; thus, she was able to slash the beast in retaliation. The beast took the shimmering blade to its neck and dropped to the ground. However, she had no time for comfort. She saw Jessica, who had barely reacted in time, struggling against a beast. Jessica had her sword clenched in the teeth of the vicious, wet fangs of the other grey wolf. They were having a tug of war.

    "Damn it you stupid dog! Let go!"

    Despite the red blood that dripped down its mouth, it continued its assault. It was not willing to back down even if it were to sustain a great injury.

    "Jessica I'm coming!"

    However, right as she was about to reach her side, another beast had appeared in front of her, blocking her way. This beast was a large raccoon with sharp culinary claws. In addition, its teeth were similar to a human in appearance. But, it only had two front teeth which ran straight down its mouth and were two middle fingers in length. Although the critter was not as threatening as it looked, it was known for its poisonous fangs. If she were to be bitten even once, it would mark disaster.

    Sienna, grunted and made the first move. She gripped her sword tightly with both hands and gave an upward thrust from the middle. The beast dodged the attack and used its legs to spring forward. Sienna turned to the side, dodging the incoming attack and went for a full-on thrust forwards. The beast didn't expect her to be so daring; thus, it was unable to completely dodge in time. Sienna's sword pierced through the beast's upper abdomen.

    Gwaaarrrrrr

    The beast cried in pain. Sienna had no time to lose and quickly took advantage of the situation. While its movements were slowed, Sienna looped behind the beast before it could turn to face her and delivered a crescent slash. The beast toppled down onto its back and twitched in agony.

    Sienna affirmed the beast's inability to battle and rushed towards Jessica's side. Thankfully, Jessica was not interrupted by any other beasts. She still remained relatively in the same position as before. However, one could see beads of sweat trickling down her face and hands. She was also being pushed back. Her situation was not positive.

    "Offffff heerrrr!"

    Sienna dispatched a heavy downwards strike onto the beast's back. It was a critical blow. The beast wailed in great pain and was thrust to the hard floor. This one's wounds were fatal for certain. It was likely to die in the next couple of minutes.

    "Haa . . . ha . . . ha . . . thanks Sienna."

    "Sorry, I didn't expect another beast to follow afterwards."

    Sienna line of sight went towards Dalis and Jessica's eyes followed. They saw Dalis face three beasts simultaneously. One of the beasts appeared to be a Red Bear. The other beast was a large three-eyed, orange anteater who stood like a humanoid. However, this beast was a carnivore and did not merely feed on ants. It was known as the Antgruy. The last beast that could be briefly seen was a Ratavex. Although it was smaller than the other two beasts and lacked strength, due to its limber-like anatomy its jumps were as powerful as a frog. It utilises speed to overwhelm its foes.

    Dalis was pushed to the defence as the beasts attacked him. He did not try to attack or counterattack and focused all of his concentration in dodging. However, if one were to look at how he dodged, it was very nimble and deft in motion. Not once did he use any excessive motions at all, keeping himself consistent at all times. It was like a dance in the shadows. His figure was barely conspicuous in view.

    It is important to note that the aggressive boar from before was no longer trying to grind Dalis into the dust. That beast was currently occupied with hammering another beast. Nearby those two beasts, there were strands of calepufer herbs. Except, they were no longer in their pristine condition and instead squashed. Judging by the footprint marks, it had seemed that the beast who was getting hammered had "accidentally" trampled on the herbs.

    It was unknown whether Dalis had a part in this conspiracy.

    (Why are they solely enraptured with me? Do they prefer humans or is it because of what's in my pocket?)

    Dalis swiftly dodged the arriving Ratavex with his adept footwork. He was then leapt on by the Antgruy. Due to the speed of the Ratavex, his dodge was a hefty kick to the ground, rather than a jump. Thus, he had not landed safely.

    (Crap!)

    When the Antgruy was just inches before slamming him down, Dalis hurled his tri-section staff high above. He then used one of his palms to propel himself up from the ground, whilst his other arm made use of the beast's backside to further extend his thrust. Like an acrobatic, he performed a cartwheel in mid-air and just barely managed to seize the falling staff, gripping the staffs" lowest section. Dalis's trajectory was on course with the ravenous Red Bear.

    "Hidden technique: Seven Orbit Floggings of Subjugation!"

    Dalis initiated his vicious, seven whippings from hell, which would strike fear to all tamed animals in the world. Each strike would lacerate the enemy beast to damnation. If the Rhinearian Beetle was to be informed about his new technique, the beetle would not hesitate to fly straight towards the heavens and request Caleyar for his aid.

    "Flog One!"

    "Flog Two!"

    "Flog Three!"

    "Flog Four!"

    "Flog Five!"

    "Flog Six!"

    "FLOG SEVEN!"

    ROAAARRRRRRR

    The red beast took seven mighty herculean blows to the upper half of its body. Blood profusely sprayed out of its seven deep wounds, leaving a fountain of blood. The bear laid on its back, not moving an inch. A devil-incarnate had left hell to exert dreadful punishment on the mortal beast.

    It was the last dream this mortal beast would ever have.

    No . . .

    It was an eternal nightmare.

    One that he would never be able to wake up from . . .

    Despite being unable to clearly witness everything, Sienna and Jessica, who had seen what could be perceived, felt an icy chill run through their spines. They felt they had seen something that shouldn't have been seen in their entire lives.

    (He called that subjugation right? SUBJUGATION?! How in Caleyar's world can that be described as SUBJUGATION?!)

    (So . . . amazing . . . .)
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 22, 2020
    #19
  20. Elim

    Elim Active Member

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    Blood continued to gush from the beast's wounds. Some of it was sprayed onto Dalis. Dalis, who had concluded his seven flogs from hell, remained in place. He had not moved since dropping down from orbit. Parts of Dalis's arms were covered with bruises. This was naturally because Dalis was an amateur with a chained weapon. Though he may be quite talented, it could only cover up to a degree for his lack of experience. Nonetheless, they were surprisingly in a much better condition than one may expect.

    At this very moment, his back was wide open for the remaining beasts to launch an attack.

    Yet, they had not done so. Even if they may not be intelligent, they were sufficiently sentient to understand that their prey in front of them was not prey at all . . . no, it was a predator . . . a predator on the level of a demon.

    (This is the first occasion I have slain a living being . . . since that incident. Although it was not a human, I can not seem to empathise for its loss. I may be beast hunting, but this beast attempted to kill me. I had not even provoked it. Would I understand if I were to one day murder a fellow human, to take a human life? Sister Edna . . . )

    While Dalis contemplated about such thoughts, Sienna came running to his side, shortly followed by Jessica.

    "Dalis!"

    Sienna was the first to arrive. She went to his side and saw the bloody scene. The fountain of blood was not responsible for the sanguinary scene. Rather, it was Dalis who was drenched with blood. He appeared to be a guilty man who had just finished committing the murder. Though Dalis's face was not worn with guilt. Instead, his face was quite nonchalant for the most part. Sienna felt a little afraid of Dalis. She had killed many beasts before, but it was never as gruesome as this. Nevertheless, Dalis to her was a peer she had known for three years. Such things didn't need to be deeply thought about.

    This somewhat eerie, awkward atmosphere was shattered by a pitched shout . . .

    "GUYS HELP!!"

    Dalis was awoken from his contemplation and Sienna looked towards the direction of the shout. They saw Jessica's leg entrapped by one of the scattered liquid ooze threads. However, that wasn't the main issue at hand. The scruffy brown boar, who had completed its hammering, had now turned its attention to Jessica.

    (Calpufer herbs . . . no it is too late for that! I have to act now!)

    Dalis gripped his tri-section staff tight and bolted towards Jessica.

    However, before even covering a few meters, the Antgruy had appeared in his way.

    "Move!"

    Obviously, the beast was not willing to let Dalis aid his comrade. It posed its long pointed nose towards him and let loose a powerful, sticky, red tongue. Dalis ducked and slid below the tongue, dodging the tongue. However, the tongue could stretch much longer than he expected. Thus, it continued its assault.

    (Not good!)

    Dalis had lost his momentum from ducking down and wouldn't be able to evade the incoming blow.

    "Oh no you don't!"

    Sienna came in the nick of time, delivering a downward slash on to the beast's tongue. Despite being slashed in the tongue, the beast's movement failed to cease. But it could no longer continue its pursuit for Dalis.

    "Thank you Sienna."

    "Don't worry about me, get to Jessica!"

    Dalis picked up the pace and resumed his run.

    (Just a few more meters!)

    He could see the boar closing in every second.

    (I'm not going to make it!)

    Dalis had to think fast, or Jessica was minced meat. Unfortunately, before he could ponder a plan to set in motion, he was interrupted once again. This time it was the Ratavex. The Ratavex was much more troublesome than the Antgruy. He was unable to shrug it off easily due to its redeeming speed ability.

    "Damn it!"

    The beast and Dalis were racing together . . . no that wasn't right.

    Dalis was evading the nimble attacks of the beast and continued onwards for the home run. The beast let out a barrage of pounces in an attempt to knock him down. Dalis was in a tight spot as he couldn't afford to slow down. Hence, he had been forced to take a few headbutts, which had almost resulted in him being toppled down. At one point, he was even chewed upon as he sprinted.

    Despite all the obstacles that impede him, Dalis was resilient and relentless.

    His conviction did not waver; he was determined to save Jessica.

    Like a newborn dragon he soared into the sky and let out a roar.

    "HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

    Dalis's knuckles were white as he gripped the lower section of the tri-section staff with both hands. He unleashed a thunderous thrust down to the mundane world. A surge of unknown power coursed through his body. However, Dalis had not noticed this.

    The tri-section staff as of this moment was unlike the supercharged Tri-Section Shuriken. The staff had not once rotated at all and remained stationary in its descent. Nevertheless, it was like a meteorite, crashing down to the very earth.

    Jessica watched the scenes unfold before her very eyes. It seemed as if time had slowed down. She continued to glance towards Dalis and the charging bull. Despite the beast's relentlessness, it was pale in comparison to Dalis's unstoppable pursuit. Her eyes trembled. Tears had unknowingly trickled down her face.

    She was mesmerised.

    Was this the Dalis she knew?

    Since when did Dalis take such reckless actions?

    Why would he go so far?

    Many questions arose to her mind. However . . .

    Time waits for no man.

    The tri-section staff came crashing down to earth. In spite of all its power, the tri-section staff could not aim a direct hit at the boar. The staff plunged down, striking the beast's lower abdomen and one of its four scruffy legs.

    EEEEEEKK

    Agonising in sheer pain, the beast's charge stumbled and then lost its footing. The beast crashed, sliding on the side of its back, crashing towards the direction of Jessica. Along the way, it had been caught by some of the Spliz's threads. However, even those threads were unable to halt the collision. Eventually, the beast crashed five meters away from Jessica, ending its track on the cold hard ground.

    Dalis stood where he had leapt from, legs trembling, trying to capture his breath. He definitely went all out from what had transpired in the past scene.

    The Ratavex realised that this was a golden opportunity as it dashed towards Dalis to finish him off.

    However . . .

    SLASH

    Sienna produced a gallant swing from the back of the beast. Cleanly cutting off the beast's head. It was a brilliant beheading. Dalis who had saw the swing simply said . . .

    "Good swing."

    "Thanks, but what I just did can't compare to anything you have done since your arrival. Are you remotely conscious of any of the feats you just accomplished?"

    "Ha . . . ha . . . let's go to Jessica."

    "She's coming this way."

    "Oh?"

    Dalis saw Jessica rushing to his side. It appeared that she had managed to cut off those threads after the battle had ceased. She no longer had to worry about any aggressive boars from charging at her. Eventually, she arrived.

    "Thank you," Jessica sincerely expressed her gratitude.

    Although the voice was directed to both of them, her eyes were unquestionably rested on Dalis's figure. Looking at his blood-soaked clothes which were even more worn and soiled, she felt a load of guilt wash over her. Jessica was unable to conceive any words besides "thank you" to properly convey to Dalis.

    The glade then became silent.

    Sienna attempted to break the silence.

    "Hey. Are you guys good to move? We have to go collect our rewards. Otherwise all that hard work would be for nothing."

    "Yeah your right. Let's go Dalis."

    "Hm? Yeah."

    "So . . . who's taking what?"

    "I suppose it would be based on kills right Dalis?" Jessica emphasised, nudging Dalis. Jessica was aware that she had not actually killed any of the beasts. Indeed, she was partially responsible for their deaths, but compared to the other two . . . In any case, Jessica was content providing Sienna and Dalis with the mana. After all, it was the least she could offer for saving her life.

    Dalis felt a little uncomfortable with Jessica's drastic change in attitude towards him. However, he felt it was not that surprising.

    "No. We will split the proportion based on contribution. For example, the wolves you girls had slain belong solely to you two. The extraction of the Spliz's mana would be split between the three of us. Fair, correct?"

    Jessica felt a little troubled, but she ultimately agreed. Sienna was pleased with Dalis's suggestion.

    The three then headed towards the fallen Spliz. When they had arrived, Dalis had noticed that the beast no longer had any breath within it.

    "Dalis, please extract first."

    "Go for it Dalis."

    Dalis nodded his head and began extracting the mana into his tri-section staff. The staff began to glow and shimmer with vitality. A dense blue aura was emitted. He felt the accumulation of mana as the staff ravenously sucked the rich mana from the Spliz.

    After Dalis had gathered the agreed proportion, he let the other two girls go next. Sienna was up, and then Jessica followed.

    With all the fallen beasts, it took quite a considerable period of time for the party to complete their extraction. Finally, only the wolves were left.

    "Looks like these are the last ones left."

    Jessica began extracting mana from one of the slain furry grey wolves.

    Dalis stood a distance away and patiently waited for them. The initial plan was simply to investigate. He didn't expect things to go so out of hand. If he were to leave at the given moment, it would be ill-mannered and leave a bitter aftertaste.

    Sienna approached the other wolf, the one she initially fought. However . . .

    Grrrrrr

    The wolf resentfully growled. It seemed that this beast was alive in spite of its major neck wound. Fortunately, it was unable to move, posing no threat to Sienna.

    "Still alive . . . don't worry I will end this soon."

    Sienna slowly approached the beast, raised her sword high and prepared to slash down.

    AAWOOOOOOO

    The wolf gave one last desperate howl before its impending demise.

    Just as she was about to send the beast to the next world, she noticed that the beast . . . was dead. The last cry of the beast was its final act of defiance

    " . . . "

    Although they were enemies, Sienna couldn't help but feel respect for this beast. She silently started extracting mana from the final foe.

    A minute had passed.

    Dalis felt an uneasy feeling cross over him. Using his keen eyes, he surveyed the surroundings. There was nothing particularly out of the ordinary . . . .

    (Was my intuition wrong?)

    And then all of a sudden . . .

    AWOOOOOOO

    AWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

    A howl was heard from a distance not far away.

    The preceding howl was not just one howl . . .

    There were many howls.
     
    Last edited: Feb 2, 2020
    Elim, Jan 23, 2020
    #20
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