Chapter 2 - the man before he was called the Sky Demon Lord ( part 6)

A new day in the academy, Andhera and others were in their usual routine. Eiris continued with her duties as servant maid. Elva and Andhera was learning sage arts from Mireu, one of the cadets answered proudly “the way of the sage is always learning magic! With only knowledge of the woods is nothing compared to learn magic, with none gifted with magic should not be involved with sage arts” Elva said to Andhera “a fool non the least…” Andhera did not reply and Mireu ask others “anyone would like to share his opinion?” One of the student replied “I have to agreed with him as a sage must possess some magic powers at least, if they did not possess magic they will never understand magic.” Mireu ask others again. One of the student answered “sage is also must possess the knowledge of nature, do not forget that we ask permission from nature to used it…” then one of the student replied “we nobles possess this blessing is not a problem to used it why such as ourself need to bow to nature” Mireu did not ask anything and ask other student that could explain a bit more about sage arts. Elva said to Andhera “this stupidity is the reason they could not used powerful spell…” Andhera look at it and one of the noble said to Mireu “Master Mireu, I do not know you background from where you came yet sage arts are the fore-point of our bloodline, we used sage arts because we are born from it…” Mireu smile and said “you all are wrong…I am afraid, that is not what a sage arts is suppose to be” one of the noble was not impress “you dare to declare this how could not our knowledge is wrong?!” Mireu replied “I suppose none of you have read any books about it…” one of the student replied “why should we, we already know this knowledge in the back of my hand” Elva replied “there goes his mark though… at least he got points for participation…” Andhera only observed. Mireu then show an empty pot with soil. Mireu ask them “grow plants in this pot…” one of the noble chants “rise up trees “Grow!!” And a tree grows from the pot. Everyone was impressed and some of them began to applaud. Mireu smile and said “is that the reason for the plant is born…?” One of the noble said “this is a simple task…” and Mireu replied “it seems this plant is dying…” one of the noble replied of course is temporary we used the art to create a temporary nature of it” Mireu respond “that is where you are wrong…” the plant began to died out and whither. Mireu then used her magic to summon a plant pot to the table “this exercise is to see what magic to used and to control, it is also to bless the soil for the plant to grow strong. If anyone could grow plant without it began to whither I will give you points for the exercise. Now let us begin the exercise” the result was 50% of them succeed in purely grow a plant using sage arts yet neither of them manage to maintain its root, and began to whither. Elva successfully grow the plant in the pot. One of the noble replied “he is an elf, of course he will use his special powers to maintain it…” Mireu ask Elva to explain and Elva respond “sage arts is all about soul… growing trees using magic is easy yet if to create something out of nothing is something that you need to understand…” the noble shouted in irate “how dare you to challenge me!” And Elva respond “mana you fool…if you could not share you mana into it rather than dispersing it then the plant is just an empty vessel…” The noble did not respond. Mireu look at Andhera “how about you? Did you manage to practice it.?” Andhera hold the earth and chant from the knowledge he read in books

“Mother Earth please let this lifeless soil bless with your soul….”

The pot suddenly grow a flower as it glows gold, Andhera was surprised and Mireu held her head “that idiot…” Elva said to Andhera “oi…at least grow some weed not some flower…” Andhera only smile “hahaha sorry…” one of the noble did not say a word and some were amaze by it. Andhera tried to cover it up and said “sorry maybe my dumb luck…” and he held his head behind, one of the noble then ask again “grow from this pot!!” Andhera used his powers and chant again, this time it grow little weed. Everyone laugh “I expected is just dumb luck!! Hahahaha” Andhera was actually distracted by something when Lilim was explaining “love had both side one is good and one is evil…” the class was complete and Mireu announce “do not forget to practice the sage form 3 in building reinforcement…” everyone left except Elva and Andhera where Mireu ask to give that flower. Mireu explain “since when you have masted the saint arts?” Andhera explain that Idiva showed him in creating one. Mireu explain “saint arts is an advance form where mana will be blessed and turn into forms. Elva is right about being a soul and mana to be inside yet I understand why Merlos always have headache about this nobles…anyway Andhera you seems distracted what have happen?” Andhera ask Mireu “what is the relationship between mana and love?” Mireu smile “love is a special from of mana where it revolves, surrounds and gather together to create mana…Mana is the source of energy where you could conjure magic nor even spells…” Andhera ask again “what happen if mana is being corrupted ?” Mireu replied “mana is still mana yet if the love is corrupted then the energy becomes corrupted..simple as that…” Andhera replied “thank you Master Mireu…” Elva also share his knowledge “nature is a form of sage arts to ask permission as if as a friend…” both of the cadets bowed at Mireu and leave the class. Mireu said to himself “even this small weed that Andhera grow is equal to the magic fireball the normal student use.. I hope he has control over his powers…” Elva realise that Andhera has not yet manage to control his power and said to him “this powers of yours need to keep in check, mortals can easily envied with powers beyond their control you know…” Andhera nod “yeah… thanks for the advice…”

Elva cheered him and brought him to the cafeteria for lunch. Eiris saw Andhera and Elva yet she knew that has to be kept in secret. One of the cadet ask her to serve the food and tea for her. Andhera saw her and said “at least she enjoying life in the academy… I hope it stay this long…” the two join together with Eldfir, Honstan and Toru in a table together. While sharing stories in class, Eldfir started the conversation “this fool remember the one that beaten Toru, proclaiming everyone that he is the best in swordsmanship until Achilles enters and beaten all of us because showing weakness…” Elva tease him “trained by Fafnir and still be beaten by that warrior…” Eldfir respond back “goes to someone who only grows weed in a pot…” Honstan tried to calm the two. Eldfir continued “Toru however manage to push Achilles back off yet was also easily beaten by Achilles, one thing for sure is that guy is a real monster…” Elva only grin and said “yeah surely, you two manage to held back your strength eh..” Toru respond “yeah Master Fafnir ask us to control our ability and to look weak among them.. that is difficult…” Andhera said to them “yeah I understand that…” Honstan said to Andhera “you better get that powers in check if growing magical flowers that been used to extract magical elixir is not something to trifle with you know…yet that flower itself is worth a thousand gold itself…” Honstan eyes turn to a merchant and ask Andhera “your ability could make a lot wealth you know, wealthier than to those snobby noble received from their royalties…” Eldfir and Elva agreed. One of the noble tease Andhera “luckiest sage in the class, hahahaha!!” Elva said “dogs are barking at someone I see…” one of the noble respond in anger “how dare you called me a dog!!” Eldfir “stupid knight, are you accepting that you are a dog…?” The noble was not happy and shouted at them “stupid 5, I challenge you to a duel…” Eldfir then ask the noble “then what is the bet?” The noble respond “I will acknowledge you that you did not mock me” Eldfir replied “5 gold…” the noble respond “how dare you…” Eldfir replied “that is what you are worth though for the bet…” everyone laugh yet the noble faction was not happy and ask the 5 to take the challenge in the arena. Eldfir respond “very well I am bored anyway…” Elva replied “if we lose you better work in the cafeteria to paid them..” Honstan “why does it led to this…” Toru was excited “finally some fun…” Andhera was lost in mind and Elva tell him “oi…” Andhera replied “very well…” and they entered the arena where all of the cadet witness the fight. The referee was familiar of Merlos “I shall witness this fight. Where this also recorded in your assessment for your ability begin your strategy and choose your battles well..” Elva discuss about the battle and began to assess the opponent yet he realise there is something off about the opponent some, Elva said to them “I suspect they used senior for this challenge…” Eldfir said “I will be the tank…” Toru said “I will be the attack” Honstan replied “I will be support and range” Elva respond “I will be the range support and Andhera you will be our ace yet become the healer of the team…” Andhera nod “very well…” Elva explain “this will be a test of our abilities…” Fafnir was there on the roof of the arena observing them. As they set the formation, to their surprised most of them are knights. Elva said “looks like you are going to get a lot beating today my friend Eldfir” Eldfir was excited “great, let them gather to me…” the familiar shouted “begin!!” The noble shouted himself “I am Jonas son of the great soldier Falcos the knight let us show them what is a knight is about…” in an instant one of the knights was defeated by Elva, and Toru instant beat one of the knights. The arena terraform by the familiar into a battlefield. Elva used his new ability “foresight, he saw the whole battle” Eldfir stand strong with his shield, countless flurry of sword swing from the knights. Elva realise that they cheated it was suppose 5 vs 5 yet they saw the other side had more than 20 people against them. Fafnir smile “these knights is no match against them…” Toru attack one of the knights realise there is something off about the knights “these are not cadets… this are real knights!!” Elva knew it and attacked the knights with barrage of arrows. Honstan use his new magic “drain…” one of the knight knock out unconscious.” Honstan replied “19 more to go…” the noble was not happy “impossible those are elite knights under my father…” one of the knights ask them “orders my lord…” Jonas replied “these are only commoner not some soldier!! Beat them for me!!” Merlos spectate including Falcos “that stupid son of mine…. Used my soldier to run for his bidding…” he held his head, Merlos replied “well this could be a good lesson for the 5…” Falcos replied “yeah, I am interested with Eldfir, he is a capable warrior” Eldfir at the centre of the battlefield hold 5 cadet knights against him. Elva also realise there is a mage among them, Elva struck the mage with sleeping spell and the mage went asleep. Toru knock the mage down, they wondered why Eldfir has yet seen any weaken as he was enchant with sage arts from Andhera “armor increase, regeneration” Jonas said to himself “that commoner had some impressive abilities we must stop him..” And he order one of the knights to flank them. Toru reported to Elva that they begun flanking them. Elva see it and tried to slow them down, only the knights wore armor and shield. Mireu also spectate them “let see this foolish kids knows the real meaning of sage arts” as they approached Andhera. One of the knights were thrown off, Andhera said to Eldfir “hold out for me…” he punch the knights and the knight were knock out from a far, all of the student were shocked to see this aswell as Jonas. Jonas shouted “he knew martial arts!!” The nobles from the sage art class was surprised to see this, Mireu smile “sage arts is all about the body….” Andhera then thrown one of the knights off balance and kick the knight off. Andhera chants

“Let this ground be my foundation…”

And in an instant he punch one of the knights and all of the become unconscious. Andhera used sage arts “plant growth..” Ground shaken and vines tied the knights. Out of 20 now only left 6 of them left. Eldfir smile “thank you!!” He push his shield and 5 of the cadet knight were knock off while Toru gave the finishing blow. Honstan used a new spell he learn in class “haste…” Toru and Eldfir gain speed and charge towards Jonas who was left behind, Jonas smile and called someone “Potom!!” A large man with an axe protected him. Andhera sense something sinister with Jonas and tell Elva “did you sense it?” Elva nod and said “that fool…” Merlos also sense it and ask Falcos about it. Falcos explain “my son is a prideful boy, he never listen to me, spoil by his mother ever since a tutor came to my household teaching something to the boy…” Merlos said “he is infected…” Falcos did not argue and said to Merlos “maybe this could cleanse him…yet I am concern….” Gil entered and ask “I came to your household I find something rather interesting yet steel yourself…” Falcos close his eyes and said “very well….” Gil respond “your wife cheated on you, I found the man, and he is not friendly… he used your son as reason for your to submit to his command….” Falcos replied “and my wife ?” Gil respond “I have arrested them all to be interrogate…forgive me my friend…” Falcos respond “i have felt it a while already I am lucky that I have sent my daughter to the temple school where she is much safer than home…” Elva said to Andhera “this could be dangerous that large man is not with the academy…he is a mercenary…” Toru and Eldfir knew about this and fight the large man. Potom said to them “too young for my taste…” and his swing knock Eldfir off balance and Toru strike a flurry of slashes yet to no avail. Jonas said to them “you know leaving your comrades behind is not a good strategy…” Toru smile “they are not weak, you know…” Jonas was surprised 5 of his followers were instantly defeated by Andhera and Honstan. Andhera said to them “did not break a sweat…” Honstan said to them “that is what happen if you did not do your homework…” Elva smile and said to them “let us finish the job” Andhera however said to them “I can’t show any more skill…” Honstan said to him “we are not weak you know, that is the reason we brothers aren’t we…” Elva smile and Andhera felt relief and smile “let us finish this…” Potom then saw everyone and said “forgive me though I have been paid to do this…” in an instant Elva struck him with his short sword knocking him down “I have been hunting beast in the woods as well, including mercenary like you…” Honstan said he knew this man “this is the famous slaver…the knight could not arrest them because of insufficient evidence…” Elva said “that is for my village…” the brothers head straight towards Jonas where he was surprised by this. Eldfir said to them “line up, let Toru be the last to finish him” Jonas shouted “do not challenge me as the art of Falcos swordsmanship. He used a sabre and struck Eldfir yet Eldfir stand strong like a tree “this is nothing compared to the knights that attack me just now” he punch Jonas and he was thrown of balance and Honstan knock him with his staf, Elva punch him to the gut and lastly Toru kick him. Jonas was slam towards the wall. Andhera watch and said to Jonas “enough is enough…” the familiar announce “winner Dorm A -5 Squad!!” The nobles could not said anything yet the other student cheered and applaud. Eiris and Ashley see it as well “that is my future husband’s knights” Eiris grin “ooh or my knight…” Idiva knock the two “hush…” Jonas then said to them “commoner let me show you how are real noble fights, he drank a potion in his pocket. He began to shout in pain “hahahahaha” and he transform into a monster, a chimera “now die in the hands of a noble hahahahaha!” Elva called the spectators “leave the arena it is dangerous!!” Ashley said to Eiris “let me help them!!” Eiris said to her “be careful…my friend” Eiris said to Idiva “I will protect you..” Idiva smile “my, I am happy daughter-in-law…” Falcos said to the knights “knights bring the people out of the arena, others follow me!!” Merlos enters as well, Falcos said to Andhera “show me what you got, there is nothing to hide anymore, this not a game…” Andhera said “my brothers are really strong…I will help” Ashley joins the fray “this fool of a noble have used something dangerous…” Elva ordered Honstan to used magic to restrain Jonas. Honstan used a magic chain to seal Jonas. Falcos said to Jonas “you fool….” In an instant Jonas struck them all. Fafnir and Mireu wanted to help yet Gil and Melros “its okay, this also part of the Knights duty” Gil said to them “remember Falcos?” Fafnir replied “yeah I know, I m the one that teaches him swordsmanship….” Jonas shouted “this is the nobles way!!” And swing its tail knocking all of them down. Elva wanted to kill Jonas and Andhera said to him “it is time…we going to save him….” And he bowed at Falcos “Lord Falcos I will not kill him yet I will free him from the poison within…” Elva said to Andhera “very well I will help…” the brothers contain Jonas to position where Andhera is waiting. Falcos said to him “please save my foolish son… great paladin…” he chant himself where the last word “for we are the paladin and we are the creators will” he transform to an armoured knight which he used a mace. Eiris saw this and said “he has awaken…” and she smile, while Idiva said to her “maybe it is time” Ashley saw this in awe “he is galant” his brothers have also transform, Eldfir armor become harder and his shield is taller, Toru wore an armor of the wolfkin, Honstan robe has change to a sorcerer while Elva has transform in a High elf knight with golden armor. Andhera orders them to contain Jonas, Eldfir taunting Jonas to hit him, while Honstan used magic chain to tied Jonas down, While Toru cut the head of the chimera snake tail. Andhera then approach closer and began to chant.

Stars among all,

Darkness among all,

Spirits among all,

the world it creates,

Nothing is left behind,

Nothing that it left behind,

Everyone serve the creator,

With the power of words given to me,

I represent the creator,

I am Creator’s eyes and ears

I represent the Creators hand,

Do not forget who create you

A light surrounds Jonas body as he began in pain and shouted “argh!!! the pain!!!” Andhera then pull the corruption from Jonas body while Honstan and Elva remove the potion from his body. He revert back to his normal self. Jonas was unconscious. To this day, Andhera will be called “the warrior of Light”

In the infirmary, Merlos explain that he and Mireu chant magic that removes memories except the knights. The arena challenge was maintain except the incident with Jonas. Falcos interrogate his own wife and the man that is with her, Falcos did not hesitate even towards his wife and Jonas. Falcos discover that there are nobles is in support of his wife in unrest between races and especially in the academy. Ever since, Lord Shivil commence transparency of governance between its subject and ministry, the nobles could not manage to increase their wealth and sometimes including the discovery of embezzlement of peoples fund within the treasury. The finance minister was arrested due to the involvement in the cases, Falcos wanted to be arrested due to his relationship with his wife, King Shivil propose a court case shall be commence. Gil manage to arrest the remaining individual that involves, which relates to the nobles of high ranking among the royal household. Falcos also discovered that they plan to assassinate Queen Idiva due to her involvement and her status of a Saint, which the temple of Light is against it. Falcos daughter explain the situation within the temple community that there is an unrest between high members of the temple council. It was shocking story within the Kingdom which they called it ‘the great corruption” the number of arrested began to rise even within the academy though Master Merlos inform that the cadets here are innocent and will question under the Cadet council. Master Avalon began to question among those who is involved and the number began to rise which there is also a number of individual were involved in the scandals. It took months of investigation until an information began to shed light which this was invoke by a rival nations, which they were called “Principality of Angoros” the kingdom consulate was arrested for the investigation. The Consulate began to confess that The Principality wanted to declare war against The Kingdom of Akash due to the strategic position that they were in yet they did not wanted declare first yet The kingdom will declare which the blame took from the Kingdom of Akash itself avoid any suspicion between Angoros. Lord Shivil sent a message to the Alliance regarding this matter which it reach the Empire of Levlos, which the Empress is the leader, Empress Latina order her right hand knight Lady Melvinos her own sister to instigate this matter. The Alliance is consist of the multiple nations to prevent civil war among nations under the alliance. Empire of Levlos is main council, the members which is consist of the Kingdom of Akash, Principality of Angoros, The Woodlands Kingdom of Westwood, Elva’s homeland, Kingdom of Rode Eldfir’s homeland, Island archipelago Kingdom of Merinas where Honstan homeland, Kingdom of Nordgand Toru’s homeland and lastly The Kingdom of Antaros in Southern Kingdom where Ashley homeland from. The alliance which its domain surrounds the island continent of Harandas the largest of the Continent. The meeting took place with the capital city Gadh in the Akash Kingdom, where Lord Shivil is main coordinator. Merlos ordered all of the cadets are to standby themselves to recruited by the Knights in assisting the Kingdom conference. The Security was increase in respond of the conference several weeks by now. Activities in the academy were commence as usual which Merlos continued the outdoor activity in the woods. Everyone was excited that this will the first main activity since months of incident. All of the faculty staff including the servant maid were in the meeting including Andhera which he was also employed as the support staff for the teachers. The new members that was recruited is Elva, Eldfir, Honstan and Toru to the teachers staff. The Cadet council was also involved in the activities. Avalon said in the meeting “this activity must consist of security to ensure the safety of the cadets, the council members will be involved in this activity” Merlos replied “supplement with the academy faculty…we need more support and will not burden the cadet council further” Avalon bowed “thank you Master Merlos..” Gil explain “this activity will involved dungeon conquering and mission orientated battle exercise, we need someone of an ability to map the place exactly” Elva respond “I will volunteer for this mission” Avalon said to Wales “Master Wales assist Master Elva in the scouting, because you also have the ability of foresight..” Wales agreed to the matter and Wales said to Elva “let us work together in this mission” both shake hands. Eldfir and Toru volunteer in the security of the place, Merlos said to them “Lord Falcos will be involved in this and he wanted you two to be involved including Avalon and Ashley….” Avalon and Ashley nod and bowed “thank you for the offer…” Falcos was inside the meeting and he also inform that the temple student is also involved in this activity which he introduce his daughter “this is my daughter Lady Esmerlda” she is extremely beautiful yet they wonder why she is in the temple school.

Everyone was stunned and wonder which Falcos explain that this is her adopted daughter a dark elf. Elva was stunned by her beauty, which the brothers blushed and arouse. Eldfir couldn’t say anything “she is stunning…” Even Avalon was ruined by her beauty. Even the cadet council was stunned by her beauty. Esmerelda explain that the temple student will assist in healing cadets during their mission. Andhera was also not exempted only to felt a strong aura from Eiris and Ashley including Idiva looking at him “son…don’t you dare…” Elva hold Andhera shoulder “well this is our chance to shine friend since you have 2 in your hand…” Andhera smile. Toru said “she is beautiful I wonder if she bore children” Honstan said “dark skin is suitable living in the ocean not the icy nation of your own…” Revious respond “if she goes to your nation please do not forget to invite me…” Eldfir replied “yeah me too” Achilles respond “I bet she loved a strong guy like me” Eldfir, Elva, Avalon, Revious and Avalon respond the challenge and Avalon replied “we shall see what kind of man that she is interested…” Falcos respond “to those who want to get closer to my daughter had to go through me…” Esmerelda replied “father maybe it is time for me to communicate with people…” Merlos replied “hah the joys of youth….” Gil replied “well, at least it off to a good start…” After all the arrangement in the meeting were discuss and approved they leave the meeting room, the mens of the cadet council and Adhere sworn brothers head straight towards Esmerelda, which she also brought her own council, and consist of beautiful ladies and men. The ladies of the cadet council also head towards them. Andhera respond “heading straight towards their carnal desire….hah….” Fafnir meet him “hey why don’t you try to approach her…” Andhera respond “a tomb will erected and will be written ‘hell hath no fury like a woman scorn…” Fafnir laugh and said “well she does listed in my interest list…maybe I could try…” his ear was pulled by Mireu “yeah an old coot like you still has carnal desire…” Mireu replied “well, you better continued your meditation in controlling your powers…” Andhera agreed and inform Elva that he will return to train. Ashley and Eiris meet him “you large bosom?” Andhera was surprised to hear this and respond “ah..no… and I rather not talk about…please” which he wanted to avoid that topic. Eiris then discuss together “looks like we had another rival…” Ashley replied “yes indeed, we must keep watch him or else that lady there will ensnare Andhera from us…” Andhera smile and respond “please don’t…” Eiris replied “Lady Idiva wanted you meet him in the meditation area…” Andhera nod and wave them goodbye. Andhera reach to the meditation Idiva was no where to be found. Andhera sat and began to meditate and close his eyes. Someone was looking at him. Esmerelda wanted to observe him, Andhera sat down in meditation listen to the surrounding, someone was there. Andhera assume it was his mother, and took a breathing, Esmerelda sat down as well, Esmerelda said to herself “is this the man that my father talk about?”

Andhera ignored the surrounding, as he took breathing again. Yet he realise something is a miss, he took a peek it was Esmerelda. Andhera was shock yet remain calm. Andhera began to sweat, Esmerelda was observing him “what kind of a strange meditation…” Esmerelda is quite an airhead when it comes to men due to her environment of the temple school she has been. Andhera prayed that his mother, Eiris and Ashley does not see this only that he continued to remain calm and began breathe again. Esmerelda began to get closer to him. Andhera wonder “I thought she with them…where is Lord Falcos” Esmerelda observe him throughout his meditation which had gone almost an hour. Idiva, Eiris, Ashley and Mireu including Fafnir was approaching Andhera where he began to meditation training. Andhera was still sweating, “why she hasn’t leave?” Falcos approach Idiva explaining that Esmerelda went missing “she is gifted with magic yet her knowledge of going places is something of a concern…” They together looking for Esmerelda and Eiris and Ashley had their woman intuition including Idiva. Ashley said to Eiris “I saw Esmerelda looking at Andhera and left, don’t tell me that she went to…” Ashley rush towards the meditation room and saw Esmerelda looking at Andhera close to his face. Andhera prayed again and this time he heard footstep and said to Andhera “one peek… that is the last thing you see….” It was Ashley warning him. Fafnir approaches and saw a comedic scene as he begun to laugh “see I told you lady killer….” Falcos then approaches Esmerelda and pull her ear “dear….” Esmerelda said to Falcos “father…” she smile and Falcos knock her head “you fool, you lucky that I have found you….” Idiva said to Andhera “close your eyes no matter what…” Andhera nod and continued his meditation Eiris said to Andhera, does her bosom distract you…” she grin, Andhera did not respond and began to breathe again. Eiris smile “good Andhera…” Elva and the brothers saw this and said “how did Andhera is a magnet for hot girls…” Revious said to them “it must be the meditation…” Andhera completed the training as he open his eyes Eiris and Ashley was together and the look in their eyes did not believe anything that Andhera said. Idiva ordered Merlos to check, Merlos becomes the next victim and said “what a waste of mana…” which he observe what he has seen and it was true that Andhera did take a peek and Esmerelda face and bosom really close at him. Merlos use telepathy and said to Andhera “this will be the death of you, yet this will not let this happen…” he began to create story that Andhera did not see anything yet Idiva smile and said “we will see…” Andhera then ask Elva “maybe next time I will follow you, at least I will caught by this…” Eldfir and the brothers nod in agreement.

In the dorm, Andhera could not sleep and sat in front of the window. Looking at the glowing stars and he wanted to watch closer and he heads towards the highest tower of the academy which he see the view of the night sky. Andhera look at it, and smile. The an ocean of stars glimmer the skies, Eiris called him “Andhera…. There you are….” They sat together at the top tower. Andhera said to her “I m sorry…that making you feeling insecure and I did make a promise that I will look after you….some promises that I make….” Andhera felt sad that I did not goes as plan. Eiris look at him and she transform her looks and she smile at Andhera.

Eiris said to him “this is fun, I never experience like this, meeting new friends, looking at people, culture and many more…” She kiss him and said to Andhera “thank you…dear, for being together with you…” Andhera is glad that Eiris is happy. Andhera realise how beautiful Eiris is “to me you are the most beautiful.” They embrace together in the night sky. Mireu and Fafnir seen from a far as they smile. Mireu said to Fafnir “love… that binds them together..” Yet Fafnir was skeptical and said to Mireu “for how long….how strong….is their love…does it lead to pure sincerity or desire… I have seen how Lilim the first Paladin love for Solomon and led her to her demise…” Mireu said to him “a woman intuition is always pure, the love that binds them will be the trail that they will went through in the future…” Fafnir smile and said “we shall see…” Esmeralda saw from a far was shocked to see Andhera had a girlfriend “is this love?” Her embarrassed expression and her heart beat within her heart heard. She wondered who is that blond girl and she return to her dorm. Andhera and Eiris sat together and said to Eiris “I m not sleepy yet….” He lay his head to her shoulder as he went to sleep. Eiris smile “you don’t know that I am grateful for this blessing, I will protect you….” As she asleep on his shoulder. Andhera awaken and Eiris was sleeping beside him. Andhera smile and said to her “thank you…to be with me…” Idiva and Shivil see them from the top, she said to him “I am happy…. For the two…” Shivil held Idiva “that is our children…” Idiva smile as sun rise, Andhera awaken Eiris she was in awe the beauty of the sun rise. “Let us return it is time for our duty…” Eiris stretch her body and transform back “yeah, let us return” their hand lock to symbolise their bond together.

Andhera and Eiris began their duty as part of the outdoor activity committee. They began to prepare to move all the cadets to the place, The Wes wood forest. Gil began speech “this is all part of an exercise to familiarise all that you have learn, teamwork, coordination, chemistry, and knowledge given by your instructor and teachers. Practice well in this forest and beware of the dangers that may lie. Our committee member shall assist you and monitor if there is danger that is beyond the capabilities of the cadets. The temple school shall join in this activity as a supporter and healer in each team, please familiarise with you team members.” And everyone shouted “understood!!” Esmeralda given the speech as well “to all members and cadets thank you for the inviting us to this activity may the blessing of the goddess shall bring us protection” she chants her spells which is also a saint art, blast of light surrounds them. They realise it is the power of sight which the committee member could see from afar. They began the activity with the magic from the teachers, signalling the starting of the activity. Each squad consist of 5 cadets and 1 temple student, 6 member squad is form. Eldfir and Honstan were perversely gazing at the cadets including Revious “look at that girls squad members they all used mini skirts, only been shouted by the teachers “focus on your job!!” Andhera and Elva stand from a far using oversight, Ashley and Avalon become the front liners patrolling for any dangerous monsters ahead, Toru used his agility to weave the forest while looking at the cadets. One of the squad encounter a group of slime monster and attacked them. Eldfir shouted “where is your tank!!” The knights head in front while the archers and mages support them. Revious warn them “protect you healer, this is life and death situation when in battle!!” Honstan guide the mages in using proper magic spells in battle. One of the squad manage to reach in front close to Avalon and Ashley. Avalon signalling Elva that one of the squad is getting closer to the unknown area and requesting them to pull back. Toru instantly reach there and warn the squad to pull back to the designated area. Elva said to Andhera “you better be with Ashley and Avalon to increase the area seems the cadets are getting bored with the easy monster, and tell them not to kill any strong monster that will be useful in the exercise Master Merlos approved” Andhera jumps and head towards Avalon, Andhera explain that to leave a stronger monster for the cadet to practice. Avalon agreed and Ashley then continued farther with Andhera. Elva used his archer ability to fire an arrow towards a herd of monster, yet Gil order Elva not to decimate the herd as it is a useful training for the cadets. The herd of monster began to stampede a few squad as some of them began to retreat. Eldfir showed the cadet in using the shield as a wall to prevent running over by the stampede. Andhera, Avalon and Ashley began sweeping the area for any strong monsters that they encounter. Andhera explain “seems this area is crawling with strong monster and even larger than usual. Ashley said to them “let us view the map again…” A fire signal informing all to take a break. Ashley, Avalon and Andhera return back while guiding any squad that is closer to them. Ashley and Avalon manage to bring the remaining student back to the place. Andhera inform them that he will stay back until there is no other squad been left behind. Andhera waited in the forest, and Elva explain that all of the squad have return. Andhera return only to sense a powerful aura, he wanted to find out what it is. He saw Lilim in front yet is not her, when he reach closer it was a demon in his dream and she said to him “found you….” Andhera then retreated back when he remember from Lilim’s warning. “This is closer than usual place that Avalon and Ashley cleared…” he use his telepathy and called Merlos “I have encounter Dark Lilim…” Merlos was surprised and inform him “retreat back and meet me at this point” while he retreated Dark Lilim was closer at him “why are you running dear…?” Gil and Merlos was there and Merlos used his powers and shouted “back off!!” Gil strike her only to see it was a shadow and Dark Lilim was closer at Andhera “maybe because Lilim is asleep…” Merlos use his magic to throw Dark Lilim off. Dark Lilim shouted at Merlos “my little Merlos, why ?” Merlos respond “be gone!!” Merlos said to himself “impossible is Lilim magic has weaken?” Dark Lilim then use her powers and strike at Gil, Gil parried it and Merlos use light magic to sealed her. Andhera use his powers to sealed her. Dark Lilim shouted in pain “Argh!!! Its pain!!! You have the same powers as Lilim!! I love it!!” Merlos warn him not to use the Paladins power. In surprised Lilim save them, she hold her neck and threw her off. “Return back…” Dark Lilim said to her “you no fun, this is yourself as well…” Lilim instantly use her powers and knock Dark Lilim back to the dimension. Lilim apologise at Merlos, Merlos was crying “big sis….” Lilim smile at him “you have grown… I apologise for this matter it seems she manage to escape from the dimension…” Lilim suddenly was down on her knee in pain. Lilim explain that “the splitting is taking a toll to her body. “Two centuries inside the dimension seems a long time… yet…” Merlos wanted to help her using heal. Lilim explain to Andhera “it seems you have the strength yet it is not ready yet to challenge her…I will hold her… yet I will tell you when you are ready…” Lilim enters the dimension. Merlos called Lilim “Lord Solomon awaits you he have move on yet, he yearns for you…” Lilim smile and respond “don't wait for me…move on” Merlos replied “I have tried to convince him, he wanted to wait for you….” Lilim enters the dimension she smile at them “young paladin, I shall wait for you…” the powerful aura disappeared and Gil explain to Andhera “this will be another test for you child…” Merlos did not said anything and ask Andhera to rest. Merlos grip his arm “is this another sign, are you telling me this Kingdom will fall….” Merlos remembers in his past “Young Merlos… Lord Solomon is all powerful yet he is still mortal….this Kingdom will not last….as he does not bore a child to his reign…” Lilim explain to the young Merlos. Merlos said to himself “Lady Lilim….”

In the other dimension, Lilim watches over the frozen body of her dark side while she said to herself “please, let it hold longer before my successor is strong enough to stop me….”. Lilim felt a sharp pain in her chest. “It is weakening, does my authority as the paladin waning? To the world order… there is only 3 Paladin that has been chosen…. Me, Polaris and….the boy….please body hold a little longer…” Merlos head towards Andhera, Andhera is discussing with his sworn brothers. Merlos called him, Andhera ask him and Merlos replied “maybe it is time for me to tell you about the paladins….your destiny” Andhera was surprised Merlos ask him to meet at the door where the forbidden archive is. Andhera ask about the activity and Merlos replied “do not worry, all of them are enough to hold…they will manage, beside Lord Gil and the others is there as well, we must go now” Andhera bowed and inform Elva that he is been called by Merlos to meet at his office. Merlos inform Gil that he want to discuss with Andhera and Gil nod. Andhera reach the door entrance that was forbidden, which Merlos was waiting for him. Merlos open the door, Andhera was curious yet only he see was an empty room. Which Merlos used his powers, the room becomes magical yet with technology. Merlos explain that this is a teleport machine which was frequently used that belong to an ancient tribe which Merlos belong to that ancient bloodline. The floor become a magic circle that surrounds which teleports them to another place. Andhera saw an amazing view and surprised him is above the skies. Merlos explain that the kingdom that once belong King Solomon. “Lord Solomon was once my king and my teacher as well, The shield and Sword maiden is none other than Lady Lilim…” Andhera was not surprised to hear this and ask him “that means…” Merlos replied “yes I ‘ve longer than the founding nation of Akash….before the walled kingdom was form which once a major fortress of the Dawn era and belong to the Kingdom of Ferasia. Andhera replied “Ferasia, that is just a legend in books…” Merlos smile “no, I does exist…come follow me” Andhera saw an empty city, Merlos explain since Lord Solomon died, the kingdom cease to survive yet it was once lower than this. I am the one that lifted this remaining Kingdom’s crown jewel, a lot of technology and forbidden tome and grimoire that is sealed here, I had yet graze it…some are dangerous and some are unknown to my knowledge….yet someday I will disposed of it someday….” Andhera replied “may I would assist you Master Merlos…” Merlos replied “ever since you arrive things have changed in the academy and even the royal family…people in the academy become open to their opinions, they weren’t afraid to talk to the elite’s of the Kingdom…though Shivil had been cautious about this matter…Idiva never had the chance to share her opinion due to the Elite’s involvement….yet once you entered and took this moment, saving an Elites childs life, uncover the corruption of the Elites…everything changes….” Andhera felt that he never done any contribution to the Kingdom “I never once think about the world, yet when I met all of you…everything started to move and I am afraid…that I began to lose someone that I have hold dear…” Merlos did not said anything and ask him “did Lady Lilim explain everything ?” Andhera explain his previous encounter, where he was declared by Lilim that he is a paladin and the love between Solomon and her, including Merlos. Merlos smile “no wonder you are not surprised…” Merlos explain about being a paladin though his experience with Lilim. “The term paladin was introduce by Lord Solomon, a peerless warrior that lived through conviction and its own principal, they never been always loyal to someone other than the Creator…Which comes to this, Lilim however is a descendant of Lilith the 1st witch means she possess magic and strength, she is also undoubtedly the strongest among all Paladin. There are countless whom self proclaim they are a paladin yet none of those possess such ability… the only known Paladin are only 2 which is now 3. The first is Lilim, second is Polaris and then you Andhera…” Andhera ask Merlos about each paladin and Merlos replied “Lilim was known to possess immense strength and unlimited magical powers which is omnipotent, Lord Polaris however possess great leadership and immense magical powers which is people always called him the Sage knight…you child however possess a different special ability which is also omnipotent, I realise in my observation in the early stages you do possess the ability to summon, and also a natural user of weapons and martial art. I am pretty sure that you are a natural talent in using all kinds of weaponry, even a spoon….” Andhera ask again “Lady Lilim was the strongest then…” Merlos explain “Lilim is basically a one man army knight, she and Lord Solomon is the authority among the world, lords of every nation never once tried to conquer them as because of Lady Lilim immense presence and Lord Solomon intelligence…” Merlos then continued to a hallway, where there is a mural portraying Lilim and Solomon in their adventures and reign. Andhera realise and said “because they are lovers…” Merlos smile “yes love..yet it create fear…a fear of losing, envy, jealously and even despair…” Andhera then encounter a phrase that he look familiar “that is the Lady Lilim’s creed…her paladin oath…”

‘ Stand to no one, heed to no one other than the creator.

We are the creators knights, we uphold the duty and the creators command,

We fear nothing other than the creator that bless us,

Out duty is not for the being that is created by the creator yet our creator’s will

Our path shall be full of thorns and it will be thorn of steel

We will be heretic among others, yet shall fulfil the wishes of the creator’s will

We will be feared by other and also inspired by others

Our solitude is our bane and also our duty,

for us a paladin is equal to countless warriors stand in battle,

Darkness and light does not affect us,

We shall follow our creators will.

For we are the Paladin, and we are the creators will.

He also saw another oath from Solomon and Lilim

You are the night and I am the day,

You are my shadow, and I am your shadow,

Together we are strong, together we will change the world

Together we will protect the world,

We vowed together that always be together,

Even after death, we will always be together,

Merlos explain that is the oath that Lord Solomon and Lilim said together in this very halls. Where they had their first kiss, I have hope that she will be the Queen of this nation yet there are those who seek their demise and it happen” Andhera replied “the darkening….her splitting emotions began to weaken her…” Merlos replied “no, she hesitated and began to question her own purpose… she was afraid of losing him, to the point that she began to distant herself between him… I talk to her yet she loved him so much that it began to tear her apart…” Andhera saw a mural of Lord Solomon and Lilim together.

Andhera ask whether Lord Solomon loved to used a shield Merlos replied “he always use a shield in his hand” Merlos smile and remembers the one that drew the mural. Lilim and Solomon smile together. Merlos said to Andhera “when the time comes, this will be your trial…” Andhera “the strongest shield and the strongest sword…” And they continued to reach to place where is a tomb, Andhera saw the body of Solomon which rest there. And another empty next to him. Merlos explain “this is suppose belong to Lilim…” Andhera look at Merlos and Merlos ask him “this is my wish… can you save Lady Lilim…free from the curse that she is gone through…” Andhera saw from Merlos, where he shed his tear. Merlos beg him to this mission. Merlos said to him “this mission must you face alone…I know it is painful…yet this is the only way…with the passing of Lord Polaris… you are the only paladin in this world” Andhera saw this another voice said to him “this….shall….be….your…first…test….” Andhera then bowed at Solomon “I will save her, and will bring her together with you Lord Solomon..” A bright light shine at him only hear a word “thank…you…paladin….I…shall…wait….” Merlos hear this and smile “Lord Solomon….and a glimmer of hope….” Andhera then said to Merlos “this is my creed…”

‘ My path shall guide them,

I will lead them,

I will teach them the will of the Almighty Creator,

This path shall be my answer to the creator,

I will know solitude,

I am aware of the solitude shall be given to me

I shall not shown my blade yet my will

Good nor evil shall lead me for I am my own

The will of the Creator shall be my strength

Let this be providence for myself

For we are the paladin, and we are the creator’s will

continued next part