Chapter 1: A distant day

There are legends that never die, there are legends that live forever, there are legends that tell terror, there are legends that tell happy stories, there are legends that tell romantic stories... Each has its own objective, each has its its reason for existing. And this legend is one of those, my legend.

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I was walking in a dark corridor, devoid of light, as if I were going against my own fears, fears devoid of light.

This was our ultimate goal, to annihilate a demi-god.

He who has always brought terror to the vast lands of Astral, the Dark Emperor...

Suddenly I reached the end of the corridor. I turned to see my expedition group and said;

<<We didn't come this far to die, I hope that's clear to you.>>

With my long red cloak and imposing armor I tried to encourage my companions. I was the leader of the expedition, and our lives depended on it.

I pulled down my hood covering my head, revealing short white hair and orange eyes. My gaze remained steely, showing how determined I was to accomplish this mission. My name was Fates, Commander of the Warlords and Bringer of Sanji.

I heard a little laugh, a laugh that filled everyone with hope, addressed in a very joking and bold tone;

<<Heh, of course that's the case, what do you think? We certainly didn't come here to get killed by the first one who comes along, especially after what we've been through!>> said the youngest member of the expedition group, with his long purple hair tied in a ponytail, eye patch sinister hiding his red eyes. His ironic character filled the group with harmony, even in the most critical and difficult moments. He dressed in simple brown leather armor and a green cloak. His name was Avelok, Swordsman of the Warlords.

Another spoke, in an encouraging tone;

<<We don't call ourselves Warlords because we die against the first idiot on duty.>> he stuck his sword in the rock that served as our floor and continued;

<<We have our humanity on our shoulders: our children, wives... Everyone believes in us, we cannot fail for any reason.>> said another member, dark purple iron armor, long cloak of the same color, short brown hair and purple hair tie holding her hair. His eyes were a crystalline blue, bringing human hope and determination. His name was Yokano, Dark Star of the Warlords and Bringer of Akumu.

Finally, the last member spoke, but not least.

<<That's how I like to hear from you. Our humanity is on our shoulders, and as a King I desire nothing else.>> said the King, he had a thick blue beard and hair of the same color, war scars along his face and crimson eyes full of vengeance and bloodlust. His dress was the King's robes that he also wore in the Castle, but armed with metal guards and shoulder pads.

His importance among the Warlords was very high, being that he was our ace in the hole to win. His name was Darlus, Hexella Knight of the Warlords and Bringer of Hexella.

I looked at him, and started laughing under my breath. I took my long cloak and raised it in the air, then took it and tightened it around my waist, knotting it. Then I pushed my hand towards the center;

<<Then from today on, the Warlords will put an end to this senseless War. We have overcome many dangers and years of hard training... No God is as strong as us, since we are the very Gods of this world!>>

<<This is how we want you, Parche!>> Avelok exclaimed, raising his voice in euphoria.

I turned to the door, taking a red crystal from my pocket.

I tossed it as if it were a coin and held it in my palm, gripping it tight and in my fist;

<<Descend below, towards the underworld of this world, destroying all creation, with the verdict of the empress flames. I consult your will, as it consults my strength, basking in the pure flames of Emperor Sanji!>>

Three magical circles were created around my fist, becoming larger and larger until they launched a mammoth eruption of flames destroying the door that separated us from...

<<So you managed to arrive... Warlords. Even if your vandalistic behavior is starting to annoy me quite a bit.>> said a voice that resembled that of a little boy.

<<We have come to get you, Emperor of Kazumu, Shükanz!>>

<<Oh... You have enough courage to throw me such a direct challenge.>>

As the dust cloud dissipated, we saw a young boy wearing a strange black robe. His body was covered in thick dark purple veins, his gaze was dull. He was sitting on a throne, while the room we entered was illuminated by the moonlight mixed with the dark atmosphere that Kazumu gave off. He did not get up from the throne, but raised his right hand, snapping his fingers. Suddenly, the center of the room began to accumulate dark energy, giving birth to strange metallic entities that resembled those of Yorung. As soon as they were born, something different was noticed as soon as they turned towards us, they held a strange purple crystal above their metallic head: their build was semi-human, however showing strange metallic tentacles coming out of their back and a larger head. They had no mouth or nose, but only two purple eyes and a crystal on top of their heads.

<<What are... Those things? They are not creatures of Kazumu... But not even of Yorung...>> I asked, while trying to analyze the enemy troops.

<<Oh, these beautiful creatures? They are my new servants, created by a dear collaborator of mine Myluida... The technology of the Tex-Mechanikers is truly wonderful, Yorung really has some nice troops! Exploiting them will give you nothing other than a wonderful show!>>

Suddenly everyone started looking at us, turning their heads and making strange metallic noises. Some ran and others fired their ranged weapons.

<<Magical Shield!>> I started protecting myself from enemy attacks, their weapons fired differently than expected, it was dark power, or as we called it... Umbrexella.

<<Disruptive Fire!>> as soon as the enemy attack stopped, I tried to launch a counterattack, but it didn't do any damage to the enemy armor. Meanwhile, other mechanical entities reached us without us realizing it, attacking us from behind.

<<Watch out, Yokano!>> I exclaimed, before Yokano was attacked by a slash from the enemy's energy sword. He managed to dodge, backing towards the door.

<<Ngaaaah!!>> I summoned my sword "Horunka", materializing it in my right hand and attacking the mechanical monster, but...

<<How... Can it be?!>> I said shocked, I noticed that my attack didn't even scratch him.

<<Ah...hahahaha!! Formidable! This breed is simply amazing! Go, destroy the Warlords once and for all!! I will finally have my revenge for all the defeats I have suffered! >> he exclaimed, while the surrounding area began to become increasingly gloomy. The atmosphere became increasingly suffocating, and many more mechanical monsters were summoned.

<<This is too much to contain...! >> exclaimed Avelok, as he tried to retreat. From that moment the memories began to blur, granulating like sand.

And our end, slowly, came.

──── Presents ────

<<Big brother!! Big brother!>> a voice called me. Waking up from a heavy sleep. She was my little sister. I threw the covers back over my head accompanied by some groans.

<<Come on, it's already late, today you have the qualification exam, you don't have to be late!>>

<<Hmmn... I know...but I...another five minutes come on...>> not even enough time to finish the sentence that she lifted my blankets, throwing them on the floor;

<<You see, if you're late, I'll be late too! So finally decide to get up, otherwise I'll make you get up the hard way!>>

<<Ugh... How loud you are already in the early morning...>>

I had been living with my little sister, Igea, for years now.

I was 15 and my little sister was 13, we both attended the same school located in the Third Ring; the Hallewart School.

<<Big brother, what do you have? You look pale... Do you feel sick? You can't miss this day!>> Igea exclaimed worriedly, immediately running out of the room in search of medicines.

<<Ah... No, don't worry. I just had a nightmare... I'm not sick...!>> I exclaimed in turn, jumping out of bed and chasing my sister.

Those days were a real nightmare for me, and certainly for my little sister too.

Even after years, they continued to torment me.

<<Anyway, shall we go and get ready, Igea?>> I asked Igea after reaching her and making sure I wasn't sick.

After having a good breakfast prepared by her, she showed up in her school dress, asking me how she was.

Well, what can I say, a real beauty! So much so that I'm proud to have such an adorable little sister!

She wore the classic Hallewart uniform, a tan school uniform, with a red bow on the chest and a short skirt that reached above her knees.

Her crimson eyes stood out very well, along with her hair of the same color.

Starting to pose and slightly lifting her school skirt she asked;

<<Eheh, what do you think?>> he maintained a shrewd look and eyes that shone like a star.

She embarrassed me tremendously and I asked back;

<<A---aah! What are you doing Igea?! These are not things you should do! Where did you learn this?!>> I asked with my face completely red like a tomato. I tried to cover my face so as not to desecrate my sister's purity, but her gaze fell on her skirt, slightly raised by her tender hand.

<<Hehe, it's just to show you how it looks on me! You know, only since this new year have they provided us with these new uniforms, the old ones were uncomfortable without the skirts! >> she continued. Looking back it was true, the early school years only provide long pants for girls. After passing the second year, entering the third year, girls can also wear skirts.

Most likely it was a system designed to avoid falling into the theme of "sexualizing young girls"... I think.

After a short period of silence and returning to myself, I replied smiling;

<<It really suits you, Igea.>> and she turned around happily and replied to me with a beautiful candid smile;

<<Thank you so much, Big Brother Virtus!>> her smile was so gorgeous that I could feel an aura of happiness suppressing me, as if she were screaming "Keep praising me, big brother!". It was too blinding, to the point of wondering what divine grace an angel like her gave me!

<<Ugh, big brother! You could compliment me more often!>> she exclaimed with a pout, while she put her skirt back on properly.

<> I exclaimed in turn, trying to establish my position as "Big Brother".

After a short time I continued;

<> I finally said, as I shifted my gaze. She looked at me strangely but smiled slightly, immediately starting to talk, trying to change the subject and break the ice created;

<<About your card... If you pass the exams you will receive it, right?>> I looked at her as soon as I came back to myself, answering;

<<Oh, yes? That is, yes. I will receive it, why?>>

<<Well... No, I was just curious to know what Adventurer name you want to choose.>> as soon as she asked me, I started laughing. I don't know why, but I felt strangely happy at that moment.

<<Why are you laughing?>> Igea asked with a pout and an angry look.

<<Ahah...Nothing. I think it was a laugh of pleasure...if you can call it that. Regardless, I already know what to choose. I'll let you know as soon as I get my card with my name printed on it, until then...>> I got up taking my bag and finished the sentence;

<<It will remain a secret, okay?>> I said, pulling a sly smile towards my little sister.

<<Uff... Okay.>> replied Igea, taking a packed lunch and preparing it for me.

<<Here, maybe you'll get hungry before the exams, or after you finish them.>> she said, holding a packed lunch in both of her hands. She used to do similar things, but this time it seemed like she put her all into it.

<<Thank you very much, Igea. Are you ready to go?>> I asked, taking the bag in my hand and returning the smile.

<<Yes!>>

And so, a new chapter in my life begins.

The famous Hallewart School Qualifying Exams.

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<<Every year there is a Qualification Exam, where all the classes of the Nation of Giarogia participate to qualify and undertake their dreams; whether they are a farmer, a doctor, a guard... An adventurer.

Only for the last one it is more difficult, given that the exam scores must be very high.

The only two subjects that were blocking me? Science Magic and Rodyakan... But at least in Mathematics and History I was good.

Yes, only these four subjects come before my dream; become an adventurer.

Aside from the fact that, an adventurer get a good salary, it has always been a dream of mine to finally enter the First Ring of Giarogia...>>

My name was Virtus, I didn't have any surname as I never knew my real parents.

A simple 15 year old boy who had a dream of becoming an adventurer and defending the people dear to me.

A few months ago I also started to grow my white hair a little, trying to make it like my father's.

I heard several stories about him, told by Draug and Dreug, and it led me to become more and more like him. I respected him for all the heroic deeds he accomplished, but I still couldn't figure out why he abandoned my sister and me.

Igea, two years younger, was also with me. She sported long crimson hair and eyes of the same color, an absurd vivacity and tons of energy.

Even though she went through bad times years ago, she managed to overcome all the problems with her head held high with a smile on her face and a desire to grow.

We both gave our all to be able to integrate into society, have a peaceful school life and achieve our goals.

And this was just the beginning.

I took my pendant that I wore around my neck; it was a pocket watch, but the hands were always stopped at "11.59pm".

But the most important thing was the external part of the watch: it had a white gear and hands designed with strange red streaks.

<<This watch was not an ordinary watch, I always knew it since it was given to me by the Praxis Order the day they saved me, reiterating that it belonged to my lost parents and that they would always have wanted to give it to me. Unfortunately, I never understood what happened on the day of my birth, the only thing I owned from them was this pendant... Or even a broken watch, if we want to call it that.>> I thought, as I put the pendant back inside my shirt.

<<Funny stories; some tried to buy it for 50,000 Rod, justifying it as a purchase that could even change their lives.

This was due to the fact that many rumors were circulating, such as that this pendant could open a gap between human civilization and the Rodyak, or that this pendant would be like a catalyst to summon a legendary spirit from an unknown era, in order to fight against a pressing threat. Or an even crazier one; which could even unite two worlds! But knowing enough stories of this world I can be more than certain of one thing: that this pendant is just a simple family heirloom, and that it doesn't do anything at all. It's the only memory I could have of my parents, and I wouldn't sell it for any price in the world.>> I said to myself, I cared a lot about this pendant, and if anything were to really mean something, be the first to find out about it person will be my sole responsibility, as the owner of this pendant and family heirloom.

Meanwhile we reached the Hallewart School, and once we reached the entrance door I turned towards Igea;

<<Well, I'll get to my class straight away, see you at home. I'll be out early, so don't wait for me today.>> I said, as I started to say goodbye to her.

<<Hmm.. Okay, this will be your last day of school anyway, so... We wouldn't have the opportunity to get back together anymore...>> she said in a weak and sad tone. Meanwhile she turned slightly out of embarrassment, since she didn't want to let me see her with such a sad face for such a "trivial" reason according to her.

<<Igea... This doesn't mean that we won't spend more time together, in fact when I can I'll pick you up from school.>> Igea replied only with a grimace.

<<Don't say these embarrassing things all of a sudden...! >> she exclaimed, turning suddenly and walking towards the school entrance. After a while she whispered;

<<In the end you want to follow your own path, right? Becoming a great adventurer.>>

I stood still contemplating what she said, I felt a strange sense of guilt from this sentence she said. Igea stopped halfway and continued in a weak tone;

<<I can understand it, after all you want to become like dad. Unfortunately I don't know what to do with my life, since I know nothing about my mother. I could become an excellent housewife, but if you should no longer be there due to your commitments as an adventurer...>>

She stopped immediately after;

<<Ahah, I'm joking! >> she exclaimed at the end, returning with her previous vigor and starting to walk away.

<<Igea...>> I remained in front of the main door. I didn't understand what she wanted to tell me, maybe... she was afraid of being alone?

<<Ugh...>> I looked up, observing the school; it was three stories high, wooden structure and windows for each classroom.

<> I asked myself again, starting to enter the school.

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I reached the school corridor, it was quite simple.

And for being in the Third Ring it was quite well equipped, but it certainly had nothing to do with the innermost schools of Giarogia.

It had a wooden floor and walls, with different patterns decorating the floor and the walls uniquely painted brown.

Each classroom entered had a sliding door, and each school room was large enough to hold at least 25 desks.

This school had more than 300 students, all from the Third Ring.

As soon as I arrived, I took a deep breath and said;

<<Okay, the time has come. I'm finally 15 years old and if I pass this exam I will finally be able to truly become an adventurer.>>

One of my professors passed through the corridor. He was the one from Magical Science and was wearing a white shirt and black trousers, black hair and eyes of the same color.

<<Good morning, Professor Shigato.>> I pronounced formally.

<<Look who's here, good morning to you, Virtus. Have you prepared for the Qualifying Exam?>> asked the professor, stopping. He was holding a blue book in his hand, it was the teaching book for Magical Science.

<<Yeah, I can't wait anymore! I prepared myself properly for today, even if...>> I exclaimed fully excited, but there was one point that hurt a lot.

<> he replied, underlining how much I sucked at Magical Science.

<<Yeah... I tried to go over it again but... Some theories don't want me to get into it.>> I said perplexed, unfortunately I have always hated magical material, even though in itself, I love magic.

<<Ah, theories eh? It is certainly a very difficult topic for you, it is no coincidence that it is only integrated in the fourth class. But trust me, when it comes to magic the theories of a book won't be of much use to you.>> quoted the professor, then approached me, lowering himself to my height and touching my chest with his index finger, concluding;

<<The whole theory is inside your heart, you are the masters of your magic.>> once he finished the sentence, he got up and walked towards his class.

<<Good luck with your exams, Virtus.>> and he left.

<<The master of my own magic..?>> I thought all the time, as I started walking towards my classroom.

<<GOOD MORNING!~~>> I heard a scream coming from the other side of the corridor, I could see a person running, with two others behind him trying to keep up with him. I turned and noticed they were;

<<Oh... Arata. I notice that today you are more excited than usual.>> I replied seeing Arata running towards me.

His name was Arata Hasegato, a dear friend of mine, and the first classmate I became friends with when I first came to this school.

He had orange hair and orange eyes, and was a very energetic person.

His appearance was typical of an innocent boy, although his character was very impulsive, making him make choices without thinking twice.

He wasn't a very reliable person, but we loved him anyway.

<<We're here too.>> said a male voice, his name was Marco Ronbaru.

He had brown hair and green eyes, he was a very intelligent and mature person, contrary to what Arata showed.

He was the class nerd, excellent in all subjects and also a great, reliable companion.

Together with Arata, they were two friends on whom I had the greatest support, having accompanied me throughout these school years.

Even though he was extremely serious and mature, he managed to fit in with our demented and ironic group.

<<You who ignore me? Impossible.>> a female voice said immediately afterwards with a calm and sweet tone.

Her name was Lya Redefelt, she had long silver hair and yellow eyes.

Her way of doing her hair was very elegant and haughty, like her character.

She was very cryptic as a girl, she didn't show much emotion or show it often.

However, she was very sweet and when someone needed her, she was always there.

<<What are you saying, Lya?>> I replied with an embarrassed look.

Oh, right, she was also constantly making herself the victim of things that didn't really happen!

She always accused me of lewd acts even when it wasn't true.

<<Do I have to be careful today too? I don't know.>> she asked with a look that exclaimed "you're just a pervert after all".

<<Lya, today is the last day of school, you might feel a little pity for this boy.>> Marco said in my defense, turning to Lya who was to the right of her.

<<Thank you Marco!! At least you try to defend me!>> I said with tears in my eyes.

<<Ah! Right.>> Lya suddenly exclaimed with an expression of amazement.

<<Hm? What's wrong Lya?>> I asked curiously. Lya grabbed her school bag and popped out three small boxes. They were poorly wrapped, as if she had made them in a hurry, but you could see that they were little gift boxes.

<< T-these are for the three of you. >> she said, handing us these small boxes, while her gaze was directed towards the corridor window. Was she too embarrassed to look at us?

<<Uhh! A gift for us? Thank you so much Lya!!>> Arata exclaimed happily as she picked up her box.

<<Lya...>> I whispered, taking my gift in my hand;

<<Thank you so much.>> Lya turned to me and I smiled at her. She blushed and she rolled over;

<<Pervert.>>

<<Eh?>> I was stoned at her response, was she making fun of me? Meanwhile Arata and Marco opened the box, inside there was a bracelet made of copper. From Arata there was the sign of the rabbit, from Marco the lion and from me the heart.

<<What does this mean..?>> I asked at the sight of my bracelet, Lya turned and asked me with an extremely embarrassed face;

<<Don't you like it?>>

His blushing look and his eyes full of hope and expectation hit my heart hard, sending me into hysterics.

As if time had suddenly slowed down, my thoughts began to speed like light.

<<WAIT A MOMENT! It's not that I don't like it... Damn, my heart is pounding and I don't even know how to respond!! But I'm pretty sure that the fact that I gave myself a heart is not a normal thing at all! Come on, luckily I have plenty of time to think about it── no but what am I saying! Soon she'll think I don't like her and I'm still here thinking things I shouldn't---- but she's waiting for an answer, so I have to say something...AAAHH──!!>>

<<W-well, it's a heart.>> I replied.

<<Wait...what did I just say?>>

<<Yes, it's a heart, Virtus.>> Marco replied, looking at me with a perplexed face and a drop of sweat.

I was starting to sweat.

<<WHY DO I HAVE TO GIVE SUCH NONSENSE ANSWERS!!

So calm down for a moment, maybe I'm misunderstanding everything? Maybe it's his usual trap to call me a pervert? But if she wasn't and she really loves me I could hurt her, even if I don't want to --- but I don't know what to answer!!>> << What do you think?>> Lya asked immediately afterwards, still looking at me with her eyes of her full of expectations. The more she stared at me like that, the more I panicked.

<<DON'T RUSH ME HOLY RODYAK!! I don't even know how to answer and you're rushing me in such a hurry?! Normally in these situations the bell should ring, but why isn't it still ringing?! I can't take it anymore!>> I took Lya's shoulders and looked intensely into her eyes, to give her a gallant look.

She startled at my grasp, flinching briefly and looking at me with a panicked look.

She started to tremble, but I took all the courage I had, placing my last bet in a simple and direct sentence;

<<I'm sorry, but we are too young to get married.>>

My gaze continued to be serious, I was 100% convinced of what I was doing.

She stopped trembling, her embarrassment disappeared, and she slowly lowered her face, making it more and more gloomy.

<<Okay, after this I deserve to be called the worst thing possible.>> I thought, realizing what I did.

<<Virtus... If you want, after the Exam we will organize a funeral in your honor.>> Marco replied as he put his bracelet on her left arm.

<<Thanks, I'll need it.>>

Giarogia - District 33, Hallewart School - Year 703 - Qualifying Exams begin

Once we arrived in class and took our seats, our teacher entered: Hinata Railton.

<<Well class, we're all here... Today is an important day for all of you. Today all fifth year students will have to take an exam that will take them towards their dreamed paths. From today you will have to chase your goal and keep the name of the Silver Horse high! You are the future of the Nation, honoring the people who lived there and contributed to the evolution of humanity.>> she said slamming her fist on her chest, as a sign of respect for the nation of Giarogia. The Silver Horse was the symbol of the human nation, the flag that humanity chose to honor the Blue Goddess.

<<Well, having said this premise, let's move on to the exam. This Exam will be divided into four phases, which will target the four main subjects of the School: Magical Science, Rodyakan, Mathematics and History. Each Subject can provide you with 25 points, so you can accumulate a maximum of 100 points. The exam will start at 9am, and you have a maximum of 4 hours to finish.

And remember... To pass the exam with a passing grade you will need 80 points.>>

The clock hanging on the wall in front of us pointed to 8:59, and the second hand was moving very slowly upward, creating absurd tension in the classroom. In front of me there was a bundle of turned sheets, ready to be picked up and worked on by me.

Meanwhile, I took my pocket watch in my hand. It was like a good luck charm for me, hoping that I would have my father's support through this.

Then I remembered that I also had the bracelet Lya had given me, which I put on my right arm.

It too had become a good luck charm for me.

I looked at the papers in front of me again.

Inside those sheets was the answer I had been looking for for years.

Inside those sheets was the truth that was always hidden from me.

Inside those sheets... There was my destiny.

Those days of suffering had led me to this, when that man with emerald eyes saved me from death...

So the bell rang, and the exam began.

Meanwhile, in a place far from the Third Ring

A Guard in metal armor walked into a regal-looking room; it was the noble home of King Darlus Xenovia IV, who had requested his audience with his most trusted Guard in the Royal House.

<> said the Guard, bowing. On her chest he had a gold-colored badge representing the Silver Horse, he was part of the Royal House.

<<Good morning to you, Okada.>> the King sat down at the throne, and after a tired sigh asked;

<<Today is the Qualifying Exam for the schools of Giarogia, huh?>> he said. When he sat down, there was a heavy tiredness on his face, as if his life was now on the edge.

<<Exactly. This will be the eighty-second generation of cadets.>>

<<The eighty-second... How time has flown. As I am, I don't think I'll be able to reach the eighty-fifth generation... hm.>> he said, while he turned to the left side of the throne. There was his faithful weapon with which he fought as Warlord, his Hexella Cluster. Gold colored handle and a Hexella core inside a glass sphere.

<<How is your health situation? Did he have his morning check-up?>> asked the Guard, standing up and observing him.

<<Yes, and unfortunately it's not getting better... My time as King is almost over, and the Hexella is eating me alive. We must immediately find the next heir, someone outside of here holds the royal blood to be able to do this.>> after a short period of silence the King said;

<<Have already prepared the academies, surely this generation will be full of kids who want to join the Order of War. I hope they will carry the honor of the Silver Horse high.>>

<<Yes sir!>> the Guard cheered and then quickly left the room. The King smiled;

<>

A transparent figure revealed itself in the room. She sported long crimson hair and golden eyes, with a long red skirt dress.

<<Yes.>> Alice replied, materializing in front of King Darlus. She wore a youthful, mature and mischievous expression.

<<It's a matter of years now, Darlus.>> Alice continued in a cheerful tone.

<> she said, looking out to her right; there was a large glass cornice in which she could see all three walls of Giarogia.

<<They're looking for someone, or something.>> Alice replied as she approached me.

<<Blood from Hexella Knight?>>

<<Most likely. Something arose years ago that created a certain interest in those monsters. Unfortunately it was the fault of the Warlords, they had to extinguish them all.>>

The King began to laugh with difficulty;

<<Eh... So you make me feel guilty too. Maybe if they see us in difficulty, the Holy Blue Goddess will be able to help us repel them.>>

<<Do you still believe in fairy tales, Darlus? You are 203 years old, you should stop believing these legends. No one has ever spotted these people who call themselves Divinities, they are just mythological legends to give humanity a belief.>>

<<No... They exist. The legend of the Silver Horse was born for a reason. The same thing can be said of the Hexella power: you can both see and feel her, the Blue Goddess. If you do not possess the power of Hexella, you will never be able to understand. The Blue Goddess gives you life and health in exchange for your work and the annihilation of evil, namely Umbrexella. The Blue Goddess exists, and the Creator Dragons who created this world also exist. I'm sure, I dreamed of them. My dreams are premonitory, one day they will descend into these lands, giving us riches, and saving us from a pressing threat... Because the Blue Goddess wants us to become stronger and stronger in order to annihilate them.>>

<<Have you dreamed of such a thing? I know your premonitory dreams well, but I highly doubt this story.>>

<<Yes... I dreamed about her. A fabulous Goddess who would save us from a Forerunner invasion.>>

<<If you are convinced of it... I won't interfere in your dreams.>> Alice left, becoming invisible again.

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Giarogia - District 33, Hallewart School - Year 703 - 5 Minutes before the end of the Qualifying Exams

<<AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH! SOMEONE SAVE ME!! Damn Magical Science!! How the hell am I supposed to know how to transmute Hikari Mana into densified Mana?! I have never managed to densify Mana, in fact, I have never used it yet!!>>

<<There were 5 minutes to go until the end of the exam, and luckily it seemed to be going well, but Magical Science was the only big flaw! Unfortunately, I have always hated Magical Theory...>>

And without me realizing it, these five minutes immediately passed.

Professor Railton came by to get all the students' papers and she dismissed us and finished today's lessons.

Giarogia - District 33, Hallewart School - Year 746 - At the school exit, road to District 33

<<*sigh* damn... Do we seriously have to wait a week before getting our results?>> I said as I walked with Arata, Marco and Lya. Arata walked faster and turned towards us;

<<How about we go and celebrate?!>>

<<Huh?>> we gasped in chorus, then Marco asked;

<<But we still don't even know if all four of us are qualified!>>

Lya interrupted Marco with a shrewd tone and look;

<<Who exactly are you talking about?>>

<<HA-AH! Definitely him...>> exclaimed Arata.

<<Why do I feel nominated...?> I asked annoyed.

<<Well it's normal, we all know that you had too many gaps in Magical Science, and even in the Rodyakan language you're in a very bad situation!>> Arata exclaimed while he looked at me with a carefree face.

<<YES! BUT---- at least I get back on track with Maths and History, and if I'm honest the Rodyakan questions weren't that difficult. Magical Science on the other hand...>>

<<Virtus... Which question did you have difficulty with?>> Lya asked, turning towards me. Meanwhile we continued walking.

<<Ehm... Well, it's not something to boast about... I think. I couldn't answer the question about the densification of Mana Hikari... Here.>>

<<You seriously don't know how Mana Hikari densifies?>> asked Marco, the intellectual on duty.

<<Well sorry Mr. know-it-all.>> I replied annoyed.

<<Even perverts sometimes have comprehension problems. Leave him alone, Marco.>>

<<Why do I feel both protected and insulted at the same time?>>

After a short time I thanked Lya.

<<For what?>> Lya asked confused.

<<Well, surely if I get promoted I already know it will be thanks to your lucky charm given to me. So I thank you right now, because I'm sure it will be like this!>> I exclaimed smiling at her. Lya turned away embarrassed.

<< I-I didn't do it because I wanted to help you... >> she replied subtly, looking away from me.

I wonder if even after this long period of school, we could all be together.

To have fun, play, smile together... At the expense of the paths we choose to take.

Would be a dream.

──── One week later ────

A week passed, I went to school together with Igea who willingly accompanied me, and at the entrance of the school there were numerous sheets hanging there representing all the classes of the fifth year, and after finding my name I discovered the truth regarding the progress of my examination;

<<81 POINTS!! YES!!>> I exclaimed happily, discovering with great surprise that I had passed my exam.

<<Congratulations Big Brother!>> Igea exclaimed happily.

Suddenly Lya who was behind me approached and started talking;

<<Ah, you're here too, Virtus. Congratulations on passing the exam.>>

<<Thank you so much Lya! In the end, I told you that she would bring me luck! >> I exclaimed again with so much happiness and showing a big thumb as a sign of satisfaction.

<<Ah, you are the much talked about Lya so...>> Igea said approaching Lya. She hadn't met many of my classmates yet, and this was Lya's first time.

<<Yes, it's me. Do you have something to tell me?>> Lya replied with an indifferent face and tone.

<<No nothing, just that... What does that bracelet you gave him mean? I would really like to know.>> asked Igea, pointing with her finger at the bracelet I had on her right wrist.

<<A 13 year old girl shouldn't meddle in grown-ups' affairs.>> Lya replied with an aura of supreme authority.

<<Nono wait, why is she calling herself great?>> I thought surprised, starting to notice an aura of challenge from both of them.

Sparks of combat seemed to be flying between the two girls, and the gazes became penetrating.

A bit of tension had arisen, which fortunately was destroyed when Marco and Arata arrived.

<<Hey guys... Huh, what's wrong with you two?>> Arata asked; Lya and Igea responded in unison:

<<It's none of your business!>>

<<Okay... There's big trouble here.>> Arata said frightened, taking two steps back.

<> I replied perplexed.

Suddenly a white horse with a cart began to be heard in the distance, and Lya eyed it.

After a few seconds of silence, Lya spoke;

<<Guys, thank you so much for supporting me over these years.>>

<<To what do we owe this sudden sentence?>> Arata asked, but Lya gave no answer. Suddenly a cart pulled by a white horse stopped in front of the school.

<<A white horse...? It's beautiful, I've never seen one! >> Igea exclaimed, thrilled at the sight, but she still didn't know what was about to happen.

The sight of that white horse was anything but positive.

<<The fact that a white horse stopped here stinks...>> Marco contemplated. Lya sighed and soon after she walked towards the carriage.

<<Is it yours?!>> we exclaimed in chorus, but Lya only responded with a;

<<Excuse me, but today is the last time we can see each other.>> a weaker tone came out of her mouth, accompanied by a noticeable tremor from her arms.

<<I will have to follow in the footsteps of my House Redefelt from today on. Normally I shouldn't have to come here, and have further contact with you... But at least I wanted to have the opportunity to see your smiles one last time. I hope you will understand me, and forgive me.>> Lya finished, starting to walk towards the wagon.

<< It can't be... so... >> I thought, remembering the bracelet she gave us. I suddenly realized that the reason behind her giving us those bracelets was to ensure that we would never forget her. That smile... It wasn't happiness, it was a smile...

<<No wait Lya! >> I exclaimed, sprinting forward and pulling her by the arm.

<<Why do you have to go, I thought we would stay together... Forever, the four of us... We still have a long way to go together! >> I shouted at her, but Lya couldn't react. She was shaking, surely she was holding back from crying.

<<Lya...>> I was perplexed by what I saw, she didn't want to be seen as weak at that moment, yet she looked like she was fighting against herself.

<<Leave me alone... Please.>> he heard her whisper. And without thinking, I slowly let go of her arm. I didn't want her to continue to suffer, since I only thought about it later that it wasn't easy for her to abandon us either. Before she got on her chariot I asked her in tears;

<<What will you do from today on?>>

She did not answer, but a man in a white shirt came out of the wagon she said;

<<Come Lya, you don't have to deal with these rats anymore.>>

<<Rats...?>> I asked, in the meantime Marco took a few steps forward and asked, raising his voice;

<<Who did you dare call rats?!>>

The man held a monocle in his left eye, and a proud look typical of a noble.

From his physique I would have given him 35 years.

<<You are rats, and rats cannot reach a parrot.>>

Marco started laughing;

<<Heheh... And what was a parrot doing among rats then?>>

The man clenched his fists, but Lya took her arm and pleaded;

<<Please, father. Leave them alone. I only ask you this.>>

<<What, is that his father?>> asked Arata.

The man tightened his fist on the arm on which Lya was resting, then dodged her and climbed onto the cart.

Lya followed soon after, climbing into the back of the wagon, closing the door.

After a short time, the horse began to neigh and they slowly left the school square, leaving it with an air of sadness and desolation.

We never saw Lya again.

<<What kind of problems did that man have? And then a white horse, at least comes from the First Ring. But what was he doing here with us?>> asked Marco.

<> I replied.

<<Lya... Who are you really? What does House Redefelt plan to make you do?>>

────────────────────────────

It all starts from now...

My life was always meaningless, abandoned by everyone and everything.

But when I was saved by that man, and taken into care by the Praxis Order, everything changed.

Igea, Arata, Marco and... Lya.

Thanks to them, I am what I am today.

────────────────────────────

<<I'll find her again.>> I said suddenly.

<<What? And as an excuse?>> asked Marco.

<<You're out of your mind, Virtus!>> exclaimed Arata.

<<Big brother, what do you have in mind?>>

<<From today onwards I am no longer a child named Virtus. I am Giarogia's new swordsman, Yukkito! And I will be able to enter the Royal House of the First Ring to get Lya back!>>

I exclaimed these exact words before walking back home and starting to change my life forever.

From then on I only had one goal; save Lya Redefelt from her house. Nothing else was important to me at that moment.

──── Meanwhile... ────

<<And so I did it too, eh?>>

A strange boy was looking through some papers in the school office, noticing that he passed the qualifying exam with a 93.

<<Good... So the House of Blades of Destiny will be able to accept me.>> he whispered, while he took the papers and placed them on the secretary's desk.

<<Do you want a copy?>> asked the secretary who was working at his desk.

<<Yes.>>

<<Tell me your name.>>

<<Kevin... Kevin Nakano.>>

The secretary began to create a copy with a pen and new documents, while the young boy Kevin remained in thought.

<<Good. Here is the copy, good luck, may the Blue Goddess always be with you.>>

He took the copy and left.

<< My life, starts from now! >> thought Kevin, ready to enter the Silver Sword Academy to follow his goal: to become the new member of the Blades of Destiny.

◖Fine Capitolo 1◗

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