REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC72- Past(2)
The person whom she saw before she fell asleep was the same person she saw after waking up.
"Morning." Beatrice softly said as she stretched her arms and let out a soft yawn.
"Good morning. Do you feel any discomfort?" Alex asked which caused her to chuckle,
"I should be asking you that…ah! Umm, can you tell me something…" Her drowsiness vanished as she seriously asked, "Can you tell me if there is something wrong with your grimoire?"
Alex frowned; unsure what was wrong before he checked,
[Name: Alex]
[Age: 17]
[Str: 34] (Avg: 30)
[Spd: 42] (Avg: 30)
[Int: 81] (Avg: 25)
[Skill: Storage, Sword Arts, Rapid regeneration, Heightened comprehensibility.]
[Soul Energy: 1020]
[Upper limit: 500]
[Lower limit: 25]
…
He shook his head, "There is nothing wrong; I gained Soul energy and my stats have increased a bit after fighting those beasts last night."
Hearing his words, Beatrice heaved a long sigh of relief.
Alex couldn't stop himself from asking, "Can you tell me what happened to me last night? It's all foggy but I could tell something happened last night which has affected everyone in this mansion."
Earlier he noticed how Amanda was dodging his eyes and wasn't looking at him when talking. It showed that she was apprehensive in his presence.
Beatrice got up and sat while facing him. Taking the glass and jug she filled it to the brim.
Alex waited silently as Beatrice drank a few mouthfuls of water before telling him, "I don't think you are prepared to hear the truth."
"If you don't want any innocent to die because I am being kept in the dark, then sure you can choose whether to tell me or not."
Alex couldn't make her believe him so he just offered her the possible future.
Beatrice was rendered speechless. She couldn't believe that the same boy who immediately agreed with anyone who showed a bit of aggression toward him was now talking so sensibly.
Heaving a sigh, she said, "Okay, I will tell you."
She took out a small orb from her pocket and dropped it on the ground, before a barely visible force field erected around the duo.
Alex didn't need to ask what it was since he was aware of the commonly found sound isolation artifact.
The lady was quite hesitant, Alex noticed. However, he was persistent. He has to know what the heck happened last night for him to traumatize his friend.
"Alex…Celeria and Brendon aren't your real parents."
"I am aware ... and before you ask how, it's pretty obvious that no parents would abandon their child just because he was accused. So yeah, it was pretty obvious."
Beatrice was indeed shocked that not only Hector, who was a wise and old person with quite a lot of experience, but a teenager like Alex also noticed the deceit of those two.
Since she didn't need to show him the same projection of that night, she continued with revelation,
"The Nation in the north doesn't work under the same monarchical system as Grimland. There are three major clans running Everloyr. And among the three clans, Frostbate is at the superior position."
"Every new law or the budget is passed by them and they have the authority to change the decision of the council—unless the said decision isn't regarded as for everyone's betterment."
Alex nodded, urging her to continue.
"The patriarch of the Frostbate clan, Sir Eryndor, has three wives and you were his third wife's eldest child."
She then went ahead and told him everything she told Hector. How Alex was adored and was said to have the potential to become the next clan head. His behavior during the childhood phase and his relationship with his siblings.
Alex showed no clear reaction to her words until she reached that point where he showed signs of being inhumane.
"I ate their grimoire?"
"Yes…as what you told us. Since it happened so suddenly, no one saw what you did, but everyone noticed young master Elion fading."
"And when you were asked, you revealed that you found his grimoire appetizing."
Now Alex recalled what was so delicious looking last night. It was the grimoire of the wolf that he devoured.
'Was Alex canonically like this….then why didn't he show such traits when he got killed by the Soulless-ah!' How can he forget that soulless beings do not possess a grimoire?
"So after that happened…the council was united to take the decision of what should be done."
"This council consisted of members from every clan and three members from outside any clan. And the decisions they take are mostly accepted by the people and the clan members."
Slight annoyance appeared on her face as she added, "Sir Elion was the second son of Patriarch's first wife—Lady Sienna. And Lady Sienna's father was among the council who conducted your trial."
Alex moved his head in a semi-circular motion while he added, "So he took the revenge of his grandson by sentencing me to life imprisonment."
Beatrice grimly nodded, "Yes, however, since there were no records about the skill you possess, it was decided to first suppress your curse."
"A team of seven members was assigned for the job that suppressed that skill of yours from your grimoire and erased your memories until that time."
With a sad look, she added, "Among those seven members was my mother."
Releasing a heavy sigh she added, "The only person who opposed the decision of locking you up was your mother. And her demand might have been heard considering the Patriarch loved her dearly…until she was framed to be cheating on the Patriarch."
Taking a pause she added, "Rather than saving her child from the prison, the pitiful lady was punished."
**CRACK**
The handle of the chair cracked as the strength behind his hold elevated suddenly.
Alex looked confused about why he just felt the sudden anger…even though he doesn't know his mother.
In the first place, he wasn't Alex and it wasn't his obligation to care about his parents….right?
Then why did he suddenly feel like this?
Alex, with a frown, asked the lady, "Is there any way to know more about this seal or somehow erase it for like forever?"
Beatrice expected this; as such, she told him, "Those who can help you are the council members and the remaining six members who put the seal on you."
"Do you know where I can find them?"
There was a certain apprehension in his voice that Beatrice noticed, and she knew the reason behind it.
Beatrice calmly explained to him, "Look, Alex, these six people can only be summoned by the council, but threatening the council would complicate things. Rather I have a better and straightforward solution."
"Tell me." Alex urged, calming down his nerves as he did so.
"In a month a tournament would be arranged that would allow the people from different tribes and clans to show their might and prove their worth. The one who wins the tournament can demand anything—a role in the council, a portion of the treasure…anything."
Alex massaged his temples, "So you mean to say, I have to participate in this tournament and get myself a wish to know about this seal?"
Beatrice hesitantly added, "Or…you can use that wish to grant your mother freedom."
Alex didn't reply to her instantly and remained sitting there in silence for a long time.
He has no memories of this said mother, except for those few instances he saw last night.
There was something certain from those memories; his mother dearly loved him. And because of him, she was framed and robbed of her freedom.
For the first time in years, Alex felt a peculiar ache in his chest—a mixture of guilt, confusion, and anger. Memories of a woman who held him close whispered words of love and shielded him with her frail body flickered in his mind.
Yet, these were not his memories—or at least, they didn't feel like they belonged to him. They were foreign like a story read too many times but never truly understood.
Alex would be lying to say that he didn't feel a little inclined to save her. However, his priority lies in getting rid of this damn seal.
After all, his focus was on the upcoming ascension contest. The enemies awaiting there are far stronger than the big wolf they faced yesterday.
Going there without fully aware of his own body…the skills he possesses, and the restriction forced on him would be devastating.
There was a certain hope in his heart that…maybe if he could get control over his hunger then it would be his best weapon during the ascension contest.
'So the tournament arc is it…' He wouldn't say he was confident in single-handedly winning this, but yes, if it was against humans, Alex was confident in his chance of winning.
Suddenly Alex had a thought that he didn't restrict within his mind and asked her,
"Hey, Beatrice…what if, as a reward, I ask for the clan head's position?"
"...."
—--------**---------
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC73- Returned to daily life
The whole morning, Alex and Beatrice were involved in the conversation, the prior receiving knowledge of his birthplace and the criteria for joining the tournament.
It would happen right after the summit, which would be taking place in Grimland.
Beatrice later said she needed to return, since,
"I am still not discovered as an accomplice to my mother. So I need to return as soon as I can."
Alex raised his brows, "Won't they suspect you? I mean, you often come here to check on me?"
Beatrice shook her head, "As much as it pains to say, the people of the clan have slowly forgotten about you—except for the patriarch who still goes to meet your mother seldom."
Alex took a strong gulp upon hearing that.
Beatrice left not so long after with Hector. The older male told Amanda and Edric to rest here for the time being and wait for further orders from the Academy.
Given Aborne is no longer in the condition to continue with the internship, Edric might have to return to the Academy.
Now, in the dining hall sat only five members, two being the members of the family while the other three were the students of Soulforge.
Edric and David were tired and wounded so they only had soup for dinner and decided to turn in early today.
The head position was left vacant since it was the seat for the family patriarch. On the right, Alex sat between two females.
Across him were two vacant seats beside Amanda, but no one chose to sit there.
'I feel cramped…' Alex inwardly muttered as Celestria was peeking glances at him and Rebecca was blatantly staring at him with a grin.
"Here, try this. It suits your taste." Rebecca suddenly picked a small shrimp that was coated in glaring red spices.
She brought it near Alex's lips, and subconsciously he would have bit on it as well, if only Celestria hadn't held Rebecca by her wrist, and smilingly told her,
"Alex's stomach cannot digest spicy food. I wonder if you want him to suffer."
Rebecca glared at the girl before freeing her hand, "You think Alex is weak? Pathetic."
Celestria's smile widened, "It's not about weak or strong, Miss Steelhound. It's about preference; Alex prefers delicate and soft food, and hot and wild food makes him suffer. So I guess you can take the hint?"
Saying so, she extended a tender and creamy piece of chicken cutlet in his direction.
Amanda raised her brows, she didn't know Celestria had it in her.
Veronica was surprised as well; seeing the teenager making it evident about what he prefers and that Rebecca should stay away from him.
'Alex is quite popular among ladies~'
Rebecca snarled, "Tastes change with time!"
Celestria retaliated, "But the general preference remains the same!"
Alex, who was getting tired of all the nonsense(he didn't understand the actual meaning behind the food war), suddenly bit on both chicken and shrimp.
"Hoh~"
"Wow~"
Amanda and Veronica instantly showed a surprised smile while Rebecca and Celestria were flabbergasted by his 'choice'.
Rebecca and Celestria both glanced at each other, before returning to focus on their food.
A heavy silence descended in the room after that.
….
"Yo, doing good?" Later that night, Alex went to Edric's room and found the guy reading a book.
Edric softly nodded as he rested the book away and gestured for Alex to sit down.
Edric's body hadn't recovered completely and there were still dark burnt marks there; half of his face, left arm, and everything down his waist was charred.
Although he didn't look in pain, Alex knew moving around would cause him great agony.
"You aren't going to blame yourself for all this, right?" Edric asked, his brows drawing closer.
Alex scoffed, "Like hell. It was your choice to stay back."
The frown from his face disappeared and Edric heaved a sigh, "Yeah, exactly. And not like this would be the first time I am getting hurt, and thanks to this experience, now I know where I should be heading."
"Hmm?" Alex asked, "What do you mean?"
Edric explained, "Becoming a knight was my dream, however, after Sir Aborne visited me a few hours ago, I realized something."
With his eyes resting on nothing particular, the raven-haired added, "I need to go beyond the level of a knight. Sir Aborne said, that as of now, I am already stronger than any knight under his command. And maybe stronger than Sir Aborne too."
Heaving a sigh, he concluded, "I need to…widen my horizon."
Alex nodded slowly, happy that Edric had come to this realization on his own. Having a small ambition would cost him dearly when that otherworldly bastard shows up.
After a brief pause, Alex changed subjects, "You sleeping here alone?"
That question took him by surprise as Edric said, "You know right…that I and Amanda are still not there."
Alex raised his brows, "Yeah, social norms."
Edric narrowed his eyes, "Why does it seem you don't give an F about them?"
"Because I don't."
Edric chuckled, "Get yourself a girlfriend before we continue this conversation."
Alex heaved a sigh. That mockery, hah…
Alex didn't stay there for long, and after saying, 'Take care', he walked out.
—-------**-------
Ten days went by. That incident has shaken Amanda down to her core and she still gets nightmares of that night when she was inches away from death.
Although she has yet to recover from the trauma of being helpless, her relationship with Alex returned to normal.
After spending a few days recovering, Amanda, along with Celestria—the latter being awfully reluctant—returned to the Capital.
Since Aborne was injured and his team was annihilated, he decided to take a break for a month; as such, Edric's internship was shifted to Steelhound—a decision that Eric took after he saw Edric taking that attack and coming out alive.
No one argued over the decision since there was no better mentor than the Steelhounds who could teach a warrior at Edric's level.
….
In the capital, inside a closed space, Amanda was engaged in her training.
Amanda stood still, the blindfold pressing lightly against her skin. The indoor training ground was silent, the darkness around her heavy and suffocating. Then, with a faint hum, the first target emerged—silent as a ghost and coated in a thin, shimmering layer of Soul energy.
She didn't need her eyes. Amanda's senses flared, sharp and unyielding. A flick of her wrist summoned a spear of ice that formed instantly, frost spreading along its edge like hungry vines.
Crash!
The spear shot forward, shattering the target in a single, precise blow. Before the fragments hit the ground, two more targets materialized from opposite corners, their Soul energy rippling faintly in the dark.
Amanda turned sharply, her boots scraping against the stone floor. A wave of frost erupted from her outstretched palm, freezing the air into jagged shards. The shards exploded outward, slicing cleanly through the approaching targets.
The ground beneath her chilled as she pivoted. Another target appeared, hovering just above her. She raised her hand, and a massive spike of ice launched upward, piercing through the Soul-coated surface with ease.
Targets appeared faster, their Soul energy pulsing ominously. Amanda moved like a predator, swift and relentless. The sound of cracking ice filled the air as she dismantled each threat with brutal efficiency. Frost clung to her every step, the ground glimmering in her wake.
By the time the final target burst into icy fragments, the training ground was silent once more. Amanda stood amidst the shattered remains, her breath steady and cold mist swirling around her.
For the final strike, she unsheathed the short sword she carried. Her eyes remained still unneeded as she sensed her target moving left to right.
The girl pinpointed the distance and the direction of the target and anticipated where it would be when she began approaching it with heavy steps.
Just a few meters away from the target, she leaned forward, attached the sword to her hip and after blowing a cold breath, she launched forward
SHLINK
In an instant, she was standing behind the target which was still moving. However, with a breeze, the upper half of the training doll was cleaved and fell to the ground with a dull thud.
Clap Clap
The sound of someone clapping resonated as Amanda removed her blindfolds and turned towards the familiar man.
"Marvelous, Amanda. You have beaten your own and even my record."
Amanda faintly smiled as Devon approached her with a smiling face.
However, his smile turned into a smirk before he asked, "The last attack…don't think I didn't notice it."
Amanda rolled her eyes, "So what? He nearly killed me, can't I copy one of his moves?"
The last sword strike was an imitation of Alex's sword art.
Devon chuckled before telling her, "Now, today's training is done. Return to your room."
Amanda raised her brows, "But there is still some time left before breakfast?"
Devon informed her, "I am chosen as an escort so I need to leave as soon as I can."
Amanda hummed in questioning as she asked, "Escorting whom?"
However, she soon regretted asking him,
"The greatest hope of humanity and your elder sister~"
—------**-------
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC74- Internship ends
Under bright daylight, two young men could be seen currently engaged in a brutal war against a horde of Minotaurs as a part of their training.
Eric stood aside, his back resting against a boulder as he closely inspected the duo; noting what could be improved.
On one side,
Edric leaped like a blur, his wolf form crashing into the first Minotaur. His steel knuckles crunched into its snout, shattering bone. The beast reeled back, but Edric followed with a vicious uppercut that sent it flying.
Another Minotaur charged from his blind side, swinging a colossal axe. Edric ducked low, swiped its legs out with a sweep of his claws, then slammed his fist into its throat. The beast's bellow turned into a choked gurgle as it collapsed.
Snarling, Edric tackled two more at once. He ripped through their defenses, his claws tearing flesh and his fists smashing ribs. A third Minotaur lunged from behind. Without looking, Edric spun, catching its horn and twisting violently. The sickening snap echoed as the beast fell lifeless.
While Edric fought like a storm, Alex was a whirlwind of precision. His blade cut through the air, slicing into the first Minotaur's chest. The beast swung a spiked mace, but Alex sidestepped, his movements sharp and measured. He delivered a lightning-fast diagonal slash, severing the creature's arm.
A second Minotaur tried to overwhelm him with brute strength, its war hammer crashing down.
Alex met it with Sword Art: Linear Slash. His blade arced in a fluid motion, deflecting the hammer and slicing deep into its side in one smooth strike. Blood sprayed, but Alex was already moving, his sword glowing faintly as he unleashed Quick Silver. Three Minotaurs fell in quick succession, their bodies cleaved with surgical precision.
"Alex left!" Edric shouted.
Alex pivoted as a charging Minotaur came into view. He crouched low, his sword flashing upward in a deadly crescent. The Minotaur's momentum carried it straight onto his blade, and it crumpled.
"Behind you!" Alex called back.
Edric didn't turn. Instead, he leaped backward, slamming both fists down on the Minotaur Alex warned him about. The ground cracked under the beast's weight as it collapsed.
The horde surged again, and Edric shifted into his elf form, his speed doubling. His strikes became even more lethal—blurs of knuckles and claws that left Minotaurs staggering and disoriented. Alex, in tandem, activated Consecutive Slashes, darting between enemies like a shadow. His blade found every weak point: throats, joints, and hearts.
The last wave came, but Alex and Edric didn't falter.
Edric grabbed a Minotaur by the horns, hoisting it into the air before slamming it onto another, crushing them both. Blood painted his fists as he roared, tearing through the remaining enemies with savage efficiency.
Alex faced two Minotaurs wielding shields. With a flick of his wrist, he unleashed Tempest Dart The force of a small stone strike blasted through their defenses, shattering their shields and killing them in one fluid motion.
He winced slightly but that didn't stop him from advancing towards the last standing beast.
Being done with his target as well, Edric also lunged at the remaining beast.
The figure of two warriors, possessing immense blood lust and covered in their comrades' blood and filth, broke the Minotaur from within as the hammer from its hand dropped.
Alex's figure vanished just meters away from the Minotaur, severing its head with a precise cleave, and Edric shot like a cannonball and pierced the beast through its chest, creating a gaping hole in the process.
THUD
A dull thud resounded as Edric and Alex stood side by side. One of them looked unaffected and still quite fresh despite the fact that he dispatched over thirty Minotaurs just now.
Edric looked quite nasty, with his body coated with blackish-red blood and the innards of the beasts hanging down his neck.
"Gross."
Edric wryly smiled hearing that remark, "Without a sword, you would have looked just like me."
Alex shook his head, "Nothing can make me as disgusting as you. I am elegant and precise."
"Oh, yeah? Like a princess?" Edric purposely slammed his body into Alex to taint his 'oh-so-magnificent' form.
Alex clicked his tongue and began walking meters away from the disgusting being.
Edric took his chance and again planned to slam into his friend—however, this time Alex simply paused in his track and raised his foot, which was enough to make the guy trip.
"Haah~stop playing around," Eric told them as he held Edric by his collar before he could hit the tree and pulled him back.
As the duo stood before the young master of the Steelhouse clan, they were met by a shocking announcement,
"Your internship concludes here."
That surprised Edric as he asked, "But there are still fifteen days left?"
"I am talking about Alex; he has to go for a task and I cannot prevent it from happening. So yes, his internship is over."
Alex frowned, "What do you mean task? Who assigned me for it?" During the internship this was unexpected. And there were things Alex had to learn while being here.
His growth within the Steelhound's territory was moving exceptionally well. But now this…
"I have no information regarding the said task. I just received the orders from the central ministry to send you to Ownhorg today."
Alex was completely clueless about what this was about, but since this concerned national importance, he couldn't ask for more.
Heaving a sigh he nodded, "Okay, when do I leave?"
"I have arranged a carriage which would leave in an hour. Go pack your bags."
Alex nodded and began walking away and following him, Edric also began to walk nonchalantly.
THUD
However, a groan escaped his throat as Eric brought his hand on his shoulder and said, "Where do you think you are going?"
…
Alex returned to the mansion and went to take a bath.
Celestria often sends him letters, and she never mentions anything regarding this sudden task, implying she has no idea about it as well.
But well, he has somehow achieved what he aimed for. His stats have grown, and now they look like this,
[Name: Alex]
[Age: 17]
[Str: 44] (Avg: 30)
[Spd: 61] (Avg: 30)
[Int: 81] (Avg: 25)
[Skill: Storage, Sword Arts, Rapid regeneration, Heightened comprehensibility.]
[Soul Energy: 2201]
[Upper limit: 500]
[Lower limit: 25]
…
As of now, he could easily fight against multiple wolves and utilize several sword arts without causing much damage to his body.
He has made progress in Moon Dance as well; now he can dance in a full semi-circle, and not even once has he released a bit of his presence.
As a spy and assassin, this skill would have helped him greatly in his previous life. But well.
About Tempest Dart, then Alex no longer tears off his muscles while utilizing that attack…but if only he remains mindful of his movements. Slight miscalculation and boom.
"Haah~" Climbing out of the bathing pool, he wiped his body and tied the towel around his waist.
Walking inside his room, he was surprised to see Rebecca sitting on his bed with a mischievous smile on her face.
"You…I thought you were gone somewhere." After that day when Celestria returned, Rebecca seldom appeared before him.
"I was told to hunt to keep my mind away from you. But when I heard you were going, I couldn't resist." She slowly got up, as she said so.
Each step of hers rang in his ears, her waist swaying sensually as she stepped closer to him. Her scent was overwhelming as she stood near him.
She slowly brought her arms and rested on his shoulders.
With her red ruby eyes shining with a tempting glow, she said, "You know I can give you everything right? Love, money, power, protection. You won't need to lift your blade again if you just promise to stay by my side."
Bringing her face closer she whispered in his ear, "Just accept me, darling. I promise to keep you happy for the rest of your life."
Alex looked into her eyes, a soft sigh escaping his lips.
He didn't scold her or push her away this time.
Very calmly, he told her, "Look, Rebecca, even if I want to, I can't stay idle and stop doing what I have been doing. There is something I must do to ensure a better future for myself…and for others. So no, I can't accept your proposal."
Rebecca never stopped smiling as she tilted her head and said, "So you are never going to accept the fact that I love you?"
"I do…but I don't think I can reciprocate your feelings…but yeah, if you want you can have my blood." Alex tilted his head and offered his neck.
Alex remained silent for a few moments, expecting her to bite into his neck just like that day…however, all he felt was her tender lips on his cheek.
Alex opened his eyes and looked at her in surprise.
Rebecca was slowly retreating with her hands attached behind her back, as she said,
"Without love, the blood won't taste sweet. I will wait for you to fall for me."
Alex asked, " What if that day never comes?"
"Then it would be my loss…bye~"
He still can't understand what that girl thinks.
—-------**--------
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC75- Another?
Being one of the head priests in the Cathedral allows me many rights in Grimland, like access to any church across the nation or preventing any organization if they are conducting evil practices.
I am respected by many and adored by many. I have helped many in getting rid of their sins and conducted many trials in which I have saved the innocent and caught the culprit.
In the cathedral as well, I am well-known and respected. However, all this authority and respect was of no use if I could not stop the woman I adore from leaving the church.
When I joined the church, she was just sixteen years old, and now, I am twenty-four, and she is twenty-two—yet even after coming this far, she hasn't understood my feelings.
And now she is adamant on leaving her home to join some trivial meeting between nations?
"I think we should rethink this."
At the entrance of the church where numerous nuns and priests stood, I called out,
"I think Your Holiness needs to stay within the church. And if she really wants then we can have the summit arranged in the cathedral?" I suggested, and given that many others were concerned about her security, many of them looked interested in my idea.
I glanced at the Saintess…but her expression remained unreadable.
Maybe…she no longer wants to go out? Or has she finally realized my feelings?!
I turned my attention towards the golden-haired man, with a smile never leaving my face as I said, "Father Stephen? What do you say?"
The head priest slowly shook his head, "Arranging the summit in such a short duration would not be possible, given we need to be careful about the foreign delegations."
I frowned, barely stopped myself from complaining, as I said, "We have the best holy magic user…aren't we the best people-"
"Father Christopher." A chill ran down my spine as, for the first time in months, I heard her voice.
Because of the veil over her eyes, only her supple red lips were visible, which currently were stretched in a soft smile.
"We have already agreed upon this decision so why argue over it again?" Her voice dripped with the sweetest honey that can easily enchant anyone who is new in her presence. Her allure, even without her revealing her face, was at the peak of beauty; making it impossible to resist for anyone.
And that's why I am worried that someone might bother the Saintess out there.
"Ah, the carriage is here." Suddenly, someone called out, and every eye turned towards the said carriage.
However, my eyes never left her…seeing her excitedly turning her head and looking at the carriage gave me a heartache. Although I wasn't happy that she was leaving me, this different side of hers was satisfying to watch.
… However, beyond all this, there was something that has been bothering me for a while now.
Why this sudden enthusiasm to join the summit? And her frequent letter exchange with the Grandmaster of the Royal Court and the Headmaster of the Soulforge Academy gave off a very dangerous vibe.
There was something definitely up that could disrupt her purity and focus from her belief and the church.
No, I cannot let that happen. Thankfully, I was allowed to accompany the Saintess so I could keep an eye on everything.
'I won't let anyone have you….the only person you can belong to is me.'
—------**-------
Alex was told to report to the camp settled in Ownhorg.
It took him almost three hours to reach here on a horse.
There was no significant part of this town that could make it a tourist attraction. It was just a small town that came in the middle of various routes, like a conjunction.
Army barracks and hotels were present in abundance here since the border was not too far away, so those soldiers who didn't want to return home or stay on the battleground liked to stay at places like Ownhorg.
Soldiers and civilians were commonly found on the streets as Alex advanced toward the military camp; as Eric told him.
"You must be Alex," Just as he reached the camp, someone called out; ushering the silver head to disembark the horse and approach the soldier.
The soldier had curly brown hair and the same shade of eyes. He extended his hand for a shake, "The name is Liam. Nice to meet you, Alex."
"Likewise, Liam." Alex shook his hand with a nod.
The older one then turned toward the camp and said, "I received the report about your arrival and prepared a resting camp, just in case."
Alex was interested in something else, "Did they tell you why I was called here?"
Liam paused and looked at the younger one with his brows elevated, "They didn't inform you?"
"No…"
Liam sighed with a smile extending his lips before he gestured for Alex to enter the tent first.
Alex did as he was asked, while maintaining his guard, just in case.
Liam first used the same artifact that Beatrice used to create a sound isolation field before he began,
"Well, it is understandable that they didn't tell you about it through Steelhounds, since this is essentially being kept a secret."
Alex was intrigued, "What is it that even the trusted Steelhounds cannot know?"
Liam turned to look at the silver head before asking, "Are you aware of the being who is hailed as the Greatest Hope of Humanity and someone who holds greater importance than the Majesty himself?"
Alex didn't have to think more than once to draw a conclusion, "The Divine Saintess, blessed by the Goddess of Life? The only being who can chant Absolute Heal and someone who is hailed as the Holy Maiden in the church capital?"
Liam was impressed by his knowledge, and it helped that he didn't have to explain her importance to Alex.
"Yes…and that person is joining the summit this year."
Alex narrowed his eyes; he had heard about it from Amanda, but she said that her older sister—the Saintess—was returning home. He doesn't remember if she mentioned anything about the Summit.
"And you, Alex, are going to be her escort."
Alex's eyes widened hearing that, however, before he could say anything, Liam explained,
"There will be others as well, to protect her. The soldiers from the capital and Sir Devon himself. But you will be protecting her from the shadows. You have to keep an eye on her carriage all the time but not appear anywhere around her until she reaches the main palace."
Alex now understood his role; a bodyguard in disguise.
It wasn't surprising that the Saintess was receiving so much protection, given how much the different nations were trying to get her for themselves. And the pursuers aren't limited only to the human race.
Until now she was protected since the Saintess seldom left the Cathedral—possibly one of the safest establishments in the world—however, now, her security might get compromised due to this sudden wish to join the summit.
"Any idea why this sudden change in plans?" Alex asked.
The brown-haired shrugged, "I have no clue; things related to the Saintess always remain hidden beneath several folds."
Leaning back in his seat, he crossed his arms and added, "However, rumors are circulating that the Saintess is searching for fine warriors—it is believed that she has been in contact with the highest ups, and under her command, special drills and training is provided to the best of the soldiers. I am one of them, by the way."
The last bit came with a smug.
Alex tilted his head, "Special training? Like what?"
Liam hesitated a bit but then decided to trust Alex, given he was being trusted by the King,
"They are called Phoenix Wings, a battalion under the direct command of Lord Steelhound. He has been training the ten of us for the past month, rigorously. Providing a special potion that heals our wounds instantly and enhances our regenerative abilities."
Alex frowned; he had no idea. He wasn't informed about Lord Steelhound's whereabouts but he could have never guessed him to be involved with this special regime.
'What in the world is happening?'
First, the changes in the school selection for the internship, and now this. It all indicates that the central authority of Grimland is preparing for a massive war…like the ascension quest.
But how is that possible? There are still three or so months left for the announcement. They shouldn't be…unless!
'There is another trasmigrator like me in this world…'
The realization made him frown. There was a high possibility and he has read in numerous fantasy novels how they send another transmigrated being to f-up the main character's life.
And Alex has a feeling that this person is closely related to the higher authority, given how everything is happening behind the scenes and no one knows everything about it.
'Gotta find out who this fucker is before they end up screwing up my plan and possibly this world…'
—-------**---------
A/N:- Thanks for reading. Drop a comment.
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC76- Eyes
The whole town of Ownhorg was on high alert; not even a single civilian could be seen at this hour.
Alex was standing near the camp, looking around. The cold night felt lonely without any noise around, suddenly making him miss the usual noise of monsters around.
'Such an important figure and they are trusting a teenager for her security?' Alex's brow twitched as he realized the consequences of something happening to the Holiness and Alex coming out alive from that incident.
He would be instantly branded as a traitor, and his chances of participating in the Ascension Contest would be significantly lower.
After all, these people would die and let their people fade away rather than lowering their egos.
'Haah gotta be careful with the lady.'
Talking about the lady, Alex has heard that the Saintess is quite a beauty with an unblemished face and enchanting eyes.
Once, a Duke-ranked Vampire arrived before the Cathedral to make the Saintess his bride, offering his territory, army, wealth, and soldiers as a dowry.
However, forgot about hearing his proposal; the Saintess didn't even let him see her face.
It is believed that very few people have seen her face after she was granted the position in the church.
"I wonder if I could ever get to meet the messenger of God…" Alex joked as he finished his beer and rested the jug back on the table.
He took his sword and attached it to his hip. Then he went ahead and wrapped a black fabric around his head, and mouth, leaving his eyes as the only visible feature on his face.
He draped a long coat over his shoulders that was in black shade, providing him the perfect blending shade.
He had packed several swords and potions stored inside a locket which he was hanging down his neck.
He has already checked himself once, so he knows that unless someone knows him at Celestria level, they won't be able to identify him even from close.
"Ready, soldier?" Liam appeared from behind, urging Alex to turn around and face the brown-haired man.
"Here, this will allow you to track the carriage in which Your Holiness would travel." The man handed pearl shaped artifact of the size of a baby's fist,
"The closer you get to them the brighter it will glow. Don't lose it, it's expensive."
Alex nodded before the older one added,
"I assume you carry a secondary weapon?" Alex nodded and showed him the holster wrapped around his ankle, in which a small knife rested.
Liam nodded, "Remember soldier, your duty is to keep an eye on the carriage and the battalion as well. I trust my soldiers but until there are people they love more than their duty, they can be used against us."
Alex narrowed his eyes. He understood what the other one meant by those words.
Silently, he waited, and the older one said, "If you feel necessary, you are allowed to kill, soldier. The King trusts your judgment, and so do I. It's my obligation, to be honest."
One could tell that Liam didn't trust Alex just because of the rumors of him being a slayer of a hundred Minotaur and a hybrid wolf. The brown-haired was just forced to let Alex have his way while he would be protecting the Saintess.
Alex heaved a sigh before assuring the man,
"Needless killing is still not something that suits a human. And I definitely am a human."
Liam breathed a sigh and gave him a firm nod, "Best of luck, Alex."
…..
The carriage of the Holiness entered the town around midnight and crossed the streets of Ownhorg at a gradual pace.
Every building, every store was being guarded from within and outside, so no blind spots remained.
It was said that the Saintess would be resting here for a few hours, before continuing her journey to the Capital.
They couldn't have afforded to let her stay at one place for more than three hours—given they can't cover the area more than a certain limit—so the Saintess couldn't rest completely until she didn't reach her destination.
Alex was standing on the building across the hotel where the Saintess would stay.
He was given the liberty to station himself wherever he found it suitable, given once the Saintess entered this town, she was under his protection.
Alex watched the beautifully decorated carriage making its way through the streets and advancing towards him.
The carriage wheels halted, the horses coming to a slow pause as the Commander of the battalion, Liam stepped toward the carriage.
Since the building wasn't too tall, Alex couldn't see anything on the other side of the carriage.
However, he didn't have any choice since all the buildings in the vicinity were short, and any other spot would have given away his location.
'Well, Liam is there…' Deciding to trust the Chief, Alex began to look around for any possible long-range assailant taking aim.
Between his fingers twirled a coin, ready to dispatch any suspicion being with a dart that they won't be able to dodge.
Alex's head continued to move around….until he felt a pair of eyes looking at him.
He paused…turning completely still for a moment before he redirected his eyes down at the carriage, feeling the gaze being directed from that direction
"---!!" Alex's eyes widened as he saw the Holy Maiden standing there looking exactly at him.
He was struck at his pletely frozen.
Although her eyes were covered there was no doubt that her eyes were directed at him.
Alex wasn't able to respond until a strange man with long grey hair appeared beside the Saintess.
Alex instantly backed away, hiding himself from the two.
'What…the actual fuck…' He knew he was visible but not enough for someone to easily spot him like that.
Even Liam failed to see him…but the Saintess…
'Is this some divine ability of hers?' Alex questioned himself as he peeked back at the spot, and thankfully, there was no one standing there anymore.
*Pat*
*SHLINK*
"Easy there!" Devon instantly raised his hand, regretting startling the guy who took out his sword at the drop of a hat.
Alex heaved a sigh, "You will get yourself killed one of these days while playing your sneaky game."
Devon heaved a sigh, his hands resting over his waist, "Is this a way to talk to your senior?"
Alex scoffed, "As of now, I have the authority to raise my blade against anyone, junior or senior."
Devon smirked, "And who do you think gave you such privilege?"
Alex raised his brows from behind the veil, "You? I thought it was the King?"
"Well, he gave the permission, but it was me who chose you for this task. No need to thank me."
Alex stared at the man blankly, "You know, right? A single mistake here, and I will have to say goodbye to everything and everyone I hold dear."
"But…will you?" Devon asked with his left brow cocked.
Alex turned around and began gazing at the hotel where the Saintess was resting.
He wasn't allowed to plant any artifacts inside the room, so he couldn't hear their voices.
Currently, inside the room, only the Saintess was sitting, while outside the room, Liam and the same man who came with the Saintess were talking.
"Who is he?" Alex asked the older one beside him.
Devon gazed at the man, his eyes narrowing a bit before he said, "Christopher Ferywien; a supreme Saint in the Cathedral and someone who has acquired a seat in the Seven Dominion."
Alex was surprised, "Seven Dominion? Isn't that the biggest council of the human race? I reckon they are the most important seven people in the human realm?"
Alex was aware since, during the ascension contest, these seven people would be the ones who would elect the representative from the human side.
Devon nodded, "Yeah, the council that makes decisions for the human race as a whole."
After taking a brief pause, Devon added, "I have a feeling that this summit holds greater importance than any of them in the past ten years."
Those words caused Alex to narrow his eyes.
Important matter…and the Saintess. He has a feeling that the transmigrator would be present during the meeting as well.
Things were going in a definite way it seems, and even before the heavenly decree. Although Alex knows that this is a good thing since if they prepare now, there is a greater chance of this world surviving during the contest.
However, if someone else has the knowledge about the contest and if they choose the ten contestants beforehand, then it would be troublesome.
Looking at Saintess who silently stood near the window, Alex couldn't help but mutter under his breath,
'Through you, I hope I can find that bastard who is hell-bent on ruining my plans…'
—--------**--------
A/N:- Thanks for reading. Tell me, until now which character you like the most. And if you are enjoying the story so far, consider dropping a review.
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC77- Reward
Devon could be seen climbing the stairs of the hotel which was the most important establishment in Ownhorg at the moment.
His confident demeanor was actually a facade. The person he was supposed to meet wasn't just any church member he had faced in the past. Although he has exchanged a few letters with her, this was the first time Devon was going to meet her in person.
That's why, even though his back was straight and not a single speck of apprehension could be detected from his expression, from the inside, Devon was indeed quite nervous.
*Creak*
Stepping on the last stair, he turned towards the left and found Liam and Christopher standing there.
They naturally paused and turned to look at him, "Hello gentlemen." Devon greeted, as he tried to silently pass by them and enter the room.
However, "Wait a minute; where do you think you are going?"
Christopher's tone irritated Devon, however, naturally, he retained a smiling face and said, "I was summoned by the Saintess."
Christopher narrowed his eyes before he walked toward the door and knocked on it, "Your Holiness, is it true?"
Devon failed to hear anything from the other side but the way Christopher's eyes widened, it was apparent that he got the answer.
He stepped back and told the commander, "Check him."
Devon heaved a sigh and extended his arms, allowing Liam to search his clothes for any suspicious substance.
Once Liam was sure he gave a nod of approval before Devon fixed his clothes and walked past the two.
He gave a soft knock before waking inside the room.
*Click*
As he closed the door and gazed at the figure sitting near the window, Devon was frozen at his place for a moment.
She looks beautiful.
Although the upper half of her face was covered, Devon could tell that this woman was practically the most beautiful human he had ever gazed at.
Her long greenish-black hair was cascading down her left shoulder, as the lady sat on the chair with her left leg draped over the other elegantly. Her whole demeanor was calm and warm, making one believe that nothing bad could happen in her presence.
'No rumors about her were untrue…she indeed is the Mother of Humanity.'
Devon almost felt kneeling before her and worshipping the woman; however, he stopped himself just in time and asked,
"You asked for me, lady?"
"Devon. Sit down first." She gestured towards the chair resting beside the door, which Devon took and after bringing it forward a little, he sat down while facing the lady.
Her face was still towards the window, seeming like she was basking in the ethereal glow of the moon.
"Tell me, Devon, he is here, no?".
Devon didn't have to ask for whom this 'he' referred to, before he answered, "Yes, Your Holiness. Alex is here."
Very faintly, he saw her lips stretching in a smile, but that might be his imagination.
"Do you want me to call him?" Devon asked and that made her flinch. This time he was sure that she jolted hearing that.
She turned towards him, and remained silent for a few minutes, possibly pondering.
Devon didn't disturb her while she contemplated.
There is something about Alex in which she is interested—that was his deduction seeing how the Saintess insisted on making Alex her bodyguard.
Finally, she gave an answer, "No, that won't be necessary. I want to take my time."
She softly patted her chest, making Devon look away instantly.
"Ah, Your Holiness, but he won't be actively around you. Alex was told to guard you from the shadows."
"I am aware. But that's no problem." Her calm demeanor returned as she again turned toward the window.
After a brief pause, she asked, "Did you send them the proposals, as I asked you?"
Devon slowly nodded, "Yes, Supreme Grace. As you said, I sent numerous proposals for Your Highness Celestria's marriage this evening."
Devon was told by the Saintess that for the Princess' and the nation's betterment, it was necessary for Celestria to get married this year.
"The path she is treading on is dangerous and would lead her father to his demise. It's necessary for her to detach herself from the nation as soon as she can." The Saintess added, making Devon feel a little apprehensive.
The words of the Holy One were absolute, and if she says that Celestria might bring Grimland to its demise, then it must be the case.
"I have shortlisted the best grooms for the Princess along with a piece of advice for the Majesty. He would understand what must be done."
The Saintess gave a faint nod, "Well done, Devon. Come and get your reward."
Devon stood up and after reaching near her, he knelt down and raised both of his hands above his head.
Soon he found a thin vial resting on his hand as the Saintess said, "Three large containers of Absolute Heal potions. Use it wisely, Devon."
Devon was smiling ear to ear as he stood back up and said, "I cannot express how thankful I am right now of you, Your Holiness. Thank you."
The Saintess didn't say anything as Devon stepped back and walked out of the room.
He can finally reduce some burden for Melissa.
—-------**---------
Alex yawned as he stood near the edge of the rooftop and continued to look at the woman who was continuously sitting near the window.
There was nothing she did, no resting, no moving, no reading…just sitting there and looking at nothing constant. Her eyes were covered so he didn't know whether she was even awake or not.
'She is mysterious and beautiful…' Alex couldn't get tired of staring at her; however, to prevent himself from slacking, he kept moving around.
There have been no suspicious movements within the city borders; however, outside, he heard the sound of people clashing, which means that, indeed, the foreign countries were aware of the Saintes's presence.
'Why do I feel that these shallow attacks are just to assess the situation?'
Even if that horde of wolves attack the town, Alex doesn't think they would be able to protect the Saintess for long. After all, the soldiers of the Steelhound were trained by the Lord of the house and were provided with excellent weapons.
Although these soldiers were strong, they couldn't be compared to them. And Devon cannot handle the situation from every direction.
'I just hope the enemy forces don't involve inhumane…'
Alex remained standing there for another hour before the carriage was brought back in front of the hotel again.
Stretching his body a little, Alex prepared himself. His horse was stationed behind the building.
Once he ensured that the lady sat inside the carriage along with Christopher and Devon boarding another carriage behind hers, Alex jumped down the building and landed beside his horse.
"McQueen, let's go for another ride." The black mare neighed in response before Alex climbed the magical beast.
He has yet to summon his own Soul beast; however, he hoped he could get something like a horse so traveling around becomes a little easier.
The carriage rolled out of the town slowly and Alex followed it from a different lane, his ears picking the sound of the wheels as they moved.
Finally, out of the city boundaries, a whole group of horse-riding soldiers began following the carriages, keeping them in the middle.
There were around sixty horse-riding soldiers who were traveling in a hexagonal pattern with both carriages in the middle, to provide maximum security.
Alex was traveling about two hundred meters on their left flank. While they moved through the plain path, Alex's route was through the forest to keep himself hidden from the plain sight.
His eyes continued to survey the surroundings and the soldiers for any possible traitor to show its true color.
For a few miles, nothing happened, and Alex also continued to move without any pause.
However, the sky suddenly darkened, prompting Alex to glance upward.
His breath caught. It wasn't the sky that darkened. It was countless rows of arrows blotting out the light, descending like a storm of death upon the battalion.
"WATCH OUT!"
A soldier screamed and leaped from his horse, raising a shield as he planted himself before the carriage. The others followed, dismounting and forming a wall of shields in practiced unison.
But Alex's fists tightened. He saw what they didn't.
'They're going to explode…'
The faint glow of ignited tips flickered on every descending arrow. Hidden beneath their shields, the soldiers remained blind to their doom.
Alex surged forward, prepared to shove the carriage aside himself when—
'Goddamn…'
A radiant barrier erupted from the carriage, a glowing dome that pulsed with power.
The storm fell. Arrows detonated in midair as they struck the barrier, fire and shrapnel blooming in a blinding chain reaction. The earth trembled beneath the onslaught, shockwaves rippling outward. The night turned to chaos, flames roaring like hungry beasts.
Yet, within the heart of the inferno, the barrier stood unyielding. Each explosion bent harmlessly against its shimmering surface, dissipating like waves breaking against a cliff.
Alex staggered to a halt, shielding his eyes from the searing brightness.
From within the carriage, a voice—steady, rhythmic, commanding—rose above the chaos. The chanting carried an undeniable weight, resonating through the air.
The barrier glowed brighter, absorbing the final bursts of fire until silence fell. When the light faded, not a single soldier had fallen. The battalion stood frozen, staring at the unscathed carriage, their breaths ragged with disbelief.
Alex stared at the carriage in which the Saintess rested, as a thought passed by his mind,
'Okay…along with beauty, she is incredibly strong.'
—----**------
A/N:- Guess who gonna wife her up? Thanks for reading.
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC78- Pawn
Celestria couldn't believe her eyes. In front of her rested several canvases on which the hand-drawn paintings of several young men could be seen.
She was resting in her room, thinking about what she should write to Alex, when suddenly a servant came calling for her, saying that her father needed her.
And now, in his chamber, his mother and father were showing her the potential groom they had selected for her.
"Father? What is this?" Her tone suggested her shock and reluctance at once and that was something the King expected.
Turning towards her father, she asked, "I had your permission to not get engaged until I finish school, no? Then why so suddenly…"
Forget about getting engaged; the very thought of getting tied to another man who isn't Alex repulses her.
Adolf heaved a sigh and got up from his seat. He expected much, so he isn't reluctant to confess the reason,
"Daughter, I know this is sudden, however, a prophecy has been bestowed upon you and us."
Celestria frowned but chose to remain silent for the time being—allowing her father to continue.
Adolf glanced at his wife who was sitting nearby, both of them exchanged a look before the lady stood up,
"Cela…it has been prophesied that if you don't get married and sent away from Grimland this year, then not only you but the nation would meet its demise."
Celestria's lips parted hearing that, as she asked, "Who…just who said such a thing?"
Adolf grimly added, "Someone whom none of us can defy. The Saintess."
Her shock elevated. Celestria was aware of how much her father and everyone in the nation honored her words. And whatever predictions, in the name of prophecy, she has bestowed have always turned out to be true.
And now…it's about her.
Celestria clenched her fist, her head leaning down a little.
Her mother grew worried as she said, "Look, Cela-"
"Mother, I am okay." She suddenly raised her face and assured them.
Turning her gaze toward her father, she said, "The prophecy requires me to leave the Grimland this year, right?"
Adolf frowned, "Yes…but unless you don't get married, I won't let you go away."
Celestria smiled in defeat, "That's….not something my heart and mind would allow me, Father."
Adolf grew worried as he silently waited for his daughter to add,
"I cannot simply accept just anyone as my husband. I already have someone in my heart with whom I want to spend my life…so marrying someone else would be like destroying two lives."
Adolf's frown grew deeper, as he asked, "Is it Alex?"
It was not unknown to the King about how close these two had become. Initially, he assumed their closeness was a result of spending childhood together.
However, their sudden closeness these days, had him worried. And now, it seems his worries were warranted.
"Cela…are you sure you want to spend your life with Alex?" Her mother asked—a tender expression on her face that assured Celestria that her answer wouldn't be harshly rejected.
Without thinking twice, the blond teenager nodded, "I cannot see myself with anyone but him, father, mother. Please don't force me into marrying someone else."
Seeing tears in her eyes, the Queen stepped forward and hugged her child.
Seeing the two crying, Adolf's heart melted at the sight. He could never retain his King-like demeanor in front of his daughter and wife (sons get the harsh treatment).
Heaving a sigh he said, "Okay Celestria, I won't force you to marry against your will,"
The duo parted as Celestria looked at her father with hope igniting in her eyes.
However, "For him to become my son-in-law, Alex needs to prove his worth."
Celestria's eyes were again filled with tears, as her mother retaliated, "Dear…why are you doing this to our daughter?"
"No Mery, the grooms I selected for Cela are all excellent in different fields. That's why I want Alex to show his worth before asking for my daughter's hand in marriage."
Looking at Celestria, Adolf said, "Once he returns, bring him to meet me."
—-----**------
It had been a few hours since they left the town and were heading toward the capital.
A few goons appeared here and there, and three soldiers died because of their ambush, but no glaring danger has appeared until now.
'We are still six hours away from the Capital…' Alex, who continued to move through the forest, couldn't help himself from feeling tired after moving around this much.
He traveled from Chainedvale to Ownhorg today, and now, without rest, he has been riding a horse for the past five hours. It was natural for him to feel a little worn out.
"*YAWN*" Stretching his arms, he breathed out a yawn, before looking back to the front—
—only to have his arms get frozen in the air, as he looked at the obstacle waiting for them.
Alex's expression turned serious as he saw the thirty-foot-wide path being completely obstructed by strange-looking men.
And as far as he could see, it wasn't just a singular row; rather, more than half a thousand soldiers could be seen currently blocking their path.
'This is sick…' Alex stared at the horde of enemies with his mouth parted in shock.
They completely outnumbered them and there was no escape route in view at all.
Alex's focus returned to the carriage as he saw Christopher and Devon exiting the carriage with evident concern written on their faces.
Accompanied by Liam, the other two advanced forward.
Alex looked back at the enemy forces and found a single man, among hundreds, was actually sitting on a chair, with his legs draped over the armrest. The man has long black hair and a nonchalant smile as he remains lying on the wooden chair with a smile on his face.
And the most striking feature…his elongated ear made him stand out.
'An elf…' Alex glanced at his soldiers, but thankfully, they all seemed human.
Christopher and Devon stepped toward the leader and asked,
"What might be the reason for you to block our path?" Devon asked, politely.
The man snickered, and without lifting his eyelids, he said, "Nothing much, just lend me that carriage and the person inside of it, and I promise I won't kill any of you."
Christopher frowned, "Who sent you? Who are you working for?"
The man finally parted his eyes and turned towards the priest, "The one whose proposal Saintess rejected. Lord Barkanov."
"---!!"
Christopher remembered that last year when the Saintess went to the elven territory to remove the plague that was eating away the lives of countless elves, a certain Prince proposed marriage to her.
Naturally, the Saintess rejected him politely, and given how the Prince smiled and didn't show any displeasure, Christopher believed that the matter was resolved.
However, "That chameleon showed his true color-"
**SHLINK**
The priest instantly stopped speaking as something cold touches his cheek, draining all the color from his face as he instinctively raised his hands.
Devon and Liam reacted a moment later as they got into battle position, and warned,
"You don't need to be violent when we are still talking," Devon warned, spell circles swirling around him.
"Don't take any RASH steps," Liam stated, his sword positioned to attack the man any moment he showed any sign of attacking Christopher.
The elven leader ignored the other two, keeping his blade pressed against Christopher's cheek. His voice turned cold as he asked,
"Do you dare to insult my master again? Speak carefully, father."
Christopher, though trembling slightly, refused to back down. He swallowed hard and raised his voice,
"Your master is a traitor! I have every right to call him what he is!"
The elf's eyes narrowed, his grip on the sword tightening. Devon and Liam immediately stepped forward, their weapons raised, their auras flaring with intent.
"Stop this now!" Devon commanded. "There's no need to escalate!"
The elf tilted his head, his smirk widening. Ignoring the others, he leaned closer to Christopher, his blade pressing just enough to draw a thin line of blood.
"Brave words from a man so close to death. Shall I teach you what happens when you cross someone like me?"
Christopher flinched but managed to keep his voice steady, his pride outweighing his fear.
"Do it! Kill me if you want. It won't change the fact that you're nothing but a pawn to your so-called master. A desperate man following orders from a failure."
Liam's grip on his sword tightened. Devon shot him a sharp look as if to say, Don't move yet!
The elf's laughter broke through the tense silence. It was deep and mocking, cutting through the air like a blade. He pulled back his sword with a flourish, spinning it before planting it firmly into the ground.
"You've got guts, maggot. I'll give you that," the elf said, his eyes gleaming with amusement and menace. "But pride? Pride won't save you here."
Christopher glared at him, his chest heaving, but before he could retort, the elf raised his hand to silence him.
"Fine then," the elf declared, stepping back and placing his foot on his chair. His voice boomed with authority as he addressed everyone,
"If you're so proud of your kind, prove it! Send out anyone you want, in any number you want. If even one of them can lay a scratch on me, I'll take my army and leave."
The soldiers around them tensed, their breaths caught in the weight of his challenge.
"Or," the elf added his grin widening, "you can beg me for mercy and save yourselves the humiliation. The choice is yours."
The forest fell into silence, the elf's laughter lingering like a haunting echo. Devon clenched his fists, his mind racing.
'This isn't just a fight.'
'It's a game…and he's already a step ahead.'
—-------**---------
A/N:- How was the chapter? Thanks for reading. Drop a review, since it's not moving anymore T~T
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC79- And... end
"So…the King would assess Alex before giving his permission?" Amanda asked in a bit of surprise as she and Celestria sat by side and continued to have breakfast.
In the palace only Amanda was the person with whom Celestria could talk about this, so she sought out her friend and shared her dilemma.
"Yes…but I don't know how he will test him." Celestria continued to stab the piece of meat with her head supported by her other hand.
There was clear apprehension in her voice and Amanda could understand it.
It is indeed quite a difficult task for a girl's father to accept their child's lover.
Heaving a sigh, Amanda assured her, "What are you scared about? Alex is one of the strongest warriors in the human realm. Someone with a bright future. I doubt your father could have found someone like him."
Celestria smiled; she liked it when someone praised Alex.
However, her smile soon froze when she heard Amanda adding, "But Cela, have you even asked Alex whether he wants to get married this soon?"
Although their relationship has improved recently, Amanda believes the new version of Alex is ambition-driven. He has a specific goal in his mind which he wants to reach.
Unlike in the past, when Alex's whole world revolves around Celestria, the new him is more focused on his ambition and gaining more strength.
And amidst all that, Amanda doubts if he would readily agree to marry Celestria out of the blue.
All the color from the Princess' face vanished when she heard that.
She was only worrying about her parents until now, however, now that she thinks about it, Alex hasn't even reciprocated her feelings….
Forget about making her, his wife, Celestria isn't even his girlfriend yet!!!
'Oh my god…oh my god…what should I do?!' Covering her head Celestria felt a huge crisis had befell on her.
Seeing that reaction Amanda already knew the whole case.
Heaving a sigh she said, "I have a way to help you."
Celestria instantly turned towards her friend and said, "Whatever the way is, just tell me. I need to get his agreement on this."
Amanda looked at the Princess seriously before asking, "Before that, tell me, Cela, are you a hundred percent certain that you want to spend the rest of your life with Alex?"
"There is no doubt in it, Amy. I cannot imagine a life without Alex and these feelings cannot have been any more certain."
Amanda continued to look in her eyes, trying to find even a bit of uncertainty…however, there was not even a single speck of doubt in her eyes.
She finally sighed and focused back on her food.
Just as Celestria was about to ask what she should do, Amanda said,
"Let's go shopping."
—-------**--------
The first person that came to his mind when the elf challenged them was Alex. However, Devon knew that he had to keep Alex hidden from plain sight as of now.
Alex is their strongest soldier, and to keep the Saintess safe he has to remain hidden until the very end.
The foolishness has been committed, and that cannot be changed.
"I am-" "No, Liam."
Just as the commander was about to step forward, Devon stopped him.
"We need you to command the battalion, and that elf seems well-versed in swordsmanship. The match-up can go in the best or the worst way." Devon reasoned and Liam, although reluctantly, had to agree.
Christopher was indifferently standing beside the carriage in which the Saintess rested.
Devon couldn't help but feel annoyed at how that jerk escalated things and now was pretending like he did nothing.
'Well, in a way, this is for the best.' The Grandmaster knew that if the elf attacked with all his force, they might not have any chance of defeating them.
Seeing Devon stepping forward, Alex didn't have a good feeling.
'This is not a battle he can win….' Although Devon was strong, probably the strongest mage among humans, the elf in question was also a seasoned warrior. And even if Devon does leave a scratch on the elf, it is highly unlikely he would let them go.
Regardless of what he thought the Grandmaster stepped forward and stood before the elf.
Tension rose on the battlefield. There was a lot at stake and to save from the disgrace of letting the most important figure of the nation get abducted, Devon has to give it his all today.
A heartbeat of silence passed, then the elf vanished.
Devon's hand shot up, and the air in front of him distorted, warping like heat waves. A sharp clang echoed as the elf's sword collided with the invisible barrier. He slid back, his feet skimming over the dirt like a shadow.
Devon's lips curled. With a sweeping motion, the gravity around the elf intensified. The ground groaned under the strain, cracks spidering outward.
The elf darted sideways, untouched. His movements were effortless, each step calculated to evade the crushing weight. He surged forward again, his blade a blur.
Alex narrowed his eyes as he saw the Grandmaster manipulating the Gravity with chantless magic and having such a firm grip over the spells that not even a moment of delay they were showing.
'I can exchange a fortune for even ten percent of such magic control….'
Back on the battlefield, Devon raised his arm, and the space around him thickened. The elf's strike slowed, his blade carving through invisible resistance. But before Devon could trap him, the elf twisted mid-swing, flowing like water around the distortion and bringing his sword down in a precise arc.
Devon ducked, the blade missing his head by a hair's breadth. He retaliated with a gravity pulse that rippled outward, aiming to knock the elf off his feet.
But the elf leaped, his movements defying the weight pressing against him. He flipped over Devon, landing behind him with feline grace.
'He is good…and fast….' Liam realized the difference between himself and the inhumane.
Despite not being aware of Devon's magic nature, the elf treads so effortlessly through those spells like he had been training with Devon for years.
And that confidence the elf showed was enough evidence to show who had the upper hand.
Not to forget, the elven race is known for its magic. And this one…has yet to show his magical aspect...
A gasp rippled through the crowd as the elf's blade arced toward Devon's back.
Devon spun, his palm glowing with condensed gravitational force. He thrust it forward, and the elf was hurled backward by an invisible wave. Yet he landed on his feet, unharmed, his golden eyes unflinching.
"You're clever," the elf said, his voice smooth. "But cleverness can only delay the inevitable."
Devon scowled, spreading his arms wide. The ground beneath the elf buckled, a vortex of crushing gravity forming to swallow him whole.
The elf's eyes narrowed. In a single, fluid motion, he vaulted upward, his sword glowing faintly as he slashed through the spiraling force. The vortex collapsed, and the elf descended, his blade aimed directly at Devon.
Alex shared the shock that Devon had since what the elf showcased just now was, in plain and simple words, spell nullification.
Devon's shock cost him the battle as the elf planted the blade against his neck, stabbing it just enough to draw blood.
"Don't move or I will kill you now." The elf warned as he saw the magician trying to conjure another laughable spell of his.
The battle came to a pause with the tag of victory hanging down the elf's neck.
Devon raised his hands and accepted his defeat, making Christopher click his tongue.
"Useless…"
Glancing at Liam, he said, "Go and fight him, soldier. That's your duty."
Liam gritted his teeth. From how the Priests speak, it is evident that he doesn't value human life.
Liam's grip on his sword tightened, his knuckles white. He stepped forward, but before he could close the distance, something shifted.
The air around the battlefield shifted.
It began as a faint hum, a low vibration that grew stronger with each passing second. The soldiers stumbled backward, their weapons trembling in their hands.
Seeing the soldier stepping forward, the elf finally revealed his Soul Energy for the first time,
"Are you sure you want to fight me?"
The elf smiled faintly, golden eyes shimmering as he let his presence unfold. It was not an explosion of power but a steady, overwhelming tide. The soldiers around them fell silent, their breaths hitching. Even Liam, who had just been brimming with motivation, hesitated, his steps faltering.
The ground beneath his feet cracked without him lifting a finger. Blades of grass bent then blackened as oppressive energy radiated outward. The once-still air churned with an unnatural heat, yet an eerie cold crept into everyone's bones.
Liam clenched his greatsword tighter, his knuckles white. "What... is this?"
The elf raised a hand lazily, and the earth itself seemed to respond. The cracks spread outward, fissures snaking through the ground, but instead of crumbling, they glowed faintly with golden light, as though molten magic was rising to the surface.
"Don't mistake my restraint for weakness," the elf said, taking another step. Each movement sent another ripple through the field, shaking the weapons and armor of the soldiers.
Liam, at whom the presence was directed, fell to his knees, blood flowing down his ears and nose as he watched the anomaly with his eyes blood red.
And then, in an instant, the force disappeared as the elf grinned.
"Pfft-hahahaha!! Now you see, father, the sheer difference between our kinds?"
Christopher, who was barely holding himself on his feet, gritted his teeth in annoyance. He couldn't believe that the King sent such weaklings for their protection!
The elf turned around and confidently said, "I am giving you another chance. Send anyone and whoever leaves a scratch-*SHLINK*"
The soldiers on either side watched in a daze as the elf's feet continued to move, yet something was left behind from his body.
*THUD*
A very dull thud resounded as the head of the elf bounced on the ground, his eyes still crescent in glee as the elf's head rolled down to reach the kneeling Liam.
*Thud*
Another thud resounded as the headless body of the elf crumbled to the ground, a pool of blood now surrounding the inhumane.
The realization dawned upon everyone a moment later as they saw a shrouded figure sheathing his sword not so far away from the dead body.
Alex, who just used Moon Dance for the first time in action, heaved a long sigh as he muttered under his breath,
'Over-confident people are so easy to kill…'
—-------**--------
A/N:- Anti-climatic? Well, Moon Dance doesn't allow anyone to pick up his presence, even if the other party is an elf.
Thanks for reading.
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REBIRTH: CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF THE HEROINEC80- Brave soldier
Using Moon Dance for the first time in a battle was quite a good experience.
Thanks to the fact that the elf was overly confident, Alex never found any necessity to engage in a battle with him first and then utilize that technique.
He believed there was one who could land a hit on him, so Alex exploited that confidence and landed a single blow that took his life.
Well, easy work.
The opposing soldiers immediately backed off, having their leader killed, which was quite surprising in Alex's eyes since if they had tried, they could have damaged the other party significantly.
Christopher frowned as he looked at the enshrouded figure who was not around until a few moments ago.
He was about to step forward and ask about his identity when suddenly a very soothing voice interrupted him,
"Father, can you call him?" The Saintess, from behind the curtains, called out—making his shoulders relaxed as Cristopher said,
"You don't need to thank a soldier now, Supreme Grace."
"Christopher." A slightly stronger tone arrived, telling Christopher about her intentions.
He sighed, 'The Saintess is too benevolent.'
Strolling forward, he raised his hand, and while pointing at the enshrouded figure, he said, "Hey, you. Come here."
Liam was the one who first turned towards the priest before he patted Alex's shoulder.
Alex slowly turned towards the man before asking wordlessly.
"Come here," Christopher repeated his words, feeling annoyed already.
Devon sighed before he decided to accompany Alex to the carriage.
Knowing Alex's personality and Christopher's attitude, Devon feared that he might see another head rolling on the ground.
Once they were near, Christopher stopped the duo and said, "You, go near the carriage but leave your weapon here first."
Alex raised his brows, "Do you think I will attack the Saintess?"
"That's not what I am asking your weapon for! The Supreme One is a kind woman with a pure heart. I don't want her to witness such instruments of violence."
Alex rolled his eyes, wanting to say something but he held back.
Devon took his sword and patted him on the shoulder, "Good luck."
Alex walked past the priest and reached the carriage where the most important individual in the nation rested.
He didn't gaze inside the carriage, thinking that he might offend her or something.
With his hands interlocked behind his back he asked, "You needed me for something, Your Holiness?"
The curtain was shifted to reveal the face of the beauty from within.
Alex had a hard time hiding how surprised he was to see such a beautiful countenance from this close.
Her supple lips were stretched in a small smile as she looked at him from behind that short veil draped over her eyes.
"Can you honor me with your name, brave soldier?"
Her voice was like that soothing cup of tea after a long day at work—making his shoulders slump and eyes dazed.
"...Alex." Okay, he wasn't supposed to reveal his name.
Thanks to the realization of the mistake, Alex was able to pull himself together and break the cloud of daze that was forming around him.
"Alex….you fought bravely, Alex. I never felt you breach the barrier, and before I knew it, you had passed judgment."
Alex was surprised, "You had a barrier around?"
The Saintess' smile widened, "Indeed; I could not have allowed the soldiers to get harmed for my sake."
Alex was amazed, but naturally, he didn't say anything. The fact he was able to fool the Saintess was quite an achievement.
"Alex, considering your strength and the necessity of my protection, why don't you stop struggling in the forest and join me in the carriage?"
Her proposal took him off guard, "Your carriage?"
"Yes." She simply nodded, completely unbothered by the fact that she was offering to share her resting space with a mere soldier.
To be honest, the offer was tempting. Alex was struggling slightly moving through the forest while keeping an eye on everything. A few hours of comfortable rest sounded too desirable.
However, "My role is to protect you from the shadows, Supreme Grace, so spare me from getting highlighted in your brilliance."
Rejecting the offer to share the seat with the Saintess? Yeah, only a mad lad would do such a thing.
However, more than the comfort Alex gave priority to his chances to participate in the ascension trials.
Showing closeness to the Saintess would make him a subject of scorn and envy.
… However, it was a fact that the influence the Saintess had would surely push his name up in the potential list.
Well, a tough choice but right now, sharing the carriage with the Holiness would surely surround Alex with rumors.
The smile on her face never disappeared as she looked down, and took out something,
"Here, my brave soldier," She handed him a white handkerchief with a violet flower designed near the left corner.
Seeing the design Alex was suddenly reminded of someone, however, rather than dwelling in the past, he focused on the Saintess in front of him,
"Show this to the guards and meet me in my room in the evening. Let's have a long chat, soldier."
Alex slowly raised both his hands to receive the fabric…and accidentally, his finger touched hers.
*SHIVER*
He felt he saw the nun suddenly trembling before she hurriedly pulled the curtains back.
Alex was astounded as he stood while holding the token.
He couldn't understand the woman at all. Why was she giving him such a priceless thing? Meeting her in her room? Won't that make things even more hectic?
'Wish she could have offered me some potions…but well.'
Shrugging Alex pocketed the handkerchief and returned to the trio.
"Quite a long chat you had there." With a teasing(?) smile, Devon commented.
Christopher was closely scrutinizing the boy who spent a rather awfully long seven minutes with the lady.
Liam just smiled at the boy and said, "Thanks to you, we were saved. Your timely intervention was like a support from God."
Christopher scoffed before he said, "If you all are done with praising him, then shall we resume the journey?"
Liam was startled as he instantly nodded and gestured for Alex to return to his post.
Devon rolled his eyes and proceeded towards the carriage, followed by Christopher.
Once again, the convoy began to move.
—------**-------
The gates of Grimland's capital creaked open, revealing streets transformed into a spectacle of splendor. Streamers in shades of gold and white fluttered in the wind, their edges shimmering under the pale sunlight.
Crowds pressed along the cobblestone streets, their murmurs of anticipation swelling into cheers as the convoy approached.
Children waved fresh blooms, their petals scattering like confetti in the air, while vendors hurried to hand out small ribbons blessed with holy symbols.
Banners bearing the emblem of the Saintess—a radiant sun cradled by angelic wings—hung from towering poles and balconies.
Priests in ceremonial robes stood at intervals, chanting hymns that wove a serene melody into the air. Bells tolled in unison, their solemn peals echoing from the church that loomed ahead like a guardian.
The convoy entered at a steady pace. The carriages gleamed under layers of intricate carvings, their golden trim catching every flicker of light.
As the Saintess's carriage passed, the cheers reached a crescendo. Commoners knelt, pressing their hands to their hearts, and the air thickened with reverence.
Ahead, a grand archway awaited, draped with flowers in cascading arrangements of white and gold. Beyond it, the palace gates were thrown wide open, their guards standing at attention, saluting as the convoy advanced.
The capital of Grimland had never looked brighter, each corner radiating an air of hope and celebration for the arrival of the Saintess.
Alex sighed, seeing the arrangements, he couldn't believe that this was the same place that remained busy in profit-making most of the time.
He was no longer using the scarf around his face, allowing the smell of scented flowers around him.
He was not much far behind the convoy, steadily proceeding toward the palace.
The King himself was present near the entrance along with his wife and some other important people from the council.
He spotted Celestria also standing there; however, rather than the Saintess, her eyes were searching for someone else.
Alex smirked; for some reason, he knew she was searching for him.
However, despite having the intention, he couldn't go to meet her as of now.
Alex decided to stop a few meters away to not get mingled in all the pleasantries….well, it was highly unlikely they would notice his presence.
Disembarking the horse, he stretched his arms and looked at the stores. They all were closed.
He was hungry and there was no eatery around. Alex had no relatives in the Capital ... so he decided to be a little sneaky and steal some dishes from the royal kitchen.
'Not like they would sentence me to death for stealing bread.'
—------**-------
A/N:- Thanks for reading. I really appreciate all the support you guys are showing so far.
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