In the Guild, deep within the Grandmaster's room, Malachai asked, 'Are you still upset, Grandmaster? Don't be so cold-hearted.' The Grandmaster replied, 'It's not that. I'm just deep in thought.' Malachai, seeking excitement, requested, 'Give me an interesting quest. I'm growing bored.' The Grandmaster, slightly irritated, responded, 'Stop talking. I can't focus on all the chatter. You're stronger than any other adventurer here. Why not teach them something?' Malachai quickly dismissed the idea, 'Teaching isn't my style. Can't you assign me an exciting task? I need to test my abilities.'

The Grandmaster considered a task, 'There's a job in Silent Hill. They need help, but the adventurers I sent previously haven't reported back. I fear it's because of 'him'. I don't want to risk any more lives.' He then asked Malachai, 'Have you heard of Silent Hill? The place overrun by the new lander we call Xylo?'

'Malachai's eyes widened in surprise. 'What are those? Are they some new breed of monsters I've yet to encounter?' he asked. The Grandmaster nodded gravely, his expression somber. 'Indeed, they are entities that have demonstrated a capacity for social interaction among their own kind. We initially sought to study them, intrigued by their unique social dynamics. However, they proved to be far more dangerous than we anticipated, causing the untimely demise of several of our fellow adventurers.'

Despite the grim news, the King remained undeterred. His eyes held a glimmer of hope and determination. 'I still believe there's a chance we can forge an alliance with them,' he declared. 'I've dispatched a team to attempt communication. It's a risky move, but if successful, it could open up new possibilities for us that what King said.'

Malachai questioned, 'Are you sure they're not like Amun-Ra? I won't fight them if they're related to Amun-Ra.' The Grandmaster clarified, 'Amun-Ra are S-rank monsters that don't harm humans. We're not ready to face them. They're far more powerful. We shouldn't even consider confronting them. Here's a picture of them.'image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53327407144_cf44edb3ae_b.jpg]

Malachai examined the image and expressed his disappointment, 'They're nothing like Amun-Ra. They're repulsive. I'd rather annihilate them than befriend them. I've seen far worse beings, but these lack intelligence.' The Grandmaster revealed, 'You might be surprised. This is the Queen of Xylo, and she resembles a human.' Malachai studied the picture and concluded,image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53327294223_002cab896e_b.jpg] 'They're not human, but monsters that have evolved rapidly. It must be an ability to adapt to any environment and evolve quickly.'

The Grandmaster offered, 'If you're willing to accept help, I can provide four additional people to assist you.' Malachai, however, firmly shook his head in refusal. 'I don't need any. I don't want to carry any more regrets. The future is uncertain, and it's best if I undertake this task alone.'

He paused, his mind drifting back to the memory of a dear friend. Her last words still echoed in his mind, a beacon of hope in his darkest moments. 'Don't give up. You can still be alive and kicking. Please, keep living.' If it hadn't been for her encouragement, he would have perished alongside them that fateful day.

Malachai closed his eyes, her words resonating within him. 'You are far more powerful than you think. Please, be strong and survive. I will always admire you. Escape this hell. You're stronger than any adversary we've faced.'

A pang of pain shot through his heart as he remembered his desperate plea. 'Arghh, please don't leave me like this. I love you, I truly do. I'm sorry for making you wait this long. Please, don't leave me like this. Come back, Anne, come back.'

'Grandmaster,' Malachai began, his voice heavy with confusion and despair, 'I can't comprehend why I chose to challenge one of the pillars. I've lost everything, yet here I am, still standing. It feels as though my heart has been shattered into a million pieces. Despite my wealth of experience and knowledge, why does life continue to be so challenging? The suffering seems endless. Am I truly strong? I certainly don't feel like it. I feel utterly powerless, yet everyone around me insists that I am strong. Why is that?'

The Grandmaster looked at him with a mixture of sympathy and understanding. 'In my eyes, and in the eyes of every adventurer, you are indeed strong, Malachai,' he said gently. 'But in the eyes of the Powerhouses, you are still a child - young and powerless. That's the harsh reality of our world.'

On the expansive grounds of the mansion, Zet found himself secluded in a corner, flanked by two maids. Violet, with a comforting tone, reassured him, 'Don't be disheartened, Prince. I have faith that you'll master those techniques soon enough.' Eleanor chimed in, 'Absolutely, Violet's right. There's nothing beyond your reach.'

Zet, appreciative of their support, responded, 'Thank you for your kind words, but I'm eager to learn these styles as quickly as possible. I aspire to be stronger than anyone else. However, the process is taking longer than I anticipated. Time is not a luxury I possess.'

Eleanor, puzzled, asked, 'Why this urgency to become so powerful? Is there something you feel you're missing? I must admit, I'm not well-versed in magic, so I apologize if I'm missing something.'

Violet, in a gentle gesture, extended her hand towards Zet, offering, 'If you'd like, you can hold my hand. Perhaps it might provide some comfort.' As Zet began to reach for Violet's hand, they were interrupted by K's sudden appearance, 'Princes, are you there?'

Caught off guard, Zet and Violet quickly withdrew their hands, turning their faces in opposite directions, their cheeks flushed. K, oblivious to the situation, asked, 'Princes, what are you up to?' Violet, flustered, replied, 'I... I should start preparing for dinner.' She hastily left the scene, with Eleanor trailing behind her, offering, 'Wait, Violet, let me assist you.'

Left alone with K, Zet asked, 'What do you need?' His tone was curt, hinting at his annoyance at the interruption.

'K, seemingly regretful, asked, 'Did I do something inappropriate?' Zet, eager to move past the incident, responded, 'Let's put everything that just happened behind us and not discuss it with anyone.' K agreed, 'I've already forgotten everything that transpired here.' Zet, somewhat relieved, changed the subject, 'How's the carriage? Is it ready?' K confirmed, 'Yes, princess, it's ready. We're just waiting for the lady to arrive.'

Zet then reminisced about the recent fight, 'That was an incredible battle. You held your own quite well, although it was difficult to follow because of the speed of the duel.' K humbly accepted the compliment, 'Thank you for your kind words.' Zet, with a hint of amusement, added, 'However, you were clearly outmatched by the Captain.' K acknowledged, 'Yes, the Captain's prowess with the sword is truly remarkable. I still can't believe I had the opportunity to spar with him.'

The conversation then shifted to Zet's training, 'Earlier, you mentioned wanting to learn some tricks, right?' Zet confirmed, but expressed concern about the Captain's rigorous training methods, 'Yes, but the Captain is quite harsh.' K offered some wisdom, 'Experience is also a form of training.' Zet, puzzled, asked for clarification, 'What do you mean?'

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K explained, 'If you truly desire strength, you must demonstrate your determination. You're a kind-hearted person who believes in the power of good deeds. However, to truly become stronger, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve your goals. Remember what you're striving for and train with that in mind.''

'Zet, with a puzzled expression, asked, 'Are you implying that being nice equates to being naive?' K responded firmly, 'Precisely. If you aspire to be strong, you must cease being dependent and easily manipulated.' Zet, feeling defensive, retorted, 'Are you suggesting that I'm not giving my all? Are you accusing me of pretending?' K confirmed, 'Yes, that's what I'm saying.'

Zet, now feeling cornered, asked, 'What do you expect me to do?' K replied with a chilling proposition, 'To kill a person. The moment you see blood on your hands, that's when you'll truly become a man.' Zet, taken aback, responded, 'I thought as much. You're spouting nonsense.'

K, undeterred, continued, 'If you show weakness, the person you're up against will sever your arm and move on without a second thought. Never will they look back. Trust no one. Today's friends can easily become tomorrow's enemies. Keep that in mind.'

Zet spun around, declaring, 'Your advice doesn't suit me. I'll handle things my way. There's nothing I can gain from this place. You're too peculiar. What makes you believe I'd act like you? I'm not a murderer who casually takes lives.' K stared back at Zet, retorting, 'Always aim for the kill. Show no mercy. Remember, your enemy will never see your benevolent side.' Without a backward glance, Zet left. K also turned and departed 'K pondered deeply, his thoughts focused on Prince Zet. 'This world isn't as simple as you perceive it to be. Power dictates everything. Even the smallest hesitation can result in the demise of those you hold dear. Ensure you never regret your decisions. I still remember the day when I couldn't bring myself to eliminate my friend, and now, I'm reduced to a mere guard. However, I vow to assist you whenever you require my help. Our encounter today may have been brief, but rest assured, we will be meeting frequently from now on.'

Shortly after, the Principal exited King's office. Captain was waiting for her. He asked, 'How did your meeting with King go, Seraphina?' She replied, 'I was afraid I might make a fatal mistake, but King was a surprise. He's kind and gentle in his office, unlike the harsh world outside where absolute leaders command forces to obliterate all criminal organizations. The image I had of him was completely different.'

Captain chuckled, 'I wonder what image you have of me. Perhaps someone significant?' The Principal responded cryptically, 'Who knows?' As they reached their destination, Captain announced, 'We're here.'

The King gazes skyward from his office, a glass of exquisite wine in hand. Its familiar aroma brings him comfort, assuring him that he can embark on his journey without any concerns. The decision has been made to test Zet's capabilities. This challenge may be daunting, but I have faith in you, son. Succeed in this test we've set for you, and you'll be one step closer to your goal. You are an extraordinary child, your growth surpassing all my expectations. I wish you the best of luck.

On the ground, K was waiting for them. He greeted, 'My lady, you've arrived.' K extended his hand, which the Principal gently accepted before stepping into the carriage.

Inside the carriage, the Principal employs her magic, known as 'the fey carriage.' This enchantment allows the carriage to move without the need for a horse or horsemen. The Captain, standing outside, watches in awe. 'She's as skilled as ever,' he murmurs to himself, 'making the carriage move on its own. She's a genius.'

Turning away, he sighs, his day's duties finally complete. 'I should rest now,' he decides. As he rubs his neck, he recalls his recent encounter with K. 'He was aiming for my head from the start,' he muses, 'If we were to fight again, who knows what might happen? He's clearly trying to kill me, not just defeat me. And he's so skilled... I have a feeling he's not even using his full strength.'

Inside the carriage, the Principal turns to K. 'You seem happy, K. Did something happen?' she asks. K shakes his head, 'No, my lady. I'm just surprised by the Prince's character. He's a good man, and incredibly kind.'

The Principal nods in agreement, 'Yes, that's true. I was taken aback yesterday when he expressed his desire to protect people. Most princes are spoiled, but the King has raised him well. However, I can't help but feel a bit sorry for him.'

K's expression turns serious, 'About yesterday?' he asks. The Principal nods, 'Yes. The King asked us to keep the incident a secret from Prince Zet.' K frowns, 'But that's impossible. He'll find out when he enters the academy tomorrow.'

The Principal sighs, 'We'll have to manage that situation. He might blame himself for the student's death.' K nods, 'My lady, I don't want Prince Zet to know. I'll do everything in my power to prevent that.' The Principal smiles at him, 'You seem quite motivated after meeting Zet. Are you fond of him?'

K shakes his head, 'It's not like that. I owe you my life, after all. By the way, did you give the King that wine?' The Principal nods, 'Yes, I did. Though I must admit, I wanted to taste it myself.' K laughs, 'If I ever go back, I'll remember to bring some for you.'

Zet entered his room to find Violet and Eleanor waiting for him. Violet's face was etched with worry. 'What's troubling you, Violet?' Zet asked, taking a seat on his bed. Violet stood before him, her left arm clutched tightly as if she was afraid. Zet repeated his question, 'Is everything alright?'

Eleanor broke the silence, 'Earlier today, you and Violet were seen holding hands.' Zet shrugged, 'So what?' Eleanor explained, 'It's a serious matter, Prince. We, as maids, are of low birth. We're not supposed to touch nobles, let alone royalty.'

Zet realized their concern, 'You're worried that the knight might spread the word.' Eleanor nodded, 'Yes, if word gets out, Violet could be severely punished as well might lose her hands.' Zet reassured them, 'Don't worry. I've already spoken to K. He won't interfere.'

Violet's face lit up, 'Really?' Zet nodded, 'Yes. I share the blame for what happened. I won't let either of you get hurt because of it.' Changing the subject, Zet said, 'I'm hungry. Could I get something to eat?'

Violet apologized, 'I'm sorry, Prince. I was so worried that I forgot to prepare your meal. I'll get to it right away.' Zet nodded, 'That's fine.' As Violet left, Zet pondered over the incident. He found it hard to believe that a simple act like holding hands could cause such distress. He wondered why there were so many restrictions in their kingdom.

The night was far removed from the Captain, in a place known as the spectral lake, Lysinthra. Under the full moon's illumination, Lysinthra, a vast mystical lake, radiated an ethereal light, reflecting the celestial body's glow. The lake was encircled by tall, gnarled trees that cast eerie shadows in the moonlight. A verdant layer of moss blanketed the forest floor, interspersed with delicate wildflowers that shimmered in the moonlight. The tranquil sounds of crickets and owls filled the night, creating an atmosphere of serenity and mystery.

Two men, under the influence of alcohol, were present. One claimed, 'I could have pursued a career as a mage if I had wished, but I chose a different path.' The other man retorted, 'You're intoxicated already, remember?' The first man laughed and asked, 'Have you heard the tale? They say this forest is a gateway to hell. Supposedly, there's a hidden entrance to the underworld somewhere here.'

The second man dismissed his friend's words, 'You're clearly drunk. There's no such thing as heaven or hell; those are just stories. I've heard about people disappearing in this forest, but I think it's due to the wild tales surrounding it. I don't believe in such things.'

image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53320709793_cef13f4791_w.jpg]The first man looks towards the lake and Suddenly, he points towards the lake, where he claims to see a figure standing at the edge. Startled, he exclaimed, 'Look, there's someone standing by the lake!' The second man looked towards the lake but saw nothing. He responded, 'You're seeing things. There's no one there.' The first man insisted, 'I swear, I saw someone there.'

Emerging from the lake's depths, her striking beauty was undeniable. Her raven hair andimage [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53320485701_1c573fb6fb_w.jpg] crimson eyes radiated an ethereal elegance, asserting her dark dominion. She murmured to herself, 'That was a close call. I wasn't aware that people could visit this place. Did he see me? I must exercise caution henceforth.'