Malachai finally reaches his destination, the Guild. The massive doors, with their intricate designs, groan dramatically as he pushes them open. Inside, a diverse group of guild members from various worlds glance his way. Malachai strides past them, unfazed, as if their presence is nothing new to him. Among them are demons, Sylphar, and Dracorans, all wearing masks to blend in and avoid startling those from other worlds. Big, open halls with long tables, laden with magical artifacts and books.
'The guild members start whispering among themselves. One of them turns to their friends and says, 'Hey, look at that guy. Do you know who he is?' A woman chimes in, 'Can't be real. Isn't he Malachai, the one who achieved S-Rank in four different worlds? His entire team was wiped out by Lyanna, one of the pillars, but he managed to survive.' Another person laughs and remarks, 'So he ran away, huh? He must have begged for his life. And they call him an S-Rank adventurer when he couldn't even protect a single person.''
Malachai is clearly irritated by their comments. Yes, he survived an encounter with her, the one known as Pillar. Why is that so hard to grasp? It's not like facing a Pillar is a walk in the park. It's not anger that makes Malachai annoyed at the mere mention of them, but fear. Malachai finally snaps, shouting, 'Enough! You're annoying me, not making me angry. Mock me all you want, but listen up - the power you all possess doesn't even come close to matching a Pillar.
One guy laughs and says, "So what if you're not as strong as them? You're an S-Rank who got taken down by not one, but two pillars. If I were in your shoes, I might have died from the embarrassment alone. Comparing a mere mortal to a pillar - now that's actually hilarious.''
"Listen up, cutie pie. My name's Malachai, and let me tell you something - if you ever dare to speak out of turn again, you're gonna be sleeping with the fishes. And don't think for a second that I won't do it, because I ain't nobody to mess with. You got that? So either keep quiet and stay alive, or open your mouth and suffer the consequences. Your choice and what's your name?"
That guy said who me!, I am.
Malachai, with a voice as cold as ice, declared, ' I don't care I just say don't speak.' His aura, a palpable force, was so overwhelming that it brought everyone in the vicinity to their knees. A woman, her voice trembling, warned that adventurers below B rank shouldn't dare to approach him, as his power could obliterate them all.
But Malachai was unfazed. He moved behind her, his movements as swift as a shadow, and retorted, 'It's too late for warnings.' Without a moment's hesitation, he unleashed a powerful kick, sweeping away anyone who dared to resist or linger. In the blink of an eye, five people were knocked out cold, their bodies sprawled on the ground.
The man who had initially provoked Malachai was left in stunned silence. He couldn't comprehend the magnitude of Malachai's power. 'What kind of being is this?' he wondered, his mind racing. He had heard tales of the legendary pillars, beings of immense power. If Malachai claimed to be one of them, he wouldn't have doubted it, given the raw power he had just witnessed.
But even as he grappled with the reality of Malachai's strength, he couldn't help but wonder about the pillars. If they were monsters of such formidable power that even Malachai couldn't match them, what hope did anyone else have? The thought sent a chill down his spine. I was foolish enough to think I got so much stronger that I could take on everyone. Killing a few monsters made me think I was an invisible guy.
After a prolonged period, the grandmaster slowly opened the massive doors of the Guild, revealing a chilling sight. Before him stood a towering mountain of defeated bodies, a testament to the overwhelming power of Malachai. At the pinnacle of this macabre monument, Malachai himself sat, his presence commanding and formidable.
With a voice that carried both authority and a hint of amusement, Malachai addressed the grandmaster, You have finally graced us with your presence, Grandmaster Valerian.
Valerian, taken aback by the scene before him, mustered his composure and questioned, What is the meaning of this? Why have you subjected our fellow Guild members to such brutality?
Malachai's gaze pierced through Valerian as he calmly replied, Fear not, Grandmaster. They are not dead, merely defeated by my hand. I would never be so foolish as to extinguish the lives of my beloved Guild members. Consider it a lesson in humility.
Valerian, torn between concern and frustration, pressed further, 'But even so, this level of violence is excessive, Malachai. Why did you feel the need to go to such lengths?
A sly smile played on Malachai's lips as he retorted, Ah, Grandmaster, it has been far too long since our paths crossed. Do you not remember our last encounter at the esteemed Academy, where I knew you as Principal Valerian?
Valerian, realizing the weight of their shared history, reluctantly conceded, I will overlook this transgression, but only this once.
Malachai's eyes gleamed with unwavering confidence as he declared, Even if you were to challenge me, Grandmaster, know that I am supremely confident in my abilities. I could end your life without hesitation.
Malachai let out a hearty laugh, his voice echoing in the grand hall. 'Just kidding, I have no intention of fighting you,' he said, his tone light. 'All I want is a peaceful life, to complete missions, and collect my rewards. I've given up on everything else.'
Grandmaster Valerian, his eyes reflecting a mix of relief and concern, responded, 'I wouldn't be surprised if you had fought them, considering your past actions at the academy. Once a bully, always a bully, there's no denying that. But let's put that aside for now. How was your encounter with those pillars? I heard about what happened.'
Malachai's laughter faded, replaced by a serious expression. 'Don't ever ask about that again,' he warned. 'I'm fine with being the butt of people's jokes. They can talk all they want, I don't care. But those pillars... they're not to be underestimated. I never want to face them again.'
Grandmaster Valerian nodded, understanding in his eyes. 'I've had similar experiences, so I understand what you mean. But unlike you, I can't run away.' His voice was firm, a testament to his resolve.
image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53266999950_6bd08524f2_w.jpg]
In the heart of the academy, the Principal's office was a hub of activity. The Principal, a woman of great intellect and authority, was engaged in a conversation with a noble visitor, Lord Reginald. His presence was commanding, his tall and imposing figure filling the room. His piercing blue eyes held a glint of intensity, reflecting his unwavering focus on the matter at hand. His strong jawline, accentuated by a determined expression, added to his aura of authority. His dark, flowing hair framed his face, further enhancing his commanding presence.
The conversation between the Principal and Lord Reginald was intense, their words carrying the weight of the academy's future.
The Principal, her voice steady despite the weight of the situation, addressed Lord Reginald. 'I need your assistance to resolve this issue. Numerous nobles have arrived since dawn. I've done my utmost, but as you're aware, the grief over the loss of their children is still raw, and there are injured children to consider.'
Lord Reginald, his voice steady and authoritative, responded, 'How can I assist you with this situation? I understand that this doesn't directly impact me, even though a child from my extended family attends this academy. However, I don't concern myself with such minor matters. I have far more significant tasks to attend to. Are you certain you're not squandering my time with your summons? Given that I'm awake, you should be the one in my presence. Make your decision and choose your words wisely now.'
The Principal, her tone firm and resolute, addressed Lord Reginald, 'Our families have always been close, and you, having awakened to your status, are a product of my teachings. You were a student in this academy, under my guidance. Are you sure you're not taking me lightly just because of your elevated status? Even though you might be a higher-ranking noble now, you will always be my student. So, are you going to assist me or not? I, too, have a multitude of tasks to handle. I don't have the luxury of time to entertain a noble who chooses to hide behind his status.'
Lord Reginald's words echoed in the room, 'I said you should choose your words wisely. Are you intentionally trying to provoke conflict between us?'
'Of course not. I have no intention of making an enemy of you. I don't engage in battles I can't win, do I? I still have responsibilities towards my family. After all, I've built and elevated this rank on my own.'
Lord Reginald, his tone firm and unyielding, responded, 'I have no intention of assisting you. I should be on my way. You seem quite self-assured. I don't believe there's anything I can do to help you. If you're that confident, you should have handled this situation on your own. I suspect you just don't want to get your hands dirty. I should have realized this earlier.'
The Principal, her tone firm yet tinged with disappointment, responded, 'Very well, Lord Reginald. I should have anticipated this. You're not suited to be associated with our family. You seem to have forgotten, but without the assistance I provided you in the past, you wouldn't have been able to ascend to your current rank. Now, you're behaving as if you don't comprehend its true worth. I hope you can maintain your position. This will be our final meeting.'
Lord Reginald, pausing and turning back, asked, 'Is this matter truly so crucial that you're willing to go to such lengths? I can't imagine it having such a significant impact on you. I can sense your thoughts on this issue. If you provide some specifics, I might be able to assist you.'
The Principal, her tone serious and determined, addressed Lord Reginald, 'This morning, I met with several nobles who are struggling to understand their losses. They're unable to voice their concerns due to the Prince's influence. While they remain silent publicly, I sense their hostility towards me. I suspect they believe I'm using the princes as a shield to carry out my plans. I don't want enemies who might stab me in the back. I'm aware there are various ways they could harm me. I intend to put an end to this hostility once and for all. Are you with me, Lord Reginald?'
Lord Reginald, his thoughts racing, realized, 'I knew she wasn't someone to trifle with. I suspected she had ulterior motives when she summoned me this morning. She mentioned a discussion, but this is beyond what I expected. So, this is how she holds her position as a Noble, operating from the shadows while maintaining her reputation as a skilled mage. I've wanted her to join our ranks for a while, even proposed marriage, but she declined. Since then, I've been trying to corner her into accepting, but she's always one step ahead. She's a clever woman, always managing to turn the tables on me. Now, I have no choice but to assist her with this issue.
Lord Reginald expressed his willingness to investigate the matter at hand. As for his proposal of marriage, he asked if the Principal would consider accepting it.
The Principal, her tone firm and unyielding, responded, 'Lord Reginald, you seem to be misunderstanding something. I didn't involve you because I was in desperate need of your help. Rather, I wanted to test our relationship, to see if you were loyal to my family and if I could trust you. I've climbed the ranks on my own, I don't need anyone to help me rise further. I've already achieved what I set out to do.'
Lord Reginald sighed, shaking his head slightly. "Well, that's a pity," he muttered under his breath. "I should keep that in mind." He glanced around the room, a hint of disappointment in his eyes. "I am going then," he said, straightening his posture. "If you ever change your mind, let me know." With a nod, he turned and walked away, leaving behind a sense of untapped potential and a lingering curiosity about the hidden depths of his underrated abilities.
K [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53267208805_fffcf92f69_w.jpg]The Principal, rising from her desk and looking into the mirror, summoned her knight, K. Emerging from the shadows, K responded, 'You called for me, Master?' The Principal instructed him to prepare the carriage as they were heading to the royal mansion to meet with King Henry. K acknowledged her command, saying 'Understood.' K is a mysterious character who always keeps his face hidden from others. No one knows what lies beneath his mask, adding an air of intrigue and secrecy to his persona.
The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
As K vanished, the Principal found herself pondering, 'What is he going to report? Could this be the downfall of the Academy?' She acknowledged that dealing with King Henry, a notoriously difficult individual would be a challenge. She admitted, 'I don't have any resources to counter the King or escape from him. He's too cunning to even consider an escape plan.' She questioned, 'Could this be the end for us?'
At the mansion, Captain Aurelius and Zet were at the training ground. Zet questioned, 'Do I really have to train all day?' The Captain responded, 'Yes, you do. Because of you, my salary was cut. I should at least make you work all day as a form of revenge.' Zet retorted, 'But you were the one who said you didn't care if your salary decreased.' The Captain, growing impatient, told Zet, 'Quiet. Do as I say. You're not getting any rest from now on.'
Zet, sounding exhausted, apologized to the Captain, 'I'm sorry, Captain. I won't do it again. I can't handle this training 100 times a day. It's really tiring, you know. It's like my whole body is shutting down. Plus, this revenge thing, it's pretty childish, don't you think?'
Eleanor and Violet, high above the ground, were deep in conversation. Eleanor expressed her sympathy for Prince, unsure of what he had done to upset the Captain today. Violet shared her concerns about Prince's injuries from the previous day, mentioning that even the Doctor was taken aback, having never seen such a case in his life. Eleanor, however, saw a silver lining, stating that Prince now had the freedom to do as he pleased and seemed to be enjoying himself. Violet disagreed, asserting that Prince was far from having fun.