The bell rang loudly, signaling the start of a new class period. Students filed into the amphitheatre, taking their usual seats.

Suddenly, the door opened again, and a tall, familiar yet unfamiliar figure strode into the room. The students exchanged astonished glances, unsure of what was going on.

The figure made his way to the most remote and farthest seat in the entire amphitheatre, the infamous seat Z-01.

A man stood up from row G and pointed with his fingers.

"It's you!", he exclaimed with surprise. This man was none other than the one who called out Cagnus earlier for his "peasantry", his name was Niens Hamann.

Neins Hamann was the son of the infamous Viscount Hamann, a man known for his wealth, power, and abusive nature. Like his father, Neins was a bully, using his privileged upbringing and connections to bully and intimidate those around him.

Viscount Hamann was a towering figure in the Fide Empire, renowned for his exceptional business acumen and his unrivalled wealth. As the owner of the premier export and import company for magical and mystical ingredients, he had access to resources that seemed almost limitless. His name was synonymous with power and authority, and his presence was always felt in the highest circles of society.

Despite his good looks and natural charm, Neins was not well-liked by those who knew him. His cruel and abusive behaviour made him feared and hated by many, and his reputation for being a ruthless and selfish individual was well-known throughout the Fide Empire.

Despite his father's expectations and the pressure to live up to his legacy, Neins was a disappointment to those who knew him. He lacked the drive and ambition of his father, and instead used his privileged position to take shortcuts and bully those around him to get what he wanted.

There are whispers and murmurs circulating throughout the aristocratic society, gossip that seems too incredible to be true. According to these rumours, Viscount Hamann's butler is no ordinary servant - he is an Advanced-level Magician, a powerful and skilled practitioner of the arcane arts. And not just any kind of magician, but one who wields the ancient and mysterious crafts of the Elves, a proud and ancient race renowned for their magical abilities. These rumours have caused a stir among the upper class, with many wondering if it could be true, and if so, what kind of magical abilities this butler might possess. Some speculate that he is a master of illusion, able to bend reality itself to his will. Others believe he has the power to control the elements, summoning fire and lightning at his command. Whatever the truth may be, it is clear that Viscount Hamann's butler is a figure of great fascination and intrigue among the aristocratic circles.

"Bumpkin, it seems you managed to sneak into class once again!", Niens' spit was all over the place as he said coarsely.

Cagnus paid him no heed as he waited for the professor to start the session; he couldn't be bothered to reply or engage in a dispute with Niens.

'I missed the previous class because of you all!', Cagnus was naturally begrudged, it was his first day in the academy, and yet this idiot had to ruin it all, 'if only this kid kept his mouth shut, I wouldn't have gotten into so much trouble.'

Unfortunately, Niens Hanmann wouldn't miss an opportunity to bully someone of a lower class than him.

"Knights!", his voice echoed in the amphitheatre, it was loud and jarring, brimming with authority. The previous squadron of knights that humiliated Cagnus entered the room and looked at Niens Hamann.

"Yes, milord?", the spear-wielding knight asked. Instinctively, he looked at Cagnus from the corner of his eyes, he had a bad feeling about this.

The classroom was filled with tension as the students watched Niens, the arrogant son of a viscount, issue his command to remove the "lowlife" Cagnus. Cagnus, the peasant who had been detained by the knights earlier for not having an identification badge, stood there looking small and helpless as the students sneered at him, clearly relishing the opportunity to see him humiliated.

The knights, who had been tasked with protecting the Imperial Chess Academy, were caught in a difficult situation. On one hand, they knew that removing Cagnus would go against their protocol and potentially cause a disturbance within the academy. On the other hand, disobeying Niens' orders could lead to serious consequences, as no one wanted to offend his powerful father.

As the knights looked at each other in confusion, their gazes eventually landed on Sir Maxim, the spear-wielding knight who seemed to be their leader. Maxim could see the pleading looks in their eyes, begging him to find a way out of this predicament. He knew he had to act quickly, but he was not sure what the best course of action was.

Sir Maxim's mind was racing as he tried to come up with a plan. 'What are you looking at me for?' he thought to himself, 'That Cagnus guy is big trouble! An ordinary toothbrush in his possession contains one of the Truths of the Universe, a domain only gods can pry into. One wrong word will banish me into eternal damnation!' Sir Maxim couldn't believe that Niens seemed so unaware of the danger they were in. He looked at Niens as though he was looking at an idiot, his expression filled with frustration and disappointment. Despite his reluctance, Sir Maxim knew he had no choice but to face Cagnus and try to navigate this encounter with caution. He took a deep breath and turned to face Cagnus Marlsen, his heart pounding in his chest.

'As he stands before me, I can't help but notice the nonchalant and indifferent demeanour that exudes from his every pore. This is not the type of reaction that I would expect from a simple peasant from the rural countryside, confronted by someone of such high standing as the son of a Viscount. No, there is something more to this teenage boy, hidden beneath his unremarkable exterior. It's as if he is a wolf in sheep's clothing, a powerful and influential figure disguised as an ordinary youth. I can sense that he is someone of great importance, and I am left wondering just how deep his connections and influence truly run.'

Gulp.

Sir Maxim's heart was pounding in his chest as he made the decision to side with Cagnus, a hidden bigshot with mysterious and potentially dangerous powers. He knew that this decision could have serious consequences, but he also knew that he had to do everything he could to protect the integrity of the Imperial Chess Academy.

As he spoke, Sir Maxim's voice trembled with nervousness, but he tried his best to sound confident and assured. He enunciated each word carefully, hoping to convey a sense of authority and righteousness. His voice brimmed with the power and conviction of an Ascetic Knight, a highly trained and respected member of the academy.

"Student Cagnus Marlsen is enlisted and eligible for studies here in the Imperial Chess Academy," Sir Maxim said. "Kicking him out will be in direct violation of the academy's protocol."

Sir Maxim stood tall and upright, his posture radiating a sense of morality and dignity. His stance seemed to say, "I will not allow any violations of the academy's protocols to go unchallenged." He hoped that his words and demeanour would deter Cagnus and Niens from any further wrongdoing and encourage them to behave in a more responsible and respectful manner. Despite his nerves, Sir Maxim knew that it was his duty to defend the honour and integrity of the academy, no matter what the cost.

Upon hearing that, both Niens and the class wore surprised expressions, in fact, even Cagnus couldn't help but raise an eyebrow and look towards Sir Maxim, the spear-wielding knight who rummaged through his belongings and destroyed them.

No one expected that Sir Maxim, an Intermediate-level Knight, would side with a peasant.

Niens' jaws were wide-open, he rubbed his eyes a few times, flabbergasted by this unexpected turn of events. Then his expression quickly turned red with anger as fumes poured out from his ears, he pointed towards Sir Maxim and exclaimed:

"You!!! How dare you disobey my orders? Do you know who my father is? He's Viscount Hamann, Viscount Hamann!"

Neins' chest puffed up and down, he took a moment to take in a deep breath before he exploded in anger, "He's a Viscount! Do you know what Viscount is, you lowly knight? He's a righteous and magnanimous noble who is above the common people. How dare you badmouth the title and status generations of my family spilt blood and tears for?"

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Maxim's brows couldn't help but twitch as his expression quickly turned dark.

'How dare this debaucher to talk to me like that?', as an Intermediate-level Ascetic Knight who serves the Empress, Maxim felt stifled and humiliated. Neins was nothing but a youngster who relied on his father's wealth and status to achieve Novice-level battle prowess in the Ascentionist path. If it were not for that, considering his moral standards and mediocre talent, Niens wouldn't even qualify to enlist in the prestigious and infamous Imperial Chess Academy.

'If I wanted to, I could be a Baron! If I contribute more to the Empire, I would even become a Viscount, someone who is on equal standing with your father!', Sir Maxim, the Ascetic Knight, couldn't help but complain inwardly. He was filled with indignation as he wanted to lash out at this youngster.

Ultimately, he took a deep breath down as he faced Neins calmly, "What kind of language are you using? Do you know where you are? This is the sacred grounds of the Fide Empire, the Imperial Chess Academy!"

Sir Maxim's voice was loud and authoritative; he continued, "You dare claim to be a student of the Imperial Chess Academy with that tongue of yours? According to Academy Protocol Section A-18, Page 130413, Phrase 84. You will be fined a minimum of a hundred thousand pounds."

The entire class was astonished as they gasped in surprise. This turn of events was way too unexpected. Even Sir Maxim's own squadron of knights looked at him with weird expressions, but because of his position and power, no one debated this matter with him.

"Sir Maxim has Cardinal Tamizi backing him up. Viscount Hamann is nothing compared to him."

"Indeed indeed, Viscount Hamann's son is way too stupid; he probably thinks that Sir Maxim is just an ordinary knight just like us. Little does he know…"

The knights exchanged whispers between them, they looked at Nien with scornful and disappointed gazes, but because of their silver helmets, their expressions could not be seen.

Although Nein could not hear the knights' remarks, this did not stop him from vowing to repay this debt a hundredfold in the future.

"Tsk. A broken knight with an inferior bloodline dares to punish me? I'll dare show him in the future who is who.", Nein murmured under his breath, but he deliberately let his voice be heard by his classmates and the squadron of Ascetic Knights.

In this vast and enigmatic world, where a multitude of races coexist in harmony or conflict, humans stand out as a peculiar species. Despite their seemingly fragile and insignificant appearance, humans have proven to be remarkably adaptable and resourceful, often excelling in various fields of study and mastering various crafts. However, among the many magical creatures that roam the land, humans are often overshadowed by the more powerful and gifted races.

The elves, for instance, are a noble and ancient race renowned for their exceptional spiritual perception and unparalleled aptitude for magic and sorcery. They are masters of the five elements and possess a profound understanding of the arcane arts. The control they wield over the spirits is unmatched, and they are often sought after for their guidance and counsel by those seeking to tap into the mystical forces of the world.

Furthermore, the elves are renowned for their graceful and elegant demeanour, as well as their keen intelligence and acute senses. They are often admired for their beauty and poise, and their natural affinity for nature makes them revered protectors of the forests and wilds. In a world filled with danger and mystery, the elves stand out as a beacon of hope and wisdom, guiding those who seek their guidance along the path of enlightenment.

The barbarians are a formidable race, blessed with formidable physical prowess and an indomitable will to survive. Their bodies are honed to perfection, with musculature that seems to ripple and bulge with raw power. Their stamina is legendary, allowing them to endure the most gruelling of battles without showing signs of fatigue.

But perhaps most impressive of all is the barbarians' self-healing capabilities. In the midst of combat, they can regenerate lost limbs and heal deep wounds with astonishing speed. It is as if they possess an unyielding vitality that refuses to let them succumb to their injuries.

This resilience is what has allowed the barbarians to thrive in the harsh wilderness, where they have honed their skills as warriors and hunters. They are people who know no fear, and their determination to succeed is unmatched. In battle, they are a force to be reckoned with, their relentless determination driving them to victory time and time again.

In comparison to the majestic and powerful elves, the humans appear to be lacking in terms of their control over the natural elements and their innate magical abilities. While humans may strive to cultivate and hone their skills in the arcane arts, they will never reach the same level of expertise as the Elder Gods of Green Woods.

However, there is one notable exception to this rule - Duchess Love, a renowned figure within the Fide Empire and an International Master of magic and the arcane arts. Her exceptional abilities have earned her the esteemed title of a living god, standing as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other humans who wish to tap into their magical potential.

Despite the limitations that humans face in this realm, Duchess Love's achievements serve as a testament to the fact that with dedication and hard work, even they can ascend to great heights in the world of magic.

The physical limitations of humans are undeniable when compared to other races. They lack the strength, durability, and heightened senses that many of their peers possess. Their bodies are nothing more than fragile collections of flesh and bone, easily broken and vulnerable to the harshness of the world around them. Even Prince Charles, who achieved godhood through the path of Knighthood, struggled to stand out amongst the other powerful dukes and princes.

In the face of these challenges, humans have developed their own unique system for attaining divinity: Ascentionism. This philosophy revolves around the idea that, through hard work and dedication, humans can overcome their physical limitations and ascend to a higher plane of existence. It is a belief that has sustained them through the toughest of times, and one that has driven them to constantly strive for greatness.

While the other races may scoff at the human's seemingly weaker physique, they cannot deny the tenacity and determination that drives their quest for divinity. Through sheer force of will and unrelenting dedication, humans have proven time and again that they are more than capable of rising to the occasion and achieving greatness. In this way, they have carved out a place for themselves in the pantheon of the gods, standing tall alongside their more physically imposing peers.

Unfortunately, the road to becoming an Ascentionist cultivator is not one that is open to all. In order to embark on this journey, one must possess a powerful bloodline that will serve as a foundation for their cultivation efforts. Without such a bloodline, even the most determined and dedicated individuals may find it impossible to progress beyond the rank of Novice Ascentionist.

The importance of a powerful bloodline cannot be underestimated in the world of cultivation. It is the source of one's innate abilities and the catalyst for their spiritual growth. Without it, even the most basic techniques and practices may prove beyond their reach.

For those fortunate enough to possess a suitable bloodline, the journey towards Ascentionism can be a long and challenging one. It requires years of dedicated training and cultivation, as well as a deep understanding of the chess principles.

However, for those who persevere, the rewards are great. As an Ascentionist cultivator, one has access to unimaginable power and the ability to shape the world around them in ways that most can only dream of. It is a rank that is highly coveted and respected among the myriad races, and one that is only attainable to those who possess the determination and talent to reach it.

Despite the fact that the Hamann family was only bestowed with the noble title of Viscount, they hold a truly extraordinary and coveted lineage. Within their veins flows the sacred blood of Archduke Adams, a divine figure who was renowned for their impressive feats and noble character. This distinguished ancestry has elevated the Hamann family to a higher social standing, granting them a sense of pride and distinction within the realm of nobility.

It is a well-known fact within the ranks of the Fide Empire that all Dukes hold the title of Fide or International Master at the very least. These esteemed individuals are highly skilled in the art of chess and command a great deal of respect and authority within the realm. However, even among these esteemed Dukes, there exists a select few who hold an even greater level of power and influence - the Archdukes.

There are only three Archdukes within the vast expanse of the Fide Empire, and their might and authority are second only to the Empress herself. These rare and talented individuals are held in the highest regard by all those within the Empire, and their word carries great weight and influence.

One such Archduke is Archduke Adams, a man of great skill and cunning, who is feared and respected by all who know him. His reputation as a master chess player precedes him, and he is known to be a formidable opponent on the chessboard and on the battlefield. However, it is not only his chess skills that have earned him such a high level of respect and admiration within the Empire. Archduke Adams is also known for his wisdom, his strong leadership skills, and his unwavering loyalty to the Empress.

It is clear to see that the title of Archduke is not one that is bestowed lightly. It takes a great deal of skill, talent, and dedication to attain such a prestigious position within the Fide Empire. Archduke Adams is a testament to this, and his standing as one of the three Archdukes within the Empire serves as a testament to his incredible abilities and unwavering dedication to the realm.

One of the tales that's being told in the pubs and bars of the Fide Empire is the tale of Archduke Adams and his lover.

Because of his lover's status as a lowly dark elf, she was ostracised and segregated by her fellow denizens. And when Elder Jojomaja heard that a human god fancied her, he locked her up in the Green Woods' darkest place, the Cage of Despair.

Hearing this, Archduke Adams was furious. He traversed the treacherous and deadly Boundless Ocean, a place filled with many Advanced and Expert-ranked lifeforms, all the way to the Green Woods, the elves' abode.

When he stepped foot into the elves' land, many Elder Elvish Gods tried to stop them, but to no avail.

A divine battle ensued, resulting in the fall of three Fide Master-ranked saints and even an International Master-ranked god.

Archduke Adams barged into the Imperial Palace of Green Woods, successfully rescuing his lover and returning back to the Fide Empire.

From that day on forward, many young women and girls fantasise about Archduke Adams' might and prowess, hoping that one day, he barges into their humble abode and rescues them from the chains of society.

It goes without saying that Neins Hamann was extremely proud of his bloodline; it could be said that his bloodline is on par with Lady Seraphine and the mysterious prince in row A.