Historia IV

In all the records which date back to the time of Second-Generation Scions, the greatest or most prosperous recorded era in Adora history began two generations ago, when Fifth-Generation Lightning Scion, Chief-King Garland Ian Torvald Rakk, united the split kingdoms and colonies in the cultivated central and south Thunder Peaks, back onto the Holy Palace Nariko Cestmir’s acres.

During the war success of Chief-King Rakk, a long line of short-lived Earth Scions came to a stop when Trevet Oslot Clover was born. Abstinent from even death, the early Sixth Scion Trevet would live through to the lifetimes of the Fifth and Sixth-Generation Scions. Now, after having declared the end of the War of the Lords alongside Azure King Aohd, in old age, Trevet eventually gave birth to the Seventh, with his third wife, Valterra. During this timeframe, Adora’s capital Astu was established.

Other notable events of the generation were the emergence of the God of Fight: Grandmaster Lu Pe Fiasco. It was only five years later that Aitan Knight was crowned the King of Gladiators. At the end of the decade, Azure King Aohd rose to power through gathering the forces of Agni wholly under his wing. The long-standing battle over dominance in Prunia was settled, and finally, the War of the Lords came to an end. – Adora

Historia Est Finis

Act IV

x292

Parte et Rai

“Sealing-Enhancement-Manipulation-Projection-Lucidity-Evolution. Four basic forms of lesser Arcane, followed by the two greater forms. However, there are three types of Arcane in total. I have organized them into the word S.E.M.P.L.E. It’s a simple way of thinking about the hierarchy of the powers.”

“Front to back, they’re organized by the effort required, relative to the gain acquired. At the front is the Sealing. A little biased but for those with the aptitude it is what I believe is first in level of effort with the highest reward. We will explore that later. Next, is Enhancement. Easiest to apply and readily available. Its’ difficulty is second place only because the potential is so high. Truthfully, there are many ways to apply this skill without using it only on your body. I’ll leave that one to your creativity.”

Then there’s Projection. Projecting an image or shape is, at first, difficult. But once you’ve learned it, it is, dare I say, instinctive. However, advanced constructs such as shapes illusions, as well as other things of that sort, are incredibly difficult to achieve. One must have a great pool of potential simply to maintain even intermediate figures. Call it mere intuition, but I doubt even I have seen any truly advanced techniques. In my opinion, it’s doesn’t offer enough reward for all the work and aptitude required.”

“Manipulation, however, is a very subtle art. Puppeteering & remote control of objects imbued with your own Arcane requires a certain nuance to maximize. I knew few masters of this art myself. They are rare indeed, but almost always deeply gifted. The rewards are unique: I’ve heard tales of women so great in this particular skill, they can control several complex dolls at once. Still, the dedication and effort required are exceedingly great. The human mind has limits placed on it after all. These make up the four basic arcane arts.”

“The last two are what one might call the results of mastery. By combining the basics, you can achieve either a state of Lucidity, or a state of Evolution. Reaching the state Lucidity means reaching a state of completion. In its natural form, arcane is a violent and unstable power which cause growth and change. By reaching this level, one can move freely between the basic arts and utilize each of their best aspects. I would best describe it as a long mountain range stretching as far as the eye can see. You may cross one plain and reach the pinnacle of one hill, only to see a myriad of plains and hills in the horizon. The journey is long, and nothing is guaranteed. Men have dedicated their whole lives to reaching this state of completion. Many have, and will, fail.”

“Finally, there’s Evolution, the last art. This too, is a summation of parts. However, there are very few myths and tales of men and women who dedicated their talents to reaching Evolution. There is no direct pathway and, even then, the very possibility to reach some distinct change has been recorded as less possible than reaching intermediate Manipulation abilities. It’s theorized, however, that by my mastering the four basics and reaching Lucidity, Evolution would then become available as the next step.”

Elrik completed the intro to his lecture.

“Professor? Exactly what is it that comes after Evolution? What kind of changes have you seen?” Irma Investigated.

“Dear girl, you’ll have to forgive me. In my many years of research, I have seen few instances where something like Evolution was ever the intended result. However, if you’ll believe me, there was a boy I once knew… Both of his parents were Anima. Can anyone tell me what an Anima is?” Elrik posed.

Irma shot her hand to the sky: “Someone who can take the form of animals or change parts of their body into beastly versions of themselves.”

“Correct, my dear girl.” Elrik smiled. “This boy had extraordinarily little aptitude with all but the Enhancement arts; he was not an Anima himself. Seeking to improve his skills and increase his versatility, he embarked on a path of Lucidity. I cannot tell you the details, but years later when I met the boy again, he had evolved into half a beast.”

Gasps of surprise echoed in the room.

“Yes… There are numerous implications for such a result. But first and foremost, it proves that Evolution is possible. Now, recall S.E.M.P.L.E. Each of these arts will benefit you differently. However, in this class, I will attempt to instruct you on the basics of sealing. Make no mistake: Not everyone has the aptitude for this skill, and you may find that this process will help you better decide which of the Arcane Arts to focus on. Still, I’ve had classes of merely four students at a time. You are not required by any means to attend this class all the way through, however. Simply attempting it is more than enough. Any questions?” Professor Elrik asked as he finished.

A layer of silence fell over the room. The classroom was small, with no windows, being in the deep hallows of the church. A bookshelf, dusty and visibly aged, laid on one side, stocked with hardcover books that barely fit. Small candles and torches flickered lightly around the room, and a blackboard hung, draped on the wall at the front. Three empty tables stood to the left of the room near the front in a triangular formation. Finally, at the far right stood a lone rocking chair, reserved for the professor. He had no desk of his own.

“How does one perform a seal?” He continued. “Would any of you care to venture a guess? Please. this is no place for shyness. Silly questions will be dismissed as such, but you will not be.” The wit flipped off the end of his tongue as his words bit and teased. A young girl spoke.

“The imparting of the will. Using one’s energy to impart one’s will onto a subject. Or so you said, professor.”

Elrik let out a sly chuckle. “Irma, yes? You’ve read my work?”

“That’s why I’m here, professor.” Irma replied.

“I see. What else have you learned from my works?”

I spoke out, quoting: “Sealing isn’t a humble art. In the worst way, it’s the art of conquering: a tyranny.” Irma looked at me from across the room. I sat near the door, closer to the backmost right-hand corner of the room. She was left of the centre. More bodies were scattered around the room.

“Yes. To ‘seal’ something means to restrict and inhibit it. To take away its freedom to act in a natural way. It also means you are just as capable of supporting and strengthening it. You’re very much conquering, but one does not seal to conquer.” The professor explained.

“One conquers to seal.” I finished.

“Very much so. The aptitude, disposition and very nature to perform an effective seal, is not something every person possesses. However, for those who do, this is a rare skill that will not go unappreciated. Prepare yourselves, for this journey is both long and arduous.” He continued.

The rest of the class progressed with the professor explaining the basics of the basics. He talked with passion about the function of lesser Arcane and how important it was to understand the foundations of what makes the world how we see it today. I couldn’t help but be engaged, more so than in any other class. Eventually, we were dismissed. As I made my way back into the light of the world, my eyes took their time to adjust to the sudden brightness. Once I could see normally again, I made my way to the arenas in the south ends of the church. It was broken up into several wide spaces; like the barracks on Nariko, but smaller, of course. Training in hand-to-hand combat, swordsmanship and general battle were held in these spaces.

“Ah yes… here he comes. Our beloved dictator-son of the tyrant!”

I stopped walking across the wide field and turned to meet the voice.

“Have you and your father decided on the next piece of land to destroy yet? Maybe the whole of Nariko will join in on the next evil expedition.” A stout, young boy said. He was slightly taller than me, with dark brown hair and eyes that enthusiastically mocked me. “Clara, I think your family’s villa was just north of those plains. You should send a letter to them immediately and warn them.” He sneered.

“You will not stand before me and insult my homeland, Perro.” I growled back.

“Oh goodness!” He harrowed in a fearful tone “Have mercy on me, oh son of the ‘Genocider!’”

He said.

I scoffed and chose to ignore him, refocusing on my path toward the end of the field. Jeering continued from the group behind me, mocking me as I did.

“All hail the Tyrant Prince. But wait, sire. Do you not care to join us? Show us the cowardly skills that defeated the beast-men!” The brown-haired boy continued. Footsteps grew louder and heavier behind me. I turned to see Ralah walking up with quite the sour face.

“Ralah, don’t worry. Let them talk. The sounds of mice do not alarm beasts.”

That got a smile out of her.

“Who are you calling mice, villain?”

“OIIIIIIIII!” A loud scream erupted in the distance. “OI, Fenris! FEEEENRIIIS! Spar with me again today!” Marise yelled, walking up to me while carrying an assortment of wooden weapons. “Hey, Fenris! Let’s fight.” He said with a wide grin, his red eyes sparkling; his black hair flowing back to his nape.

“Oh, Perro. Are you hoping to spar with Fenris too? Didn’t you say you were giving up already? You should probably go train and ask Master Rolon for tips. Come on Fen. Let’s go. Today’s the day!” He had a confident, and almost devious, smile on his face.

We followed Marise as he hummed along to his own beat, the group of children and the brown-haired boy left to their own devices, unable to keep with the flow of the naturally bright- light attitude of this boisterous boy. Marise led us to a corner of the field where a sequoia tree rose and bent over a portion of the space creating a shade that washed between the cracks of its leaves. Marise placed the weapons against the bark of the tree in an orderly fashion. Ruffling scattered among branches. With his legs hanging around a large, long branch, a young blonde boy spun down like a bat.

Marise let go a yelp. “Ah, Eurus!”

“So, ‘young oppressor,’ how long are you gonna be bullied by the oppressed?” Wind-boy blew.

I scoffed again. “The sounds of mice…”

“Yeah, don’t alarm beasts. I heard. That’s because beasts will usually eat mice.” He interrupted. I walked over to the tree and stood with my back against the bark next to the weapons.

“I’m full.” I said.

Ralah and Marise had already begun drawing an outline in the dirt for an arena. He even added a scoreboard. Against the tree stood different sizes of swords, varying in length. A naginata staff, a medium-sized axe & other assorted weapons. That Marise could lift all this with a body as small as his surprised me. Eurus sat upright on the tree branch, poised to watch. Ralah stepped back, quiet-lipped as she was. Her presence was always calmly felt. She opted to watch next to Eurus, who still hung on the branch, as I picked the long naginata. Marise decided on the medium-sized wooden broadsword. He and I then proceeded to stand at the centre of the arena. He waved the sword in various directions, twirling it, becoming familiar with it. I stood ready, holding the staff behind my back.

“Not gonna take a stance today?” He smirked.

“Make me.” I rebutted.

“I’m gonna crush that attitude. You’d better be ready!” He grinned.

He leapt at me with great force and we began to spar. He was good. For his… no, our age. But I’d seen more training. Still, such were my days at the church. History and diplomacy, lessons in the arts of the Arcane… and battle. Hated by my classmates and peers alike, the other Scions where really my only cohorts. Father’s actions had done much in the way of creating a disdain for me—for us. News of our evil and tyranny continued to spread. Father hadn’t set out to quell any uprising. He had every intention of striking fear into anyone that was, or would yet be, an enemy of Nariko.

Marise fell to a knee. As he caught his breath, I switched places with Reinhelda, who decided to use the daggers. I returned to the tree and watched, my back against the bark.

Here I was, at the church, an international symbol. His only son… an easy target for all kinds of threats. In fact, from what Edgar had told me, many people in power were clear with how they felt about his actions and sent threats and ultimatums of all sorts to the palace. And yet… none had yet dared to do anything. Even then, it wasn’t all bad. And I must admit, I didn’t have to worry about being coddled or followed by shallow friends or selfish people. Still, class was interesting, my rivals strong, and with each new day I discovered something in the way of fostering my own strength and powers. Daily life is a routine that never felt routine and that was as much as I could’ve asked for. People may dislike or resent me, but one thing stood true above everything else: people had nothing to say in the face of power. Father proved that. But then again what do I know?

Eurus took a turn, switching in.

Grunting, the collision of wood faded in and out of the air as they sparred, the longest of all the bouts so far.

“Whew, you don’t get tired, do you Marise? I thought going last was a good idea.” Eurus wiped the sweat off his forehead.

“I don’t have time to be tired. Up until this year I thought I was pretty strong.” He confessed with a snarl. “But you guys are still a lot better than me. Its pretty annoying.”

At least he was honest.

“There’s no need to rush.” Ralah consoled.

“Hm. To be fair, you’re a lot better at moving around now. For sure using your energy better is helping your stamina last too. You’ve started at it, so you just need more practice. With a sword now too.” I added.

“Well, kids, you’ll have to practice on your own, because I’m tired.” Eurus announced shrugging nonchalantly after a single tough bout. He turned and walked toward the tree, planting himself at its trunk with a loud sigh.

“Alright, lets call it a day then.” I said, raising my back from the bark. I waited a few moments while they caught their breath, then grabbed a few of the weapons. Marise grabbed the rest, and together, we walked back into the castle. The sun shone a soft orange as it set behind us.

“What’re you guys going to do now?” Marise inquired. Ralah and I glanced over at each other.

“I had intended on doing some reading myself, if you wanted to join.” I replied, Ralah nodded as well.

“I think I’ll pass. I’m gonna get some food in the hall.” Said Marise.

“Food doesn’t sound too bad. It’s about dinner time.” Eurus joined.

The sound of Eurus’ steps disappeared as he, with a few slight breezes of the surrounding air, floated quietly overhead, carried by a light wind he enjoyed a lot. He constantly made subtle displays of his powers like that when he was with us. No other kids seem to notice the slight push and pull in the air that always played to his advantage. To be fair, beating him was impossible if you didn’t feel it. Marise’s frustration was understandable. I still beat him though. A smirk slipped.

We parted ways—Eurus and Marise heading to the kitchen, while Ralah and I walked down to the further reaches of the church. We went down familiar steps we’d walked already walked almost a hundred time– ever since our first commencement. Deeper we traveled, and soon returned to what was now our personal indoor training ground. It was the same room where we became Scions: The Inner Stone Sanctum. It made for a perfect space, as it was wide and open, and the walls and floors were strong enough to go pretty much unscratched as I learned myself. Ralah walked next to a pillar, marked with a flower with a long petal carved into it. She took a deep breath and touched it. A faint rumbling sound creaked in the air. As I walked over, the pillar opened at the face and a petite box revealed itself from within. Inside were canteens of water and rations of sorts: sandwiches and fruits.

“Here.” She threw me an apple. Catching it, I sat next to the pillar and ate, preparing myself silently.

Parte est Gaia[A1]

My name is Reinhelda Maralah Clover, but he calls me Ralah. I am the Scion of Earth, and Princess of Cephas in the land of Jagged Canyons. Inside me dwells strength… Or at least that’s what they call it. I don’t know what to call it yet, but it scares me it. Not because I fear the power, but the flashes and pictures, that it could hurt everyone around me is—more than anything. That’s why I come here, with him. I didn’t have to ask. He seems to silently accept many of my quiet requests. He says I owe him nothing. That friendship is easier when you don’t have to ask ... I would like to do the same. I train not to be strong, but to control it, so it never destroys—never corrupts me. I’ve spent my days in the Church of the Goddess with Fenris, Marise, and Eurus. Fenris is... a king’s son, to say the least. His expressions are generally a mask he wears, but there are other sides to him. And when he fights, it’s no question he’s more than that just someone’s child. I can tell. Father would always say to me anyone who hides their sleeves is too weak to wear their heart. I feel like Fenris may never get the chance to. The way he lives I’m scared he really won’t get to be free. but I am also glad he’s able to make that he’s been able to choose for himself. At least that how it seems I’d like to protect that if nothing else.

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“Ralah, are you ready?” He said, rising from his seat. He undressed his top; the typical short, red vest covered in bolts of lightning. He wore matching bottoms that ran tied in a fluff about his calves. I nodded.

He began to walk in circles, stretching. I simply stood, breathing. My mother taught me exercises; mental and physical. They help me remain calm and centred so my powers don’t rampage: to focus my energy, and emotions. I watched Fenris strut with a level of confidence and determination I couldn’t imitate. Truly, his expression changed whenever it came to fighting. His eyes took on a serious glare, it was passionate. He fell to the ground and began to push his body up in a straight line, arms beside his head. He raised his feet in the air and counted, then placed one hand behind his back and counted again. He switched hands and repeated. He… had bruises and scars all over his body. Admittedly, a few were from me, from our time here so far. The physical strength looked like a circus act. It made me a little envious.

I shook my head and continued my own exercises, focusing on my breathing. I removed my long robe, revealing a sleeveless shirt that stopped tightly at the top of my waist. My arms were wrapped in a special bandage marked with various symbols, seals, from my wrist to the top of my elbows. I undid them. A series of marks faded into bare skin, depicting letters of unclear sorts. Sigils and runes vanished. The bandages wet with a viscous ink. Typically, I never removed them when I trained. They helped to offset my powers, so they’d be less likely to spill. But with Fenris, I didn’t have to restrict myself so much. Just like this, neither of us needed to be any stronger is how I honestly felt. It’s like training with the generals at home, or father. Just like this, we grow up peacefully. I didn’t need any more than the essentials. The adventure, the fighting and war, the grand story; what’s it all compared to our peace?

“I’ve learned from reading my book that ink is a sign that the seal isn’t powerful enough to contain it’s target. As a result, it bleeds, until its useless, and dies. I’ve noticed recently its been seeping more and more. Are you worried?” He explained.

“So far, this has been the best solution the sages at home had for me. And because I haven’t been home in some time, I haven’t been able to get them redone. I also can’t ask the elders to leave their homes to come see me either, even if I am their princess. That’s too much for me.”

“Humph. How humble. If it’s just a few basic sigils, I can probably write them myself. Or ask Professor Elrik.” He backed away and began to stretch and move, hop, and jump, kicking and punching. Confident in each move I could tell he was working toward something high-level. His body had the marks of a fighter… or unfortunate child.

“Kindness isn’t your strong suit, ‘Mr. Dictator.’ What about you? Since you want to be observant, you’re covered in scars and bruises. You enjoy fighting, but you walk around scowling like a kid permanently on punishment. Why is that?” I rebutted.

He stopped and stood still for a moment. “Hmph. You’re right. But what else would you have me do? I don’t care for it very much. If I could, I would sooner escape. This world is boring and predictable. Whether you’re lucky or not, once born, you’re likely at the mercy of someone else’ ideas. My life has been like that so far. All I know is what I woke up to. With nothing around me. I had to find something that would be mine.”

I interrupted to ask. “A source of your own desires?”

“No. A source of my own powers. I don’t mean Arcane or even martial might. I am the son of the evil king who rules by fear. Being battle-crazed would only make me seem more of a villain than I am. So, I don’t know what face to make because I don’t know where to smile from. Maybe it was thanks to Edgar—there’s no one else I could possibly credit.”

“Credit with what?”

“Encouraging me to think. It was only after thinking a lot for myself, that I realized 98% of my life, of what I was born into, matters not.”

“What’s the other 2%?”

“It’s me.” He exhaled with a deep acknowledgement. “Its the 2% I can control, the 2% I make up, that matters the most. Whatever my face looks like in-between is the least of my worries. Kindness isn’t my strong suit, anyway.”

I gave a moment of thought to what he said before answering. “I suppose… Villains do tend to be insane about violence. But you’ve never cared what Perro and the others thought of you anyway right? You don’t have to take it.”

“It’s always a surprise to hear you be so talkative.” He remarked. “But you’re right. It doesn’t matter to me. Even so I won’t let anyone mock Nariko. If I’m honest; I know a lot of people are watching me. My dad is dragging the nation one way, and my mother is dragging it another. The lords wish to separate from the church and father is making it easy. Either way, I won’t be the reason the people on Nariko get hurt or take anymore blame for our drama. I have no desire to cause anyone else an issue because of how I try to live my own life.”

I grinned playfully. “A dutiful prince. How adult-like. Why are your parents fighting?”

“I’m not totally sure. I know it has to do with the church and, whatever it’s all about, they disagree. They won’t let me find out what’s going on either. At this point, I really don’t care.”

As I performed my exercises, stretching and the like, Fenris took a stance at the centre of the room. Such tension from a thirteen-year-old boy was unseemly. Clearly, he was ready. I tied my, silver hair in a long ponytail, the tension in my skin grew, and I soon joined him in the centre.

“Today’s the day.” He said.

“Come.” I replied, taking stance.

Parte est Rai

Ralah and I trained in the lower sanctum for quite some time. We clashed and sparred bare-handed, an array of quiet and sharp noises as we did – using only lesser Arcane, determined to strengthen our foundations there. Eventually, we separated and sat down, stopping for a break. She walked over to the box and rummaged through it. I continued to train, throwing my fists at imaginary opponents, flexing the Arcane throughout my body and becoming ever more familiar with it.

“Eurus. Water?” Ralah announced. No response. I stopped.

“You can stop hiding in the shadows now,” I said aloud.

“The two of you are kind of cruel, don’t you think?” A voice resounded. Eurus sat on the railing on one of the second-floor balconies. “Marise just wants to catch up. Why not let him join?” He asked.

“I’m not interested in being followed by some small animal. You don’t become strong just by imitating.” I replied. I hopped onto my hands and began push-ups with my body weight. “Besides, if either of their powers go berserk, it’ll set the other off. I don’t know if I’d be able to handle that.” I jokingly admitted, continuing to train.

“Oh? That’s a surprise. A big brain in class, a great fighter, skilled with arcana energy. Who would’ve thought there’s still something Fenris can’t do?” Eurus chuckled.

“I won’t lose to any of you… but all of you is different. Well, sometimes.” I rebutted, half smirking. I jumped back to my feet.

“I’m almost jealous of that confidence. In a contest of our powers, I’d certainly have the upper hand since I practice with them more.” He said with a sly grin, humorous at least. Yet his eyes took on a sort of intensely sinister look. He seeped a dark aura that gave me a few goosebumps on my arms, his smirk was as dangerous as his humour.

“Really?” I raised my hand to the front of my chest. With a loud snap, resounding in the air, I entrapped it in lightning. “Prove it.”

He looked into my eyes. A look more serious than I’d expect sat on his face. His green eyes didn’t waver, at first.

“I’ll pass.” He suddenly said. “Why risk destroying this place?” He joked, throwing his hands, giving a shrug. “I’m gonna go find Marise and mess with him a little. Don’t hurt yourselves too much now.” He walked off into the darkness of the upper balconies, and his footsteps soon disappeared.

“He’s getting sassier and sassier.” She gushed a proud sister.

“Think he heard all of that earlier stuff?” I asked.

“Possibly.” She admitted.

“If things work out, we’ll be a fun team in the future.” I smirked, returning to my routine.

Ralah grinned a little and shrugged slightly, sighing. Finishing soon thereafter, I took a towel from inside the basket and wiped the sweat from my face. I picked up my garbs and wore them over my shoulder. Grabbing an apple, I then sat next to the hole in the pillar and ate. Ralah persisted in her own routine.

“What’s it like? To have been born with so much strength, most adults don’t know how to handle you?” I asked. She took a moment and looked at me. Her reaction to my question was unclear. She then replied without breaking rhythm.

“It feels like being unable to hug my father… because I might kill him if I feel any genuine emotion.” She said.

A moment. Then shared laughter. “That’s dark.” I scoffed at her, scratching my chin. “I guess that’s why you don’t talk so much most of the time.”

“It’s like having a father with evil so deep into his heart it oozes off his face. Yes, only someone like that could scar the very race of the beast-men. One thousand innocent lives… In one blow was it? Horrendous.” She preached.

I was left with a deft stare on my face… then, without being able to help myself, I burst out laughing. She soon cracked and followed in kind. The air grew thin between the two of us for a moment, and we eventually calmed down.

“Fenris Torvald Beneberakk. Take my hand.” She walked over and grabbed my right hand with both of hers and pulled me up from my seat, out into the inner circle of the sanctum. “I hereby officially appoint you the aide of the Earth Scion, Princess Reinhelda Maralah Clover. Congratulations. Serve your mistress well.” She smiled a wide smile, grinning ear to ear.

“And just what am I supposed to do as your aide, dear princess?” I could feel the twitch in my eyebrow as I gave her a very annoyed face.

“Be loyal and protect me forever, of course. We’ll have to come up with some kind of code so you know when I’m in danger and can come running to save me. Oh! I know. I’ve memorized how you walk now, so if I knock at your feet a few times you’ll—”

I chuckled loudly, completely interrupting her. She began to tug on my arm with a puffy face, gradually harder and harder, as I talked.

“Who are you calling an aide? Do you realize you’re talking to a future Monarch of Battle? Ruler of the grand fortress?” I pulled back with a bit of decent force, but she flung herself up with my arm. To my surprise, she had jumped just in time. Still smiling, she threw her weight overhead while holding me by the arm, fully threatening to throw me by it. I jumped and twisted in a rotating fashion, slipping out of her maneuver. She landed and turned to me.

“Well, well, Mr. Battle King—you almost got caught off-guard and thrown on your butt: not to mention—you nearly had to break your arm there to get out.” She snickered.

I was left with a smug grin on my face in response. Ralah had the ability to feel the force of something and repel it. It’s because she’s so attuned with the element of earth that she can feel tiny vibrations like that. In direct hand-to-hand combat, it’s not all that fair. In the months I’ve been at the church, we’ve sparred and fought 109 times. I have 80 wins. She has 29. We’ve fought hand-to-hand 30 times... and I’ve only beaten her once. She stood gleefully, smiling with her hands on her waist.

I got up and swung my arm a little while holding onto shoulder, ensuring everything was in place. “I guess it turns out your mouth is more trouble than I thought.” I walked to the basket at the foot of the pillar, grabbed another apple and walked away. “Good night, princess.” I waved, half-jokingly.

“How rude. Could you stand to wait even a few moments?” She sneered.

I turned around, still staggering away. “I have no duty to do so, princess.” I smirked sarcastically. I turned away and left the sanctum.

I traversed the now-dark halls of the church. The only light was that of the dim torches and faint shine of the moon outside, breaking softly into the scene. The hairs on my arm suddenly stood on end. I could faintly sense a fluctuating source of energy nearby… so I searched for the source. Further down the hall, a window peered out into the southern courtyard. In the dead of the night, not a sound or bug could be heard or seen about. Outside, at the end of the courtyard, a small boy stood in the field, encased by his flames. His focus was clear. Another boy sat, arms crossed, in the tree tens of mets away, watching. I couldn’t help but grin. With the sight of another challenge burnt into my mind, I left to my room.

Act IV Fin

Storytime IV

The year is x291. It was now summer season in central Adora. Schooling at the church came to an end over 2 weeks ago. Here, going about their routine training in the southern courtyard, were Fenris, Marise, Maralah and Eurus.

What were they doing at the church while schooling was out for the holidays? Consider it a mishap of fate. Lord Alok had heard of the end-of-term news in the middle of an expedition and he’d already set the grand palace on course for his own retrieval. As such he would be arriving for Fenris later than planned. Upon hearing this, the four were filled with joy.

Eurus and Maralah, who lived in Cephas, had no issues with remaining at the church with their friends. At the same time, it just happened that Lord Aohd was here in the capital for his own affairs. This mishap – made today a special day because it allowed for a certain experiment to take place here under the shade of the Holy Sequoia.

“So, you guys made a mannequin?” Marise entered.

“Oh no, it’s much more advanced than just a mannequin.” Fenris exasperated.

Maralah poured discontent at his answer. “The design is much better than just a doll.” She slapped.

“That right,” Fenris called aloud from the front of the group. “We used three layers of hardened rock that took us a lot of time to forge over the end of the semester. At first, it was just a science experiment… but it got way more complex than that. It took me some time to even get the formula right.” He explained.

“Okay, okay. So, you worked really hard to make a really complicated dirt model of a person?” Marise summarized.

“I guess you’ll have to see it for yourself.” Fenris led, Maralah next to him.

Moments later, they journeyed behind the trunk and shade of the sequoia. There, stood a tall, young-looking figurine, perhaps four feet and six inches only—the height of child.

It followed human anatomy but was indiscriminate of sex. Well-polished, it was clear, even to Marise, just how much time they had spent crafting it, and from more than just clay. Marise approached, hoping to examine the intricate-looking doll closer.

“I’m going to start warming up now.” Maralah informed. Fenris nodded. Over to the side, Maralah gathered focus underneath the shadow of the leaves.

“What’s she doing?” Marise asked Fenris, still writing on the back of the mud doll.

“This doll needs energy to move the way we need it to. For that, Maralah is going to try and gather as much raw Arcane energy as she can control it without going crazy.” He reported.

Marise examined the scene. “Ok, I get that part. Do you need me for anything?”

“No, not right now. Just hang on for a few seconds.” Fenris commanded. On one side, Fenris seemed to draw inscriptions on the back the doll: focused, scanning eyes glued to the rear side of its posture, and runes scattered in light scribbles. Adjacent from them, a few mets away, Maralah engaged in her exercises. Marise stood in awe and watched how she would set her feet. First: at rest, she’d placed her hands calmly before her core. Then, with the intake of breath, the force would gather, and she’d expel a strike with the weight of her body from her right hand, taking a step forward. Second: Another deep breath, pick up the weight of her back foot and stomp to her side, squatting the weight with all her control and breathing. Then, finally, back to rest. She did not slack. With every new step, she left a small dust imprint of her dainty feet. She was chasing something, of course. It was hard to become a strong girl in this world. It was still unfair, in fact, even if you already were.

“What’s Maralah doing?” Marise asked.

“Peractio exercises.” Fenris quickly replied.

“What’s that?” Marise continued.

“She said she was warming up right? Well, she does those exercises to control and gather her Arcane. When she’s done, she should be able to direct her energy and power the doll without going berserk.” Fenris explained.

“Isn’t that risky?”

“I’m gladder you recognize that, than anything.”

“I’m done.” She called.

“So am I.” Fenris spoke.

“Is it time?” Marise asked.

“Is Eurus coming? I haven’t sensed him.” Fenris queried.

“Neither have I.” Maralah shook her head.

“Hm. I could guess but… whatever.” Fenris shrugged. “Ok, let’s do this.”

“Ahah… um… can you tell me what’s about to happen before you start?” Marise nervously snickered, raising a finger of opposition.

BOOM! Maralah gave a palm thrust towards the doll’s torso, and a light ring of thick Arcane whipped through the air.

“Basically, I wrote a bunch of movement, action, and response commands I’d been listing for a while now.”

Marise gawked in awe and confusion. “You’ve been listing… commands?”

“Yeah. Like, I made instructions for throwing a punch, a kick, or blocking, and I used myself as the base, and with Maralah’s help, copied some basic self-defence into the doll’s memory.”

“Wow. Are you really eleven[A2] ?” Marise winced with confoundment. He sighed and spoke: “Fenris and his antics. Why can’t we just spar normally?”

“Done.” The whipping stopped. Maralah stepped back and the doll’s eyes lit up.

“Interesting.” Fenris examined tossing his posture at angles.

The other two waited behind him as he did. He turned the back of the object and curved a few final letters in. The dust started to shake slightly… Then, after a crick and a crack, the joints waved.

“ZRGG…” The limbs dragged, and, taking a basic soldier’s stance, the mud doll stood ready.

“Aha!” Marise exclaimed. “Looks like you did it! I don’t totally understand it all, but I’m really impressed. You made a live sparring dummy.”

“You should be. It took us the entire end of term to make this. Three layers of skeleton joints, hard dirt and rock for muscle, and a solid clay exterior for finish. Couldn’t have done it without you, Ralah.”

She gave a polite and respectful bow, smiling in satisfaction. “I fully enjoyed myself, even though your constant direction proved was annoying.”

“Call it tedious but effective.” Fenris corrected.

Marise walked to the front of the defensive object and examined it for himself. “He’s using big words I don’t know again.” Marise examined the doll. “Wow… It really feels alive. Just how much energy did you put into this thing Maralah?”

“At least enough to put up a fight… against us.” She coiled at the end. Just then, Marise thought to reach out and touch the thing. It reacted, reaching out with a two-handed push.

“Whoa!” He yelled.

“Marise!” Fenris called.

Looks like I’m going first.” The red-headed boy grinned.

Fenris folded his arms. “Are you sure? You can warm up first.”

“Nah. First your little doll, then you Fenris.” He smirked competitively.

“Hmph. Good luck.” Shock-boy chuckled.

Marise faced off with the mud-doll behind the sequoia.

“Alright! Anything I should know?!” He roared.

“Keep your guard up.” Fenris warned.

Maralah’s fists tightened in excited, silent cheering.

Marise opened with a wide, right haymaker. Mud-doll, however, blocked it. Marise roared with aggressiveness, continuing his onslaught, but mud-doll held a hard, tight guard.

“Don’t let up! Change your tactics!” Fenris encouraged.

Marise roared with might. “Right!”

At the signal, Marise dove again, this time lower, attacking the legs. He feinted, then rose for an uppercut. However, in the momentary gap, mud-doll made a move Marise had not expected: shifting its body, it spun its back leg, aiming its heel at Marise’s open right ribs.

“Oh no!” Fenris and Maralah were stunned.

But Marise had not given up. He raised his right arm just in time, keeping his guard firm. The strike landed with a sickly crack.

Marise was tossed back by the blow like a doll, himself.

On landing, Marise gave a screeching cry. He hugged his arm, but touching it meant pain. He laid slung across the dirt and still could not grit his teeth quite tight enough. Maralah and Fenris slid swiftly to the ground beside him in panic and worry. His muffled screams shook the air.

“It’s his arm!” Maralah shouted. “How are we gonna move him?”

“Grr… damn it… Damn it! Eurus, get over here!!” Fenris roared with rage.

FWOOM!

In seconds, the blonde boy appeared in green & black short sleeved attire, expressionless. But as soon as he turned to the boy writhing on the ground, he gave a deep exhale in empathy. “Of course, I would wake up to this.”

“Carry him to the infirmary, Eurus!” Fenris commanded. Eurus nodded.

Just then, he lifted his arms and summoned powerful gusts beneath Marise’s back. Anyone else would be in awe of the skill it took to accomplish such a feat, but Fenris seemed to expect as much from Eurus.

Two hours later…

“It doesn’t seem to be too terrible, but it is broken.” Mr. Nurse opened. “The doctor is outside explaining what happened to your parents. So, you three can wait here,” he finished, leaving.

Fenris sat with a dark expression, eyes sullen in guilt. Maralah simply peered softly around the room, grey opaque lenses offering some sympathy.

Marise sat from the bed for a moment, looking depressed. “Your doll is really strong… I didn’t expect that kick to come out so fast.” He said. “It looked like it aimed to hit me just

there… Or maybe it’s just me. But anyways… you guys did a great job. With some tweaks, it’ll be a great sparring partner for all of us.”

“You’re really kind, Marise.” Maralah praised.

“Aha, oh come on. I got my arm broken just trying to keep up with the thing. I don’t deserve any praise. Mud-doll is really cool though, okay Fenris?”

Fenris didn’t look up, a small quaint nod of affirmation. You see, despite his quick thinking and intellect, Fenris was still a child. That his friend was hurt by his invention—the guilt he felt was immeasurable. Most children fear being scolded, but an understanding parent knows first to relieve that fear. However, that is a privilege. The privilege of the majority, but for the minorities, they are taught from birth that every mistake has a corresponding consequence, no matter the circumstance.

“Ssssd-d” The infirmary door slid open. Immediate with chatter from a single voice, King Aohd stepped in, leading with the side of his face. Next to him, King Alok entered the room.

“Alok… did you understand?” Aohd called. “It was a small experiment gone awry. Nothing more. I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about.” He assured. “Ah! Children!”

“Dad!” Marise waved the cast over his forearm.

“Marise, my boy, how are you faring?” He walked around to his son, patting the other two on the head with a smile.

“Fine, dad! The nurse said it’s slightly broken but should heal quickly. It’s all my fault anyways, so I’ll make sure to take care of it properly!” He laughed a small chuckle, patting his own head on the back.

The tension in the room didn’t lift. Not even a millimetre. The small bit of snickering meant nothing. Alok’s firm dark gaze fixed on Fenris who still hadn’t moved. A silence ensued, swallowing the room.

“Oi.” He spoke in a deep, uninviting bellow. “Come here.” Alok’s tone was awful. Fenris, without even making a sound from the stool he sat on, lifted himself and obeyed. SLAP! Fenris’ left cheek immediately burned red.

“Alok!” Aohd yelled. It meant nothing.

“So, you think yourself a sage is it? What did you think: because he was also a Scion, he would not be harmed? Overestimating your so-called friends is just as foolish as underestimating your enemies. Both will grant consequences.”

Fenris lifted a crack between his lips. “I am very sor—” SLAP!

“I did not ask you to speak!” The father bellowed.

Fenris’ whole body shook with anger, but he could do nothing.

“Edgar is waiting outside the gates. The two of you can walk to the eastern edge. I don’t think I’ll be riding with a fool like you today.” Alok Left, not bothering to slide the door closed.

Outside, Maralah waited before following Fenris to the sequoia. He did not speak. Even she could feel the stress and tightness… the boiling anger in each of his footsteps. He stood face-to-face with the mud-doll.

Finally, his eyes rose, a blood-shot red. They were nearly seeping to black at the edges. The cut-like folds that appeared in his forehead turned to something unbefitting a child. Fenris rose with a ferocious high kick, turning it into a downward axe cut. Mud-doll, still alive, reacted with a left arm block, but was impeded. Without a sound, Maralah had appeared on its left. Her right arm came down and, with a hard chop, broke the left arm from above the doll’s elbow, leaving it open to all of Fenris’ anger.

He didn’t roar, nor shout. Instead, the only the sound was that of lumps of rock and clay falling to pieces. The doll was ravaged through from the left shoulder to the bottom of the right torso. At last, Fenris exhaled a deep sigh. He slid his hands into his pockets and, under the midday sun, walked away from the shade of the leaves.

“See you next term.” He called.

“Yah… see you.” She answered in a soft voice.

Story IV’s End

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