!!!!! Pr Credits To Draconis who not only pred it but improved this ch's quality greatly please rep him ^^!!! thank you donators for supporting SR ^^
hello! so everyone take a deep breath, i decided id spare you the wait and release this weeks chapter 2 days early, i hope this lives up to your hype and expectations, not much more to say other then if any errors, etc are noticed please post them once as i read every comment. short AN at the end of the ch
Enjoy ch 104 :)
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“-This child is the leader of the Phoenix Alliance? By their standards, he must be strong, but he is easily provoked-” Avrin couldn't help but think. His Divine Sense had spread around and he noticed that above the area where the teachers were, there was another four people, hidden behind what seemed to be a spell. Avrin couldn't see them, but his Divine Sense could detect them clearly. “-I wonder which of them are these special guests-” He thought.
Veins appeared on Lazgen’s head. He was planning on breaking Avrin’s arms and legs once he got a hold of him, or so he thought. Some teachers thought only Wynfa could defeat Lazgen. Of course, this was debatable, as some thought Lazgen was stronger.
All in all, the situation didn't seem too good in their eyes. Some even felt Avrin deserved to be beaten badly for making a mockery out of their school’s so called ‘prestigious, honorable tournament’.
“BEGIN!..” The announcer called out. Just after, Lazgen shot forth like a bullet, which surprised many teachers. “Oh! He has gotten faster. He must have advanced a bit before the tournament. Such a genius!” One teacher said.
Avrin smirked as he raised his hand. Of course, he didn't just spread his Divine Sense out everywhere, he focused it mainly around the arena, as well as the box the four people were hidden in, behind the magic spell that blocked sight.
This, of course, was planned, and would give him the best opportunity to make a show. “Become my stepping stone…” Avrin spoke soundly, which infuriated Lazgen further. “DIE!!!!” Lazgen roared. Just as he arrived five meters away from Avrin, Avrin activated Phantom Pulse.
Everything seemed to have stopped for a moment. First, Lazgen felt his body weigh down slowly, before it increased to the point where he was smashed down into the arena floor, causing it to crack. Soon after, the arena itself cracked and seemed to explode upward. Then, the spectators all felt their bodies weigh more. Some were unable to handle the pressure and fainted on the spot, while others struggled and screamed, unsure of what was happening.
The teachers reacted quicker, but even they were too slow to do anything, as their seats all cracked and some fell on their backs, unable to even stand up or move from their current positions.
“Ahh!!” Miserable sounds rang out. Avrin had lessened the pressure around the spectators to begin with, but had it focused on the teachers, the arena, and the box above the teachers. The box cracked, and the spell shattered. The people inside were already on their knees, with one of them on his stomach.
“W...What a powerful….ability.” A hoarse voice called out from where the box used to be. “Where….is it coming from..” Another voice, sounding agitated, called out. “Him!...Look at that boy.” One of the people who was better off spoke, motioning to Avrin.
Around Avrin there was a transparent, purple and black aura. This was Nebula Mist, to give his Phantom Pulse a more aesthetic look. His right hand was extended, Nebula Mist circulating around it. The arena had been completely destroyed and Lazgen was already unconscious.
The surrounding benches the spectators were on were broken and cracks formed on the walls. Avrin ended his Phantom Pulse and the pressure that plagued everyone was gone, like it had never existed. No one spoke a word for several dozen seconds, but suddenly laughter rang out.
“Hahahaha! I knew this would happen! This is what happens when an Enigma user is underestimated!” The owner of this voice was, of course, a pale Norith, who had also been affected by the Phantom Pulse. His words were to help Avrin a bit, regarding reputation.
“E..Enigma ability user!?” A nearby teacher shouted. Another replied. “That boy..? Impossible!?” He called out, as he was quite scared. “Ha! What's so surprising about it? Of course he is an Enigma ability user. I saw it for myself when we enrolled him…” Geon wanted to get a bit of praise and credit, despite his earlier attempts to remove Avrin. He clearly didn't want Norith to hog it all.
Avrin could hear their voices and had to thank the both of them by admitting he was Enigma ability user. His reputation and importance would rocket up even further with this. Whispers and surprised gazes were focused on Avrin, with some expressing shock and surprise.
“Incredible… Headmaster Lux, did you know about this?...” One of the four people, who wore noble looking attire adorned with golden thread and the emblem of a golden lion, spoke out.
“Uh….I did..though.. I thought it was some sort of joke when one of my teachers spoke to me about it. I never would have guessed such a powerful Enigma ability user was present in my academy…”
He was disappointment at himself for not taking the situation seriously. He clearly knew how valuable an Enigma ability user was, and one that had a combat ability on this level was priceless. Clearly, if this boy got stronger, he could reach the heavens.
“Indeed, you should have. But what's done is done.” The man with the golden embroidered attire spoke. “I shall have t-” Before he could finish, one of the others, a female with a pure white robe embroidered with strange blue string with an emblem of a green and blue flower around a planet, spoke out.
“Hmph! Clearly, the capital grows greedy. This boy, who has such a marvelous ability and great potential, would be wasted with you. He deserves to go to Gaia Academy to be nurtured!” She spoke.
“You…” The man frowned at the middle aged woman’s words. Despite her beautiful appearance that make her put twenty years old beauties to shame, the man showed no interest in it. “It is true, Gaia Academy is a marvelous establishment, but the situation now is unacceptable. We are within the capital, which belongs to the empire.”
The woman smirked and replied casually. “That is true. But we are within a Branch Academy that belongs to Gaia. We originally came here to discuss matters to do with that man, but who would have guessed such a gem would reveal itself within a Branch Academy.” She spoke, those last words to confirm and rub it in the man’s face.
“Winner?! The winner is the Copper ranked student Herth!” The announcer, who had managed to recover from the pressure, looking ragged, had finally snapped out of his shock and announced that Avrin was the winner.
Avrin, of course, looked around with a grin. He began to walk off. Since the spell was shattered, he could see the look on the faces of the four who were in the area above the teachers, arguing back and forth like monkeys on who would obtain him. He even heard the teachers huddle around Norith and Geon, asking them anything they could about Avrin. Norith had a look of joy and pride, not regretting his decision one bit.
As Avrin casually left, eyes were focused on him, until he entered the hall and made his way down towards his locker room. The people waiting for their matches didn't know what was happening outside, but they felt everything shake, as if the world was crumbling, and also heard the screams before everything went silent. They thought they were under attack and were going to rush out, but soon the chatting returned to normal.
“Did you hear? He is an Enigma ability user! That's incredible!” One student spoke. “Forget that. I want to know why he is still Copper ranked!” Another student, who was a bit more intelligent, sported a grin and replied.
“I know that kid. He was yelled at by Ley and kicked out of the Lotus Alliance’s section of the cafeteria. The brat even went as far as to call Herth weak, hahahaha. The Lotus have truly made a devastating enemy. Looks like they are gonna suffer as much as that fellow Lazgen.”
Several similar whispers went on. Of course, the looks of the Lotus Alliance members were grim. Even grimmer were those of the Phoenix Alliance. Lazgen was taken away on a stretcher and was being given medical attention.
In a different area in the arena, a figure rushed down a hall before madly knocking on an elegant looking wooden door. He seemed nervous. “Come in…” An annoyed voice sounded out. The boy quickly opened it and rushed in.
“Lazgen..Lazgen’s been defeated!!” The moment the boy spoke these words, the ten people in the locker room stopped what they were doing. “What!?” The one who yelled out was Ley, who had a stunned expression.
“Lazgen lost?..” Yuvi spoke. A few minutes went on and the boy explained the entire situation to them, who were the top members of the Lotus Alliance, Mahck included.
“Hahahahaha!” Mahck laughed. “Mahck knew his friend wouldn't enter for no reason. To think he was this powerful! Incredible!” He gave a prideful expression. No wonder Avrin didn't fear him when they first met. Compared to Avrin, Mahck seemed like an ant. “Herth is truly a dragon in sheep’s clothing..”
He spoke again before going silent. Fiora, of course, was gently biting on her knuckle with a dazed expression. “-Not good...I thought he was a welp...but, like Mahck said, he was hiding his power this whole time...Ley said many bad things about him and he defeated Lazgen so easily.
Not even senior Wynfa will be able to do anything to him. Not good at all. I should have definitely recruited him. I should have known such a smart mouthed brat wasn't so simple-”
Ley, of course, was sitting with a pale face. He was shaking with fear. “I..I'm done…for…” He uttered. Of course, the three females, who were potential wives of his, felt bad seeing him like this, but also knew that if Avrin met him in the arena, he probably wouldn't get off easily.
“Ley, don't worry. Just forfeit. There is no use fighting a losing battle.” One of the females with a large sword on her back told him. She was a fierce looking beauty and had a harsh aura around her. “I can't...I won't be bullied like this…” Ley replied.
“Maybe if you go apologize you will be forgiven? I don't see the big deal.“ Another girl replied with a thoughtful expression. “Ira, you're probably right..I did over react...I thought he was nothing, but to think even Senior Wynfa might not be a challenge for him...”
The handle of the door turned and opened, revealing a tall youth who had a majestic air about him. He wore his blonde hair down to his shoulders. He currently had a careful expression. “Senior Wynfa!” Fiora and the others called out.
Wynfa had, of course, heard about it all, and had done a bit more digging. He gave a soft smile and spoke. “Lazgen has indeed been defeated. Of course, we will not fare any better. Regardless if I can come in second place, I will still be able to go to the Dark Abyss Chasm. There is no need to be afraid. This Herth is truly a monster. Teacher Leo told me everything..” Wynfa, recalling the words of his teacher, grew somewhat afraid. He had gone out and seen the state of the arena. By the looks of it, Avrin’s Enigma ability had to do with gravity, and was definitely monstrous.
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
“But this is a good chance for us.” Wynfa gave a look to Mahck and smiled. “Mahck, if we can recruit Herth into our Lotus Alliance, it will bring endless benefits to us. I understand that we have gotten off on the wrong foot with him, so I hope you can go on my behalf and invite him over here. I would like to personally apologize.”
Of course, Wynfa chose not to go himself, as he still had a sort of hidden, arrogant pride. Mahck raised a brow and thought about it. “Hmm… Friend Herth was made a fool out of by Ley. He might not be so forgiving.” At the sound of these words, Ley’s face turned green as he grew more nervous.
“But I'm sure Herth isn't such a bad person that he would hold on to such a grudge.. I will try my best.” Since Mahck joined the Lotus Alliance, they have constantly done their best to use a sort of propaganda to influence his thoughts, which was why he easily agreed.
Lilia, who had decided to train a bit by herself and not watch the tournament had also heard the news. A look of satisfaction appeared on her face. She had given Avrin words of caution, but to see how easily he handled things, she didn't have to worry anymore. “With this, I'm one step closer to freeing you, father.”
Everyone had their own plans when it came to Avrin. From the Lotus Alliance to the representatives of both Gaia Academy and the human empire, each wanting to rope Avrin in. Of course, the Phoenix Alliance’s side wasn't looking too good.
Lazgen, who was covered in bandages, was sitting on a bench in a locker room, surrounded by several people. “T..That bastard!..” He smashed his fist onto the side of the bench, causing it to shatter. “He made me look like an idiot!.. Enigma ability user...shit. I made the wrong enemy today…” Lazgen furrowed his brow.
“Senior Lazgen..d..don't look too down… I'm sure we can still make amends with this Herth...and maybe even rope him in?” The person who spoke was the second in command, Tygas. “Hmm, you're right… Damnit, why did I underestimate that brat… Those Lotus bastards are definitely planning on roping him in. We can't let them gain such a powerhouse..”
The third in command, a female with fiery red hair and glasses, spoke. “Senior Lazgen, I don't think we or the Lotus will be able to rope him in. Those two representatives are definitely going to steal him. I don't think we can match their incentives.”
Lazgen began to think before letting out a heavy sigh. “Fine… Shit! Forget it.. It's better like this, I guess. As long as they don't get him. But we can at least try to make amends and hope to befriend him before it's too late. Tygas, you and Phrea go invite him over… Do what you can.”
Clearly, Lazgen decided not to personally go. He didn't have the courage to go after being beaten so easily, and apologizing to the one who did this to him made him angry.
While each side planned their steps, Avrin was in his locker room sitting in a meditative position. A full hour had passed and, surprisingly, no one had done a thing. He thought maybe he went a bit too far and now they were unsure of how to deal with him, but his thoughts of the situation left as he heard a knock on the door.
“Come in.” Avrin called out casually. The door creaked open and three figures walked in. These were the headmaster of Leymist and the two people representing Gaia Academy and the Empire.
“Hmm?” Avrin had seen the three of them and, despite his hearing being good, within this body it was limited. “How can I help you? Is something wrong?” Avrin spoke softly with a tone of respect.
The headmaster looked at Avrin and, seeing the child look calm and composed, as if he held the world in his palm, made him become somewhat nervous. “So you're Herth, the hidden gem of my Leymist Academy. Hahahaha! You don't know me, but I am the headmaster of this school.”
Avrin stood up and bowed respectfully. “Greetings to the headmaster and his two acquaintances.” Avrin showed respect. If he looked and talked arrogant, it may affect his goals. At the sight of Avrin speaking and acting as such, the three had a more favourable opinion of him.
“Herth, then. Hmm.. I don't know why they assigned you to such a locker room. I'll have to discuss this with the organiser when we are done, but we would like to talk with you. Why don't you come with us to my office?”
Avrin blinked and spoke with caution. “Headmaster, I was looking forward to this tournament. I don't want to lose the opportunity to go to the Dark Abyss Chasm and find some treasures..” The headmaster chuckled and replied.
“Oh?.. Well, there isn't anyone who can put up a fight with you. Although the tournament doesn't show any easiness to the combatants, it's quite unfair to allow you to continue, though I can't put you in first place because of one battle, I can guarantee you access to the Dark Abyss Chasm when the time comes.”
Avrin smiled and nodded. “Then I accept. Please, lead the way.” The man and woman remained silent the entire time. They were to eager to see Avrin and didn't dare wait in the office, as they were afraid that one of them would obtain him before the other had a chance.
The four of them left and began to walk down the hall. “Ah, friend Herth!” A voice called out. The four stopped for a moment. Avrin turned to see Mahck with Fiora and Yuvi walking beside him. “Oh, Mahck. I apologize, but I have something to attend to with the headmaster. Avrin chuckled softly. He gazed at Fiora, who noticed this. She looked down to the floor, as if she felt she was trash in front of him.
“That is fine. I'm sure you're going to get something good. Tell me all about it later, then!” Mahck laughed again before he and the three walked off. The headmaster and the other two didn't say a thing. In fact, they knew who those three were and only laughed inwardly, as they felt that even these small people wanted to try and grab Avrin.
Of course, the three people from the Phoenix Alliance had met up with the three from the Lotus Alliance and saw in the distance that Avrin was being lead away by the headmaster and two others. “Shit… Well, looks like we were too late.” Tygas laughed softly to himself before giving a look of disdain towards the three from the Lotus Alliance.”
“Hmph! Even you fools want to try and rope an Enigma ability user. Dream on..” Yuvi spoke towards them. Tygas frowned, but Phrea smiled coldly and replied. “Regardless, it seems the representatives got to him first. You Lotus scum are also too late…”
While those six continued to argue, Avrin’s group had arrived at the headmaster's office at the far end of the main building within a guarded section. Avrin thought the architecture resembled ancient buildings, such as european palaces.
The two representatives, after entering the headmaster’s office, sat opposite of each other on two expensive looking couches. The headmaster sat behind his large wooden desk with several magical devices scattered around. One could tell he was someone who enjoyed random knicknacks and objects.
Avrin, of course, sat in the middle and was silent. “Well then, Herth. I'm sure you already know the reason why you're here. After your actions, it would be surprising to not know what follows.” The headmaster gave a soft laugh.
“Indeed.” Avrin said. The headmaster, seeing Avrin didn't say much, cleared his throat. I will let these two continue on, then. He spoke, before the female from Gaia quickly addressed Avrin.
“Herth! You have such a marvelous ability. To think an Enigma ability user as powerful as you existed! Truly rare. You belong in Gaia Academy where we can support you with any resource you require and guide you properly to not be taken advantage of. Maybe one day you can even be a pinnacle existence a step below those Sigil wielders and mighty dragons! If you-”
Before she could continue, the man from the Empire, who represented King Leo Zircus, laughed. “Yes, Gaia Academy is an incredible place, Herth. But they have many many students and disciples.
If you come and join the Empire, you will be treated like a king among kings. We will focus much more resources onto you, and even our mighty King Leo Zircus will want to meet you. I'm sure I can guarantee he will personally train you. You will be given rank and prestige, made a noble of the highest calibre, given rare treasure and help your fellow humans progress. History will forever worship you!”
The female glared at the man and spoke. “How dare you! You think you can play with this young boy’s mind with promises of nobility and the like?! He needs to be carefully nurtured by professionals. The Empire is only after power and doesn't seek to properly look after its geniuses!”
The man frowned before grinning. “You people from Gaia Academy just want to steal all the good talent and then sell them off to the best organisation to improve your own influence. How can you say that we don't look after our geniuses? Even our Sigil wielding King Leo Zircus would not decline personally training him. Can any of your teachers match a Sigil wielder!?”
The female frowned. “...You!!!..” The headmaster, of course, was a bit pale as he watched the two argue back and forth. Even Avrin was a bit surprised and amused. “-These two are crazy...but their offers are not bad at all. I will have to choose carefully. But, regardless, I need more time to think. I still have my promise to keep with Lilia-”
Avrin cleared his throat and interrupted the two. “Seniors, you're both offering deals that are incredibly enticing. Of course, I understand that I can't rashly make a decision… Would it be ok if you gave me time to think about things? When I discovered my ability, I read about Enigma users… I know how rare people like me are.
But I also know that I have to tread carefully… Some people will try to make friends with me...others may want to kill me… I want to visit Altea sometime this or next year. Would it be ok to give my decision then?” The two looked at Avrin and understood.
Of course they could agree to such reason. “Hmm.. I agree.” The man spoke patiently. The woman spoke as well. “I also agree.” The three began to converse. Avrin came to know that the man was a high commander who was a step lower than the king. He was a high tier noble, Lucas Revil, one of humanity's Grandmasters.
While the female was no lower when it came to reputation or strength, she was also a Grandmaster, Regina Telhope. She was one of four elders of Gaia academy under it's Grand Headmaster. One could only imagine how old these two were, despite their young appearences.
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AN: didn't want to drag things out with it all as i felt it is unnecessary, i decided not to end with a super cliffhanger and wanted to give you guys a breather before you guys start raising pitch forks, i don't like sharp objects pointed at me :-TsavKAnz-: