If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.

- [Grand General] Julius Caesar

Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end

- [Grand Orator] [Great Grandtutor] Seneca the Elder

[ ]

Shem Continent

.

The Continent of Names. Dubbed so due to hundreds or thousands of conflicts that ravaged the lands. In the millenniums following the Great War, empires begin and end, kingdom rise and fall, cities were built yet torn the next. Countless warriors, generals, scholars, kings and emperor shed their blood in the lands. Most without burials. It is likely that the soil anyone steps on anywhere on the continent was the burial site of the greatest heroes lived centuries past.

As a continent with largest land mass, the weather ranges from the coldest winter from the Ocean of Ish to the hottest summer of Idbar. It is no surprise that many exotic and magical plants, ores, minerals can be found here. Therefore, many has ventures to the different forests, swamps, caves to find [Dungeons] rich with gems and gold; [Legacy], mighty inheritance of tier-9 [Supreme] Jobkeeper or [Trials], guidance of heroes past.

Many cities, kingdoms and empires were built exactly on those locations. Some, being more powerful than the others, invaded and seized these powers. However, a twist of fate befell upon these individuals.

A powerful Empire controlling two-third of the continent, with hundreds of hidden Job Masters and dozens of Grand Jobkeeper, were overran by beasts and monsters from dozens different dungeon.

Level 495 [Great General] betrayed a king but deemed unworthy by the very same [Legacy] he conquered, cursed to bring death in the battlefield both to enemies and allies alike. Finally he was betrayed and killed by the very same prince he served for bringing death upon the Kingdom.

None can survive the [Trials] of [Law Guardian] Egilhard, yet one little boy survived because of his wits and courage. Nobles immediately flocked to recruit him as a retainer with promises of riches and ranks. He refused, saying he succeeded because of his mom and sister handmade bracelet made from Licinthias-flower. The nobles, enraged with his refusal, petition the king to eradicate the village. The king displeased with the commoner, accept the petition and proceeded to send an army to eradicate the villages and to seize whatever relic the boy has.

Yet the king misunderstood something.

[Trials] of the Law not only gives Energies but also guarantee of protection.

Enhanced by the Law, the boy became a man when he rallied villagers, towns inhabitants, city dwellers to fight against injustices and oppression by the nobles. The small army stood no chance when the man slaughtered platoons of soldiers and captains. He marched to the capital to demand justice.

He got it.

The king along with the imperial nobles begged and begged for mercies after armies after armies slaughtered. Those that survives turned to the man recognised by the Law. Those that doesn’t turned to the Law and receives no mercy.

The boy, the man, the hero, became a king when he seized the power of the throne and became [Supreme Emperor] when he seized the hearts of the people.

Yet history shall repeat itself.

[ ]

Shem Continent

Licinthias Kingdom

Special District of Rudbeck

Capital City of Rudbeck

.

The Imperial palace has stood for centuries if not millennia. First built by Alphonse the Champion, the [Supreme Emperor] of the once mighty Licinthias Empire. Centuries past and the once strong Empire was weakened to a sliver of its pervious territory. Only given respect and authority because of its [Trials], the very same that give Alphonse the Champion his power.

Only few dared to seize the capital.

Yet, many have tried but felled by the Champion himself. Some, however, only afraid of the many whispers from the Champion himself.

“I destroyed armies, I slaughtered kings and emperors. Yet do not be afraid of me that destroyed bodies. Be afraid of those that can destroy bodies and souls. The [Trials] of the Law is alive.”

None can understand what the Champion said. Yet, after many spies and armies never survived the [Trials], Licinthias enjoyed period of peace.

Until the whisper was long forgotten and Licinthias suffered smaller attacks throughout the territory until its territory become like in the present.

Some however, still believes in the guarantee of protection given by the [Trials].

.

Asgeir Egilhard was one that you will use the term halfling on. What makes Asgeir even more unusual, was where his other half is from. Dragon. Asgeir belonged to the bloodlines of Egilhard, one of the 5 heroes that participated in the Great Wars millennia ago. Only the bloodlines of Egilhard can becomes the [Keeper of Trials], the guardian of [Trials] of Law. Hence, Asgeir Egilhard, a tier-5 [Master Wizard] with hidden job [Law Scholar] is also the most powerful figures of the Kingdom. Not even other empires dare to slight him.

The current king, Evern Reimart ev Licinthias just ascended to the throne because the previous king allegedly died during an excursion. King Evern is anything like his ancestor.

Asgeir is currently standing in the balcony of his study, located on the highest tower in the palace with a look of worry flashed his face. His back hunched and hands in tremor, both are signs of the weakening and aging of the halfling. Yet, one look and one can see abundance of vitality surrounding him. Eyes still glimmers with curiosity and mind sharp full of intelligence, honed by decades of study of magic and people. Countless people, both commoners and nobles, smart and fools alike, went under his tutelage.

As [Keeper of Trials], sharp eye for people is needed, to ensure the [Trials] passed on to those that are worthy and to ensure no one dies because they are unworthy. Such is his job for the past century.

Yet no one passed the [Trials].

Other empires and stronger kingdom demanded the [Trials] to be open to all nations and people if no Champion come to light. The current king was tempted by the promise of riches and aids from the other nations. Exacerbated by the advices given to the king by the nobles.

“What is the use of empty [Trials]? Food and resources are much better for our people!”

“What the [Minister] Verner is correct! We should definitely open the [Trials].”

“Hear hear! The tier-3 [Minister] has spoken!”

Similar opinions were heard in the street. The poor and the hungry demanded for the empty [Trials] to be opened. They did not care on what the [Trials] symbolise. They only care for the food on the table.

Asgeir obviously know what happened. Why the nobles pushed for the aids and resources. Why the [Trials] was deemed empty. Why the other nations demanded to access the [Trials].

A knock on the door disrupt his thoughts.

“Yes? Come inside please Pieter. It took you a while.”, [Master Wizard] Asgeir entered back to his study and sit reclined hovering few cm above the reclining chair that sat behind a large desk.

“Entering, Sir Asgeir.”, the boy, seems barely 15-years old, entered the huge spacious study, seemingly narrow and out of space due to many tomes, artifacts and papers scattered in various places.

Pieter, careful not to step upon the scattered items in the study, seems to be out of breath upon arriving in front of the desk.

“Do you have it?”

“Yes Sir, I have it. Why do you need it? Do you know how many boys born in the past century are named Alphonse?”

“Approximately 2,112,020 boys. Believe me. I count.”, Asgeir said calmly.

Pieter, bringing a sheet of paper forward, grumbles, “You do know I have not reached the next tier in Desramaut’s Advanced Formula in Weight and Space.”

Pieter put both his hands on the paper, a complicated magic circuit appears on the sheet of paper and suddenly a thick sheaf of paper appeared.

“2000 sheets of paper with THAT much informations? Easily weighs dozens of kilogram!”.

Asgeir sits upright, stares on the sheaf of paper and muttered, “1980.35% reduction of volume followed by only 19.75% of mass reduction.”.

Asgeir turns to Pieter and said, “Not bad”.

A hint of smile creeps in Pieter’s face but it freezes the next moment.

“But not good enough.”, Asgeir continued, “Desramaut’s Law of Proportionality defines that mass and volume correlated with density of the matter. Simply put, erase one property…”, Asgeir waves and a simpler magic circuit appears on the sheaf of paper. “And your magic shall not be bound by physical matter”. Asgeir waves again and the sheaf of papers disappear, replacing on its place, a sheet of paper.

Asgeir, using a flick of his hand, make the paper float to Pieter. Pieter getting ready to accept the paper brace for its weigh. Asgeir flicks his hand and Pieter glumly look as the paper floats down to his hands.

“BUT YOU ARE TIER-6 [Master Wizard]! Including your new hidden Jobkeeper, [Law Savant]. It is not fair to compare your skill with mine. I am just a mere tier-3 [Master] of magic.”, Pieter grumbles

Asgeir calmly said, “Act your age please Pieter, I may be older than you but you are into your 202 year of age, are you not?”.

Pieter shouts, “200 and 1! Do not make me older than it should be!”.

“Of course. Apologies.”, Asgeir smiles and said, “but do give a break to an old man.”, with a simple wave, the sheet of paper floats back to Asgeir’s desk and turns to sheaf of paper. Asgeir takes one and started reading.

Pieter, unashamed, asked, “Why you need these data? Do you know how many officials I need to masquerade as to get these information?”.

Asgeir turns to Pieter with serious gaze, “Classified, I am afraid. Yet, know this, the fate of this Kingdom depends on it.”, and he keeps reading.

Pieter, never sees his tutor looked so serious and solemn, turned quiet and walk to the side. Closing his eyes and begin to meditate.

“I will master the next tier. I swear in the name of direct pupil of [Master Wizard] Egilhard,”, Pieter’s voice drifted over.

Asgeir, still has its attention to the paper he is reading, smiles.

“I know you will.”

.

In the deepest part of the palace, inside an opulent bedroom, a man can be seen, not alone but with multiple women in all sides. Some with just minimum clothing to cover sensitive parts, some wearing only robes. Lively voices can be heard even from closed doors.

“Kyaaaa. Your majesty, that is my cheek. The grapes is in my hands.”, laughters can be heard from the man himself.

“AHAHAHHA. Yet your cheek is as red as grape, as sweet as wine, as fragrant as flowers yet not as sour. Why should I eat the grape when I have better.”, the man said accompanied by giggling from the women.

“Ahhhnnn, it is not fair your Majesty”, nearly all women throw themselves into the man.

“We want you to eat us too.”, another woman said.

“My lips are redder and sweeter.”, another woman moves forward with bravery.

The man seems even more excited, throw open his arms and shouted, “GYAHAHAHAH! Come come! I shall eat your cheek and your lips until I am satisfied. Come to MEEEEEEEEE.”.

.

After warfare in the bedroom, the man, dressed in white shirts, red pants, with golden-red robe, exited the bedroom smiling and call upon his steward.

“Give out 100 gold for each woman and put them into the Eastern Wing. There are much more to be enjoyed tonight.” A beat later, “Is the emissary from Syras Empire in the drawing room?”

“Yes, Your majesty Evern. He has been waiting for quite some time.”, the steward said with noticeable trace of displeasure.

Yes, the man is the King Evern Reimart ev Licinthias, the current and 106th King of Licinthias Kingdom. The man is mediocre in every aspect that even the Council was reluctant to choose him. With no other choice to wait until Champion emerges and to survive, Evern Reimart, which is closest relative of the previous king, hailing from the House of Duke Reimart, ascended to the throne. Fortunately, he is not interested in running the Kingdom. The affairs were ran by the Council, which has done a good job of not exacerbating the current situation even further. Yet, his interest on not running the Kingdom might ends up with him ruining the Kingdom.

King Evern ignored the displeasure, if he even notices it all, and walks toward the drawing room, specific room to entertain the guest of state.

“AHAHAHAHA, sure sure. I will apologise to him. It is partially his fault anyway from bringing me those perfect women. I swore by my ancestors, Alphonse the Champion, I could taste aged wine in every part of their bodies. GYAHAHAHAH.”

The steward, his face twitching, said, “Sir…”

King Evern, turned toward the steward, and frowned, “Yes yes. By the hornmold of dragon, relax would you. I am ascended to become a king. Can’t I just enjoy myself? Should I call the Imperial Guard to execute you for treason!”, King Evern gazes into the steward and glared.

The steward panicked, kneeled down, “N-no Sire. It is not my intention! Justꟷ”,

King Evern breaks into laughter that echoes through the hall, “GAHAHAHAH! Just kidding. That is why Edstrom. Relax a bit would you? Do as I command.”, King Evern breaks into another bout of laughter.

Still laughing, King Evern turned and continue walking toward the drawing room.

Edstrom, no longer in panic, stands up and gaze upon the back of the King. Sighing, “Hhhhh… if only that accident never happens.”, and he walked, quickening his steps to match with the King.

.

In another wing of the palace, a man with flamboyant feathered hat, with purple and red robe is sitting in a wide sofa. His high cheek bones a sign of noble descent is carved with smile. Just as he wants to reach for another refreshment spread on a table, he hears laughter echoing from the hallway. Adorning an even bigger smile, he stands up and straighten out any nonexistent crease. At that moment, he hears the doors swing open and King Evern walks in.

“Emissary Marius!! Apologies on making you wait for so long. The inspection last night lasted, well, late into the night.”, King Evern said.

King Evern proceeds to sit down in one of the sofas and enjoying the refreshment, seemingly ignoring the emissary.

The emissary seems unperturbed by this display. Emissary Marius, following suit, proceed to sit at the same sofa as he sat previously and takes the refreshment that he did not had the chance to eat.

Both the king and the emissary seems comfortable just enjoying the refreshment. The emissary begin conversing, “So, King Evern, my emperor needs a definitive answer on that matter.”. Emissary Marius paused to see the King reaction and looking at King Evern seems undisturbed with the topic, continued talking, “The quicker you have reached a decision, the faster aids can come to your kingdom. Don’t you agree?”.

King Evern, still focusing on the refreshment and seemingly not at all interested at the topic. Yet Emissary Marius, as a tier-3 [Master] Negotiator, waited patiently.

Finally, after dozens of soft cakes later, King Evern speaks.

“Apologies again, Emissary. Due to the inspection last night, I do not have proper breakfast. Now that I am satisfiedꟷ”, King Evern tries to hold a burp but failed miserably, “*Burp*. Let’s continue our discussion.”

King Evern lean back to the sofa.

“Now, I have done my best to push for the [Trials] open to public and by extension not limited to our peopleꟷ.”,

Emissary Marius interrupts, “Apologies for interrupting your majesty, but this is great news indeed. I will communicate with the Emperor and have promissory notes drafted immediately.”, the Emissary’s smile turns into a large grin.

Yet, King Evern put up a hand, “Yet, our [Keeper of Trials] had not agree on opening the [Trials]. There is nothing I can do.”

The emissary’s eyes flashed with anger just for an instant.

“May I ask to converse with my Empire on how to proceed?”

King Evern waves his hand, “Of course. Do call me if your empire has reached a consensus.”.

“If that is case, farewell.”, Emissary Marius stands up, bows, and exits the room.

King Evern gives the briefest of glance towards the leaving emissary.

King Evern’s face turns gloomy. The king stands up and walk towards the open window, stared at it for a while and whispers, “Tia…”

[ ]

Marius’ POV

“This idiotic and ungrateful bastard of a king! How dares he dilly-dally and delay on this kind of easy decision!”, I thought.

I arrived at my own room on the palace. I opens and slams the door in anger and frustration. If that IS the correct word!

“IT HAD BEEN MONTHS! HOW DOES HE NOT REACHED A DECISION YET!”, I shouted to no one.

“DAMN! We need that [Trials]! Imagine how stronger the Empire can become if a Champion is from our people! Not to mention I am the next prime minister candidate! When I am successful─”.

I paused.

A plan is forming in my head.

Yes. This might work.

I take out my communication orb and flow my magic into it, “This is Emissary Marius. Let the emperor send the candidates over. I will ask them to meet with the king and will ask for permission to enter the [Trials].”

“How about the guarantee?”

I frown but muster my confident to reply, “We will be safe. As long as the Keeper gives permission.” I added with a grin, “A group of tier-5 [Jobmaster] with hidden titles should not have a problem getting permission from a mere tier-5 scholar.”

“I will see to it. Expect their arrival in 7 days”, the orb turned dim.

“HAHAHAHAHAH! This mere kingdom will receive its due!”, I can’t help but laugh out loud.

7 days to go until that title is mine! “GAHAHAHAHAH”

[ ]

When all plots and events are unfolding, Asgeir is still reading the sheaf of paper, in that short of periods of time, he managed to read three-fourths of the sheaf of paper. In this moment, he stood up.

“Pieter, I have business to attend to. Continue on understanding Desramaut’s formula and you will get there.”

Pieter opens his eyes, “Where are you going?”

Asgeir smiles and whispers, “Arena”.

Look of understanding dawns on Pieter’s face.

“Who are you going to be now?”, teased Pieter

Asgeir smiles wider and said, “Whoever I need to be.”

Asgeir muttered a spell and he disappeared.

Pieter, unsurprised, closed his eyes again while muttering, “Hopefully the Arena stayed intact when he leaves.”.

.

Licinthias Arena or just Arena is a place for those blood-thirsty fighter and warrior. Any warriors, fighters, mages, sorcerers can participate in the Arena. No level requirement, no forbidden weapon, no forbidden skill. Arena is a place for all blood-thirsty battle maniac that wants to prove themselves are the greatest. The Arena was built by the Champion as a place for practice before the participants entered the [Trials]. Yet, now the Arena becomes a shell, a place where money and blood become a sport instead of honor.

.

In a corner of alleyway, with the Arena just a few hundred meters away, a man seems to materialise out of nowhere.

Asgeir spends a few minutes looking around and grins.

“It is always a pleasure to always see your calculation worked to the tiniest crack.”, Asgeir smiles while looking at a tiny crack at the ground.

“Seems spending decades just tutoring and researching do not weaken my repertoire of magic.”, Asgeir brushes his enchanted robe from non-existent dust and strode over to the main street where the crowds are.

“Shall we start then?”, Asgeir again disappear into the crowd.

.

In the Arena, with tens of thousand of people come and go, thousands of participants come and well, with a chosen few come out alive, the registration desks are the most crowded places. Yet, in this moment, the crowds greet the newcomer that just enters the Arena door in silence.…. Or maybe beast is a better term. There is a heavy aura that seems to originate from the beast. The crowds, half in awe and half is intimidated, give the way to the beast straight the registration desk.

The beast has a height of 2 meter and a half, grayish-silver hair flows freely like a mane around the neck, with black eyes and flashes of canine gleamed from the mouth. The upper torso naked aside from a black gauntlet that seems to blend in with its dark skin. The beast confidently gazes through the parting crowds to the registration desk, where an attendant seems frozen stiff. The beastman walks with confident gait towards the stiff attendant.

“Are you new here? It has been a couple years since I last came here.”, The beastman asks with a deep growling voice and looks around with interest.

The attendant snaps out and answers in stutter “Y-y-y-es. I-I’beꟷA-ap-polo-og-giesꟷ.”, the attendant.

“Yes. I am almost certain you are new. OH! Gray-mane! It’s been so long that I forgot this.”. In an instant, the atmosphere changes and the heavy aura disappears.

“Sorry. GAHAHAHA. Living with the beasts do have some impact on you.”, the beastman said with a laugh that shakes the building.

The attendant gripping the desk to prevent himself from falling replied, “Thank you Sir. Umm, are you here to register?”.

The beastman said, “Mmmm… As I said, I have been here before…. Wait…”, the beastman seems confused and said, “Not to brag but don’t you know who I am?”.

The attendant seems scared and replied, “N-no Sir. If that is the case I think I should have recognised your face.”.

The beastman thinks for a while and replied, “Is the [Arenamaster] Dhinreistra still around?”.

The attendant, with a look of surprise, said, “H-how! Unfortunately no. She reached the elusive tier-7 [Grand Arenamaster] but, she died more than a century ago.”.

The beastman bows his head and slowly said, “That is a shame… She was one of the best fighters I have seen.”.

The Arena turned silent in an instant.

Then, the beastman laughs loudly, “YET! I AM SURE SHE DIED WITHOUT REGRETS! FIGHT WELL AND DIE WELL IS OUR MOTTO!”.

When the last sentence ends, the whole crowd echoed, “FIGHT WELL. DIE WELL!”.

The beast man looks around and nod approvingly, “It seems honor will come soon. My name is Va’ans the Gauntlet. I am here to bring honor to the Arena as Alphonse the Champion once did the same.”.

The crowds can be heard murmuring and whispering

“Va’ans, the previous Arena reigning champion?”.

“He is still alive???”

“HAH! I knew it. A tier-6 [Gladiator Master] will not easily die.”

“Why is he here? After centuries has passed?”

At that sentence, Va’ans roared, “TO BRING BACK HONOR FOR THE MIGHTY LICINTHIAS EMPIRE! I WAS THERE! FIGHTING! SLAUGHTERING THE ENEMY! WITH THE MAJESTY EMPEROR ALPHONSE LEADING!”.

Va’ans looks around, “FOODS?? RICHES?? NONE MATTERS. WILL OUR HELP COMES FROM THOSE THAT TOOK OUR FIELD? TOOK OUR GRAINS? TOOK OUR FIELD!”.

The crowds can be seen nodding, whispers of approval spreads through the crowd.

Va’ans nodded and said, “I SAY WE WALK FORWARD! LET THE MAJESTY KNOWS WE WILL FIGHT FOR THE KINGDOM─

A dignified voice cuts through Va’ans speech.

“Yet, without the Champion, we will lose the war. I say we give in. At least we will have food and grains to feed our family. Don’t you all agree?”.

Through the door, a hulking man walks through. The man wearing a well-used steel armour. Many scratches and nicks showed how many battles he fought and survived, His back carrying a great broadsword that glinted with sharpness that seems like never see a battle. The man wore pants, covered with steel and lined with leather.

The crowds recognising the man, can be heard whispering and chattering.

“That is the current reigning champion. He has been the champion for almost 20 years.”

“It was said that He came here at age 15, clutching the cold body of her mother.”

“Yes. He trained and trained and a genius for his age, defeated the reigning champion of that time at just 17 years old.”.

The man stops in front of Va’ans and said, “I am Alphonse, from the namesake of the Emperor Alphonse. My mother said that I will bring honor yet she died, abandoned by the man I should call father. “, a look of pain flashed through Alphonse’s face.

“I am no Champion but even if I am, I will not just giving up my life away for this kingdom who has abandoned my mother.”.

Alphonse looks around and said, “Neither are these men. Each of them abandoned, bought for the sake of shelter and food on the table for the corrupt nobles.”

The crowds can be seem

Va’ans’ eyes glints and said, “Ah. So you are the current reigning Champion.”

Va’ans unleashes his beastly aura and roared menacingly, “YET A COWARD! HOW DOES A CHAMPION NOT STAND FOR INJUSTICE! IS THAT NOT WHAT THE EMPEROR DID! YOU ARE A DISGRACE!”.

Yet, Alphonse is not intimidated, he steps closer and roared back, full of heavy aura, “THEN COME! YOU WILL FIND NO COWARDICE BUT I WILL PROVE THAT YOUR THOUGHTS WILL JUST LEAD US ALL TO DEATH! JUST LIKE WHEN I SLICE YOU IN HALF!”

Va’ans’ and Alphonse’s aura clashes and caused the low tier warrior to drop down to their knees, some even fainted.

At this moment.

“Well well, former and current champion showing off. I shall not have you two destroy my Arena.“.

The source of that voice descends from a staircase behind the registration desk. A girl, in her mid teens, with a lithe body steps out to the lobby.

The girl, as young as she looks, seems to be able to withstand the heavy aura unleashed by the two seasoned fighters.

The girl looks at Va’ans, smiles and said, “Yet, I do remember what my predecessor said. You did destroy the Arena few centuries ago.”, the girl continue on gazing but nobody realise that both are communicating.

Long time no see you old lizard.

Va’ans, stared at the girl with amused gaze said, “Tier-6 [Master], seems like Dhinreistra grooms you well. You are a halfling. Hemm….. giant and dwarf?”

HAH! You are more alive then when you were alive, Dhinreistra. Or whatever you call yourself now.

“Good eye Gladiator Va’ans. I have no idea what am I and who am I is another matter. My name is Gaetrenael Granitehand, my clan name given by my honorable mentor Dhinreistra who picked me up and taught everything I knew. I am an [Arenamaster] and the Warden of this Arena. Just like her.”

I am pretty sure this will turn to be just a petty fight like last time but I will go along.

Va’ans smiled and said, “Just like her indeed. Now I have a proposal.”

‘A petty fight’? I helped eradicate almost all of the empire’s warriors and ensure the kingdom safety. Your Arena seems to be a cheap price to pay no? I do pay for most of it. I think.

Va’ans gestures toward Alphonse and said, “Today. Right now. A duel between the current and former champion. Life and death duel! What do you say!”.

Gaetrenael put her hand in her chin seemingly thinking yet with a slight roll eyes that only Va’ans can catch.

Ugh. Fine. Just make sure you die cleanly okay. I still remember that fight two lifetimes ago! I tell you what! My staff and I are CERTAINLY not fond of cleaning organs and body parts in the arena. No matter how well cooked it was. Do remember that you lizard!

Seemingly trying to convince the Arena master, Va’ans roars, “FIGHT WELL AND DIE WELL! WHAT DO YOU SAY ALPHONSE! WILL YOU SHOWS COURAGE LIKE YOUR NAME! OR DIE IN VAIN LIKE YOUR MOTHER!”. Va’ans points at Alphonse.

Nobody, unless a tier-8 and above, notices that Va’ans sends a sliver of mana to Alphonse.

At that moment, the lobby turns quiet and chilly, like the autumn night of the north. Not realising any exchange or he just received sliver of foreign mana, Alphonse seems calm yet, the look he gives to Va’an, seems to show the depth of abyss. “You will regret saying that. I will be waiting in the Arena.”.

Gaetrenael stares at the back of Alphonse that disappear into the corner and sighs, “Uh oh, you really should not said that. He is the reigning champion for 20 years straight for a very good reason.”. Gaetrenael turns to Va’ans and stares.

I mean it. This is not like you to rile up a kid like that.

Va’ans grins widely and laughes, “Hohoho. Then this will be a fun fight! GAHAHAHAHAH!”.

Va’ans turns and follows Alphonse to the arena, roaring, “ONWARD! TO FIGHT! TO FIGHT WELL!”. Just a moment he disappear, laughter echoes back to the lobby, “AND DIE WELL! BAHAHAHAHHAH!”.

Gaetrenael sighs and said to the attendant beside her, “Suspend all battles. Informs all nobles. Life or death battles. Bettings are currently open. One to hundred. We will start in 1 hour”.

“Hundred for who Ma’am?”, the attendant asked.

Gaetrenael for the first time give a wide smile and said, “Both”

.

In the arena waiting room, the current champion is gripping his hands very tightly with eyes closed as if his whole body is in pain.

Alphonse opens his eyes, giving a dark look. In an instant, a heavier aura compared to the aura unleashed in the lobby, fills the room.

He stands up and walk towards the door and through the hallway.

He stops in front of another door at the end of the hallway.

There are faint cheers from the other side of the doors.

After a moment of silence, he opens the door.

[ ]

Alphonse’s POV

“WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!”

The cheering of the crowd greets me when I open the door.

Yet.

You are a disgrace.

Why won’t you help me…

The cheering does not dampen that damn voice.

LOOK AT ME!

That shout causes me to slightly flinch.

I recall.

.

The body.

Cold.

Almost as stiff as rock.

Yet that red liquid still flowing from the body.

Nothing I can do

Just holding on.

Just… holding… on…

I can only stare at the body.

And I am afraid.

I am afraid to look.

I can’t look at that woman’s eyes.

Because all I see is blackness.

No more gentle and warm eyes.

Even right now.

This moment.

A shout.

I AM BLEEDING!

.

That shout somehow snaps me out. It has been a long time since I last saw that dream. It really has been a long time. I looked up.

Somehow, while I am thinking, my body walks automatically to the center of the arena.

A man…no… a beast is in front of me.

Yes. I just need to kill it.

My mother would be at peace.

I can see it now.

.

The body is still cold.

Stiff.

I can see it now.

Black eyes.

Staring

Yet this time.

A grin.

A grin so wide that it spreads through the cheek.

The first ever smile.

I will keep it that way.

[ ]

Va’ans’ POV

I look around the main arena where I am.

The crowds cheering.

Some boo-ing.

Which is as expected I guess. Nobody like having their favourite idol getting trashed by some unknown. Even if that unknown was the previous champion. Granted. It was centuries ago that I stood on that door. Waiting for any challengers.

So, the tradition is still going apparently. The reigning champion on the other side of the door. The reason was to build up tension and get the crowd hyped up.

The main reason?

So, the cowards will get overwhelmed by the crowd’s aura and the champion can just sweep over and win. Easily.

Obviously it doesn’t always happen.

But often enough that you will be surprised.

I shake my hands…Well…claws more like.

Cracking my neck. Flexing my muscles.

It has been a long time since I was in this body.

I am prepared to lose but not without a fight obviously.

I recall back on the spell that I casted on him an hour or so ago.

[Call of the Brave]. The spell should have taken effect now.

It might be too much for him. But it is necessary.

I will need to see if he is the champion.

THE Champion.

While I was thinking, in the opposite of the arena, I see some movement.

I can hear the crowd cheers even louder. Which means just one thing.

True enough. The current champion, Alphonse enters the Arena.

Oh yes. The spell worked brilliantly. I should expect no less from an [Origin Skill].

I can see that a slight haze covers his body.

I smile.

Yes…

The true [Trial] of the Law starts now.

[ ]

Gaetrenael’s POV

“Warden! The communication orb is ready. We are waiting for you”, the voice of my attendant snaps me out.

I stood up from my seat and strides towards the door.

“Has the battle began?”, I asked

“Not yet but I think it will start at any moment”, my attendant replied.

“Good.”

We walk in silence but I sense that my attendant is itching to ask.

“What is your name?”, I said.

I can see that the attendant stands straighter and said, “M-*EHEM*-my name is Istra, Warden!”.

I wave my hand, “Good name indeed. To answer the question that you are itching to ask, No, I have no idea why he came back. As a beastman that has ascended to the elusive tier-7, that man practically can live forever.”, I add a beat later , “He might be well above tier-7.”.

Istra froze in shock and replied, “There IS a tier above tier-7! Impossible.”.

I sigh at his naivety and said, “Nothing is impossible. My master, Dhinreistra,ꟷ”, at this mention, Istra blushes, ”─spoke how she met the legendary being that has reached the level of [Empyrean], tier-10 and possible the highest tier ever reached in the continent history.”

Istra let out an audible gasp, “How powerful is he to reach such level!”

I smirked, “You should be able to tell. He was the only man to be able to wage war against the whole world, with dozens of empires and hundreds kingdom fought against him─”

Istra cuts me off, “WHATꟷ”

I continue on, “I think he is better known as Silv The Blacksmith along with other various titles and ranks”.

Istra mutters, “He IS the only tier-10 Jobkeeper…”

“Is there anymore question that you would like me to address, young Istra?”

“No Warden. T-thank you.”,

Istra contemplates and asks hesitantly, “I was meaning to ask, at what tier will you have a spell that can revert you back to be young again like you now”

I may look shocked since Istra look down guiltily, asking somebody else tier and skill is a taboo. I said sternly, “Look up young lady.”

Istra looks up to me.

I look at her face.

A moment later, I smile and wink, “Sorry, It is a woman secret!”

Istra smiles after hearing me and we walk together to the communication room.

[ ]

In the arena, Va’ans can be seen standing. Giving off an immense aura. So immense that there is a shimmering haze in the radius surrounding him.

At that moment, Alphonse opens the door, accompanied by the loud cheers from the crowd.

Alphonse walks slowly to the arena.

He stops dozen meters away from Va’ans.

There is such a tension that even the crowd can be heard holding their breath.

A moment later, the instant Alphonse steps into the radius of Va’ans’ aura, another aura as immense as Va’ans can be seen unleashed from Alphonse.

There is now a battle of aura.

The aura clash is so huge that every clash is palpable and creates flashes that can be seen with untrained eyes of the crowd.

1 hour.

2 hours.

3 hours.

Time passes with both sides evenly matched.

At this moment, suddenly both retract their aura.

The crowd, seemingly been holding their breath for so long, clear their lung with a shout no louder than when Alphonse entered the arena.

“DID YOU SEE THAT!”

“The title previous champion is not for show!”

“It is not a title you moron!”

The crowd continue cheering until Va’ans put up a hand to silence the crowd.

The crowd obliges and waiting to see what the previous champion would like to say.

Va’ans, smirking, said, “I expect no less! VEEL’TIL”. Well done! Such is the might for the current champion I see!”

Alphonse’s hand starts to move towards the sword at his back, “Certainly you are the previous champion. Why would you leave?”, a look of confusion flashed through Alphonse’s face.

Va’ans laughs, “BAHAHAHAHAH! BECAUSE THERE IS NO WORTHY OPPONENT FOR THE MIGHTY GAUNTLET!”

Va’ans then looks straight to Alphone and grins, “Until now. That is…”.

Alphonse draws his sword that is strapped on his back and grin as widely, ”As I am worthy opponent to youꟷ”, Alphonse disappears.

Alphonse shows up just a step behind Va’ans and roared, “YOU ARE TO ME!”, Alphonse swing the broadsword toward Va’ans’ torso.

“NICELY DONE!”, yet a voice comes from behind Alphonse.

“WHA─!”, Alphonse can’t hide his surprise.

At that moment, Va’ans’ eyes turns grayish silver the same as his mane.

Va’ans opens his mouth and said, ”Welcome to the [Trials] the Law!”.

That is the last thing that Alphonse hears before he blacked out.

[ ]

Communication Room

Gaetrenael’s POV

“WHAT IS THIS FARCE, GATRANEL!”, a roar comes from one of the channels.

“I SWEAR BY MORADIN”S BEARD. USE THAT NAME AGAIN AND I WILLꟷ”, I retorted back before I am rudely interrupted.

“WARDEN”, someone shouted back.

“WHAT!”, I look at the origin of that voice, “NOT NOW ISTRA!”, I said.

“SILENCE ALL THE NOBLES. I NEED NOT THEIR GRATING VOICES AT THE MOMENT!”, I relay an order.

I look back to the veil orb, displaying the current state of the arena.

The arena where an intense fight between Va’ans and Alphonse happens.

Supposedly.

Yet, when I look at the veil orb, both are not in the arena. Not in or out. There is not even their shade anywhere.

“WARDEN! YOU NEED TO SEE THIS!”, Istra’s voices snaps me from my thinking yet again.

“I swear Istra, if it is not important─”, I start my tirades.

“Yes it is! LOOK!”, Istra interrupts while pointing at another veil orb.

The orb showing just a slight haze covering the arena.

“Is thatꟷ”, I look in surprise.

“I have no idea what you are thinking Warden, but this orb, adjusted to sense the miniscule amount of mana, detect slight elevation of mana.”

I look at the orb again, focusing my [Detect Life] to the max.

“Yes…”, I whisper.

I looked up to Istra and said, “Do not cut the visual. Let the channel open. The two fighters are still in there. Somewhere.”, I add.

I look at Istra and grins, “Good job Istra!”

Istra blushes and replied, “Thank you Warden.”, she looks at the screen with concern and asked, “But what is going on?”

I smiled tiredly and answered, honestly, “No idea dear. Whatever it is, it is outside my expertise.”.

The room turns silent.

Yet I thought to myself. Whatever happens inside or on the arena, is something impossible.

[ ]

Unknown Area

Alphonse’s POV

WAKE UP!

I wake up at that command.

I groan and I sit straight up.

I look around me and I see nothing but haze and gray.

I squint my eyes, trying to make sense what is this place.

Where am I?

I try to remember what is going on.

Yes. The last thing I saw was a flash of silver and then blackness.

At that moment, my eyes instantly snap open.

“Va’ans!”, I growled.

“You call?”, suddenly, a voice rings into my ear.

I whirl around and roar.

“VA’ANS! COWARD! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE! WHERE AM I!”

Yet, silence replies back.

“SHOW YOURSELF!”, I roar again and try to swing my sword─.

WHERE IS MY SWORD.

At that moment, a sword appears just a few meters in front of me.

I walk toward the sword.

But when I just a few steps away. He appears.

“I am afraid it is not yours.”, Va’ans say.

Yes. Va’ans appear in this place. I restrain the urge to just grab him and pummel him bloody.

“Move. Before I beat the mane out of you, Champion.”

Va’ans just smirk and asks, “What mane?”.

I blink in surprise because an old dragonkin just appear where Va’ans stood.

A chill passess through my body. Never in 30 years of my life that I feel fear.

Fear of the unknown.

Not sinceꟷ

“Your mother’s death.”, the old dragonkin says.

I look in surprise because he says what I want to say.

I retort back, “What are you?” and yet surprised again.

It.. is… just weird. It is like─

“We speak at the same time.”

Now I look at the dragonkin with shock.

The dragonkin chuckles and said, “No need to be shocked Al. May I call you Al?”

Without waiting my answer, he continue on.

“You might have many questions. I predicted that you have exactly 7 questions. That if you count the meaning behind what and who I am as different question I presume.”, the dragonkin said.

Again, I look at the unknown dragonkin with shock.

The dragonkin looks at me and says, “Yet, none of those questions are important.”

He turns toward the sword and points, “What important is, who are you”.

At that moment, the sword shatters.

I SCREAM, “NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!”

Unknowingly, I fainted and when I try to stand up, my hands are heavy.

I look down and I saw it.

The body. My mother

Cold. From the rain.

Almost as stiff as rock. Dying

Yet that red liquid still flowing from the body. Blood. Losing rapidly.

Nothing I can do.

Yes…

Even at this moment, I still feel it.

Fear.

Helplessness.

Powerlessness.

I brace myself to look.

To look at that blackness.

Yet, the blackness is not there.

My mother’s brown eyes.

Gentle.

Warm gaze.

Always cheers me on and comforts me.

Even when we are starving.

Even when we are on the run.

“Al’…”, a voice trails weakly.

I look at the source of that sound.

My mother’s lips.

Rosy lips.

The lips that never fails to kiss me goodnight.

Even when we are sleeping on a cave.

Even when we are sleeping on bare soil.

“The S…word…”, another whisper.

I look at my mother.

My tears run down unabashedly.

“I am sorry… it was shattered.”, I growl back. I turn my face away and fight back the urge to run and find that bastard that broke my mother’s sword.

I sense movement in my hand.

My mother, as weak as she is, shakes her head.

She smiled, “N.oo… It…s doesn…t matt..ers”.

She beckons me closer and grabs my face, and with strength and conviction that should not be possible in her condition, speaks, “Emperor Alphonse. The Champion. Did not fight with swords.”.

I stare back, strength returning to my hands.

“He fought with the [Heart]”.

At this moment, I stood up.

Strength returning to my hands.

At this moment, I obtained a new skill and title.

[Title: Champion of the Law]

[Champion: Champion’s Heart]

[Champion: Champion’s Howl]

[Champion: Champion’s Authority]

[Champion: Champion’s Aura]

[Champion: Champion’s Weapon]

I tremble while thinking of the last skill.

I hold my breath and invoke

[Champion: Champion’s Weapon]

My tears start to flow again.

Not because I am holding a familiar weapon.

It is because something that engraved at the blade.

Carnation

The source of my mother’s name and her favourite flower.

I remember her talking.

On that rare occasion when we thwarted our pursuers and building our life again.

She spoke excitedly when we chanced upon a field of Carnation flowers.

At the end she said, “You know what Carnation means in flower language?”.

I, who was just turns 10, shakes my head.

My mother smiles, “It means “Motherly love.”

She stared at the distance for a while.

She stooped down, looked at me and said, “It means, wherever I am, never forget that I will always be on your side.”

She continued, “You are my son and more.”

She smiles now, “You are the descendant of Alphonse the Champion.”.

“WELL DONE!”, a familiar voice brought me back. Just dozens of meters away, a familiar dragonkin stands.

I look at the old dragonkin and a mix of emotion swirls within me.

“Who are you?”, I cautiously asked.

The dragonkin chuckles, “Ah, now you are asking the correct question.”

The dragonkin gives me a wide grin, showing a row of teeth, immaculately white.

[ ]

In the arena, the crowds been booing for the lack of excitement and for the empty arena.

At this moment, the arena cracks. To be exact, the air around and above the arena cracks.

*BOOM*

A blast of compressed air blows over the arena.

The crowd, unhurt, only protected by the enchantment of the building.

Few of the people of the crowd gasp and murmuring starts to spread through the crowd.

In the supposedly empty arena, two bodies appear.

The same dark-skinned beastkin and man holding a broadsword.

Keen eye will see that there seems to be an emblem or sort engraved on the blade.

The crowd displeased with such anti-climatic battle, throw things into the arena.

Yet, the same enchantment that protect the audience protect the fighters as well. Causing the thrown things to hit another part of the crowd, fanned by the anger of losing both bets, inciting a massive brawl.

[ ]

Communication Room

Gaetrenael’s POV

I try to hide my grins when I saw Va’ans’ and Alphonse’s body in the arena.

I turn towards the channeling orb where I can hear clamouring and roaring. I inhale and exhale a very audible sigh.

“As you can see, ladies and gentlemen of the court, both fighters are out. As of now, the results of both bets are clear. Those who bets the champions winningꟷ, “ a smile leak out slightly from my lips, ”─unfortunately do not get any payouts.”.

Before the nobles start to hurl curses and threats, I beckon Istra, “Cut off all channels and close all boards.”.

The attendants share the same grin as I have.

I look around and said, “GOOD JOB! I can’t imagine the faces of all those nobles losing millions of gold.”

I added a beat later, “I can, however, imagine all of your faces when you receive today’s payout! And 50% bonus for this month salary.”

The staffs cheer loudly and I hold my hand up, “Yes yes. I am a perfect Warden yada yada yada.”, I clap my hand and relay some orders, “Let’s get back to work, get two stretchers to our moneymaker there. Put them in the private ward in the Healer’s Room.”, pointing at the veiling orb displaying Va’ans and Alphonse, “Get as many [Guard] as you can, preferably tier-1 and above, to subdue the crowd. Beat them up and throw them out. Be not gently as you can. I will be waiting at the Healer’s Room.”.

I walk briskly toward the Healer’s Room.

“Yes Warden!”, a chorus echoes down the hallway.

[ ]

Healer’s Room

Warden Gaetrenael is standing on the bedside. The bedside where the body of Va’ans lies down.

Her hand moves gently down under the sheet and with surprising strength for small body, throw over Va’ans.

To the contrary, the body nimbly spins around and landed at the center of the room with surprising accuracy and agility.

The beastman, frowning, “And what are you doing you old lady! After all I have done for you!”.

Gaetrenael’s arms grow big and muscular. Such a mismatched view of a teenager girl with an arm as huge as the beastman’s torso.

“Spill it! Before I go all [Gigantess] on you!”, Gaetrenael waves her arm threateningly.

The beastman chuckles and transforms into an old dragonkin, Asgeir Egilhard.

“Ah. Apologies.”, The previous warrior demeanour is gone and replaced with a wise sagely aura.

Yet, an instant later, a tier-6 [Master Wizard] and [Law Savant] Asgeir Egilhard disappear and at his current spot, a different dragonkin appear.

The dragonkin has Va’ans’ hair colour and his posture, yet also dark blue scales covering the partly the neck and also a pair of prominent dark blue horn, gleaming with vitality. This time an aura that can comes only from battle veteran as well as aura of scholars that studied deep into the natural world both flow out from the dragonkin

“AHHHH.”, the young dragonkin cracking his neck and stretches his back and arms.

“This is better!”, the young dragonkin turns to Gaetrenael.

“Asgeir, We have been friends since millenniums ago yet your transformation still surprises me.”, Gaetrenael looks into her own arm that shrink into normal size.

“GAHAHAHA! The perks of an ancient dragon I am afraid.”, Asgeir laugh heartily.

“So. What have you done to my best champion?”, Gaetrenael turns serious.

Asgeir look at Gaetrenael, shakes his head and said, “not champion. The Champion.”.

A look of shock flashes Gaetrenael’s face.

“Was that the [Trials]?”, Gaetrenael paces around the room, and turns to Asgeir, “Why now?”.

This time Asgeir turns serious, “He has returns.”

A look of understanding dawn at Gaetrenael’s face. “I see.”

“Is this the time for you to go then? Will this [Champion] lead us to once glorious Empire?”.

“The time is not ripe. Yet.”, Asgeir reply.

Asgeir tenses for an instant. Gaetrenael senses something, asks with concern, “What happen?”

Asgeir replied, “Nothing major. But I will need to go now.”, and he disappear.

Gaetrenael sighs for the n-th time today, “Damn battlemageꟷ”.

A knock timely interrupts Gaetrenael’s cursing.

“Warden. Alphonse is awake.”, Istra enters the private room.

Seeing the empty and messy cover. Istra blushes, “U-u-mm, Warden.”

Another sigh, Gaetrenael snaps, “Get that thought away from your brain young lady. I might look young but I am well over century old. Do not make me say my real age.”.

“And no, I have no idea where he is gone.”.

“Hopefully we can meet again.”, Gaetrenael adds in whisper

Istra, picking up the whispers, cautiously ask, ”Warden?”.

“GRAAAH, show me to that loser’s room.”, Gaetrenael growls at Istra

“Y-yes. At once! Follow me Warden”, Istra exits the room followed by Gaetrenael, thumping the floor.

.

The Battle Warlock, Asgeir Egilhard, is running down the alleyway, fortunately, due to the late hour, is quiet and devoid of pedestrians. Some unsavoury characters may prowl around the neighbourhood but even a tier-3 [Rogue] will only be able to see a blur.

Asgeir jumps around the rooftop occasionally, with such light footwork that not even a tap can be heard.

Asgeir even jumps through the capital wall, the [Guard] not even realising one of the most powerful figure in the entire world passes by his watch.

When Asgeir hits the groun, he breaks into a run until he arrives at the outskirt of Rudbeck, in a hill overseeing the whole capital.

Below a big tree, standing on the shade caused by the moonlight, stood a man, dressed seemingly in black that blends into the shade.

The Black Smith.

Asgeir, with not a sweat, walking toward the figure, standing just a few paces away.

As if it is sentient, the gauntlet on Asgeir's arms, hums in response to its bearer's tension.

Asgeir’s hands, caressing the gauntlet, "Do you sense your creator, [Pankration]?".

Asgeir's eyes, glint with suspicion, stares at the figure.

A moment pass and Asgeir finally speak, "Master...?"

A wind rustles the tree’ leaves, causing the moonlight to shine just briefly into the figure face, showing an amused grin.

“Asgeir, my friend…”, the figure replies.