"There was once a king
Who plays the modavi
Beautiful sound of string
Will lead you to his being.
He always play with love
Until all he saw was blood.
He cried and stop the strokes,-"
"Hey, you! Stop young man! Are you trying to call the end of the world catastrophe?"
An old man from the race of Avian(tentative) scolded the younger one who was singing the song of the king.
"Sorry, General. I. Ah.."
"I understand. This old bones isn't just trembling from age. For every step i took ever since I accepted this scout mission, the fear inside me doubled. Specially noa that we are here outside the territory of the island chain that fear trippled.. even quadrupled. That is why I'm very thankful to all of you for serving regiment and accepting this suicide mission.
His deep voice struck the hearts of the squadron which ignited their hearts and shake off the fear inside their souls.
"Our only job is to stay here until we found the Abomination or his men then report immediately. So once you see them, make haste and go home."
*Zing*
The sound of a Modavin rings on the back of their heads. The vibration of the string made their souls vibrate in fear as well.
"Spread out! Ill buy you all some time."
And with his orders, everyone flew to every direction. The more diversion they made, the higher the chance that the message will be dropping safely.
The feather at his back rose up feeling the danger lurking at his back. He dodges in great speed and a dagger made of blood went passed through where he was.
A series of clap was heard at the back of his. Turning towards the source of the sound, there stood a man clad with black royal clothing and a mask made of Moda.
"Your speed is something, General Maine."
"I thank you for the compliment." General Maine replied stoically. But inside him, all of his organs are vibrating in fear. He did his best not to stutter and appear okay.
"If only the General would aerve under me, for sure my Air power will multiply in terms of power."
"Im sorry but, we have different views in life."
"Is that so?"
Maine felt numb when the modavin that was supposed to be at his leg is not positioned on his neck, ready to play his tune.
According to their investigations about the power of the king, those who are 100m away from him are safe from his Musical abilities.
And for him, flying 100m in less than a second is an easy feat. He get away easily but the tune he was waiting for didnt come. Instead he heard the King pluck a string from his modavin and followed by a sound of firing gun.
Unknowingly, General maine fell into the ground and saw his arms ehich is vital for flying is hit by a bullet.
"Tragico." The last word General maine heard.
...
Have you ever wonder what a chicken feels when it's being held on it's throat? Or have you ever been in a
situation where you are cornered by your hunters just because you just want to survive and eat, just like a rat.
In this Vast Land, thousands of empires and kingdoms were born and fell. Even the Democratic Country that has rich history by a God like Figure has been wiped out and destroyed. Not even his name is enough to stop the calamity that cover the whole land and sea. The only thing that hasn't been conquered is the sky and the heavenly bodies such as the moon where according to the stories, that's where the powerful beings in the past decided to hide away from that time's calamity.
Regarding if the story of those beings are true or false, only time and those who lived those days can tell, not us who are in brink of extinction.
When I say calamity, it's not like the time when the sea level rises up or the breakage of every piece of land, specially when the sun almost set this world on fire as it threatens to move closer to this planet.
The calamity that I'm talking about is about a man. A single man who wants to cleanse the world from hatred, and evil. It sounds good right? Everything sounds and looks good and right if you won't put in the perspective that his meaning of cleansing is to wipe out the whole world and start over and be the ruler who will judge the right and wrong. A totalitarian in short. He wants to be a God. But he really is like a living God now that no one can take him down.
"Nevermind that problem, for now I should just focus on my research."
Looking at my reflection in the mirror, it looks like I aged 3-10 years in the last months due to stress of fighting the calamity. I fought against the man, more than the count of my fingers in my wrinkled hands but never did I won against him even a single time. All I was able to do is to delay him and lessen the deaths and but time for them to run away and retreat. Retreat into this region, our last stand, the group of islands that is called "Thousand Island Chain."
This region was once a non governed state and only being protected by a group of volunteers. this group of effort that has been tested by time, really showed by defending itself by the calamity.
"At this age I should be dating and working on marriage but how will I? First of all, this impending disaster. Second of all, they said 30s is the prime age of beauty for women but.. I just.. ugh nevermind I should just focus on this research. They may call me crazy for this instead of worrying about the big problem but this is the only way to get rid of my stress."
Taking a deep breath, then did I open my time. Words are written In the first page, "weilding the Ice and Fire". For every person in the world, they have the chance to be an elementalist in a chance of 50/50.
There's a time in their life that they can awaken they power of Fire, water, Wind, Earth, life and Dark. But it doesn't mean that they are higher or much powerful than a normal person. Becauae these people who werent born with elemental power invented techniques and weapons that can fight against this elementalists.
Also, there are certain phenomenon where one can awaken several elements. So sometimes making a magma technique needs a good coordination of Fire and earth elementalist, but with this person he can do it as a single entity.
There is also phenomenon where like me who awakened the element of water gets to evolve into Ice.
But never did I encounter someone who can Weild Ice and Fire, Water and Fire, Earth and Air, this contradicting elements. Or even somebody who could use both at the same time.
Once did I encounter someone who awakened Water and Fire. He was a student of mine in the university I've been teaching on. He became my guinea pig in this research. We never get to the point to make him use the water and Fire at the same time. He said that there seem to be a boundary that these two cannot collide and instead gives a backlash. So even the idea of making a combination of two is just unreachable.
But while we were doing our research, he said something that change my research goal.
"Prof, when I try to use them both, I feel dizzy and my body feels like it's going to burst. It feels weird in a sense cause I think you can agree that when you are using the water element, you felt cold or wet, like the same as feeling when you just finished bath."
"Yes I agree."
"But also when I use the Fire, I feel like I'm in a state where I sunbath ING instead or went into a sauna. It feels like a very opposite feeling. But it's relative? You get what I mean, Prof?"
At first those words didn't make a sense to me but there did I had an Idea that these two are relative in a sense that they are the both absence of each other.
I wanted to see what that Idea holds. If I'm right or wrong. But unfortunately, the Guinea pig died during the first series of waves of the calamity. And this time, there is really not much students or even somebody who's interested of being part of this research. So, in desperation, I tried to bath myself in the black flamethrower that the Calamity used against me in one of our fights to try to reach that feeling of absence of Cold. But, my childhood friend helped me in the nick of time before my body succumb to the fire and even berrates me for what I've done. At that time I got mad at him for stopping my research but after I realized what I've done, I said sorry to him and thank him for helping me.
Ugh, nevermind this. I should go out and breath some fresh air.
It's already twilight. Time passes so fast that I wasn't able to feel it running. Or maybe I'm just deep in thought. Many things runs in my head these days, I can also feel my back getting heavier as time pass by. Every defender that dies, another responsibility adds to my shoulders. I know I'm not the only one who's strong enough to defend the survivors, there is Ford who's the remaining powerful Weapon Meister and others in the Council.
How many nights remains. How many twilights will I get to experience before everything blacks out.
"Eigh? It's surprising that you went out at this time? Needed some fresh air?"
"Yes. Things are much clear this days. But I prefer it to be much blurry. I don't like what I'm seeing. What about you, Ford?"
My childhood friend puts down his cup of drink and take a deep breath.
"In our circle, I'm am known as the doomsday guy, right? But I think you're right. Sometimes you have to be optimistic on things. It helps you relief some weight and thing to depend on. At least it gives me the illusion that everything is alright that.. everything will be alright."
I can't help but remember the time when we were still kids, Ford being the coward who always say that, "mom will kill me, we shouldn't go out at this time." He's the man of What if + Death.
"And here I am, starting to be the Doomsday Guy. Mom was right when we were kids, I shouldn't befriend a coward like you."
His hand reaches to me and pinches my cheeks like he always do when I tease him.
"Who're you calling a coward? I'm the one who's in the Frontline! And you miss who fights at the backlines. Why don't you fight in the Frontline like I do?"
"Hey! I did fight in the Frontline! More or less.."
"Once!"
"I don't care! Once still is one. So it means, I did!"
We then both look around to see if there are other people around. Our voices really get to loud there. Seeing there is none.
"HAHAHAHHAA"
"This never gets old, Ford."
"True."
He picks up his drink again and take a sip.
"Eigh, I have something to ask."
"What is it?"
"Have you ever thought of marrying someone?"
"Of course I did. I'm still a woman, you know. I have my own fantasies like marrying my knight in shining armor."
He puts down his cup again and look at me straight in the eyes and smiles.
"So it means, I have to make my armor shiny?"
"Yeah. Your leather gear stinks."
He again looks at me but this time he's looking stupid. Anger, disbelief and happiness are all written in his face.
"So I have a chance?"
"Well, that is if you get to make your armor shiny and after all of this. I don't think it's a good idea to marry while everyone is waiting for their deaths, right?"
"Yeah. Yeah.. I have to go all out now, huh?"
"Well. Not really. Cause I think next time that guy invades we will all be dead. Think if it as I have no other choice."
His facial expression changes again. I love making fun of him. If only this calamity isn't happening, I should've ask him to marry and have family with him. He's the guy I trusted the most and he never give up on me.
"You see. Out of the all the people who's as powerful as me, only you andA small guy are my only choices so. So, I'm strictly bound into, marrying you, marrying none, or marrying somebody who'm I'm gonna wait to grow up. Well, 20-30 years isnt long if I'm gonna wait for someone who's more handsome and younger than you by that time."
He's looking at me and now pissed off. Okay I'm done teasing him now.
"So you'd rather be a cougar that to choose me, huh?"
"I'm just kidding! This man. Do you still remember when I told you that if at our age I still single, I'll marry you?"
"No? When did you tell me that?"
"First day of our dissertation."
"We're we drinking that time?"
Sweet memories of that past comes back to me. But this man seems to be oblivious about it. This what makes me kinda off about starting a relationship about it. He romance is always off the mark. But, you know. That's how he is.
"Yes."
"Oh.. I'm probably drunk that time so, you know. Pishuww."
He makes a gesture of something coming in his left ear and going out on the right.
"Haaaa. Let's stop this marriage talks for now. We have to finish this calamity first."
"You're right. Oh btw, there's a meeting tonight if I'm not mistaken? Luna is keen in meeting us later tonight. I think a report has been sent back. Im not sure what would be the topic about later."
"Haaa. Do you still have a sliver of hope that this will end."
"Of course. In one way or another this problem will end. Just a matter of how will it end. I'm more inclined into ending this in a good note. We promised those who have died that their sacrifice won't be in vain. And also the fact that, I can finally retire once and for all and start a family. With you."
Imagining that future possibility. I feel warm and happy inside, those worries suddenly stop, I feel like a kid again. But right after blinking, those pressure comes back, seemingly waking me up from the euphoria I'm succumbing into.
"If there's a chance that we both can just run away from here and start over. Would you take the chance, Ford?"
He looks at the stars and his eyes gets watery. I can see pain in his eyes and longing.
"Eigh.. we might be childhood friends, and I treated you more than it. I always tell to myself you're the most important person to me aside from my filial duties. You know, I'm not a brainiac like you but because of my love for you, I get into research as well and made a goal for myself that I'll be here to protect you on your endeavours. That's how important you are to me. I'm even happy that even if you're not vocal about it but you accepted my feelings. But, every time I see people, comrades, my men die, the stars in the sky increases in count. As if they are now up there looking down at me waiting for what I'll do."
He picks up the cup again as if trying to catch some warm for it. His favorite drink, coffee. I slid my hand from his wrist and clasp my hand into his which he grips hard. Feeling his rough hands in mine, I remember those days that he did worked hard to be strong and be known as one of the most powerful Weapon Meister throughout the land just to protect me.
"If I did run away, I don't think I have a face to show them once I'm there with them. Maybe they can forgive cause I'm just a man, who makes mistakes and selfish. But, I want to sleep at night without being hunted by guilt."
Ive made mistakes throughout my life, but picking him as my man isn't one of them. I'm sure of it.
"Hey. Don't be too dramatic. It's just a what if. And I won't leave my future husband."
"I like the sound of it."
"Can I lean to your Shoulders, My future Husband?"
"Sure."
Coming back to the place I always give me security whatever the time is. This isn't the first time I did this, this is just a normal skinship of us. But before this one, there was always a boundary where we don't ask about having a relationship, maybe because we are both busy and we don't want our friendship to be wasted. But this time, our hearts finally beats the same rhythm. I feel more secured. So this is what love feels like, specially when you finally accepts it.
"Can the Future husband have a kiss?"
"Nope. That's only a husband privilege."
"Tsk."
I can't help but giggle to this man. But it doesn't mean he gets to kiss me. Things are just too fast. I'm still a maiden in heart. I should sleep here in his chest before the council calls us. He will never do something I don't like while I sleep, I trust him. He can actually kiss me, just don't make me catch him or else I'm gonna prison him in ice again.
...
*Yawn*
"That was a nice nap. Thank you, future Husband."
"Yeah yeah. Why don't you give me a massage? It's not easy to be fixated in a single posture for hours, you know."
"I have something better than that."
My hands waves in the air and pointed to his shoulder.
Ice starts to form on his shoulder which made his shoulder straight and locked. And also, panick starts to form in his face.
He now looks like a paper standing straight.
"HAHAHAHA! This is much better than
I expected."
"Eigh! Stop, it's making my shoulders numb."
"What? This is better than massage, you're standing straight like your fork."
"Hey! Don't call it fork. It's a Trident gidted to me by the late, South sea King."
"Yeah yeah." I snap my fingers and the ice on his shoulders breaks into nothing. "We are here."
"Wow. That really works."
"Told ya. Tell me again next time, I'll gladly do it again for you. Perks of having a ice mage as a wife. Don't you like it?"
"Hmm. I'll think about it."
"Oh you two. Are you in quarrel again?"
A voice points out our banters. It came from a woman who's sitting in the round table. A very beautiful one. I've never seen any other guy that didn't get starstruck by her beauty. Even I envy her youthful beauty.
There's two distinctive feature that adds to her beauty, one is her pointy ears that automatically tells you that she's an elf with eternal youth. And second, a mark on her forehead that has a shape of a moon.
"Not much Luna. It's just our sweet talks."
"I see."
Ford and I sat in our seat as we wait for the other members of the council. It didn't take that much time before we get completed.
"Okay, we shall commence this meeting."
Luna stands up and papers were given to us which contain a report. Reading through it. The report seems to be incomplete. The report is about the scout group headed by a group of Avians but the report only ended when they reach the city of Rinja where they said there seems to be no enemy activity on it.
"Here is the report of General Maine of the Scout Regimen. The last report we got from him is when they reach the southwest city of Gandia Dessert, Rinja. But after this, the report stopped and the network that was built for an easy access of information has been wiped out. We don't know anymore what happened to him. From what we can see, he's already dead."
"Isn't General Maine's regiment is the last remaining one? So does this mean, we lost our scouting power?" The Gnome ask.
"Yes." Luna answers straight. She didn't bother saying flowery words to make everyone less anxious and worried.
"So what now? Can't we just make another one? There are still Avians around."
"You want the to bring the kids in this war? Our job is to take them out of this battle! We promised General Maine's regiment that we will take care of their offsprings in exchange of their help and not to surrender to the calamity!"
"The person is already dead? And what, you want us to stay here and wait for them to attack?"
Okay this Gnome is too much. This is ridiculous.
"Why don't you Gnomes do the job? Aren't you have a spell where you can hide your tracks and get invisible? Why don't you use that?" I can't help but be part of this conversation. As I'm one of those who Promised General Maine after all.
"No way!"
"See? You Gnomes are cowards! I didn't expect your courage is as small as your kin. This is why I'm more friends with the dwarves, they much be small but they never cower."
The Dwarve in the side nods at me.
"Yes yes. I'm not listing favors here but, I think we dwarves contributed more than anybody else. We forge, we fight, we die."
"We thank you for that, you really show to everyone what it is to be the King of Undercity."
He nods again and closes his eyes.
I again look around, if it wasn't for the Gnomes being very good at elemental spells, I would've started a major rift with them.
With our scouting group gone, we will be like blind in this war. We will only know that the enemy is there once they are at our doors, knocking. This will lessen the time of us being ready to fight. I can see everyone is looking down or has their eyes close deeply in thought of what needs to be done. Everyone's wracking their brains. Thinking of a way how to solve the problem.
"How about my team to guard the border." Ford breaks his silence.
"No! That's dangerous! We need you during the fight against him. We can't sacrifice you there. That's death wish."
Luna is the first one to react. She said what my heart wants to. But, in my case I am suppressed by the peaceful smile Ford is giving me.
"We are strong you know. We can retreat and buy time. Maybe the Gnomes can give us some of their Rejuvenating potions. That would be very helpful."
The Gnome only nods and didn't utter a word. She knows that she said enough for today.
"Such courage. I love that."
A familiar voice speaks in the room and everyone look towards where the voice came from. Followed by the sound of vibrating strings.
Everyone picks up their weapons and ready to fight all with instinct seeing our common enemy.
The calamity.
"Hey.. hey. Stop. I'm not here to fight. I'm just here to talk." He puts back his modavin and bow.
"Everyone, stand down. I don't feel his presence. He's just a projection. He can't hurt us."
"Well. For now. Anyways, why don't we become civil and just talk? Everyone, sit first." The king replied cooly.
We look at each other first before we take down or weapon and spells and sit accordingly.
"There. Isn't this neat? This is what I want. Everyone can calmly talk."
"Why are you, a calamity, is doing here?" Luna ask.
"I have a name! Stop calling me Calamity. But I forgot what's my birth name already. But my men those who surrendered calls me Demon King. Why don't you call me that?"
"So why is the Demon King here?"
"Well." He wave his hand and a stool appear beside him and sit on it. "I'm here for 3 things. Is it 3 I forgot. But first, my Proposal still stand. Those who will surrender won't be killed and be under the Demon Judicial Rule. You see the Mermans. After they surrender, they are living much better. Chaos in their side is tamed. They are living well. So for you people who remains. My offer is still up for grabs. Don't you want to see our world under the same banner? Under the same race?"
"Keep that goat horn, I don't like it." The Dwarf answer.
"Alright, alright. But I'm sorry, it's part of the process so.. second. How's the preparation coming? I hope the next time I invade, don't make it too hard for me. You know, it's quite taxing. I like keeping my schedule in check. So it will be very much appreciated if you guys really just surrender. Less pain, less bloody. Everybody happy, right?"
This guy really irks me. Is he trying to be funny? What makes me mad is that he doesn't feel afraid of us. Because he knows that he's much powerful than us collectively.
"Stop this bullshit. What do you want? I don't think you're not here for negotiation cause no one's willing to surrender here."
"I know, Eigh. You're not stupid enough to fight me all those times just to surrender at the last stretch. Okay, this is the third one."
He wave his hands to his left side. Another projection appears in the direction he wave to. The thing that appear made my blood churn. Made my blood boil. My anger erupts so much that I can't control my emotions anymore.
With a wave of my arm, I summon an Icicle and hurl it towards the enemy. But it effortlessly pass through him and just struck the wall opposite of me.
"Eigh, Calm down. Please." Ford woke me up from the anger I'm feeling. It frustrates me that my attack didn't work and I looked stupid for forgetting that it's just a projection.
"Yes, Eigh. Calm down. It's just a projection. But yes he's dead. But He didn't die without experiencing hell on earth. Unlike us. We became like this because of unpleasant reality we didnt choose."
A small smile in his lips appears as if making fun of us at the same time trying to strike fear.
"I remember his unyielding eyes void of fear as I slowly but surely destroy every bone in his body by my dungeon master. There did I knew an Avian has () bones in his body. How fascinating is Evolution of life. But you know what's more fascinating, Eigh? Actually not just Eigh, maybe all of you is interested in this."
This time a sinister smile appear that makes even my frozen heart tremble.
"Due to his love of music and singing, he gave his final performance with my help. His scream makes a different note for every bone I break. Sorry, I'm kind of selfish so, I'll keep the final melody for myself and play it when I get bored after I finish this Conquest."
The atmosphere in the room changes. Even the Gnomes who we always call cowards has determined eyes. The vacant sit, I suddenly miss the presence who seats in there, General Maine. His Figure in the projection, I cannot imagine what happen to him during his torture. It's inhumane. Too much. If it wasn't for the white and pinkish feathers, I won't believe that it's him. He's covered in blood. He's... Deformed. That's the best way I can describe it.
"All we wanted is a life with no suffering. For hundreds of year, i cannot sleep because of the howling pain of life. And maybe by ruling thr whole world, my ears will finally be at piece. No one could kill me, so Id rather do this conquest." He suddenly became serious, different from his goofy attitude. Why am I having a short feeling of sympathy, does he deserve it?
"And oh yeah! I remember something. A lot of thing going on you know, uhh.. you people are talking about the scouting, right? Like when will I invade, or something like that, right?"
He then stand up from his sit and fix the wrinkling in the black robe he is wearing.
"Like all of you, uhmm. Since I owe a favor, and I like what General Maine left for me, I'll give you 7 days. A week. Gather all your forces, everything cause the whole world.. is coming. So, time is ticking. Tick tock."
He smiles before he disappear like a smoke. His ridiculing smile remains in my head, I cannot get rid of it. I feel fear. Fear for my life. But, I deserve to live however I want, right?
Facing Ford, who gives me a smile as if saying everything will be okay. That momentarily help me breathe. I needed that relief. Even if it's just an illusion, I needed that. Everything will be okay.
Everyone seems to calm down. Everyone had taken their sit, only I the one who's remaining standing.
"Seems like we have 7 days to prepare. I have to go to the forge. Time is ticking." The Dwarven King mutter.
"Don't tell me you believe what he is saying?" The Gnome reply. Seemingly angry with the Dwarven's tone.
"I do." An Event where the calamity did something I didn't expect play in my mind. "He keeps his promises. If not, I should be dead now." Everyone saw the day when the calamity can take my life but decided not to because of our bet.
"Tsk. Alright. But Luna, can't you ask your Land to give us a help, at least this time? Cause I don't think there will be another chance after this. I know you are here just to be the representative of the Tree. Cause they are safe in their haven even with this world conquered."
"I'm not sure if I can. I maybe the daughter of the Tree but I'm meerly a messen-."
Her voice stops as her eyes glows white same with the mark on her forehead. This isn't the first time we saw this. But, it's still such a wonder to see. After a while, the light dims and comes back to normal.
"So what did you father say, huh?"
I really don't like this Gnome.
"I need to go back. There's a propecy that I need to figure out. I have to go now, so I can comeback early in the morning."
"I don't care anymore. I'll prepare now as well." The Gnome leaves and same with others including Ford who excuses himself to tell the people in the baracks what happened here in this meeting.
Only me and Luna remains.
"Eigh, stop worrying too much, don't you know it's bad for a bride to be stressed before the vow? It makes them stutter and fail to express their vow, you know."
"How did you know?"
"Well, propecy?"
"Didn't you say that you still have to leave?"
"Elves are good liars you know, that's why we have parliament."
"So was there other time where you lied to me?"
"Hmm. This woman never lied to a friend."
"So, I think you stayed here to talk to me. I guess the propecy is about me. Did I save the world? That's kinda making me blush."
"Well, you are right about that. But it's not actually a propecy, it's more of a.. mission."
This is new. She doesn't usually say this kind of thing.
"I'm listening."
She picks up a seat from the side and sit beside me.
"The tree actually tells me that there's a way to fix this. And only you can do it."
"That's so much pressure. But I guess I'm prone to it already?"
"How about take a rest first? Meet me in the morning here, then I'll tell you everything. I hope you keep this talk between us first."
"I will. I also think I need a rest."
"Alright, see you tomorrow. I have to do my part as well. I need to ready something."
"Okay sure. See you."
Leaving the quarters. It's so painful to look now in the stars after what Ford tells me regarding the stars. The pressure in my shoulders, the heaviness of it. Maybe this so called "mission" can lift it off of me. And maybe, I can start a new life, out of this misery, start a family.
....
"Eigh, have you ready your heart now?"
"Yes."
"Alright."
Surprisingly, after putting an optimism outlook from what she said last night. I was able to have a good night sleep and woke up in a good mood. Had my breakfast without worrying about anything.
"Here's your mission. You will go back in time. And go to a place where the people before us live. I don't know actually where it is but I know someone who knows it."
"Go back in time? How?"
"Like I said, I know someone who can do it. As per who is he, he will come here any moment now "
"Yeah? So what should I do there."
"Well, from what the tree said, your job is to teach a young kid named, Guss. I'm not sure what, or how but you have to teach him in some way that he will be relevant in this world."
"Who is this Guss?"
"I'm not sure. Oh! Here he is."
Suddenly, a portal appears nears us. I'm quite shocked inside me as this phenomenon is not easy to come by. Spatial power is a different league of power, it's so rare that this is just the second time I've seen this. And the first one I saw is just a escape skill that transport you 100km from your current position.
"Wow, Luna. I didn't expect you to be this beautiful now. The last time we've seen each other was uhh.. you were still a kid, yes?"
"Yup. Sir Kronos. But you haven't aged since then? Even us elves envy your immortality."
"I don't have immortality. It's just that, I'm just good at maximizing my time. Alright, from what I know, the key is on you. Right? For sure I can't have it for free. What's your demand?"
"You see, this is the time where we are a out to get wiped out by the enemy. The tree has a mission to this friend of mine, Eigh, that could fix this. But I need your help to bring her to the past and Meet a man named Guss."
"Guss, huh? I think I know this Guy. When do you want me to bring her?"
Luna shows a key and presents it to Kronos.
"Arent you trusting me too much? What if I take that then run away"
"I don't think you will do such thing."
"Hahh. Alright alright."
"The tree embeds a message for you in this key. It will tell you the right place and time to bring her."
Kronos then holds the key but didn't take it.
"Okay I know what to do now. I won't take the key for now. Since I can come back again and take it after I did my part. But, there's a problem."
"What's the problem?"
"The spatial skill that I will have to use so somehow complex and have risk for her life. If I bring her as it is she spatial tear will shred her to pieces. You see, aside from the 4 element and the Tree and it's counterpart, I am born as it is. I was born in the beginning of time. You can say I'm a higher God in your language and this spatial tear is nothing for me but for her, even a second from there, she will die for sure."
"Do you have a way to solve this?"
"I do have one but. I think this will take a lot of time."
"How long?" I ask. Time is the essence right now after all. We only have less than 7 days remaining.
"First, you need to transfer your soul into something small. That can fit inside my clothes. Second, we need somebody who can."
How the hell can I do that? If I'm not mistaken, such skill can only be done by specters.
Luna's eyes and mark on her forehead shines again probably the tree talks to her again.
"I know who can. Guards!!"
Sound of metal bumping on each other signifies that the guards are coming as called.
"Can you call Linda? Tell her I need her help. Asap."
"Yes. Ma'am."
They did left in a hurry. They might have felt the importance of it. But, why the Gnome?
"Linda? Why? Arent you wary of her?
"I am, but her kin is still my family. Like you. She's still a family of us Tree settlers."
"Okay. Whatever you say. I trust you. I know you won't do something bad."
"I'm not a saint."
"But, you're my friend."
"Thank you."
It didn't take long before Linda, the Gnome, comes in the room.
"So, what do you need? I told you Im busy."
"The tree is asking you to put her soul into an object we choose."
"Huh? What are you saying? I'm not a specter moron."
"The tree said he will let you bath it the holy pond for a week in exchange."
"A week?"
"Yes. A week."
"You better keep this as a secret. And whonis this man? Can he keep secret?"
"Don't worry about me. I don't like meddling to affairs of humanity."
"Who's this weirdo?"
Did he just call a God like figure a weirdo? This woman really is something.
"So? In what item should I bring your soul into?"
"I don't have anything in mind. As I don't possess something small."
"Eigh, how about that tome you always Carry? It's not that big, right? Sir Kronos, is that Tome okay?"
He looks at his robe and slightly opens it to see how big the space is and if the tome can fit.
"Yeah. It fits. So you can start now."
"Luna. Remember a week. This spell sheds a lot of my lifespan. How long do I need to bring keep her in that tome?"
"Exact 7 days. I think it would be enough."
"Alright. Eigh, here's some pointers for you. Whatever discomfort you feel, just let it be. This will make you kind of drowsy. But don't worry, right after that 7 days, you will be back to your body safely. And for you Luna. If you want this friend of yours to come back safely, you have to protect her body at all cost. If even a small damage on her body happen, her soul will be unfamiliar into her body and won't be able to come back. She will forever be a specter."
"Alright. Got it."
Wait, I don't wanna be a specter?
"Wait Linda, can you still transfer my body if I enclose myself into a prison of Ice?"
"Yeah. You want to safeguard your body?"
"Yes."
"That's a good idea to insure yourself. Okay you may start now."
Okay okay. Eigh, calm yourself down. You have to make a very powerful ice to shield yourself. An Ice that never melts. You can do this.
Taking a deep breath, ice starts to revolve around me and I can feel my body starting to get cold. This coldness is giving me the security that I need.
"Are you done now?"
I can here Linda talking to me through telepathy.
"Yeah. You may start now."
"Okay. Relax and don't fight the drowsiness."
Like what she said, my body really feel drowsy all of a sudden.
"It's done. Can I leave now?"
"You cannot leave unless she's awake now."
The sound of Luna and Linda's quarrel wakes me up from slumber. I open my eyes, my vision feels more wide than normal.
"Guys, did it work?"
"Finally you're awake! You made me worried sick!"
"Why? How long did I was asleep?"
"Couple of minutes?"
"2 minutes and 3 seconds to be exact. 5."
"Huh? Couple of minutes and you are acting as if I'm out for a day or more."
She fidgets as she look down on the floor like a kid who did something bad.
"Well.. I can't help it. You know.."
"Okay, she's alive and well. Can I go now?"
"Yes yes. Thank you so much. The tree will let you come in after tonight."
"Okay good."
Linda then leave and only the 3 of us remains.
"Am I in the tome now?"
"Yes. Are you okay in there."
"Yeah. Just.. feels stuffy. Can't move."
"I think it's normal?"
"I guess so."
I've tried to hide in a small space in the past and that is much more comfortable unlike this. But, 7 days. I can do this.
"So Eigh, are you ready?"
"Yes. Take care of my body."
"I will. You can rely on me."
I can see from the side of my vision my body is encased with a very thick ice block. I hope my spell fortifies it's defenses.
Kronos picks me up and slid me inside his robe and My vision darkens as a result.
"Luna, Tell him I'm okay. I'll be back to give my vow."
"I will. Be safe on your trip."
"Luna. I'll be back in a minute or so."
"Sure. Take care of my friend. Have a safe trip, Sir Kronos."
I can only hear the two as I'm sealed in the dark inside his robe. I feel butterflies in my tummy due to the excitement of using the time and spatial power. How would the experience be? This would be a good story to tell in the future.
"We're here."
"What?! That's it?"
"Yeah."
Light reveals itself and a view of a bookshelves gives me an idea where we are.
"Library?"
"Yes. The tree said I have to leave you here and if time plays out like what the tree said, in less than a minute, the Kid will come here and pick you up."
"Good thing I didn't chose a spoon or fork as an Object to put my soul into."
"Well, actually I already saw that you will be in this form. It's just that, I say such detail cause it's really not a good idea to tamper with time. A small mistake of it can wipe a whole future and make everything into fiction."
"I see."
Sir Kronos slides me through the gap of the books that are in the shelf.
"Sir, are you sure he will pick you up?"
"Yeah. Im sure of it. I think I've done my work now. I hope you good fortune. There is a saying I heard from some. "May Guss Bless you."
"Uhh. You as well? Thank you anyways."
He casually waves his hand to say good bye and a portal reveal itself on his back which he then get into.
That time and space traveling isn't really exciting, huh? I thought I would hear like some kind of whooshing sounds or like those people who says that there are Spatial guards and monsters that will stop you on your way. So, Those things are nothing but fiction, huh?
"Where are the new books that Grandpa bought? Ami said it's this row."
A voice of a kid?
Not long enough, the voice shows itself for me to see. He's a young man at the age of around 14-15? He's a kid with above average looks and somehow tall for his age. He's not skinny but he's not a muscular as well. He wears a thick short sleeved upper garment and also a shorts that only hangs until his knees.
"Ohh. What is this?"
"Weilding the Fire and Ice? What is Ice? Wow, a hand written book. How much did Grandfather fetch this book? Ice.. what's that. This is interesting. This seems like a journal about weilding the power of Fire and.. discovering this ice thingy."
His foot starts to walk out of the room and it's the dead of the night currently.
Right away, I felt something pecular about the night sky. The stars doesn't seem to move as much as I remember and I can't see clearly what constellation does it form to tell me my location and right date and time in this world. For us scholars, knowing the constellation is a good parameter to know where you are in any part of the world. Knowing constellation will guide you towards where you want to be in.
"Oh. If it isn't master Guss. Busy reading?"
"Yes, cousin. Just about to be busy."
A haughty looking man stops this kid on his tracks. This man exudes a confidence that reaches the opposite level of humbleness.
"Why don't you practice? Don't we have a week before our the coming of age tournament in our family? I dont think reading will help you stronger? You will be a laughingstock again if you won't join. Wellz what can I do, a weak like you can't even perform a single basic Fire technique."
"Seriously? I didn't know aside from you can't read, you also can't understand? So this is what they mean when your head is made of muscle, huh? Try reading next time, it helps you be more intelligent."
"What did you say?"
"Nothing. I didn't say anything." He raises his hand as if he didn't do anything wrong. I can feel some presence in his back that are watching them both in case these two really start to brawl. I like this kid, he knows how to play his cards, right. "You want to punch me? I dare you."
"Tsk. I hope we get to meet in the first round. I know you will concede defeat. But before you do. I'm gonna punch you square into your jaw before you can speak and hard enough so you won't be able to. Watch out."
The haughty boy leaves and the kid Guss stays, feeling down. I can feel his frustration as he grips the Tome hard.
He starts to walk again but this timez the good mood he had before he encounter his haughty cousin is now gone and replaced by a gloomy atmosphere.
It didn't take that much long time before we reach a room, probably his quarters.
The room doesn't seem to be your typical Young master room. It's more like common one. My room is much grand. He has small bed, a table made of scrap wood, a thin curtain and a stand where couple of thick upper garments are layed upon.
He puts me down to the table and he looks at the picture standing near me.
"Mom, why is this world so cruel? Why was I born in this family where strength values more. I know dad, Grandpa, Amy and my sister doesn't give me a cold shoulder for being weak but the other people around me. They always treat me like a sht. And now, the clan that Grandpa and father grow over years throughout their life will be given to those who seek power just because I'm too weak to be a successor. I really wish that I'm just born a commoner and live a common life."
He then lie down on his bed to rest.
Wait, what kind of thinking is that? Why don't he try to be a weapon Meister then? Am I in a time where elementalists are the top of the hierarchy?
If I'm not mistaken, there was a time in history where this kind of thinking is a thing. But it becomes a legend of some sort cause the setting of that story is different from the land of the Vast. They said there is a pocket dimension inside the mouth of the Tallest Volcano.
Is it this? There one way to find out.
Culminating the power onto a single spell, I have to make this big enough to see the scope of the whole land and see where am I. For sure even if this is the past, there are some terrains and topography that still exist in the future, in my time.
I think this is enough.
Then did I release this pure elemental raw power to scan the whole land it can reach. It starts in a meter, in 10, a kilometer, another 10, hundreds, until it's big enough to cover a whole city.. a whole province, a whole region and eventually a whole country as big as the Thousand island Chain.. and then nothing more.
"What is that?"
The kid sits up in shock. He probably felt that. Wow, he's got good perception in elemental power, then they call him weak? What makes him weak?
But nevermind him, why is it void after reach that level? And.. this world is not round.. it's flat. So, this is really a plane. A pocket dimension. This is what they mean by pocket dimension? So this is real? The time where elementalists are the rulers of the land is real?
If that's the case, I really pity this kid who unfortunately live and born into this place and time. So, how am I going to make him relevant in this time, if this kid is the elementalists version of a eunuch?
There is still some residual of power that I use to scan the land. Most of the people here are Fire users. So this is a clan or a family that specialize in power of Fire. But.. this kid. He does have the power of Fire but.. why is he radiating an almost the same power as mine, an Ice? It's not elemental power. It's different, it's like his body is made of ice? How? Wait, isn't he the best Guinea pig I can Use?
"You.. do you feel cold?"
"Huh? Who is it? Guards?"
He looks around under his bed, st the ceiling even in the window.
"No, you sht. I'm the book that's talking."
"A book that can talk?"
"Yeah somehow."
"I must be dreaming. I should go back to sleep and wake up."
Ugh this is frustrating.
"Do you want to have a power that will save your family?"
"Yeah? Of course?"
He answers but still afraid of what's happening.
"How about you help me with my research, and we will both find a way to solve your problem?"
"How can I help you then?"
"How about you try to read what's written in my tome?"
"I can't believe I'm talking to a Tome."
"Just come here and read if you wanna get fixed!"
"Yes. Yes." He comes near me and carefully open the tome and starts reading. "Uhh... How should I call you.. ma'am?"
"You can call me Eigh. But, since I'm gonna teach you the arts, you have to call me Master from now on."
"Ahh.. sure.. Master."
"Okay good, start reading."
Being called master is really good inside. In the past, I had to be under several teachers that became my masters. Until there comes a time where I'm strong enough and good enough to pass down my teachings to my guinea pigs. I only took around less than the count of my single hand but sadly, all of them perished in the calamity. But who would've thought that I'm gonna have a new one that I think could finally help me finish my research.
"Master, according to this, a person can awaken several elements?"
"Yeah? Why? Does this never happen here?"
"Never. So I really can't put everything into perspective."
"There are things that you think are impossible until you see it for yourself. Maybe you can see it in several days."
He continues to read but I can feel something from him.
"If you have anything you want to say. Speak it out now."
"So, Ami is right. I can't hide my thoughts well." He take a breathe before he continue. "To be honest.. Master. I'm not sure if I'm dreaming, if I bust my head or something and also, I kinda of not believing what is written here. But also, I'm in a need of help. My family needs me. My gut is telling me that I should do this. I don't want to save my family's glory. So, can I trust you?"
Is this what Luna means when he said I have to make this kid relevant for us to succeed in our time? But what does it connects to? What change can this boy make? I also have my questions regarding this but I have to trust Luna.
"I can't say for sure that you should trust me fully but. It is my goal to finish this research of mine before my time runs out. Cause I know you're the only one who can help me finish this. And also, if we did this it means you have unlocked the power of ice to weild."
Of course I cannot tell him that my goal is to teach him and become relevant cause I don't want to hear him telling me that it is my job to teach him or something like that. Maybe he's not that kind of a person but it's better this way.
"Master, what Is this ice that you are talking about?"
"You don't know what is an Ice?"
He just raise his shoulders to indicate that he doesn't know a thing about it.
"Ice a a frozen water. Like this I'll show you."
With my thoughts, water starts to accumulate in the air in a form of a stick.
"You came from the Water clan? You're an enemy?"
"No. I'm not from this world. That's what I can only say to you."
"But. You can weild a power of water! That just mean you came from the water clan."
"Like I said, I didn't came from this world and also, There are things that you think are impossible until you see it for yourself. Always remember that. Disregarding this will make people less progressive and stagnate their human being and civilization as a whole. So, don't be wary of me I'm not an enemy."
"Okay. Im Sorry about that."
"It's okay. I understand you. Anyways. This is water right?"
"Yeah?"
"Have you drank a cold water or something? Or is there such thing as winter?
"Yeah. Our maids picks up pales of water from the river that comes from the mountains which then we use to bath ourselves in the morning to cool ourselves for the day. And about the winter? What is that?"
"I see. Did you know, when a water reaches a very low temperature of coldness. It will start to form into this."
The water in the air starts to turn to ice. Slowly did I guide this spear of ice into his hand which did he held onto.
"It's cold.. very much cold. Colder than the water in the river at night. This is ice?"
"Yes. This is ice. Ice can be sharp, can be full, can be fragile, can be as strong as a fortress. Everything just depends on how you vision it and how you want it to be. But of course, your individual power should back up what you are envisioning or else you might just pass out."
"I see."
"So, how will we do this?"
"First and foremost, you have to read it. Then, we have to go somewhere very cold."
"And where is that?"
"It's near. we just have to follow the river ahead. It will take us a day or most. So for tonight. Just rest. And we will start our journey tomorrow morning."
I'm not sure if he processed what I've said cause he is very busy being fascinated by the ice spear in his hand. But I really hope, I can finish this mission of mine. Maybe the reason why I have to go here is due to his body constitution. It's a perfect body to learn a Ice power. I can do this. We can do this in a week.
...
"Can we rest for now, Master? Hiking is really not my forte. This is the second time I've done this but it didn't made it easier for me. I should've asked for a carriage to bring us here."
"Hey. Don't cut corners. Think of this as your physical training as well. Sometimes, you still need your body to protect yourself and your elemental power will act as your 3rd and 4th hand. But it's alright. I think we have hiked enough. Thankfully you live near this mountain. Or else, it will take us much time to climb this much. You can rest for an hour then we will start."
"Thanks!"
He plops down on the ground and did rest to sleep. We are not that high up in the mountain but I can feel the temperature here is low enough for him to feel the coldness.
Hour had passed, all I did to spend time is to look around to see the beauty of this world. It's hard not to be amazed by such beautiful scenery add to that, this is just a pocket dimension.
I think it's time to wake him up from his slumber.
Scooping up water from the cold river then I splash it towards him which awakens him from his nap.
"What happened?"
"An hour has passed. Training starts now."
"Oh.. I see."
"Before we start, I have something to ask."
"Yeah? What is it?"
"Did you ever feel hot?"
"About that? I have a peculiar feeling about that topic cause since I was a kid, I have this condition where when they say something is cold or freezing, it feels comfortable for me? Like I tried ones to bath myself in the cold river at night and it feels very comfortable to the point I can sleep there. But when one of the guards tried it. They got sick and got cold from it. So I was banned to do it again, but from time to time, I do it specially when I need some release emotionally."
I too have that condition, it's actually normal for us water Elementalists who evolves into Ice secondary Element. Knowing how cold that water is, I doubt I can do the same.
"Can you show me your fire element."
He shows his palm and a small fire appears but extinguishes right after.
"Ugh. That feeling sucks. This is why I don't like using my power."
"Do you feel dizzy or something?"
"Yeah. I do feel kind of dizzy when it distinguishes. If I'm not mistaken, there is an entry in the tome where it says that there's a something blocking my fire power, but there it says that it is being blocked when using an opposite element. But in my case, I'm not using an opposite element and instead it's just stopping my fire element on its own. In the end it gives me some uncomfortable feeling."
"Have you ever tried to embrace this cold feeling in you?"
"No. Cause Im worried that this painful feeling will get worse. So Instead I supress it. Something bathing in cold water helps it calm down.
I suddenly remember when I was at his age, there was a instance where a tragedy became a luck instead. It was an event that transpired and made me unlock the power of ice. I think I should make him do it as well. It's probably the best and fastest way for him to embrace the coldness.
"From today until the next 5 days, you have to keep yourself drench and bath yourself non stop in this cold river. Your goal is to accept the coldness that is seeping into you. Let this coldness spread throughout your body. And don't be afraid. You have to overcome this and by then, you can eventually feel like you're one of it. If I'm not mistaken, you body heats up for a while when you release your fire element but suddenly a cold feeling will feeling will seep into you and disperse this hot temperature and the fire will extinguished."
"Yes. You are very right about that master."
"Then I think the best way to do this is to tame this cold feeling but doing what I just told you. Cause ones you tame it, you can control it not to interfere with your fire element."
"5 days."
"Yes. 5 days, it's short but I know you can Do it. Start now. Just meditate on the water and let the coldness seep into you and let it spread out throughout your body."
He nods and lies down on the cold river.
I wonder how long would take for him to master this. It took me almost a month. I hope he does it in such a shorter time. And he's been accumulating coldness In his body for years, so I think it will be easy for him.
"Remember, that's where you will sleep and eat."
"I'm planning that, this is greater than I expected."
Maybe if I'm in my body, I'm probably smiling right now seeing him determined to this goal of his.
...
It's been a day and his body gets used to the coldness in his body. It also start to spread on his body in a fast momentum. If nothing happens bad, he will be done 5 days time.
"Are you okay, Guss?"
"Kinda hungry master but I can continue."
"Okay. You're doing well."
He didn't answer but I can see his smile. He's happy with his progress. I envy this kid. Even the pace of it spreading around his body, it is much faster than me, around 10x faster than me.
...
It's the morning of our 5th day. I only have a day and a half with me before my sould come backs to the my body. But I'm not worried about that anymore cause, he's done.
His body is currently covered in ice due to the coldness that starts to seep out of his body. Somehow, I also saw a liquid substance with those ice. What is that? After that thing got released from his body, the coldness in his body starts to become much tamer. The speed of it spreading out also got faster that's why instead of finishing tonight, it is done now.
The ice on his body break and his eyes opens as well. Smile appears as he jump in excitement.
"Master! I have done it! It feels weird. But I feel complete now. It doesn't feel like there's something seperste inside me. It's like I have another arm in a sense that I can control with a thought."
"I see. For now, why don't you try to release your fire element. Let's if it's gonna work. Let's see if it will interfere still."
"Okay. I'll try."
He spread his palm and a fire emerges. This fire.. it's not the typical fire I've seen. I've seen different fires, there are the typical red, orange, and even those blue and fires that are very hot that can melt metals like butter. But never did I see a white flame. This white flame is much powerful than the Gold flame and Black flame I've seen.
"Do you feel something that is blocking your fire?",
"None, master. I feel free now. But why is this white? And not red?"
"Try to throw that fire towards the tree over there."
Like what I said, he did throw the fire over and makes an arc in the air. And once it reach the tree, the fire burnt the tree as if it's a candle.
This is the first time I've seen this. It's as sinister than the black flame but this gives you the feeling of thankfulness cause it will give you a quick death. Cause the black flames will slowly burn you as it's hard to extinguish and you will yourself turning to ash.
"Oh wow. My flame seems different than normal? Not just the color Is different. I remember my mom having a good flame and I saw her burn down some treees but not into this degree."
"You're mom has a golden flame?"
This kid's lineage is something. I've never read about a gold flame being hereditary.
"Yeah."
"I see. But I don't think your flame is an evolution of the Golden flame. I think it's due to how your flame is being suppressed and temper itself under the ice element for years."
He then again repeats and summon his flame on his palm and we both are fascinated by it.
"Do you have technique manuals to practice to? If I'm not mistaken you only have till tomorrow night before the coming of age tournament starts. So, I think you should practice till tonight and we will start our journey towards your home."
"About that, I have them in my head and I've been practicing them ever since I was a kid. Even if I can't control my flame, I still do my best to do the basics."
"Okay, better. I'm not a fire Elementalist so I can't teach you about this."
"I can handle this. But first. I should eat. I'm really hungry."
"I envy you, I wanna eat as well but thankfully I don't get hungry so I'm not really envious of you."
"Oh really?"
"Tsk."
After he eats, he then go to the side and do his practice regimen. I am not a specialist when it comes to teachings regarding the fire but he really does a good work and his form are precise. I can say that he really is a very diligent one on things that he wants to achieve.
"Master, I'm good to go. I'm ready to fight. I'm even surprised that my body gets use to the fire as if it's part of me ever since."
"Well, you are born as a fire Elementalist after all so it's normal. Should we go home early?"
"Actually, there's something I want to learn."
"Yeah what is it?"
"From what I've read, it says there that you have a theory that fire is the absence of water and ice, right? And vice versa."
"Yes. But it's just a theory since I still haven't seen it being done. Who knows if I'm gonna see it in this lifetime."
"Master, what if I tell you that I'm in a verge of it? It feels like there's a bottleneck that I need to break and I can finally achieve your theory."
"Well, if that's the case. I hope my disciple can give her master her credit for this."
"Of course I will."
"Then, let it just be. Eventually you will break that bottleneck. The more you push it and climb over it, the more it will be harder for you go passed that. Just let it be."
"Then I'll take a nap for now."
"Okay. I gotta rest my mind as well."
I hear a splash of water and see him Lying down on the river and dead asleep. Is it really comfortable for him that much? Nevermind that.
I hope those people are still okay and preparing well.
...
We are not late right?
I didn't wake him up until the sun rises this morning. I know he was very tired of what we have done, at least for him mentally.
Right after he woke up. He ate his breakfast first before we start our journey back to his clan.
"Master, do you think I can do this? Do you think I can win?
"Well. To be honest, I don't think you have to win? Maybe win can be a bonus but, showing them what you can do and telling them that you're not a weakling anymore is much a better message, don't you think."
"You're right. Anyways, master we're here."
Like I expected, it will be just around this time that we will be able to get back.
"Young Master! Finally you're here the event has started and it's now your turn to fight." A young woman in a neatly maid dress comes running.
"I see. Let's go in haste."
The grounds where the fight will be isn't that far. A big crowd are watching and everyone is wearing a different clothes but their colors are the same, red which represents their clan. But in the middle of the grounds, there is the Haughty cousin of his.
"If in a minute, young Master Guss doesn't came, Dane will win by default."
"No need! I'm already here!"
Everyone's attention goes to Guss.
"Guss, remember you don't need to win. Just show them what you've got."
"I will, master." He pass me onto the maid who we meet from earlier and gently smile at her. Does she like this woman? Cause that's how Ford looks at me everyday. "Amy, hold this for now. Don't lose it."
"Ill take care of it. Good luck, young Master."
"Good luck? You think I'm going to fight?"
"You never back down."
Guss just smiles at her before starting to walk towards his opponent.
"Oh. I thought you will be a disappointment again?"
"Let's see who will be the disappointment today."
"I really hate how a weakling like you always answers back."
Guss shakes his head and his opponent got mad by his taunting.
"Fight!"
Right after the signal, the opponent launches himself towards Guss and he really is aming for that punch in his jaw.
But Guss seems like ready for it. He steps back ones are ready himself to block the flaming fist that's homing to his jaw.
And then suddenly,
Shards of ice appears In his arm that he use to protect himself and appears like a shield.
Did he jus-
I feel drowsy..
"protect Eigh at all cost!"
A voice of Luna's shout wake me up. I can't move. Oh yeah. I'm tightly sealed.
Taking down the ice prison when I put myself, the peaceful island where we are living is now being destroyed by the demonkin.
A sudden hug gives me a warm welcome. It's Luna who's tearing so much.
"You're okay. Finally. I was worried sick."
"How's everyone?"
"A lot of people already died. But we trust you that their sacrifice will be worth it. Did you succeed?"
"Only time will tell. Cause I don't know."
"Finally Eigh! You've come! Let's start our final duel."
A smirk appears in my lips. I have to be better than my student when it comes to this mind games, right?
"Come, show me how man you are."
"Are you stupid? You can't fight him one on one!"
A shadow appear in front of me to defend my front against the calamity.
"Ford. Don't worry. It's my turn to face him. Rest for now, we still have a wedding after I fight him."
Giving him a reassuring smile. He backs out and sits on the side and tend to his wound. Luna comes towards him and start to heal his wound.
Extending my arms and grab towards the air. Sword appears in both of my hand. My opponent before me raises his arm as well and a giant skinny sword made of bones appears.
Without any signal, we both launches ourself towards each other to fight. This is our final fight.
The defeaning sound of our sword clashing and the shockwaves we make gives me a goosebump and excitement that I've never had.
I don't know where this come from, probably from the feeling I had from teaching Guss, this master of his will never back down. His determination is so contagious.
A swiping kick from the left comes towards me but instead of defending from it, I use his chest to jump outside of it's range and results for him to stagger a bit.
"Oh my. Such a weak knees. "
"You're making me mad! Eat this!"
Shadows appear around me and does a stab towards my location using their shadow like spear.
In response, I protect my self by summoning an ice prison around me.
While inside the ice prison, I suddenly hear a faint sound of swoosh. In instinct, I duck And there I can see my ice prison getting sliced in half like butter. His sword that is being coated by his blue flame. So, scary. But, I can see an Opening!
Summoning an Ice spear. Visioning it to be very big, big as a man and thick as a tree. Then did I launch it towards his opening on the left gut.
He probably sense it and immediately took off his hold onto his Giant sword and flip backwards to evade.
I summond another series of smaller spears which he easily parry and evade.
"I should take this seriously now. Time for you to die."
He raises his hand wave it towards me. A second after, I can see something from the sky about to crash towards my location.
Envisioning a very powerful defensive prison again to protect myself from it but I suddenly feel a familiar phenomenon that I thought was nothing days ago.
I stop envisioning it and instead faces Ford who's watching me.
I can feel the heat coming from the object descending towards me but I don't fear cause..
The meteorite starts to dissipate in the sky.
"What is happening I can't use my power anymore. What is this?"
His body starts to disintegrate. As if his body is made of smoke and slowly being carried away by the wind inch by inch of his body.
"This is the end of time."
A familiar voice comes from the back of the calamity.
"During this time, everything starts to fade into nothingness because something in the past had change and everything from that point has been rewritten. This can only happen if such major thing can happen."
"You! You are Kronos, right? You think I'm not knowledgeable about Gods right? I thought the Gods doesn't have the right to interfere with the people? If it's then end of time, doesn't that mean you interfere with it?"
"Kinda? But aren't you a Half God yourself? Well, we let you do everything you wanted but you might be taking too much, don't you? Next time, know your place. If there is."
"You!!!!"
He runs towards Kronos and ready his fist to punch him. But before his fist can reach Krono's face, his whole body dissipates completely like smoke.
The demonkin and the others even me, our bodies starts to dissipate as well.
"Sir Kronos, can this be stopped now?"
"No. Changing a certain major event in the past will change everything indefinitely even I cannot stop this."
"So everything here, even our memory will be nothing? Wiped out?"
"Well, that's the fact. But throughout my life, seeing every possibilities, nothing is definite anymore. Everything can't be answered by yes or no. But there is something that transcend any power, time and space. Love. Always believe in love. That's what I believe."
Looking at Ford who's wearing an amicable smile. He probably is disappointed with how our supposedly marriage will be stopped.
Then suddenly i felt a burning pain in the back of my hand i looked at it and saw a mark of star.
"You two are blessed by the Gods of love." Kronos said beside me.
Looking towards where Ford is, He is waving towards me wearing our school uniform. Where am I?
"What is happeni-."
"Eigh, was I late?" Ive been waiting for him and our class probably started already.
"Yes. 2 minutes late." Checking my watch, je really late by 2 minutes.
"I hope our new professor isn't strict. Do you remember his name?"
"Zack MCarthur? Something like that? A noble from a county."
"I hate nobles."
"I agree."
We went towards are designated classroom with only couple of students on it.
"Oh you two are late." Said by the handsome middle aged man who I think is Sir McArthur.
"We're very sorry."
"Don't be. A couple blesssed by the Gods of Love are precious people."
"Hm?" I suddenly felt de javu from what he had said, and it bugged me so much. And is he referreing to both of us?
Our class went fast and smoothly. I didnt expect a noble like him would be a very good teacher.
"Eigh, right?"
I was about to leave the room when he suddenly called me.
"Yes sir?"
"I read your research, do you want to learn how to weild Ice and Fire?" The man fiddled with his pen until he stop and look towards. "But it will al depends on your hardship."