The haunting question echoed incessantly in Kenji's mind: 'Why did you do it?' It reverberated through the air, a desperate plea for answers that had consumed him for the past thirty agonizing minutes.
The scene before him was a testament to the horrors that had unfolded on the Rothschild Family Island.
The aftermath of the merciless massacre lay bare, a chilling reminder of the battle that had ravaged the once-serene landscape.
The signs of destruction were stark, serving as a grim testament to the violence that had occurred.
To Kenji, the realization that his brother was partly responsible for this carnage only intensified his disbelief.
It meant that his brother had encountered an opponent of formidable power, one capable of unleashing such devastation.
Few individuals on the island possessed the strength to pose a significant challenge to Tsuyoshi.
In a world where humanity had progressed, the time it took for the "first humans" to tap into the mana signature and embark on the path of power varied vastly from those born in the previous century.
This discrepancy in time explained the remarkable strength exhibited by individuals like Arthur, Gene, and Tsuyoshi, despite their tender age of twenty.
The elongated period required for the "first humans" to attain such levels of power shed light on the perplexing age gap between parents and their children, particularly concerning the Monarch level factions.
The Ancient Monarch, revered as the Face of the State Academy Island, had witnessed over a millennium of existence, yet his eldest grandson, Arthur, stood at a mere twenty-five years in the current timeline.
Such anomalies in age were a consequence of the relentless pursuit of power, where everything else paled in comparison.
Yet, amidst the turmoil and complexities of power struggles, Kenji's attention returned to his tear-stained face, a reflection of his disbelief and anguish.
The reality of what had transpired remained unfathomable, a profound shock that refused to relinquish its grip on his heart.
Before Kenji could even begin to unravel the motives behind his brother's actions and comprehend the weight of the information he had been given, another bombshell shattered his already fragile state of mind.
Approaching him with a deliberate stride was a man whose physical appearance deviated markedly from the typical lean and muscular frame associated with the Rothschild Family.
His heavily bandaged body, adorned with specks of blood, bore witness to his participation in the recent battle—whether it had occurred yesterday or today, depending on when Tsuyoshi had struck.
This man, once counted among the top three swordsmen in the world before being dethroned from the first place, was none other than Kenji's granddad—Lord Rothschild.
He possessed a commanding presence, having singlehandedly constructed a family that boasted a formidable military force comprised of elite swordsmen while amassing wealth that rivaled even the superpowers of Britannia and the Central State.
However, the idea of launching an assault on Britannia, despite their comparable mage culture and traditions, never crossed his mind.
As one of the top noble houses in Britannia, the Rothschild Family adhered strictly to the hierarchy dictated by the ranking of mage signatures.
This hierarchical structure was reflected in Kenji's lowly status within the family.
Having yet to awaken any mana signature and lacking any discernible prowess in swordsmanship, he was relegated to a position of insignificance.
With a solemn presence, Lord Rothschild approached Kenji, his large hand resting on Kenji's head, smearing tears and traces of snot across his palm.
With his extensive experience drenched in the blood of his enemies, such a demeaning sight failed to rattle him.
However, it would be a blatant falsehood to claim that he remained unaffected, especially considering the harrowing events that had unfolded.
For families like the Rothschilds, Newtons, and Darkmores, who had pursued individual power before establishing organizations bound by familial ties, the peculiar age gap among their members was a conspicuous reality.
Building a formidable military force necessitated numerical strength, and the timeframe between procreation and the establishment of a faction was often limited.
Monogamy, in such circumstances, was abandoned in favor of a solution that appeared effective—resulting in the accumulation of vast numbers within each family.
However, this approach was not without its complications, particularly concerning issues of bloodline hierarchy.
The lineage of Tsuyoshi, Kenji, and Celeste is traced back to Lady Rothschild, the first woman to give birth to the descendants who formed the core of the Rothschild family.
Their position within the main branch made it evident that one of them would eventually assume the role of clan head, succeeding their father.
However, with Tsuyoshi, the most promising candidate, having betrayed the family, the burden now fell upon Kenji, who continued to sniffle in distress.
This heartbreaking sight couldn't help but weigh heavily on Lord Rothschild's heart, knowing that the future of his clan rested upon the shoulders of the trembling figure that he presently guided towards the Celestial Dome.
Some might question why Kenji's sister, Celeste, was not considered for the role. The answer lay in the character of Lord Rothschild himself.
Known for his typically unyielding nature and indifference towards his grandsons, he harbored a deep sense of protectiveness towards his beloved granddaughter.
He couldn't bear the thought of subjecting her to the arduous trials that lay ahead.
Thus, Lord Rothschild was resolute in molding Kenji into a suitable candidate, even if it meant pushing him to the brink of death in the process.
Curiosity and concern filled the air as the younger generation of the Rothschild Family whispered amongst themselves, questioning Lord Rothschild's actions.
The very mention of the Celestial Dome sent shivers down their spines, as it was widely known as a treacherous death trap.
"What on earth is Lord Rothschild up to?" one whispered, the curiosity evident in their voice.
"Isn't the Celestial Dome notorious for being a death trap?" another chimed in, their tone filled with concern.
"If someone were to tell me that the Celestial Dome has claimed more lives within our clan than any other cause, I would unquestionably believe them," a third person added, their words laced with a somber acknowledgment of the dangers.
"Hehe, if my suspicions are correct, then an opportunity may just present itself," a mischievous voice exclaimed, punctuating the conversation.
The younger generation of the Rothschild Family murmured amongst themselves, their lips shaping the mutterings that hinted at both uncertainty and a glimmer of possibility.
Amidst the uncertainty, a few individuals were quietly plotting, their minds fixated on the possibility of seizing the advantage if the unfolding plan faltered.
This sense of opportunism evoked an eerie sense of familiarity, reminiscent of the intricate machinations witnessed within royal families on Earth in the time leading up to "The Selection."
Gone were the genuine bonds of kinship, replaced instead by a cold calculation of how one's familial connections could be leveraged to amplify their influence across the globe.
In this vast new world that stretched far beyond its previous boundaries, it was only logical that even darker dealings and clandestine events would become necessary to ascend to a similar echelon of power.
Amidst the collective musings on the consistent patterns of human behavior transcending time and location, an unexpected transformation unfolded within Kenji.
The tears that had streamed down his face just moments before had seemingly cleansed him of some of his innate innocence and naivety.
Now, he remained eerily silent, and his sniffles subsided.
With a growing awareness of Lord Rothschild's intended direction and the hushed whispers and stifled laughter surrounding him, the pieces fell into place.
Kenji's heart sank as the realization struck with unforgiving clarity—he was being led towards the dreaded "Sword Test," and the grim truth loomed ominously: his life hung in the balance, teetering on the precipice of death.
Within the depths of despair, a faint glimmer of hope stirred in Kenji's heart.
Perhaps, he dared to believe, this trial would bring his brother back to him.
In the presence of his older sibling, the usual disdain he faced as one considered "less than average" diminished, and he clung to the possibility that his brother's return could once again save him from his current predicament.
However, as the distance between himself and the entrance to the Celestial Dome dwindled, that flicker of hope faded away.
Unsurprisingly, Kenji refrained from seeking help from anyone else, not even his father, knowing all too well how fruitless it would be to do so.
Apart from Tsuyoshi, his brother, there was only one other person he was close with—Celeste.
But how much could an unawakened seven-year-old girl truly do?
Despite her occasional victories in their sibling squabbles, he knew that in this particular instance, her power would not be enough to aid him.
In a surprising turn of events, a resounding voice pierced the air, originating from none other than Nacht Rothschild, Kenji's father.
"Father, please, cease this!" How he addressed his father, deviating from the customary title of "Lord Rothschild," carried a hint of vulnerability, allowing a glimpse into the emotions raging within him.
Having already lost one son, he was determined not to face the unbearable agony of losing another.
He had always cherished his children, but the path of the sword that their family followed demanded a detachment from such "weak" emotions, lest it dulls their sharpness.
However, on this day, all the customary notions of "family first, the sword second, and everything else thereafter" were cast aside.
Before he could even mount a defense, striving to prevent the assured demise awaiting his son within the Celestial Dome, a string of words tumbled from Tom Rothschild's—Lord Rothschild's—lips, effectively stripping him of his ability to speak.
"It such weakness that caused Rose's demise years ago when that wretched Abyss Race struck. Our momentary weakness was what allowed those five brats to capitalize on the situation and etched their names in the annals of history." Tom said to Nacht as a bitter memory resurfaced.
It left a bitter taste in Nacht's mouth because of his inability to protect his wife and how he was forced to always stay behind the backs of those illustrious five who had singlehandedly saved the human race.
Their deeds even prompted the formation of a specialized unit called "The Grade A Corps" in their previous academy, Port Island Academy.
However, for Tom, the bitter taste left in his mouth extended beyond the loss of his beloved daughter-in-law.
What truly soured his disposition was the disappointing outcome of his investment in one of the academies on State Academy Island.
The prestige gained by Port Island Academy had brought forth undesirable business ventures that irked him to no end.
Nothing frustrated him more than a venture that did not yield favorable returns, for he despised anything that fell short in the realm of business.
Haunted by a sense of his shortcomings, Nacht fell silent, clinging to a glimmer of hope that his son might somehow endure the impending ordeal.
"And there is another factor to consider," Tom continued, his voice tinged with a mix of bitterness and uncertainty.
"It was Tsuyoshi's suggestion. Despite his betrayal of the clan, one thing I am certain of is that he would never bring harm upon Kenji."
As they approached a grand golden gate, Tom halted, unlocking its imposing presence. Leaning in close, he whispered into Kenji's ear, his words laced with a chilling blend of admonishment and grim determination.
"Survive, you feeble child. But even if you fail, remember this—we will simply mold new Rothschilds to replace you."
Kenji's eyes once filled with vitality, now appeared hollow and void of any flicker of emotion.
They locked with his father's gaze, conveying a profound resignation, as his body met the unforgiving touch of the cold floor within the Celestial Dome.
The resounding thud echoed in the chamber. As the majestic golden gates closed with an ominous finality behind Kenji, a heavy realization settled upon Nacht.
It was not death that he had lost his son to but to something far more intangible and insidious.
#######
ABOUT A YEAR LATER
After a year of being sealed shut, the imposing golden gates guarding the entrance to the treacherous Celestial Dome, renowned for its lethal traps and grueling tests reserved for the esteemed swordsmen of the Rothschild Family, finally swung open.
However, in a place where danger lurked at every corner, it was prudent to anticipate commensurate rewards.
This notion found affirmation in the form of a young boy emerging from the Celestial Dome, his locks of blonde hair cascading around his face, and his eyes gleaming with a captivating golden hue.
Those eyes, now marked by a prominent cross symbol, mirrored the large cross-shaped scar etched upon his left chest.
The remnants of innocence that had once graced his countenance had all but vanished, replaced by an apathetic handsomeness.
The "reward" for his year of defying death manifested in the sword firmly clasped in his right hand.
Yet, it was not the blade itself that truly resonated as a reward to him.
Rather, it was the tattoo adorning his right hand, a marking that seemed to forge a subtle connection between him and his brother.
The sword he wielded belonged to a collection known as the Celestial Edges, a group of blades that possessed distinct personalities.
Kenji had mastered the art of exerting control over the sword's unique traits, granting him the ability to brandish its power.
As a family deeply rooted in the way of the sword, it was only fitting for the Rothschilds to possess a few of these esteemed and high-grade weapons.
Walking with an air of dignified pride, Kenji strode away from the opened gate, paying no heed to the curious and awestruck gazes that now filled the surroundings.
His extended family, comprised of cousins, half-siblings, nephews, and numerous others, dotted the landscape, serving as witnesses to the remarkable transformation Kenji had undergone.
Suddenly, a rush of displaced air drew his attention as several individuals materialized before him.
Their eyes fixated on the katana encased within a golden-wrapped sheath, its blade concealed beneath the protective bandage.
Even from the hilt alone, one could discern the extraordinary beauty of the weapon.
While they possessed the strength to overcome the trials, these onlookers knew that they would never have the opportunity to wield the katana, as it chose its worthy bearers.
The previous wielders of this exceptional blade had been individuals specifically selected by the katana itself.
Before the barrage of inquiries could assail the young man from his clan, a sweet and innocent voice broke through the commotion.
A young girl, filled with excitement, dashed towards Kenji, her eyes brimming with affection and her arms outstretched for an embrace.
The unmistakable smear of chocolate on her chin revealed that she had been engrossed in one of her customary snack breaks when she received the news of her elder brother's arrival.
As Celeste eagerly attempted to reach her beloved big brother, her path was obstructed by a young man who appeared to be around eighteen years old. He intercepted her with a gentle but firm grip, preventing her from progressing any further.
However, before the young man's hand could fully make contact with Celeste's skin, a flash of gleaming gold swiftly penetrated his chest. Accompanied by a swirling blend of vibrant colors, the blade effortlessly sliced through his flesh.
"An extra like you should never come close to my cherished sister," Kenji declared with unwavering confidence, having covered the distance in a seemingly impossible manner.
The incapacitated young man lay at Kenji's feet, his threat neutralized.
"Yay, big brother is so strong now!" Celeste's voice rang out with delight, her hands clapping in excitement.
"But... now Celeste can't have fun bullying big brother since big brother is stronger than Celeste," Celeste said as her excitement died down.
"Haha, don't worry. You can still bully your big brother whenever you want," Kenji playfully replied, using his clenched fist to gently bump against Celeste's head adorned with a crown of purple hair.
The encounter unfolded in an eerie manner, leaving a lingering sense of peculiarity. However, what truly intensified the strangeness was the subsequent utterance that emerged from Tom Rothschild's lips.
"Kenji Rothschild, henceforth, you shall be banished from the esteemed lineage of the Rothschild Family. As for the Celestial Edge...you may retain it," he proclaimed, his words carrying a hint of reluctance.
It became evident from his tone that this declaration deviated from his original intentions, but the intricate web of global power structures coerced him into compliance.
"Oh". An almost inaudible exhalation of surprise escaped Kenji's mouth, followed by a steadfast silence.
Retreating to the confines of his chamber, he gathered his essential belongings, ensuring to claim the storage ring bestowed upon him by Tsuyoshi.
On this day, the Rothschild Family lost a young man who will go on to be a worthy rival to the Arcane Swordsman...
[A/N: At the time of this event, Kenji was just eleven years old, and it took place approximately five years ago in relation to the original timeline. Presently, Kenji is fifteen years old, which coincides with Dante's age. Their first encounter took place a year later, when Kenji effortlessly outmaneuvered Dante in the arena, leaving him with a scar thanks to his remarkable weapon, the Celestial Edge. And that time they were both twelve and this encounter has already been shown through Dante's periodic dreams.]