Grandmaster level was not an easy feat to achieve on the planet. It was the peak of human power, reached through years of hard work and dedication. However, it was merely the limit for humans. Beasts could and regularly would transcend the boundary of grandmaster, earning them the title of legendary beasts.
These creatures were capable of crossing into realms beyond grandmasterhood, often outclassing human practitioners. Some empires, like the Vraerian Empire, had managed to establish a tenuous cooperation with these formidable beings, either through raising them from birth or striking resource-driven bargains for their services. In some extreme cases, entire empires were ruled by these legendary beasts, with humans serving as both subjects and sustenance for their emperors.
The Vraerian Empire was under human control, its emperor, known as Raskarn, had risen to power as a legendary thief of unparalleled cunning and prowess. His audacious heists included stealing the eggs of legendary creatures and raising them to become beings of unmatched strength. With the protection of these legendary creatures, the emperor had founded and expanded his empire from the ground up.
The emperor's cautious nature, born from his days as a thief, had led him to eliminate any potential threats within close proximity to his empire. Those who possessed the potential to challenge his rule had their powers systematically eradicated.
Only individuals who were both formidable and remote from the emperor's reach remained untouched. This included entities like the six temples, located in a region where the emperor's influence did not extend. Although a single grandmaster could not contend with a legendary beast alone, the combined might of six grandmasters made for a formidable force.
The unique environments and abilities of the six temples' grandmasters gave them a tactical advantage against legendary beasts. Vaela's control over the forest, Korin's unparalleled speed, Lirion's mastery of water manipulation, Nirun's indomitable physical prowess, and Aric's unmatched stealth skills made them a potent team. Vetior, the grandmaster of the central temple, had once been a fire practitioner capable of infusing his fists with blazing flames.
With Vaela and Lirion orchestrating the creature's movement, Nirun and Vetior absorbing damage and diverting its attention, and Korin and Aric targeting critical areas, the six temples presented a formidable and united front.
So it came as a major surprise to the emperor when he heard rumors that one of the six temple's grandmasters had achieved the unthinkable: transcending the limits of grandmasterhood to become the first legendary human practitioner.
Emperor Raskarn regarded the rumors surrounding Vetior's legendary achievement with a mix of skepticism and apprehension. He was well aware that any human ascending to legendary status would pose a significant threat to his empire. What was even more concerning was the fact that this legendary human was affiliated with the already formidable six temples, making the situation even more perilous for his reign. After careful consideration, he made a calculated decision to dispatch an emissary to the six temples, tasking them with the mission of verifying the truth behind these reports.
In the emperor's discerning eyes, Elaris, one of his daughters, stood out as the ideal candidate for this crucial undertaking. She had earned a reputation for her remarkable intelligence, acute perceptiveness, and diplomatic finesse. Emperor Raskarn had personally nurtured her into a formidable asset, groomed to serve as his eyes and ears within the empire, ensuring that her knowledge of its inner workings was unparalleled.
Upon arriving at the six temples, Elaris witnessed the jubilant celebration in full swing. It was a vibrant affair, with temple disciples showcasing their martial skills and mastery over aura, all in honor of Vetior's remarkable advancement. Yet, beneath the festivities, Elaris could sense a tension in the air. Whispers about her arrival had already begun circulating, and she knew that her presence was causing ripples of unease among the temple masters and disciples. As she stepped into the central temple's grand hall, her sharp eyes quickly identified Vetior, the grandmaster who was now the center of attention. With a polite and calculated smile, she approached him, preparing to carry out her mission on behalf of the empire.
"Elaris," Vetior said with a tone of respectful curiosity, "what brings you to our six temples on this joyous occasion?"
After scanning the audience, Elaris finally spoke, her voice carrying an air of authority. "I have heard rumors of a master here breaking the limit of grandmasterhood."
"That would be me," Vetior replied with a calm but confident tone, meeting Elaris's gaze evenly.
Her sharp eyes scrutinized him for a moment before she spoke again, "If you indeed have crossed the boundary into legendary status, then you understand the significance of such an achievement. The Vraerian Empire takes a keen interest in individuals of your caliber."
Vetior nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "I am well aware of the implications, Elaris. My allegiance remains with the six temples, and my power will be wielded for the betterment of our people and the balance of our world."
Elaris observed Vetior's unwavering determination, her diplomatic facade momentarily cracking to reveal a hint of intrigue. She replied, "Your loyalty is commendable, Grandmaster Vetior. However, my purpose here is not to threaten, but to assess the situation. The Vraerian Empire seeks to maintain peace and stability across the territories it influences. Your newfound power has understandably raised questions and concerns."
"I am not of your territory," Vetior responded, his voice firm, infused with aura.
Elaris's expression flickered, betraying a hint of fear before returning to a composed demeanor. "My apologies for my poor choice of words, Grandmaster Vetior. We have no intention of overstepping our bounds but rather seek to ensure the harmony of our neighboring regions. If there are no intentions of aggression, we hope to establish open channels of communication and cooperation."
Vetior considered her words carefully, recognizing the potential benefits of such an arrangement. "I am willing to discuss cooperation that serves the greater good and maintains the peace of our lands. Let us have a discussion on the 13th of the month. The venue should be in the desert behind the dwarven territory. This way, neither of us can manipulate the setting."
Elaris nodded in agreement, her diplomatic skills shining through. "Very well, I shall convey this to my father, Emperor Raskarn, and make the necessary arrangements for our meeting. May this be the beginning of a prosperous era for our neighboring territories."
With that, Elaris gracefully exited the grand hall. After a few seconds of silence, the disciples resumed their enjoyment of the night, relishing the festive atmosphere. Laughter and music filled the air as they celebrated Vetior's remarkable achievement.
Meanwhile, the temple masters quietly withdrew, making their way to the conference room of the central temple. There, in the hushed confines of the room, they gathered to discuss the implications of Elaris's visit and the upcoming diplomatic meeting. The fate of their territories and the delicate balance of power rested on their shoulders, and they needed to prepare for the negotiations ahead.