Day 9 of the
In the northern reaches of Arcadia, within the heart of the Kingdom of Braye, lie two twin cities, cradled amidst gentle hills and open fields. These cities are a mirror of one another, their beauty reflecting the natural splendor that surrounds them. Vaughn City, the eastern capital, stands as the crown jewel of this region, and within it, Braye Castle commands the skyline.
As you approach the grand structure, its sheer scale is overwhelming. The castle rises from the earth like a mountain carved by divine hands, with towers and spires that pierce the sky, each crowned with golden domes that shimmer under the sun's rays. Cascading waterfalls tumble down the cliffs beside the palace, their mist weaving through the air like a veil, adding a mystical aura to the scene. The architecture is a perfect marriage of elegance and might, with intricate stonework and soaring arches that speak of both ancient wisdom and unyielding power. Wide walkways lead to the grand entrance, where throngs of people move like rivers converging at the heart of the kingdom. It is a palace befitting a queen, a fortress that stands as the very symbol of her rule—a place where beauty, strength, and majesty coalesce into one breathtaking sight.
This is not just a castle; it's a testament to the might and vision of its rulers, a beacon that announces to all who see it: here lies the seat of a power that commands respect, awe, and perhaps even fear.
Within the grand corridors of Braye Castle, the Royal Advisor made her way toward the Queen's chambers, her steps measured and deliberate. Clad in a tailored vest and tie, paired with fitted trousers that accentuated her sharp, professional demeanor, she exuded a sense of calm authority. Her dark hair, neatly styled, framed a face adorned with glasses, which added to her air of intellectual poise. A clipboard was tucked securely under her arm, and with her free hand, she rapped her pen gently against the Queen's door—a soft, rhythmic knock, signaling her arrival. She paused briefly, waiting for any sign of the Queen's presence within.
"Mia is that you? You may enter," replied from the other side of the huge oakwood door.
As the advisor's eyes fell upon Queen Dee Braye; a figure of serene beauty and maturity. Her emerald-green curls cascaded like a flowing river down her back as she stood before a gilded mirror, brushing her hair with graceful, practiced strokes. Her flawless almond-color skin danced sunlight off of its reflection. The queen's golden crown sat atop her head, complementing her regal attire—a luxurious gown of soft yellows and whites that reflected her calm yet commanding presence.
Mia approached the queen, her posture respectful, yet with a hint of urgency in her movements. "Forgive me for the intrusion, Your Highness," she began, her tone as measured as her steps. "I've brought the reports you requested."
Queen Dee turned, her warm, yet discerning gaze meeting Mia's, as the room fell into a comfortable silence, broken only by the subtle sounds of the royal chambers.
Queen Dee offered Mia a reassuring smile. "Thank you, Mia. You may proceed."
Mia nodded, her expression tightening with the gravity of the news she was about to deliver. "Yes, Your Majesty. The reports from the Master of Spies indicate that the Babylonia bandit clan, The Panty Raiders, have been spotted moving westward toward Hedaria. This was after they attacked a border village between the two nations."
Queen Dee's bright aqua-blue eyes narrowed slightly as she recalled past encounters. "Remind me about the Panty Raiders."
Mia responded promptly, her tone crisp and informative. "The Panty Raiders are a notorious bandit clan composed entirely of female M-Cees. They typically operate in southern Babylonia and are exceptionally powerful, with an average combat rank of C-Class. The townsfolk have taken to calling them 'sirens' due to their habit of abducting men—men who are never seen again."
The Queen's expression darkened. "Ah, yes, those vile misandrists."
Mia continued; her voice steady but laced with the horror of the situation. "Reports also mention that their leader, Padre Drip, was seen commanding a Watcher. This matches the details of the village's devastation—all women and children were found dead, either with their souls missing or their throats slit."
Queen Dee's brow furrowed in thought. "And what of the men?"
"The reports suggest that the men were taken prisoner, Your Majesty," Mia replied, her tone heavy.
Queen Dee's gaze grew distant as she pieced together the implications. "Commanding a Watcher… That sounds close to the intelligence Lady Fann sent two years ago. But we've confirmed that Drip isn't from Trappist—he was born here on Gaia."
The Queen fell silent, contemplating the possible connections between Padre Drip and the mysterious Trappers. The Kingdom of Braye had long prepared for the return of the Trappers, ever since the nation's founder, the Eminent Knight Garland Braye, vanquished them 500 years ago. The Braye royal family had trained their bloodline to become True M-Cees, powerful enough to defend the country against the looming threat.
After a moment, Queen Dee spoke, her voice resolute. "While Watchers absorb any soul, Trappers seek out only the most powerful. Were there any notable M-Cees in the village they attacked?"
"No, Your Majesty," Mia confirmed.
Queen Dee's expression hardened with determination. "I believe Drip may be connected with the Trapper, but I don't understand why. Instruct our spies to monitor all movements of the Panty Raiders closely."
Mia inclined her head. "Understood, Your Highness."
"Have the letters I requested been sent to the mayor of Talasi, in the country of Velonica?" Queen Dee inquired, shifting her focus to another matter.
"Yes, ma'am," Mia replied. "The messenger was sent a week ago."
Queen Dee nodded, satisfied. "Good. We must act now if we are to stand a chance against another rapture."
Queen Dee's voice grew somber as she spoke, her gaze distant as if peering into the depths of time. "The sighting of a Trapper ten years ago and the birth of Prince Luda with the [The Fated Hero] skill immediately afterward... It aligns precisely with my great-grandfather Garland's prophecy."
She paused, the weight of her ancestor's words settling heavily in the room. "When devils sleep, and the gods grow weak, the world will burn as the angels return. As a new star rises to command the endless skies, The Chosen's blade will leave the Heavens divided. When Gaia teeters on the brink of destruction, the eyes of The Supreme will guide us to peace. The Watchers of Heaven will cry out in despair, as The One slays The Mark of the Beast."
Queen Dee's voice trembled with a mix of fear and resolve. "There's no mistaking it. I will not be blind to the unfolding events and put my people in even greater peril."
Mia, sensing the gravity of the moment, softened her tone. "It is your unwavering dedication to the people of Braye that endears you to them, Your Majesty."
Queen Dee's expression hardened with determination. "The people of this nation are my family, and I will use every ounce of my strength to protect them."
Finished with adjusting her hair, the Queen stood and moved toward the balcony, her robes flowing behind her. Mia followed closely, clutching her clipboard, ready to act on her queen's orders.
Queen Dee's voice shifted, carrying a note of pride. "I've heard the prince has fully recovered, though the medics are struggling to keep him in bed. After raising him for years, I know better than to stand in his way when his mind is set. But since he's back on his feet, inform the Knight Commander to prepare the carriage. His journey to Velonica will begin as soon as he's dressed."
Mia hesitated slightly before speaking. "Are you certain Lady Mikazuki will agree to your request, Your Majesty?"
A sly smile tugged at the corner of Queen Dee's lips. "She's an old friend. I'm simply calling in a favor long overdue." Her eyes sparkled with the memory of a promise made between the two women years ago.
Mia bowed deeply, sensing the urgency. "With haste, Your Highness."
Mia swiftly left the room to fulfill her duties, while, on the castle's lower floors, Prince Luda was a whirlwind of activity. Bandages fluttered to the ground as he parkoured through the crowded hallways, deftly leaping over food carts and sliding his breastplate over his head mid-tumble. He landed with precise grace, weaving effortlessly through the bustling corridors as he raced to the training room.
Standing at a modest five feet tall, Prince Luda Braye embodied the legacy of his royal lineage with a flair of personal distinction. The 2nd child of Queen Dee, Luda had inherited his mother's striking emerald hair, though his was styled into neatly braided cornrows that framed his youthful yet resolute face. His camel-tone skin was a flawless backdrop for the golden breastplate he had just secured, which gleamed under the light and matched the golden greaves strapped over his black and red boots. The tailored black pants with bold red trim completed his attire, blending regal elegance with the readiness for battle.
As he approached the door to the castle's training center, Luda paused, taking a steadying breath as if preparing for a significant challenge. The wooden door seemed to weigh heavily with the trials it concealed. With a determined push, he entered, immediately enveloped by the gritty, raw energy of Earth Mana. The entire training area was being meticulously restored from what appeared to be the aftermath of an intense battle. The walls and floor shifted and molded under the command of the magic, as effortlessly as a broom sweeps away dust.
At the heart of this magical reconstruction stood Edwind Rush, the prince's personal mentor, and the Court Mage. Despite his small stature, Edwind exuded a presence that was as solid as the staff he wielded. His scholarly aura was emphasized by his dark green robes lined with gold, which complemented the intricate, cross-shaped pattern adorning his chest. His round glasses sat perched on his nose, beneath a mop of grayish-brown hair. With each wave of his hand, Edwind manipulated the Earth Mana with practiced ease, his focus entirely on the task at hand.
Without turning to face the prince, Edwind's baritone voice filled the room, carrying the weight of a well-traveled scholar. "You were recently bedridden with enough damage to incapacitate any normal man for at least six months. Yet, there you stand after only 51 hours. It hasn't even been a full day."
Luda, undeterred, leaped forward, landing a few feet away from Edwind as the Mage finished placing the last brick. "You really think I'd be sleeping when there's work to be done?" he retorted, a determined gleam in his mana-coated eye. "I've gained access to my Ultra Skill thanks to your guidance. We can't afford to waste any precious time with me lying in bed."
Edwind finally turned to face Prince Luda, his glasses catching the light as he adjusted them. He studied Luda with a blend of pride and a hint of caution, the lines of his face softening into a warm smile. The honey-toned Court Mage gave his staff a light tap on the ground, sealing the final touches of the remodeling spell with a small surge of mana.
"Alright, spill it," Edwind said, a playful note in his voice. "Was it your Ultra Skill or your Personal Skill that brought you back here so fast?"
Luda shot him a look, his eyes narrowing with mock offense. "You think a little explosion like that could take me out? Please. On another note, I did unlock My Ultra Skill, [Ready to Die], but I won't know how it truly works until someone attempts to kill me." He crossed his arms, a smirk playing on his lips.
Edwind raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Just a second, Your Highness, could you explain [Ready to Die] to me?"
Luda relaxed slightly, his tone shifting as he explained, "The core of [Ready to Die] is pretty straightforward—it negates lethal damage or even death, as long as I've got the willpower and mental strength to keep going. On top of that, if an opponent loses the will to fight, the skill guarantees my victory."
Edwind's eyes widened, the weight of Luda's words sinking in. He could almost see the battlefields that Luda would conquer, his very presence breaking the enemy's spirit before a single blow was struck. This was an Ultra Skill fit for a king—someone with an unbreakable mind and an unwavering drive. Two traits Edwind knew Luda had in spades.
"Incredible, Your Highness," Edwind murmured, respect evident in his voice. "The Army of Braye will have far fewer casualties with you leading them. Your mere presence could turn the tide of any battle."
Edwind then returned to his earlier query, his tone lightening again. "Seems your huge increase of battle power is due to your Personal Skill, [
Luda nodded, a glint of humor in his eyes. "I'm glad I was born with [Self Regen]."
Edwind chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "With all the skills you have and how they complement each other, you're a nightmare to go up against. I'm just glad we're on the same side, Prince Luda."
Luda waved him off, laughing. "You talk like you're some weakling. The Court Mage of Braye Kingdom isn't just some average M-Cee. Everyone knows you're an elite A-Class Godwalker."
Edwind's laughter echoed through the room, his humility evident. "Hahaha. With a prodigy like you around, I'm just playing the part of the wise old mentor."
"Get outta here with that," Luda scoffed, grinning. "You're full of it."
Luda's expression shifted to one of eager anticipation. "So, what's on the agenda today? Any new Arts we're working on?"
Edwind's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned on his staff. "Before we get to that, let's see how much you've really recovered. How about a sparring match?
Luda's grin grew cocky, his eyes alight with excitement. "I was hoping you'd say that."
The air in the training room crackled with tension as Prince Luda's relaxed demeanor shifted to a razor-sharp focus. Both he and Edwind strode to the center of the duel mat, their footsteps echoing through the cavernous space, which now seemed to shrink under the weight of the impending clash.
Before the heavy metal doors swung shut, a platoon of Braye Kingdom soldiers flooded into the room, their chatter rising in excited murmurs. They'd heard tales of the Prince's prowess and whispered legends of the Court Mage's victories. Now, they stood shoulder to shoulder, eager eyes trained on the two figures who were about to unleash the kind of power that could level mountains.
"Fellas, the Creator smiles on us today," a veteran soldier barked, a grin spreading across his scarred face. "Clear a path! We're about to witness Prince Luda and Sir Edwind go at it."
"They say Sir Edwind dropped a mountain on a Watcher once," a rookie soldier whispered, wide-eyed.
"But the Prince is a genius," another soldier chimed in, his voice hushed with awe. "People are saying he's got the potential of a True M-Cee."
The veteran nodded, his gaze never leaving the duel mat. "I've seen him spar before—there's no denying his power. And he's only ten. Rumor has it, he's already as strong as a Watcher."
"To think I would witness someone like him in my life. That's amazing!" The rookie soldier nearly stammered. "That's our future king for you."
Edwind glanced around the room, his keen eyes noticing the growing crowd. The soldiers were practically vibrating with anticipation, their faith in Luda palpable in the air. Returning his focus to the young prince, Edwind felt a rush of pride mixed with a spark of challenge as he sensed the building mana pressure around Luda.
"Seems we've gathered an audience," Edwind said, his voice steady as he adjusted his glasses. "Are you ready, Your Highness?"
Luda's lips curled into a confident smirk. "I can't think of anything else to be."
With a controlled breath, Luda focused his mana into his right hand. A golden light flared as Yang Mana began to take shape, forming a long sword in his grasp. He didn't break eye contact with Edwind, his focus absolute as he added a swirling mix of liquid ethereal particles, fusing Water Mana into the blade.
"Holy Father," a rookie soldier gasped, eyes wide as he watched the display. "He's combining mana types already?"
"Not just that," the scarred veteran added, awe in his voice. "He's controlling Water Mana as if it's a natural extension of himself."
Edwind smiled, pride evident in his tone. "Pay attention, soldiers. What you're witnessing is the result of relentless hard work and an unbreakable will. Our Prince here is truly one of a kind."
As Edwind spoke, Luda's creation reached its final form. The blade shimmered with an aqua-like sheen, appearing fluid yet as solid as iron. The double-edged sword, crowned with a sun-like guard, was a masterpiece of elemental fusion.
"[Empryeal Weapon Summon] combined with [Water Control]," Luda declared, his voice steady with pride. "I haven't named it yet. I've only tried it out a few times."
Edwind's smile widened, his grip on his staff tightening in anticipation. "Let's see if it's worthy of one. Ready… Go!"
In a flash, Luda and Edwind burst into motion, the air splitting with a deafening crack as they launched into a full-speed clash. Their figures blurred, moving at supersonic speeds that left shockwaves in their wake, the sheer force of their movements shaking the walls of the training room.
Luda's sword sang as it sliced through the air, the blade's water-like surface rippling with each strike. Edwind parried with his staff, the mana-infused wood glowing with power as he deflected blow after blow. Sparks flew as their weapons met, the clash of elements echoing like thunder.
The soldiers watched in stunned silence, their eyes struggling to keep up with the high-speed battle. The room crackled with raw energy, the mana swirling around the combatants in a chaotic dance of light and shadow.
Edwind unleashed a barrage of spells, his staff becoming a blur of motion as he called forth lightning and fire, each element twisting through the air like serpents. Luda countered with his sword, the water blade slicing through the elemental attacks with precision, evaporating flames and dispersing lightning with ease.
The room's temperature fluctuated wildly as fire and water clashed, steam hissing from the ground where Luda's sword met Edwind's spells. The air grew thick with the scent of ozone and the metallic tang of mana, the sensory overload nearly overwhelming the soldiers as they struggled to comprehend the scale of the power being wielded before them.
For a moment, the duel reached a fever pitch—Luda and Edwind locked in a high-speed exchange, neither giving an inch. Then, with a burst of mana that sent a shockwave through the room, the two combatants broke apart, skidding to a stop on opposite sides of the mat.
Breathing hard but smiling, Luda tightened his grip on his sword, the blade still shimmering with ethereal energy. "Quitting already, Ed?"
Edwind chuckled, his eyes gleaming behind his glasses. "I wouldn't dream of making it easy for you, your Highness."
The soldiers' cheers erupted like a thunderstorm, their roars reverberating through the training hall as they witnessed a clash that bordered on the divine. At the heart of this tempest stood Prince Luda and Sir Edwind, their breaths heavy, eyes locked in mutual respect. The air crackled with residual energy, a tangible reminder of the power that had just been unleashed.
Edwind, with a sly grin, broke the silence. "You keep surprising me, your highness. Every time we spar, you come back stronger. I may not be able to fully unleash my Vessel Skill in this cramped space, but I've still got a few tricks."
Luda's gaze hardened with determination. "I have to keep pushing myself. I need to be stronger—for my people, for my family."
Edwind's grin widened as he tapped his staff rhythmically on the ground, the sound echoing like a war drum. "Then let's get stronger together."
With a sharp flick of his wrist, Edwind invoked his skill, "Yang Gem Mana: Dancing Lights!"
The gem atop his staff flared brilliantly, and a warm glow enveloped him. The air shimmered, and suddenly, where there had been one Edwind, there were now five, each a perfect mirror of the original.
A rookie soldier gasped, his voice barely audible amidst the chaos. "It was hard enough to keep up with them before, but now… Now he's split into five? Is this what it means to be above C-Class?"
A veteran nearby grunted, his eyes narrowed. "This is just a sparring match, kid. They're both holding back so they don't tear down the castle."
The five Edwinds spread out, each one poised and ready, their eyes fixed on Luda, waiting for his move. Luda's lips curled into a smirk. "Light Clones, huh? That won't be enough to stop me now."
Luda crouched low, his muscles coiled like a spring, as he channeled water mana into his palm. He could feel the mana surge through him, a torrent of power ready to be unleashed. With a burst of speed, he launched himself at the clones, chanting as he went. "Water Mana Arts: Hydro Missile!"
A glowing magic circle spun into existence in his palm before he thrust it forward. A torrent of water shot out, a concentrated force in the shape of a missile, spiraling toward the center clone. The impact was explosive, sending shockwaves through the room. Water erupted in every direction, wiping out two clones instantly and obliterating the remaining one caught in the blast's radius.
"Now!" Edwind's voice cut through the chaos as the two remaining clones moved in unison.
They flanked Luda, their hands glowing with a fierce concentration of Wind Mana. "Wind Mana Arts: Gale Force!" they cried out in unison.
Twin blasts of wind surged toward Luda from both sides, the force so powerful it whipped up a cloud of dust and debris, obscuring the battlefield. The clash of wind and water sent a fine mist into the air, the scent of fresh rain filling the room.
"Prince Luda!" a rookie soldier shouted, fear gripping his voice.
"Did they get him?" a veteran asked, squinting through the haze.
As the dust settled, all that remained was a massive puddle in the center of the room. The soldiers exchanged confused glances. Edwind's brows knitted together as his eyes scanned the area.
"He got away?" one of his clones muttered, eyes darting around, anticipating a surprise attack.
But then he heard it—a faint whisper of movement. "Wait, is that…?"
Suddenly, a blur of motion circled the room at blinding speed. "[Enhanced Speed]," Luda's voice echoed, his form barely visible as he moved at hypersonic speeds, a streak of light encircling the remaining Edwinds.
Edwind narrowed his eyes, focusing his mana. "I'll just have to slow you down with a little wind," he murmured. [Air Control] "Tornado!"
Wind Mana swirled around the room, building into a vortex of air and power. The two Edwinds synchronized their efforts, but the real one emanated a far stronger mana signature.
Luda's voice cut through the growing storm, calm and resolute. "No, you don't. Now, let's try [Mage Silence]!"
In an instant, the winds died, the gathering tornado dissipating into nothingness. The false Edwind clone flickered and vanished, leaving the real one exposed, eyes wide with surprise.
"What the hell? When did you…?"
But before he could finish, Luda appeared in front of him, moving like a phantom. With a swift, precise strike, Luda aimed a blow at Edwind's torso. His control over Water Mana softened the impact, turning what could have been a lethal slash into a forceful strike, as if Edwind had been hit with a quarterstaff. The force knocked the wind out of him, sending him staggering backward off of his feet.
The room hung in a charged silence, every eye fixed on the two figures at its center. Time seemed to stretch, each heartbeat a resounding drumbeat in the collective anticipation. Then, like a dam breaking, the soldiers erupted into a storm of cheers, their voices a cacophony of pride and awe. The air buzzed with the energy of their admiration, filling the hall with a thunderous roar that reverberated through the very stones of Braye Castle.
Prince Luda stood amidst the uproar, his chest heaving with the exertion of battle, yet his posture was nothing short of regal. Beads of sweat glistened on his brow, catching the light as he inhaled deeply, absorbing the moment. His heart pounded with the rhythm of victory, a sense of accomplishment warming him from within. The soldiers pressed in, their faces alight with fervor, their words tumbling out in breathless exclamations.
"The prince is invincible!" a young rookie shouted, his voice cracking with the intensity of his emotions.
A seasoned veteran, his eyes sharp and discerning, nodded solemnly. "Prince Luda is the herald of a new era in Arcadia… No, in all of Gaia!"
A scarred soldier, a testament to countless battles, gazed at the duo with reverence. "With both of them, it's no wonder Braye is hailed as the kingdom that births heroes."
Luda, still catching his breath, turned toward Edwind. As he approached, he released his summoned weapon, letting it dissipate into the air with a soft hum—a clear signal that the duel was over. He extended his hand to Edwind, whose eyes fluttered open as he regained his senses.
"Sorry about that, Ed," Luda said, his tone a mix of apology and pride. "I wanted to test it out in battle before telling you."
Edwind blinked away the haze of the fight, his gaze sharpening as he took Luda's hand. With a grunt, he allowed the prince to help him to his feet, a wide grin spreading across his face. "You really are something else. Let me guess, you got that when you recovered?"
"Yeah," Luda replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "A bonus from [Overcompensation]. Seems it's pretty useful in battle."
Edwind chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "You're a scary ten-year-old, you know that?"
Luda tilted his head, feigning innocence. "What are you trying to say?"
Before Edwind could answer, the soldiers closed in around them, their voices overlapping in a chaotic symphony of praise and excitement. Hands reached out to pat Luda on the back, while others clapped Edwind on the shoulder, their admiration palpable.
Edwind raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, a laugh escaping his lips. "Alright, alright, give us some space!"
Luda stood amidst the adoration, allowing his soldiers to shower him with accolades. Their loyalty and belief in him wrapped around him like a comforting cloak. But then, cutting through the jubilant noise, came the frantic voice of a messenger. The young man pushed through the crowd, his face flushed from exertion, his breath coming in ragged gasps.
"Prince Luda! Prince Luda! I've come with an urgent message from Queen Braye!"
Luda's expression shifted immediately, his body tensing at the mention of his mother. "Huh? From Mom?"
The soldiers fell silent as the light-armored messenger handed Luda a sealed letter, the weight of the moment settling over them like a shroud. The energy in the room shifted from one of celebration to one of expectation, as all eyes turned to the prince.
Hours Later...
As the cerulean sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long, golden shadows over the castle grounds, the day gave way to a cool, quiet evening. The royal carriage, its polished wood gleaming with the last light of day, stood ready at the castle's main entrance. Six knights and their Knight Commander, clad in gleaming armor, stood at attention, their visors catching the fading sunlight as they prepared to escort Prince Luda and Sir Edwind on their urgent journey.
Inside the carriage, Edwind sat in quiet contemplation, his thoughts circling around the mysterious letter and the unknown mission it promised. He was so deep in thought that he barely noticed the soft crunch of boots on gravel until the door of the carriage opened.
"I didn't keep you waiting long, did I?" Prince Luda's voice was light, but the glint in his jade-green mana-coated eyes hinted at an underlying excitement.
Edwind looked up, offering a respectful nod. "I wouldn't dare rush a member of the royal family. It's an honor to accompany you on this trip."
The prince smiled, trying to keep his composure despite the excitement bubbling within. "Well, let's be off to Velonica then."
"Velonica?" Edwind echoed, curiosity piqued.
Luda gave the signal, and the Bicorn horses—a pair of majestic dual-horned creatures with white fur and black manes—snorted softly as they began to pull the royal carriage forward.
"My mother wants me to visit an old friend of hers," Luda explained, settling into his seat. "She wants me to learn a special Combat Art. From what she says, this friend is a powerful Demon Lord."
Edwind's eyes widened slightly, but he quickly masked his surprise. "If that's true, we must be going to meet Lady Vericka Mikazuki, the Deva of the South."
The prince's interest sharpened. "So you know of her?"
Edwind nodded, the weight of history clear in his voice. "Lady Mikazuki is a legend. She was the hero of the Elven Civil War, the one who stood against Kneon Sky's rage when he sought vengeance against the Celestials for freeing the Dark Elves."
Luda leaned forward, his young face eager for more. "That's the war that caused the Light Elves to leave the Kaucasus Mountains, right?"
"You are correct, Your Highness. Sixty years ago, the Celestials were petitioned by escaped Dark Elves to rescue their brethren. The Light Elves had been capturing them and selling Dark Elves off to humans in Hedaria for nearly a century. It was refreshing for a newly crowned Demon Lord to act so emotionally."
Edwind's gaze grew distant as he recounted the tale. "Lady Mikazuki gathered a small army of warriors and single-handedly freed the Dark Elves, breaking up every known slave camp on Arcadia. Your mother, Queen Braye, was also part of that team."
"My mother fought in the Elven Civil War?" Luda asked, astonished.
"She did. Queen Braye and Lady Mikazuki fought side by side for months, eventually confronting Kneon Sky in a legendary battle."
"But if they stopped the original slave trade, why are Light Elf slaves still a thing now?" Luda questioned, his young mind grappling with the complexities of history.
Edwind sighed. "After Kneon Sky's defeat, the Dark Elves wanted revenge, but Lady Mikazuki was against it. When they wouldn't budge from their desire for vengeance, she chose to part ways with them. Nowadays, she protects Light Elves and other slave refugees in her territory. Many seek asylum in Talasi just to be under her protection."
Luda's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "So the Dark Elves are now subjecting the scattered and weakened Light Elves to the same hell they endured."
"Very perceptive, Your Highness. Without their Demon Lord to protect them and their fear of being targeted by the Trappers, the Light Elves were left vulnerable, their home in the Kaucasus Mountains destroyed. They had no choice but to disperse and blend into other societies."
Luda considered this, then asked, "Do you dislike her? You're half Light Elf, right?"
Edwind chuckled softly. "Why would I dislike her? She protects Light Elf refugees. I hold the utmost respect for her. Besides, I'm also partial Celestial as well."
Luda's curiosity deepened. "She's a mixed Sociovore?"
"That's a rumor I've heard," Edwind replied, a knowing smile on his lips. "But I suppose we can ask her when we meet her."
The prince turned to the window, the landscape rolling by as his thoughts turned inward. "To think that mother once fought on the front lines as a powerful M-Cee. She's an awesome lady. I wonder how long until I reach the power of a True M-Cee... or a Demon Lord?"
Edwind regarded the young prince with a mixture of admiration and caution. "With your Ultra Skill, you're certainly on the path. Your performance earlier today showed just how terrifyingly talented you are."
Luda grinned, but his tone was serious. "That match would have gone differently if we were outside and you could fully use your [Sky King: Amun] Vessel Skill. Or if you'd used your Ultra Skill."
Edwind laughed heartily. "Don't be so modest, Your Majesty. I prefer to keep my Ultra Skill a secret from public talk. I suggest you do the same with yours. Only share that information with someone you deeply trust."
Luda nodded; the weight of Edwind's advice settling in. "Understood."
"Good," Edwind continued. "Ultra Skills are a testament to a soul's profound connection with mana and their ability to channel that connection into world-altering abilities. They are a crucial aspect of a high-level M-Cee's arsenal, serving as both a milestone of personal growth and a gateway to even greater power."
"The Legend of Prince Luda Allah Braye is just beginning now that you have yours."
Luda's eyes gleamed with determination. "Lady Vericka is a Godwalker, correct?"
Edwind nodded. "From what I know, yes, Your Highness."
"I wonder if she is a decent teacher," Luda mused.
"Rumor has it she's had children around your age, all gifted, with the oldest being a rare genius, much like yourself," Edwind said.
Luda's excitement leaked out of his stoic appearance. "Someone like me? Now I'm really excited. There aren't many willing to work as hard."
The carriage rolled on into the night, the landscape bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. Luda's thoughts danced with anticipation, his heart pounding with the thrill of the unknown. As they journeyed toward Velonica, the prince couldn't help but wonder what awaited him at the end of this road—new challenges, new lessons, and perhaps, the first steps toward his own legend.
[End of Chapter]