The Knights of the Archive Order, often referred to as the Archive Knights, are regarded as the secret protectors of Whiteford. However, their history predates the Whiteford Kingdom itself.
Originally founded by the first generation of the Twelve Heroes, long before the Unification, the exact purpose of the Archive Knights was never clearly explained. What is known is that their library contains thousands of records, directly copied from the Archduke Drake Blood Library, which holds invaluable historical accounts of the world of Akasha, as seen from Archduke Drake Blood's own perspective.
At some point before the Unification, the Archive Knights were disbanded for unknown reasons, only to be re-established after the founding of the Whiteford Kingdom. While the exact reason for their allegiance to Whiteford remains unclear, it is widely believed that they saw Whiteford as a beacon of unity, a key force in the Unification process.
Amidst the grueling wars between clans and tribes, the Archive Knights' original purpose was lost to future generations. Over time, the guild evolved into a secret order, watching over and defending Whiteford through its many rises and falls.
At some point, the Knights allied themselves with the Mage Society, eventually managing to track down a descendant of Archduke Drake Blood, whom they believed held the key to restoring the Archive Knights to their original purpose. It took several generations of persuasion, but eventually, the descendant agreed to join the Archive Knights, marking the beginning of a new era for the order.
As ancient manuscripts were translated, the original mission of the Archive Knights was revealed to be relatively simple, in contrast to their many legendary accomplishments. The Archive Knights, or Knights of the Archive Order, were initially a guild of knights dedicated to recording historical events and preserving the truth of history.
However, by this time, the librarians of the Mage Society and the recorders of the Mage Guild had already taken over this role, excelling in it due to their sheer numbers and influence. Under the leadership of Fallion Drake Blood, the Archive Knights found a new purpose. Once solely record-keepers, they now acted secretly as watchers and protectors, ensuring that history unfolded as it was meant to.
By the time 16-year-old Abel Stains joined, the Archive Knights had been officially recognized as one of the five knightly orders within Whiteford.
The Five Knight Orders of Whiteford are the five factions sworn to protect Whiteford from its enemies. These factions include:
The Archive Knights
The Imperial Knights
The Saints
The Seven Swords
The Storm Wyverns
Each of these knightly orders originates from Whiteford's knight factions, which were established by one of the ten founders of Whiteford itself. Whiteford's military structure is divided into three main bureaucratic branches:
1. Whiteford Soldiers
This group consists of guards and common soldiers who report directly to a general appointed by the King. They primarily serve as law enforcement alongside the Paladin Order and act as Whiteford's main military force.
2. Whiteford Knights
These knights were the original protectors of Whiteford, serving even before the kingdom's founding. While their primary mission is to protect the royal family, they are divided into five different orders, each sworn to serve different royal descendants. However, all ultimately answer to the Whiteford monarch.
The knight orders operate independently, selecting their leaders from within their ranks, free from external influence. In times of internal conflict, if the monarch is absent or fails to issue orders, each knight order has the right to follow the royal family member they deem most fit to lead.
3. Noble Knights
These knight orders were established by noble factions to defend, oversee, and act as jailers for the nobility. The concept of the Noble Knights originated from the Grand Magus of the Mage Society, who founded the "Carnifex Caeli" Order. This order served as the protector of the Archmage and acted as executioners should the Archmage commit heretical acts or use magic deemed a dangerous threat.
The number of Noble Knights is vast, as Whiteford has over 100 noble families, each with its own faction to safeguard its interests. These factions ensure the survival of their nobility against rivals or even a tyrannical monarch. Many of these noble families contributed to the construction of White City and the establishment of thousands of cities across Whiteford over the past 3,000 years. Notable families include the majestic Sherwood family and the smaller Barnes family.
The Archive Knights
As one of Whiteford's five knight factions, the Archive Knights rank as the fourth-largest in size. Unlike other knight factions, they do not possess many technological weapons. However, they do have notable assets, including:
A unique submarine capable of housing over 500 people, often used as a mobile base.
A flying command center equipped with a small aircraft carrier.
Despite these assets, the Archive Knights remain a relatively small faction, with fewer than 5,000 members in total. Their numbers include:
2,000 non-combatants
2,500 combatants
500 elite knights
Notable Members of the Archive Knights
File White
A half-demon and half-human, File carries the blood of Morningstar, making him exceptionally powerful. Having traveled across the world for over 1,600 years, he ultimately joined the Archive Knights around 150 years ago. Since then, he has served as a Grand Master, guide, and mentor within the order.
Only his right hand, Rifqie, and his left hand, Nia, know his true origin and real name—Fallion Drake Blood.
Nia Regallia
A half-orc and half-elf, Nia is regarded as one of the strongest knights the Archive Knights have ever had. She is said to have exchanged punches with a 100-meter-tall flame giant, earning her the title "Nia the Slayer."
Nia was recruited into the Archive Knights roughly one year after the end of the Tamura Invasion. Although she had known File before the war, her official recruitment came later. She quickly climbed the ranks due to her incredible power, eventually reaching the rank of Captain.
Nia became the Captain of the Archive's First Company, which consisted of the strongest warriors, chosen specifically for direct confrontations. This made them the primary fighting force of the Archive Knights' elite division.
Rifqie the JK
A mysterious mage and File's trusted companion, Rifqie was already a decorated mage by the age of 10, often referred to as a genius. Naturally gifted, he could wield every element, including Light, making him an exceptionally rare individual. His mastery over multi-elemental magic allowed him to adapt his mana nearly perfectly, rendering him almost immune to all forms of magic—even darkness barely harms him.
However, Rifqie was physically weak due to a rare condition that left him with a frail body. Despite this, he worked his way up and eventually became the Captain of the Archive Knights' Second Company, which specialized in internal defense, including protecting their base of operations and the royal family. This company was composed primarily of mages, particularly those proficient in Holy Magic.
Rifqie holds the unique title of "JK", the true meaning of which remains a mystery to everyone except File (Fallion Drake Blood) and Blanchette, the Grand Magus of the Mage Society. The secret behind this title is closely guarded for their safety and the safety of others.
Ghani
A childhood friend of Rifqie, Ghani is known for being a blockhead and stubborn, but there's more to him than meets the eye. A wild, energetic troublemaker, many were surprised by how well he got along with Rifqie, despite their opposite personalities. While Rifqie is strict and disciplined, Ghani is carefree and impulsive.
Despite this, Ghani possesses remarkable physical abilities, combined with his mastery of Thunder and Magnetism Magic. He eventually rose through the ranks to become the Captain of the Third Company of the Archive Knights, a division focused on training young recruits.
Ghani hails from a tribe known as the Black Iron Berserkers, a nomadic clan that hunts monsters falling from the sky (or aliens, in short). Though he has never encountered such creatures himself, he was trained in the art of the Black Iron Berserker after his parents retired and settled in White City.
Despite his carefree demeanor, Ghani is known as the "pervert and gentleman" of the team. He harbors a crush on his childhood friend, Xyzer, who is the Vice Captain of the Second Company of the Archive Knights.
Cyan Pile
Cyan Pile was raised by Nia Regallia herself. Despite often being seen fighting with bare fists, following Nia's combat style, Cyan possesses a tremendous magic anomaly—a rare effect that occurs when a person's mana invokes a spell while simultaneously adding additional magical effects.
Cyan's magic anomaly grants him three extra magical effects: Wind, Earth, Thunder, and Ice. Whenever he imbues his fists with Wind Magic, the other elements are automatically infused into his attacks. His reckless yet brave and loyal personality, combined with his unique magical ability, led him to become the strongest captain of the new generation of Archive Knights. This earned him the position of Captain of the Fourth Company, which specializes in scouting and reconnaissance.
Despite his seemingly careless and dim-witted nature, Cyan's bravery is highly respected by his peers. His boldness is also part of his charm. He is incredibly creative with his fighting techniques, often combining different martial arts and magic to overwhelm his opponents. Cyan is also regarded as the friendliest captain, always willing to lend a helping hand to his comrades.
Skye
Skye is a mysterious and unique individual. Despite his feminine and charming appearance, he is, in fact, a man. Skye is often mistaken for a woman, but this is intentional, as he frequently hides his true identity.
Known as the spymaster and assassin master of the Archive Knights, Skye's ability to gather information is flawless. His origins remain uncertain, and it is unclear when exactly he joined the Archive Knights. To most, Skye had always been there, seamlessly blending in until he became an indispensable member of the Order.
Skye rarely reveals his true identity and only attends captain meetings in cases of emergency. Most of the time, he assumes the identity of Rebecca, the daughter of a famous trader. What no one knows is that the real Rebecca ran away with her lover, assuming a new identity elsewhere, while Skye uses her former identity as a cover for his covert operations.
Ultimately, Skye was promoted to Captain of the Fifth Company, a division specializing in infiltration and assassination—eliminating enemies of both Whiteford and the Archive Knights.
Despite his graceful and feminine persona, Skye is a notorious playboy, with over 25 girlfriends, much to Ghani's envy. However, his strong friendship with Ghani remains unshakable, and many members of the Archive Knights seek Skye's advice on their romantic lives.
Sheryl Mitzen
A Forgiven Shield Paladin, Sheryl Mitzen is the daughter of Lira Trisfallen and Rey Mitzen, both of whom were members of the Twelve Heroes. A hardworking young woman, she grew up separated from her father due to her parents' differing ideals.
Sheryl's mother, Lira, was determined to stir the politics of Merida, a newly reformed country she and Rey had liberated from a tyrant. However, Rey Mitzen, weary of political conflicts, sought a peaceful life, which led to their divorce.
Although Sheryl never lacked a father figure—her father visited her every weekend—she couldn't help but feel jealous of her half-sister, Arieta Eleison, who spent more time with their father.
Sheryl's talent was widely recognized, and by the age of 23, she had risen to the rank of Royal Guard Paladin. She was assigned by the Forgiven Shield Paladin Order to guard Lady Aina White during a period of turmoil in Whiteford.
Eventually, she ascended to Vice Grand Master of the Archive Knights, entrusted with protecting Lady Aina in File's absence. She became a respected figure, admired by her fellow knights.
Sheryl was personally mentored by Sein Eleison, the leader of the Twelve Heroes and Arieta's mother. However, despite Sein's guidance, Sheryl harbors no resentment toward her, believing that her parents' separation was ultimately beneficial for both of them, especially since her mother shared a close bond with Sein.
Sheryl is often seen as strict, and despite her genuine, affectionate bond with Rifqie, she always prioritizes duty above all else—even at the cost of her own well-being.
Aida Riko
A kitsune girl from Utakata, Aida Riko is considered the fastest member of the Archive Knights, earning her the title "Whiteflash." Despite her incredible speed and talent, Aida is notoriously lazy. Due to the extreme energy demands of her speed-based abilities, she requires a much larger food intake than most, yet she still manages to be sharp and resourceful.
Aida's family fled Utakata to Lagu City in 2950, during a time when Tamura Yarinaga and the Utakata forces were away, seeking allies. As a two-year-old, Aida faced difficulties due to her youkai heritage, often unintentionally injuring her friends while playing. Youkai, a mythical race, possess innate abilities and strength that surpass normal demi-humans, making it difficult for Aida to control her power at a young age.
Despite these challenges, Aida eventually rose to the rank of Vice Captain of the Archive Knights' First Company, serving as Nia's most trusted aide—especially when it came to handling paperwork. Though she wasn't thrilled with the administrative workload, she secretly enjoyed the camaraderie within the Archive Knights.
Xyzer
A brilliant mechanic, Xyzer grew up alongside Ghani. From a young age, she displayed an exceptional passion for both magic and mechanics, diligently studying under the guidance of Rifqie, despite her low magical and physical capabilities. However, Xyzer compensated for this with unparalleled expertise in magical equipment, weaponry, and spellcraft.
She became famous for her innovations, particularly her Mage Buster Armor—a mechanical armor set capable of neutralizing magic within its vicinity. However, her greatest invention was the Magic-Dread Gun.
In a world dominated by magic, firearms were considered obsolete. Gunpowder-based weapons were only found on the continent of Merk, where they were largely ineffective against magic-enhanced defenses. Even with enchanted bullets, firearms were far weaker than bows and arrows, as the manual enchantment process for bullets lasted only a minute, making them impractical for combat. As a result, firearm technology stagnated.
Xyzer revolutionized this field by developing a method to store magical enchantments in magazines, allowing them to retain their effects for over 20 hours—far exceeding the previous one-minute limit. This innovation led to the creation of her Magic-Dread Gun, a magical mini-gun she carries on her back. Her design allowed for magazines infused with up to ten different elemental enchantments, making her one of the most destructive members of the Archive Knights.
Her groundbreaking work earned her the position of Vice Captain of the Archive Knights' Second Company, but despite widespread recognition, her invention never moved beyond the prototype stage. The Technological Institute deemed her mini-gun too unstable and dangerous for widespread use.
As a Vice Captain, Xyzer became known as the cool and supportive senior to new recruits, a reputation that made Ghani jealous, as he felt she was too close to the newcomers.
Vixi
A quiet and highly anti-social individual, Vixi is the longest-serving member of the Archive Knights after File, having remained in the order for over 100 years. Despite her tenure, she is widely unpopular among the knights due to her habitual slacking and refusal to work with others. She follows only File's orders, disregarding everyone else.
However, everything changed when the Archive Knights swore loyalty to Princess Aina. Unlike others, Aina persistently reached out to Vixi, gradually breaking through her cold and distant demeanor. Through her unwavering efforts, Aina convinced Vixi to open up and integrate with her comrades, proving herself as a remarkable leader in the process.
Unlike other knights, Vixi is not assigned to any company. Instead, she serves as the leader of Princess Aina's personal bodyguard unit. With her cold exterior softened, her fellow knights began to tease her, much to her annoyance.
Despite her reclusive personality, Vixi's combat skills are considered among the best in the Archive Knights, surpassed only by Nia, Rifqie, and File.
Arieta Eleison
Arieta Eleison is a member of the Blades of Mercy, an elite order of paladins tasked with eliminating high-profile threats from the shadows.
During the civil war in Whiteford, fabricated evidence falsely implicated Lady Aina White, marking her as a target of the Blades of Mercy. Initially, Arieta's team was assigned to track down and eliminate Aina. However, something felt off to Arieta. Trusting her instincts, she launched her own investigation, uncovering the truth behind the deception—the evidence was nothing more than a setup.
Upon learning this, Grand Master Boltor reassigned Arieta, entrusting her with a new mission: to protect Lady Aina as the Blades of Mercy's representative until the true enemy lurking in the shadows could be identified.
Thus, Arieta became Aina's personal bodyguard and protector.
Born to Sein Eleison and Rey Mitzen, Arieta was a reserved and introverted girl who struggled to make friends, often finding herself in awkward situations. She was vastly different from Sheryl Mitzen, her half-sister, who was popular, gifted, and admired by many. Deep down, Arieta envied Sheryl, believing that she was the ideal daughter—someone any father would be proud of. This lingering sense of inadequacy drove Arieta to train relentlessly, determined to surpass Sheryl and earn the same level of respect and recognition.
These are the notable members of the Archive Knights—Lady Aina White's loyal champions and some of the finest warriors in Whiteford. Each of them is a renowned figure, their abilities on par with S-ranked adventurers.
Yet, amidst these extraordinary knights, a lingering question remains:
Why, of all people, did the Whiteford soldiers target you, Abel?
And why did the Archive Knights, along with Aina, risk everything to protect you?