umekonae

[umekonae]

Chronicles of the 3 Monarchs.

Backup 02.

The Monarchs' Back to School.

🦅Erel.🦅

~The Next Morning.~

I open my eyes, feeling my body slowly waking up. The darkness is very present in the room, so I have to remain silent before getting up.

This place is very real; I really have been reincarnated with my sister.

It's really... strange, knowing we're still alive. That we exist in another universe in which dungeons, raids, Monarchs, Dominators, monsters, and hunters will soon appear. And everything will change.

-Our very existence is proof that this universe will be different from the original work," I thought, resting my back on the pillow to be thoughtful while listening to the silence that reigns in the house. A lot of things are going to change now that we're here. Is it... a good thing we're here ?... Surely, if Yggdrasil sent us here. I hope it goes well, that we can have a normal life... Well, normal, considering we're the Judges of the Afterlife and Monarchs as well. It might be complicated to have a basic life.

I sigh a little as I lie down for a few minutes, turn on my phone, and check my messages. I still have that old reflex where I'm going to text Mom and Dad...

But they're not here.

Are they still alive in our home world?

Maybe...

Just thinking about it makes my heart ache, imagining them mourning the death of their two children. Part of me feels bad for wanting to tell them everything's okay, for me to leave them a sign that Amélie and I have reincarnated in another world... But there's no way I can do that. I see the virtual screen appear, showing one of my sadness-related stats that has just gone from 0% to 4%.

-Damn sadness, I mumbled, deciding to get up for breakfast. Big sister is probably up at this hour... Or not, knowing her, she's probably still asleep in her bed.

I check the time on my phone to see that it's already 8:58, almost 9:00. I slept longer than usual, but at the same time, we decided to make fajitas while watching a movie all evening. We had a good laugh going to bed at I don't know what time, since we decided to piss each other off by acting like idiots. And it took a long time before we finally fell asleep in our respective rooms, but it was fun doing that. Remembering the good times we had in our original world.

-...We can always make new memories here, together and...With the people we'll meet in this new world, I said softly, staring at my desktop background, which was a photo of me and my family, before deciding to get out of bed. Maybe I should go get breakfast...

Boom !

-Oh shit, it's burning ! Khaos is turning everything off !, my older sister shouted in a panic. I rushed over to see what was going on in the kitchen.

-Your Grace, it's boiling over everywhere !, Khaos said in a panic. I ran downstairs, reaching the top step of the stairs, to see my sister and Khaos taking pastries out of the oven and seeing that they were completely charred. I'm sorry, Your Grace, I failed to do what you asked me to do again.

-Don't worry, Khaos, it happens to everyone. Although... I never thought I'd see pastries this bad..., my sister said, staring at the state of the pastries, which looked alive from the way they were moving. I think we're dealing with a new alien species that was born from the oven."

-...What are you doing at this hour ?, I asked, walking over to them. They both turned to me when they saw my sister waving her hand, and Khaos nodded, ashamed.

-Hey, cod ! Well... How can I put this ? Khaos wanted to try cooking to make some pastries. So... I helped him... But..., she said, pointing to the tray where the pastries were, which looked alive, the way they moved. I think he gave life to a new alien species.

-... How can it be alive ? Normally, pastries just contain milk, eggs, flour, and other ingredients. So... Why is it moving ?!, I said, pointing to the failed pastries that were still moving.

-Well... I don't really know, I couldn't tell you, my eldest said, making Khaos depressed, shedding tears of tears.

-Your Grace, I'm sorry I can't help you with one of your daily tasks ! I'm really just a drag when it comes to cooking, said Khaos, as my sister and I tried to reassure him with difficulty.

-Hey, Khaos, don't worry. At worst, we can try something other than cooking. You'll be better at something else, said Amélie, as he nodded sadly. I think we'll have to give up cooking for him; it's not really his specialty, even though he enjoys it.

-It's a shame the culinary field doesn't seem to like it, I said, seeing Khaos cleaning, dejected, staring at the living pastries, which I held out a finger to destroy by reducing them to ash. Good riddance, I really thought they were going to end up merging together and coming to life.

-Did you really think this was going to end up like a science fiction apocalypse scenario ?, Ariella said, staring at me, and I shrugged in response.

-Maybe. Afterwards, anything can happen, you know ?, I said to her, deciding to go to lunch after Khaos finished cleaning, only to be still depressed that my eldest was trying to comfort him. She gets along well with him; I would have thought she'd have a lot of difficulty talking to Khaos. Since she's an introvert who's always had trouble talking to others, she manages to communicate well with him. Which is reassuring.

I've noticed that she's managed to open up easily to Khaos since he became her Red Specter. The two get along well, seeing that at first, he spoke to her and behaved distantly and respectfully, seeing that he was observing her. I've seen her character, her actions, and learned more about her. And now, it's completely different, seeing that they've created a true bond of friendship over the years. He's also changed a lot, having seen an evolution in her personality, which was previously cold and cautious, so as not to...

-Khaos, don't cry anymore. At worst, we'll find another area in which you'll be more talented, she says to him, who is still sad, which is funny to see him like this.

-But in what area can I help you throughout your daily life ? I want to support you during the dungeon fights, but also in your life outside of battle, says Khaos, who seems determined to help her in everything. I can suddenly imagine Khaos in butler mode, and it makes me laugh.

-I understand that you want to support me, but you know, just the fact that you're here is enough for me, Khaos, she says, smiling at him, speaking with tenderness and calm. He is touched by her words as I watch the scene while preparing the breakfast table.

-I'm glad you're here because you're someone important to me. You're my first companion to join my army, and... I know that when it grows, you'll be there by my side to help guide those who join us in our future battles. You have my complete trust, Khaos.

-She's really created a strong bond with him. She sees Khaos as a true brother-in-arms, being able to trust him with her life without worry. My eldest knows he'll be able to protect her and fight by her side, I thought, happy for her, knowing she's found an important ally at her side who will fight for her until the end. I'm heating up some milk, who wants hot chocolate ?

-I want some !, Ariella said, waving her hand happily. I chuckled softly, then said to Khaos while watching the milk heating in the pan.

-You know, Khaos, even if you're not good at one of the areas, you're going to try to help my sister. Know that you're already helping her a lot with her training and... That'll be the case during fights too, so don't put yourself under pressure. Okay ? Be yourself, I said to him, as he listened to me and remained silent, looking at me and my elder sister.

-...You know, you are unique individuals. You have a dark side that you reveal through your irises, you hide your emotions behind a mask to control them perfectly. But... I know that you are good people, who must have suffered in your lives because of certain events you must have experienced. But... Know that you are no longer alone., Khaos said in a calm and solemn tone, looking at me afterward. I already know that you will find companions you will be able to count on. And who will help you in whatever situation you face, know this: you are no longer alone. I know that I am currently the first soldier in your elder sister's Scarlet Funeral Procession. But know that I and those who join us will be honored to be part of your army.

-Khaos… He really knows how to reassure us with a few words, it's true, he's not part of my army. But, I see him as someone I can trust, I thought to myself, being glad that he's been with us for a while, he's part of our family too. Thank you for your words Khaos, you're really someone we can count on in the future. You're part of our family, so…

I extend my hand with a smile to see the paladin watching. He takes my palm and shakes it, understanding my gesture without me saying anything: I'm letting him know that he's a member of our family. And that we will always have trust in him.

-Welcome to the Bailere Khaos, I say, smiling, and he nods in response, only to see my sister pick up the saucepan filled with milk while preparing the hot chocolate in the cups.

-Do you want some Khaos too ?, she asks curiously, which the paladin thinks about before saying.

-Why not, even if technically. I don't need to eat and drink in this form, it doesn't bother me, he says, sitting with us around the table, only to be a little embarrassed, given that he's very tall, and feel uncomfortable on the chair. We…need a more suitable chair for me…

"Good morning to you, dear Baïlères! I hope I'm not disturbing you so early in the morning !"

We jumped when the virtual screen suddenly appeared in front of us. My sister almost spat out her drink, I spilled some on the table, and Khaos crushed the cup with his hand, causing liquid and shards of glass to fall all over the room. Luckily, we dodged without a hitch, only to see Yggdrasil laughing when he saw we'd been surprised by the sudden call.

"Oh, I see I surprised the two Monarchs and the commander of the Scarlet Funeral Procession ! Sorry, sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. I came because…I have wonderful news to tell you: tomorrow is the Monarchs' first day of school !"

He said that confetti and glitter were coming out of the virtual screen, falling on us, and my older sister protected her cup of hot chocolate with her hand. To avoid getting any in it, and maybe I should have done the same when I saw that some of it landed in my glass. Great, we'll have to get rid of that.

-The Monarchs' Back to School ? What do you mean ?, Ariella asked curiously, and Khaos, seeing the damage he'd caused, decided to clean it up

"Well, as the title suggests: you're going back to school. But ! In the dungeons !"

-YAY ! FINALLY SOME ACTION !, my older sister shouted joyfully, so happy that I almost knocked over my cup of hot chocolate when she yelled. We'll finally be able to level up, increase our abilities, and most importantly... Create a real army by recruiting monsters in the dungeons !

-I knew it, she really wants to go into the dungeons to do this. Like a true RPG player, I thought, seeing her impatiently drinking her hot chocolate, as Khaos finished cleaning up the mess he caused.

"I see our dear Ghost Monarch is very eager to get back to school ! As you know, you've been here for several years now. It's true that I could have let you into the dungeons without any problems long before they existed, but I had to discuss the situation with the Dominators."

-Why did you discuss this with them ?, my eldest asked curiously, that Khaos threw the pieces in the trash and came back afterward.

“Well, they detected some sudden changes in this new timeline. Since you weren't supposed to be present in the main storyline, I explained the situation to them, and… They were a little suspicious and skeptical when they discovered that two new Judges of the Afterlife had appeared. And that they'd taken the title of Monarch.”

-Let me guess: I guess they didn't appreciate seeing two intruders come here who could disrupt all their plans, I said, removing the confetti, glad that no glitter had fallen into my drink.

“That's right, that's why I had to explain the situation to them, saying that you're not dangerous. And that if they wanted, you'd be willing to discuss the future of this world with them.”

-Yeah, don't expect us to do this in a friendly, friendly way, I said, finally removing the confetti to drink my drink, not really interested in talking to them.

"I understand that you're skeptical of them, but they'll want to talk to them at some point. Try to get along with them; they might end up helping you one day."

I sigh, wondering if these guys will want to talk to us. Yggdrasil had explained this to us a few years ago. That the first people who held the titles of Judges of the Afterlife and Ghost Monarch and the Divine Birds had tensions with opposing sides, since both are the protectors of the Gate that takes the deceased to eternal rest and reincarnation.

The Dominators and Monarchs constantly sought their help, without much success, and eventually ended up confronting them, seeing them as a potential threat. But it ended in a bloodbath, making the clans understand that they weren't going to help anyone in this war by simply fulfilling their roles and observing everything from afar. However, Yggdrasil said that the former Judges of the Beyond got along well with Ashborn.

The Shadow Monarch who chose to make Sung Jinwoo his successor.

From the texts he preserved, but also from other documents and memory reels, we were able to learn more about the relationship they had with him.

-If Ashborn were here…Well, rather than right now, he's looking for the perfect person to inherit his abilities, my elder said, holding her cup, which Khaos kept close to her. We could have tried talking to him, but we're not going to bother him.

-Which means having to talk to those warrior angels, I said, and Ariella sighed, agreeing with me. Afterward, we can try talking to them. It doesn't hurt to try, and besides, we have two goals: to guard the gate to the Beyond so no one enters, to keep the balance between the worlds of the living, the dead, and the other worlds in perfect harmony. And…

-To save this world by helping Jinwoo fight the Monarchs, who want to destroy Earth, Amélie said, finishing my sentence, and I nodded in response.

“I see you're determined and ready to do anything to fulfill your roles. Good, that's perfect. I'll go talk to the Dominators again, but be careful: the Monarchs have also discovered and sensed that you're here. They must have discovered that you are the new successors of those who came before you. They might fool you, then, be careful, young people.”

-Copy it, Yggdrasil, my eldest and I said together, as a second virtual screen appeared before us, with the quest we'll have to complete tomorrow.

“And here's your homework ! You'll have three dungeons to complete separately, and one last one that you'll complete together. And don't worry, time there and here won't flow the same way. So you can take all the time you need to complete the various missions I'll send you throughout.”

-I can't wait ! That's some homework I'll enjoy !, says my sister, smiling. I laugh a little, which she stares at with Khaos. Let's do everything we can to succeed in Khaos when we get there !

-Very well, Your Grace, I'll do everything I can to help you with the dungeons., he declares seriously, bowing to her, which Yggdrasil says next.

“Well, then, I'll let you rest and I'll make the portals appear to go to the dungeons tomorrow morning. Don't be late for your first day of school. Oh, before I forget: the territories you'll be crossing will be yours after defeating each boss.”

-Oh, cool, that's cool !, said my older sister, remembering the ability we have in common. Wait, can we…

-Combine our talents so that they become one and create an even bigger domain ?, I said, finishing her sentence to activate our stat sheets to see which talent we've discovered at any given time. If we can do that…

-Then we'll have a gigantic territory where we can gather all your soldiers and mine ! That would be great !, says my eldest, happy that I'm starting to have ideas for my territory, wanting it to be full of plants, trees, and mountains. We'll have to use them when we're in the dungeons, I know ! Let's start refining the terrain for tomorrow and see how many hectares we'll need in total.

-Good idea, let's start doing that, I say, quickly drinking my hot chocolate and then putting the cup in the sink, which my sister does as we move some furniture into the living room. Ready ?

-Oh yes ! I am !, says Ariella, smiling. We hold out our hands, a seal appearing in the palms of our hands, saying at the same time.

"Territory of Babylon ! Opening !"

With these words, a pair of double doors appears before us, enveloped in a white glow. The gate is large enough to be crafted in an elegant, ancient design, allowing two figures to be seen drawn in silver metal: the Judges of the Afterlife in their respective armor and weapons. I advance with my eldest sister while Khaos observes the scene in silence, with Yggdrasil watching the entire scene from the virtual screen. I touch a spot on the statue that shows its heart revealed; there's the same thing on the second one, as my sister imitates my gesture.

That's when the mechanism activates to allow us to enter.

-Well, let's start our homework then. Do you need to tell us anything else, Yggdrasil ?, my sister asks, and he nods in response.

"Just one last thing: meet at 8:30 in the garden of the house. I'll come see you in person to explain your homework in a little more detail. Well, get some rest and go to bed early, children."

-Copy that !, we said together, the virtual screen disappearing after that.

-Well, shall we continue with our world ?, I said, smiling, placing a hand on my pelvis, as my sister stretched her arms, her bones creaking.

-Oh yes ! Khaos on the way, partner !, she said, waving her hand to follow us, as she jumped first into the portal, and I followed her.

It's going to be a very special start to the school year for us, hoping it's really very interesting.

~The next day.~

-Good morning, good morning, teacher! I'm ready for class to start !, my eldest said cheerfully, packing her bag while holding the straps, which I found incredibly cheerful so early in the morning.

-I'm surprised you're getting up on the right side of the bed, you who usually refuse to get out of bed, I almost feel like you're possessed, I said, annoying her, so she slapped my arm that I laughed.

-Oh, shut up, Erel, but... I admit you're right about that, she said, as Khaos, who is in will-o'-the-wisp form, floats around her. Well, anyway, as soon as I get excited about an event like conventions, my brain goes into alarm mode and wakes me up automatically.

-That's very practical, too bad mine doesn't do that, I said, knowing she's had this habit since the army. She told me she didn't really need her alarm anymore and that her brain had finally replaced the annoying rings.

"Oh, oh, I see you're on time ! Even early !"

-As they say in the army: being on time is being late, says my eldest, who is very happy, that I have the impression of seeing a child in a toy store looking for which one she would like.

We're in the garden of the house we've been staying in for the past few weeks during our summer vacation. It's still cool enough to see dawn breaking while darkness slowly disappears. The sun is revealing itself, revealing pink and orange clouds in the distance. We can hear the rooster from the farm a little further away crowing from the roof of the henhouse. The virtual screen on which we see Yggdrasil speaking to us is hidden by the foliage and trees to avoid attracting the attention of neighbors who might ask questions.

It's best not to interest the overly curious locals while we're in another country.

Yggdrasil summons a bell in front of us, which he rings with his powers, and two portals open before us excitedly.

"Dear Monarch students, classes are about to begin ! I'll take the roll call before sending you off to your respective classes: Ariella Baïlère ?"

-Here !, she said, raising her hand like a model student.

"Erel Baïlère ?"

-I'm here, I said, raising my hand slightly, holding my backpack, or finding a few things in it.

"Commander of the Scarlet Funeral Procession: Khaos ?"

-Oh, uh... I'm here too, he said, surprised that Yggdrasil also called his name, and the bell disappeared afterward.

"Okay, we've got everyone! Here's the homework you'll be doing: you have three dungeons to complete solo and one to complete together. The goal is simple: farm, increase your levels, and above all, create an army ! I'll give you the exercises when you arrive in your classrooms. The time limit will be three weeks; if you complete it in less time, bonus rewards will be awarded."

-Great ! I hope things go well in future classes, hoping the teachers will be nice, my older sister said, scratching her cheek, I think we seem to be enjoying this Monarch-style back-to-school season a little too much.

-The teachers will be the bosses of the dungeons, and the classmates...the monsters, I thought, imagining myself in a classroom with monster students who write and listen to the lessons like humans.

"Well, it's time for class ! Good luck, dear students! Listen carefully in class to pass your exams !"

-Thank you, teacher !, we said together as the virtual screen disappeared and I took a deep breath, staring at my sister and Khaos.

-Well, I wish you both good luck in the dungeons. Come back safe and sound, I say, as my older sister places her hands on her pelvis, smiling to see Khaos conjure up a hand that gives a thumbs-up.

-Don't worry, sir, everything will be fine. Be careful in the dungeons too., Khaos says, as I nod as the two begin to leave.

-Well, I'll see you at the last class, little brother. Good luck to you, Amélie says, smiling, as she walks away with Khaos as she goes inside the gate, ending up alone in the garden.

I stare at the gate the two went through and disappear, only for mine to breathe gently. Come on, it's time for the first class.

My steps move forward to go inside, ready to face the danger on the other side.

~First Dungeon: Four Seasons Montages.~

My shoes touch the ground to see that there's a lot of vegetation around me. I hear birds singing, the wind blowing through the leaves, and I also smell the scent of the different plants filling my nostrils. I raise my head to see that the trees are gigantic here. I feel like I'm in one of those video games, or your character has shrunk to traverse a world that has become very large for him. I try to see if there are any monsters around before opening my lips.

-This is truly an incredible place. I hope there will be some interesting things in the dungeons, I say, starting to move forward, only to feel that the atmosphere has become strange here, which immediately alerts me, wondering what exactly is going on. Hey, why is it suddenly silent ?

Just as I was wondering what exactly was going on, the virtual screen appeared before my eyes, so I could look and see what it told me.

“Here are your first exercises for this first lesson in the Four Seasons Mountains dungeon:

• Go and retrieve the Jewels of the Seasons, which will allow you to reactivate the Four Pillars.

• Kill the Guardians of the Corruption of the Seasons, who are holding the Kings of the Four Seasons prisoner.

• Become the new King of the Seasons.”

-Oh… So… This territory with four bosses ? That's a lot for a first dungeon, well, I should think about how to…, I said, starting to think, only to see birds flying overhead, landing a few meters away, and I was intrigued.

I analyzed it to see their plumage, which is pale gray with seals on it, their pupils are an icy blue, and I can see that they are releasing snowflakes. It wasn't difficult to guess that they surely come from the territory of winter. Their feet, which touch the ground, freeze the grass, which is a surprise. One would say they have the ability to change their environments. Which is very interesting. The birds are larger than those found on Earth, and I feel that they give off a threatening aura. I stare at the group of raptors who were watching me closely, tilting their heads to the side. Why are they here ?

-Should I talk to them ?, I thought, as one of them opened its beak, staring at its comrades.

-Hey, look, have you seen this guy ?, one of them said, chatting with his comrades. I was surprised to be able to understand their words. What's a human doing in the Forest of Rebirth ?

-No idea. It's strange to find one here while the area is invaded by the minions of the Cursed Spring Guardian, said the second. This information interests me greatly. It seems one of the bosses I need to kill is nearby. Anyway, we have no time to waste: we have to find the Spring King and free him so they can help the other Kings.

-I don't think we can find him. He's currently trapped in a huge, sealed rock that's preventing him from leaving, declared the third to his comrades. I paid close attention to their words, seeing how worried they were. Our King is also trapped in an iceberg, watched over by the minions of the Black Snow Guardian. We're completely outnumbered because of this strange fungus that plants itself in our fellow creatures' heads to manipulate them, and they attack us until we die or fall victim to the fungus !

-It's lucky I can hear them speak without having to try to figure out what they're talking about. So, the Guardians are holding the Kings of the Four Seasons prisoner and corrupting their minions with a fungus. This is all really strange, I thought, trying to find a way to help them and finish the quests. Excuse me, can I speak with you too ?

The three birds were surprised by the long silence. They didn't seem used to a human being able to understand what they were saying. Which made me laugh as I continued talking.

-Please excuse me, I'm Erel Baïlère. A simple hunter who landed in this dungeon. Forgive me for listening to your conversation. But I understood you were in a delicate situation. Perhaps I could help you, I said in a friendly tone, only to see the three of them remain silent and sweating, looking at each other to mutter softly.

-Can this human understand us ? This is the first time I've seen one who can communicate with us. None of them have managed to understand what we're saying before., said the first, using his wing to try to prevent me from hearing, except that unfortunately for him, he was speaking a little too loudly and in a rather indiscreet manner.

-That's true, and I think he's quite strange! Are you sure he's really a hunter ?, the second said, glancing at me cautiously.

-He emits powerful and mysterious Mana, he's surely a high-ranking hunter., the third murmured, as I crossed my arms, waiting for a moment of silence so I could speak.

-I can understand your distrust of me, but I promise I mean you no harm. I can even help you in your situation, I said, staring at the three of them, who were surprised when they looked at me.

-Really ?! You'd be willing to help us save our King and the others ?!, the trio said together, as I nodded in response. That's great !

-But...What about the others ? What will they say ?, the second asked, worried about what the other birds from the other territories would surely say.

-We don't care about all that, the more allies we have, the better ! The entire domain is under the control of these creatures, and we must exterminate them to save our King and the others !, said the third, determined to rescue his partners, only to stare at me afterward. Dear hunter, we accept your help.

-Glad to be able to help you, I promise to lend a hand from afar, I said, glad that the three of them accepted my help. It's better to have allies in this dungeon, and besides, I'd also like to see their abilities. I was able to see a bit of the stats of the three of them thanks to one of my talents, "Being Analysis." I can see their characteristics with just a glance. Which is useful.

Thanks to this skill, which I was able to have in my kit when I arrived, it allows me to learn a lot of information about the monsters and even individuals I encounter. At a glance, I can easily tell whether they're strong or not.

And each of them has fairly low skills, which isn't very interesting. However...

I see a seal over all their abilities, curious to know what it's for. I click on it to see a text appear on the virtual screen.

"King's Seal of Allegiance: This seal allows bird allies to increase their skills and evolve. If you decide to make one of these beings your ally, you can help them become stronger and awaken powerful gifts within them, which they can use in battles and other events."

-Wow, that's interesting. So... I can increase their strength, their magic, etc.... They seem quite different from the others, I think. They seem like they'll be very interesting as future allies, I thought, smiling, determined to make them my allies, to have them join my army, ready for anything. Well, then, I have to succeed in making this dungeon my domain and convince all its birds to join my clan. I have a feeling the monster birds here are truly unique; I don't think we'll run into any birds tied to a season.

I smile, looking forward to being able to fight to gain experience, but also to be able to make friends with those who join my army. Many would find that silly; I mean, not many people are interested in birds. They're just creatures that fly; it's rare to see strong and dangerous ones. There's the Griffon, which is this famous creature that many people know, but otherwise, people see them as weak, dangerous, and noisy.

Yet, I've always been fascinated by them since childhood, wishing I could one day...

Fly through the sky like them, because they represent a symbol of freedom to me.

Save 02 Completed ! Next Loading...

[umekonae]

Prologue I.

Assassin.

Lightning rumbles loudly in the dark sky.

The leaves of the trees move in time with the violent wind, giving the impression that the vegetation will be easily torn away. Even the trees don't escape the ongoing chaotic weather, noticing that the animals don't go out in this weather to avoid getting soaked.

A village sits peacefully in a corner of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, surrounded by woods where the Sèvre Niortaise River flows not far from the houses.

Many of the buildings are in the traditional Basque style, which is one of the architectural styles found in certain parts of the region. This is part of the charm of the countryside, as you can admire the remains of some buildings that are still present and intact.

The streets are currently deserted.

No citizen dared to venture out for a walk or engage in other activities, preferring to stay warm inside to avoid the raindrops falling heavily on the ground.

The cars parked outside trembled a little, feeling the force of the storm, seeing a few objects rolling on the concrete or being carried away.

Up on the hills, visible through the windows of the small houses, stands a magnificent residence, a château belonging to one of the few noble families still present in France. There are still families today who are linked to the nobility, still owning land that has been theirs by right for centuries. But, in rare cases, there are also what are called new nobles. People who have received a title after performing brilliant or other deeds, which are recognized by the Order of Hermes and the Congregation of Gévaudan, and then decide whether to reward them.

And this is the case for the current owner.

The garden is very well maintained by the gardener, so you can see the plants are healthy. The architecture of the country house is Renaissance, having been repaired a few months ago. Inside, the rooms are clean and tidy, so you can see that it's dark.

Only one room still has lights.

A woman sits in one of the comfortable armchairs drinking tea. A servant brings a tray of biscuits, placing it on the elegant table.

He steps back to a corner, waiting for her to give him an order or ask him something.

The feminine figure crosses her legs, wearing a chic outfit in dark tones. Her hat with fake flowers is quite large; it sits on the dresser not far from her, along with her gloves.

We hear the chiming of the clock breaking the silence, when lightning and the wind start to blow again outside. She places her cup on the blue porcelain bowl to speak calmly.

“How long has your Master been preparing the ritual ?” she asked the servant, placing her hands on the armrests.

“It will have been about 10 minutes, Madame Bellecour,” the servant declared in a calm, professional tone. She hummed slightly, placing a few fingers on her cheek as the lady reflected. “Do you need to see him now, Madame Bellecour ?”

“No, I can wait. I know this ceremony is important for all mages, who are chosen to participate in the Holy Grail War. You shouldn't disturb my dear disciple during a moment like this,” declared Madame Bellecour, resting her chin on her fist and closing her eyes for a few seconds, before reopening them when she saw a servant put a vinyl record on the turntable and put on some music to lighten the mood.

“The Master bought this new record a few days ago. He said you'd like it, as it's your favorite musical style,” says the woman in the maid's outfit, as the melody seems to be playing in the background. She listens to it with a smile, humming along a little.

“He knows my musical tastes very well; he's not my student for nothing,” says Madame Bellecour, smiling as she hears the strong wind blowing, suddenly checking the time. “It seems like it's almost time. I wonder which Servant he'll have at this ceremony.”

The rain suddenly calms down, along with the thunder, allowing us to sense the suddenly changed atmosphere outside. The sky clears, allowing the future Master to perfectly complete the ritual. In the castle's rather large basement, the largest room currently serves as a laboratory for the young mage who controls Archaic magic. Many mock and criticize those born with it, saying it's useless, but once you master it perfectly, it becomes even more formidable. The young man is finishing the circle drawn on the stone floor with dark red chalk, then placing the candles in precise locations. The place is dimly lit with the candlesticks on the smooth stone pillars, once everything has been properly prepared for the ritual. He breathes to analyze everything once more before fetching a chest, which sits on a dark oak table with engravings on the legs. His hands touch the material as he removes the lock with a spell that he deactivates, then removes it and opens it, examining what's inside.

A piece of a dark sword.

“I can't believe I found a broken relic a few months ago, one that belonged to a hero of old. It took me a while to get it, I just hope it's okay,” he murmured, taking a breath to pick up the piece wrapped in cloth, turning back to the drawn circle. “Well, it's time. It's almost time to begin the ritual.”

He moves forward to hold the object firmly in his hands. Once inside, the atmosphere changes, becoming heavy as the flames move a little faster. He places it on the small, rather thick stone altar, then steps back, placing himself in the center of the ring to concentrate. He makes a cut with the blade of a knife, gritting his teeth and stretching his arm out as the drops slide over his skin to fall on one of the symbols.

And then, everything glows brightly.

He could feel the air change and see the candle flames suddenly go out; only the light emanating from the circle illuminates the room. The boy's hair moves in time with the gust of wind, which can signal that certain objects and books are falling to the ground. He closes his eyes to begin reciting the spell.

“Silver and iron as elements.

Stone and the Archduke of Pacts as foundation.

The surging winds are diverted.

The four gates close.

Exit the crown, and turn through the crossroads leading to the kingdom.

Fill yourself.

Fill yourself.

Fill yourself.

Fill yourself.

Fill yourself.

Repeat five times, to break once filled.

Listen to my words.

You will entrust yourself to me.

My destiny will entrust itself to your blade.

If you accept the Grail's call and submit to its will, answer my call.”

He finally speaks the entire formula to see a flash of light emerge from the circle. The room changes appearance to become golden with threads and shards floating in the air. The young man looks to see a card manifest before him. His fingers touch the object, which glows with a thousand lights until a character appears on it: Assassin.

As he lifts it, he observes that he was suddenly almost thrown off by the gust of wind that can manifest suddenly. He took a step back to resist when he saw the seal on his hand glowing, until smoke appeared, preventing him from seeing what was in front of him. He squints, searching, walking cautiously, wondering if the ritual had worked.

Until he hears the sound of a blade.

He stops to see a weapon held out in his direction, which makes him stop, moving no more than his heart. His irises are focused on the figure appearing in the mist; he doesn't move, approaching slowly until the mage can finally see him better.

A boy with white hair and sky-blue eyes, he wears a long black coat with white symbols. He wears a white shirt with dark stripes, a light red tie, and dark pants with loafers.

His right hand holds the blade as he observes the mage. Outside, the bad weather is once again manifesting itself, allowing the storm to be heard, and the rain is falling heavily to prevent it.

“So… So this is the Servant I summoned ? According to the card I just saw, he's part of the Assassin class. I wonder who that could be…” the mage thought, looking closely at the Servant, and deciding to break the awkward and heavy silence. “Hello, I hope you're feeling well after the ritual. Let me introduce myself: Seraphim Leo. And I'm the one who summoned you,” Séraphin said, introducing himself to be polite, seeing the Servant look at him as he puts away his weapon, making it disappear in greeting.

“Please forgive me for pointing my weapon at you, Master. I meant no disrespect,” the boy apologized, bowing to him, as Seraphim gestured with his hand.

“Don't apologize, I understand your suspicions,” he said calmly, carefully analyzing the Servant who had appeared, wondering what he was thinking. “I know we just met, but I'd like to know more about you. I understand if you don't want to reveal everything,” Séraphin said, and the Servant was thoughtful, speaking in a calm tone.

“So you know: I'm of the Assassin class. You should know that I'm linked to the history of France, having had an impact during the First Republic because of an event that marked the country,” he explained to Séraphin, who reflected, tapping his chin, searching through the history of the country he knows.

Séraphin observes the Assassin to be in his thoughts, he searches his memory to recall all the courses he studied and others that his tutor, Madame Bellecour, may have taught him.

When he arrived in France.

“If I think about it, he must have lived during the time when the monarchy was still present before it finally ended…”, thought Séraphin until he had a flash of inspiration, looking at him, having an idea that he expressed in a calm tone. “Are you…by any chance…the famous executioner who ended the lives of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI ?”

He smiled slightly when he saw that his Master seemed intelligent, observant, and must have a tremendous amount of knowledge about history and probably legends. To have guessed without too much difficulty is rather impressive.

“That's right, I congratulate you for finding Master so easily,” he said, staring at Seraphim, who laughed a little, pleased with himself for having figured it out, even with a few clues.

“Oh, it's nothing. I've always been passionate about history since childhood. Since I have a good memory, I easily retain information and some important details. Except… dates, which are a real problem for me, having always had trouble remembering them,” Séraphin said, laughing nervously at being embarrassed about this. The boy listened to what Seraphim said, only to be surprised and nod his head.  “It's an honor for me to meet the famous Charles-Henri Sanson. Don't worry, I won't say anything about your name. I'll keep it safe in my head, and I'll call you Assassin when we're in front of others. Although, we should find a name for you to use when we're with other people. To prevent anyone from knowing your real name, do you have any ideas ?”

“Hmmm… Well, I was thinking of Eric or Charlie as a fake name. I'll let you choose which one I should use when we're in public,” Charles-Henri Sanson says to Séraphin, who is listening to the suggestions.

“Hmmm… Your alias will be Charlie, when we're in public,” Séraphin says. Charles-Henri nods. The young mage then looks at his laboratory, which is now a mess after the ritual he just performed. “Looks like we're going to have to tidy everything up; it's left quite a mess.”

He claps his hands as small golems emerge from the tubes, with pieces of neon green crystals on their sides. Placed on circles with the symbol of Jupiter engraved underneath in emerald. The devices look like small robots with large, glowing eyes, and have an antenna placed in their stomachs, hidden by a dark metal plate.

Where a light gray rock is on top.

Charles-Henri watches the scene, amazed by it. He had already heard that there were various types of magic in the world. But this is the first time he's seen what is called Archaic.

He's heard of this sorcery, which is often used for support, but if used well and with a lot of practice,

It can quickly become versatile.

"Did you create them ?" Charles-Henri asked Séraphin, who nodded to tidy his desk in the meantime.

“These are my first creations, before I can bring the combat one to life. I already wanted to build machines that could help me when I have to make other devices that will be used in battles and in other situations,” explained Séraphin, putting the books back in place, some of which had fallen to the floor.

Charles-Henri decided to help him pick up the few objects covering the surface, made of smooth, light-colored paving stones. He could see notes written half in French and half in Italian, which Séraphin was able to understand, allowing him to put them away neatly as he handed them to the young man.

“Thank you very much for your help, Charles-Henri,” said Séraphin, putting them in a plastic sleeve, which was then placed in a silver binder.

“Are you of Italian origin ?” the Assassin asked. The young mage remained silent for a few minutes, deciding to reveal some information about him so he could get to know him better.

“My father is French and my mother is Italian. I lived in Italy my entire childhood. I moved to France a few years ago now. It wasn't long ago that I studied here and was rewarded. I received a plot of land and the title of baron for publishing my work on the evolution of magic,” explained the young man, carefully putting away his work tools. He turned to Charles-Henri once everything was in order. “Well, I'm going to show you in a little more detail the castle where you'll be living. A room has been prepared for you where you can have some privacy, should you ever have any problems or need anything. Let me know, and I'll do everything I can to ensure your stay here goes smoothly.”

“That's kind of you, Master, but I'll settle for whatever's there. Don't worry,” said Charles-Henri in a polite tone that Séraphin understood, deciding not to force him.

“I see, well then, let's go. My guardian is probably waiting for us in the living room,” said Séraphin, leaving his laboratory as the cleaning robots finished tidying everything up, before returning to the tubes to fall asleep.

The Baron locked the door after turning off the lights in the room, and ventured into the dark corridors where wall lamps were placed to illuminate every nook and cranny. The Assassin noticed paintings, tapestries, and…

Suits of armor on the walls that seemed very strange.

This caught Charles-Henri's attention, as he sensed something was hidden inside.

"The armors in the corridors, is there a robotic part inside ?" he asked his Master, who laughed softly.

"So you've noticed, the armors here are actually one of the many defense systems in the castle. For now, they're on standby, only to be activated in case of an intrusion," explained Seraphin, continuing to walk with Charles-Henri. The two arrived at the stairs a few minutes later. They finally reached the exit door, which Seraphin opened, allowing Charles-Henri to see the decor, which is in light green tones with touches of gold. The furniture is made of dark brown oak with designs engraved into it; one can see knights, dragons, animals, and mages. The Assassin notices the weather outside, hearing the wind, rain, and storm rumbling together, creating a noisy orchestra outside. A few servants are cleaning or chatting among themselves, greeting the young baron and the Servant, who nods as he examines his surroundings.

“The place is well-maintained; despite his title of baron, he must have a very large fortune. And I can sense that he emits powerful Mana for an Archaic-type mage. I understood that people who possess this gift are often very creative and strategic, being able to easily guide their Golems and machines from behind, but I have the impression that he seems like the kind of individual who has more than one trick up his sleeve.” thought Charles-Henri as they followed Seraphin into the living room where Madame Bellecour is located.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, tutor. I just finished the ritual,” Seraphim said, watching the woman sitting in an armchair, drinking tea with elegance and grace, her eyes focused on the Assassin.

“It's nothing, I can understand that you needed it to concentrate for the ritual. At least you succeeded. Congratulations,” Madame Bellecour said, smiling at him. He was happy to receive compliments from her, as she analyzed the Servant her student had conjured. “So this is the one you summoned ? He gives off a certain aura. This is the first time I've seen a Servant in person; it's a chance I'll never have again in my life.”

Charles-Henri looked at Madame Bellecour, seeing that she was shorter than him and Seraphim, but despite her small stature and elegant noble appearance,  He can sense that she possesses formidable Mana, which he wraps around her like a cloak, understanding that she is a veteran given the energy emanating from her body.

"I can introduce you if you wish, but as you know, I'm a tutor. I can't say much about who he has it from or what type of Servant he is," says Séraphin, which Madame Bellecour understands by nodding, placing a hand on her pelvis.

"Don't worry, I already know that kind of information. Well, let me introduce myself: Marianne Bellecour, director of the Jean Guiton Magic Academy, and I am also your Master's tutor. It's nice to meet you," she declares, placing a hand on her chest and introducing herself with elegance and seriousness, as Charles-Henri Sanson greets her politely.

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Madame Bellecour. You can call me Charlie,” Charles-Henri says to her, who nods, deciding to observe her more closely.

She hovers around Charles-Henri for a moment, analyzing him for being fascinated by the Servant: he exudes an aura that she can feel, finding him incredible. Since childhood, she has always heard stories from her mother about heroes, heroes, and other historical figures who lived in ancient times throughout the world. That there was an event called the Holy Grail War, which brought together seven mages and their Servants, who must compete to obtain this sacred golden chalice that grants wishes. Of course, like many mages who hear of these legends, she has always been fascinated, wishing she could one day participate, but as she grew older, there were some who became obsessed, wishing they could become candidates.  Except that everyone knows they can't decide these kinds of things as they please. This often attracts jealousy, hatred, and envy from the others who are chosen.

Not knowing that this means putting one's life on the line to grant a wish that can be good or selfish, depending on the winner.

After all, men can be true demons when it comes to carrying out their most horrible wishes.

She taps her chin as she approaches her student, who is chatting with the servants as they leave the room. The latter pats his head, surprised by her gesture, looking at her curiously.

"You know you'll have to be careful during the fights that are about to take place: you'll have to be cunning and strategic on the battlefield," says Madame Bellecour, and Séraphin nods, understanding his tutor's concern on this matter.

“I understand, guardian, don’t worry. I’ll be careful, but, as you know, this Holy Grail War is different from the others that have taken place. The last one was in Fuyuki 6 years ago, and there were only 7 mages and Servants. This time, there are 14 participants with their Servants, which is rather curious.”, says Séraphin, crossing his arms thoughtfully when he hears someone knock on the living room door. “Yes ?”

“Sir, a young lady would like to see you. She's waiting in the hall,” the servant declared. The young man was curious to know who it could be. Charles-Henri managed to detect the Mana of the individual, recognizing who it belonged to. He decided to discreetly inform his Master.

“Master, the person who just arrived is the one chosen to fill the position of Ruler,” Charles-Henri Sanson murmured. Séraphin was surprised, not expecting Ruler to visit him.

“That's curious, why exactly did he come here ?” Seraphin thought, deciding to greet Ruler, who was waiting in the hall. “Okay, take her to the guest lounge while you wait. I'll be there in a few minutes to prepare some tea and pastries for her.”

“Very well, sir, I'll have everything prepared for her,” the servant said, leaving the three of them together.

"I wonder why she's here ? Maybe she wants to discuss something. Since I'm one of the participants," murmured Madame Bellecour, tapping her chin, intrigued by Ruler's presence in her student's castle.

"She'll surely want to ask you questions or talk to you about how it's going to go. After all, there are two teams, and you don't know which one you're on," said Madame Bellecour, crossing her arms over her chest. Her disciple thought about it before saying it.

"I'll try to prepare myself well so I look presentable in front of her," said Séraphin, looking after Charles-Henri Sanson to ask him. "Do you want me to ask the servants to prepare some clothes for you and arrange them so they fit you?"

“Hmmm… That doesn't bother me,” Charles-Henri asked Séraphin, who nodded and decided to call a servant. The servant went to fetch the tailor, who took Charles-Henri Sanson's measurements and wrote them down in his notebook.

“Do you have a particular favorite style of clothing, sir ?” the tailor asked, and Charles-Henri Sanson thought about it.

“Something classic and casual, in dark and slightly lighter tones,” Charles-Henri said to the tailor, who nodded as he wrote, then left. “Are you really going to have clothes made for me, Master ? I don't think it's necessary; I don't think I'll be staying here for long anyway.”

Séraphin stares, understanding Charles-Henri Sanson's words on the subject. After all, he is only a Servant serving his Master during the Holy Grail War.

From the perspective of some mages who have participated in these numerous battles, they are seen as objects with a human appearance who obey. But some people don't see them that way.

And Séraphin is one of them.

Madame Bellecour listens silently to the exchange unfolding, watching her student remain thoughtful, trying to find the right words to explain. He has always been like this since she took him in that day, helping him become the mage he is today. She is proud of his growth and hopes he can live a normal and peaceful life.

The young man with blue eyes opens his mouth, speaking in a calm and collected tone.

“I can understand your way of thinking, but know that I want to treat you well. Not only as my Servant, but also as a guest in my home. You are welcome here, and you can consider this place your home until the end of this war,” said Séraphin, smiling at Charles-Henri Sanson. He listened to him, observing the young man's gaze, seeing that he was sincere in his words, which made him smile.

“Thank you for your kindness, Master, it is an honor to be your Servant,” said Charles-Henri Sanson, bowing to him.

“No need to, and you may call me Séraphin. No need to call me Master all the time,” said Séraphin, waving his hand to Charles-Henri. Madame Bellecour approached, ruffling her student's hair as she said.

“Or you can call him Little Caramel ! That little rascal loves caramels,” said Madame Bellecour, and Séraphin let out a shriek, staring at her in embarrassment.

“Guardian ! Don't talk nonsense, and stop using that ridiculous nickname !” shouted Séraphin, embarrassed by her words. She burst out laughing and patted him hard on the back, causing him to fall to the ground. “Well, you're still as fragile as ever, I tell you. I thought you'd get stronger with age; that's not how you'll seduce women.”

“Tutor ! Stop ridiculing me in front of Charlie ! He'll think his Master is weak and incapable !” said Séraphin, embarrassed that she laughed at Charles-Henri, who found the relationship between the two amusing.

“They seem to have a solid Master-Student relationship: they must have had some moments that brought them closer together for them to get along so well,” thought Charles-Henri Sanson, smiling at the bickering duo. The couturier, who was still present, noticed that a servant had arrived, making gestures to warn Ruler.

“Sir, I believe this servant has come for your guest. She must still be waiting in your living room,” said the couturier, to which Séraphin jumped, having almost forgotten to say.

“Charlie, let's go meet her. You may be excused, Mr. Dumont,” said Séraphin to the couturier, who nodded to leave. “Tutor, are you planning on staying for dinner tonight ? So I can let the head chef know there'll be an extra person for dinner tonight, along with you and Charlie,” Séraphin explained to Madame Bellecour, who thought about it as she spoke.

“Since we haven't seen each other for a long time, I'll stay for dinner tonight. I'd also like to learn more about your friend Charlie !” Madame Bellecour said cheerfully, clapping her hands and smiling. Charles-Henri sensed she was going to ask him a lot of questions during the meal.

“I wish you good luck with dinner tonight.”, Seraphin whispered to him. Charles-Henri laughed a little as he followed the young mage to the room where guests are usually greeted.

The two men then moved forward through the entrance hall, which was currently occupied by the servants doing a bit of cleaning.

The rain continued to be heard outside. They eventually arrive in a hallway that is very well decorated, with symbols of deer and laurels hanging or in the form of statues. There are a few paintings depicting landscapes with figures related to Greek mythology, their footsteps echoing on the oak floor covered with a long pale blue-green carpet. Once they arrive at the door of the guest lounge, Séraphin tries to check if his outfit is perfect before entering with Charles-Henri Sanson. The two young men enter the room, which is overflowing with flowery objects. The partition has been painted for several years now, having been recently redone to give the room a fresh look.

Sitting on the sofa facing the door, a young woman with braided blonde hair is drinking her drink and looking up at the duo. The young mage decides to speak, wanting to apologize to Ruler, while Charles-Henri remains silent beside him.

"Forgive us for being late. I hope we didn't keep you waiting too long," apologized Seraphim, bowing to her as Jeanne d'Arc waves her hand and smiles gently.

“It's nothing, don't worry. I'm the one who should be apologizing for coming so suddenly. I needed to talk to you about the progress of this Holy Grail War, which is different from the previous ones,” she explained, placing the cup on the porcelain bowl, her hands resting on her knees as she analyzed the Master and his Servant. “I see you've summoned the Violet Faction Assassin, which makes you the second participants on your team.”

“The second ? Who are the first ?” Seraphim asked curiously, moving a little closer with Charles-Henri. “The first is a young woman you will soon meet. In a few days, the first meeting between members of your team will take place. Well, it will only take place when all the other Masters have summoned the remaining Servants.”, she murmured at the end, closing her eyes to think back to the murder story that happened recently, looking back at Séraphin and Charles-Henri. “I wish I could investigate this story, something is happening in the dark. The Association of the Order of Hermes is looking for information about this, but I would like to have more information aout the two Masters who died. I have the feeling that what happened is not normal at all.”

Charles-Henri looks at Jeanne d'Arc intently, feeling as if she seems to be thinking about something. But the Assassin doesn't really know what exactly; he just has a feeling it seems rather important, judging by the expression in her eyes.

"It seems Ruler is thinking about something, but what exactly?" he thought, remaining silent before deciding to break the silence. "You said you were going to tell us about the Holy Grail War. Can you tell us more ?"

“Ah, yes, that's true. Sorry, I was somewhere else for a few seconds. As you've noticed, this war is different from the previous ones. There are 14 participants, not the usual 7, which means two factions have been created. To balance the teams and ensure everything runs smoothly, you'll team up with the other chosen mages,” she explained calmly, and the two nodded in agreement. “Séraphin and Assassin, you're part of the Violet. Currently, you're only two mages who have summoned their servants. The others should be performing the summoning ritual soon.”

The young man with dark blue eyes, slightly green, taps his chin, lost in thought, quite curious: why is this Holy Grail War so different from the others ? What will happen in the end, if his faction eliminates all the other competing rivals ?  Will they have to fight and kill each other to decide who will win the precious Golden Chalice ?

One thing is certain for him: he will have to ally himself with his future teammates to achieve victory.

Prologue I. The End.

[umekonae]

Chronicles of the 3 Monarchs.

POV:

👻Ariella.👻

Backup 01.

The appearance of the two Monarchs.

/A few years later./

👻Ariella.👻

The wind blows gently through the foliage of the trees and the vegetation around us, the scent of nature tickles my nostrils as I can smell various fragrances. Like that of morning dew, flowers, and the wood of the trees. I admire the landscape before us as I walk forward, happily analyzing the surroundings, while my brother follows me with his hands in his jacket pockets.

-Easy, big sister, don't start wandering off just because we're in Ireland, he says, as I turn around a little while walking and smile at him.

-Just admire it ! I've always loved this country ! It's one of my favorites that I've so wanted to see in real life, and look! We're finally in this wonderful country ! Filled with tales, legends, and mysteries, I said, continuing to walk, happy to be here, when he laughed a little.

-I see, you've been jumping around the house saying you can't wait to come here, my brother said, as birds landed on his head and shoulders.

My brother and I have been here for five years, living our new life together in the Solo Leveling universe as reincarnators...and also Judges of the Afterlife. Yeah, just that. No sooner had we drowned than we were chosen to guard a door that prevents anyone from trying to access the World of Portals. Allowing people like us to reincarnate in another world, if they're lucky enough. Anyway, today we're on vacation visiting Ireland. For having to cheat by using an item that made us grow, so we could have our respective ages before we died. Because yes, we're not going for a walk in our current child forms. That might invite trouble! My boots touch the path to see animals that have passed by, quietly living their lives in this peaceful environment. I hum a little to see my brother surrounded by birds. It's true that my younger brother has become the Monarch of the Divine Birds. He can communicate with them, their data, orders, etc.

Which is perfect for him, seeing as how he's always loved birds. And me ?

Let's just say I got the Phantom Monarch. Yeah, it's so cool. I love that title, which means I'm somehow connected to death.

-By the way, big sister, when are we supposed to meet the hero of Solo Leveling ? The quest we've had since arriving here just says to find him and stay with him until the dreaded day arrives. He's talking about when he gets his Second Awakening...Right ?, he asked curiously, petting one of the birds perched on his shoulder, while the others let out cries as they continued to follow him to create a flock.

-I think so. The quest must surely be about the day he enters the Dungeon and...that he ends up having his Second Awakening during this horrible event, I say to my younger brother, who is thinking quietly. I climb onto a sturdy tree root to see the end of the path in the distance. Ah ! I see the exit !

-Finally ! I really thought we were going to end up camping in the woods, and personally, I prefer sleeping warm in a good bed than in a sleeping bag on the ground, says my brother, who arrives at my side.

-Speak for yourself, Mr. Prince. I remind you, I was in the military. I know what it's like to sleep on the ground, in a sleeping bag in the middle of the forest, I say to him, turning my head in his direction. He scratches his cheek and finally looks at me.

-Well, excuse me, Madam Ex-Soldier. But I studied to be a logistics manager! he declared proudly. I groaned, rolled my eyes, and floated down the root before touching the ground.

-Excuse me, Mr. Logistics Student. I should point out that I drove trucks while also working in that field !, I said. He jumped up, revealing his wings on his back to fly above me.

-Except it wasn't really your thing, he declared, following me as I walked forward, to see the birds following us. Given the gentle way you drive vehicles…

-Oh, that's fine, even if it wasn't my thing. I changed fields to work with mechanics, and it suits me perfectly !, I declared to him, who giggled a little, finally landing gently beside me. I did it for the degrees and nothing else.

-Like many of your classmates, he says, and he's not wrong about that. Besides, your superiors didn't make you want to stay. Seeing how you talked about them when you came home on weekends."

-Argh, don't talk to me about Mr. Clean and his sidekick, Teletobis. If I were still in our home world with my current powers... I would have wiped him off the face of the Earth in no time, I say, showing my disgust and anger at those asshole non-commissioned officers who are complete scum.

-Like Thanos ?, my junior says, and I laugh as we reach the trailhead to admire the immense plateau with its unobstructed view that lies before us.

-Yeah, like Thanos, I say softly, taking in the scent of nature.

We finally arrived in front of the great Carrauntoohil mountain in Ireland. The weather was quite nice, with a few gray clouds blocking the sun's rays. A few people were making their way up the rather arduous path to the peak where there's a large metal cross at the very top.

-This place is beautiful. I heard it takes a lot of physical strength to climb to the top, said my brother, his hands in his jacket pockets, feeling the breeze blowing through our hair.

-Of course, not everyone will do that. Just look at the distance people have to travel to get to the peak where the large metal cross is located. Only to have to struggle down. Who would want to climb Carrauntoohil Mountain ? Except for those who want to suffer, said my brother as we walked quietly, watching the birds disperse a little so we could better admire the breathtaking surroundings.

-The athletes ? The daredevils ? The stubborn ones ?, I said, continuing forward, feeling the wind blowing, smelling several scents, and seeing a few brave souls advance. Some are struggling, others are doing their best, and... I see everyone looking at us with wide eyes. Hey...Why are they looking at us strangely ?

My brother, who was petting a bird perched on his hand, looks at me with a raised eyebrow. His head turns toward the people climbing to look at us, mumbling in their own languages, which we can understand. Thanks to some of their abilities, we can read, understand, speak, and even write anything and everything in languages from around the world! Which is handy. My younger brother thinks, looks at our outfits, and understands, and says to me.

-I think it's because of our outfits and the fact that we're not equipped for walking like them, he says, as I stare at our clothes, which are rather light, not carrying sports bags like some.

-Ah... Well, since we're S-rank. Our physical abilities are more developed than the others, thanks to our stats, I say to my brother, who agrees with me, continuing to move forward, easily passing people. By the way, we should have brought a jacket to avoid the rain."

-Yes, that's true... But you know we can make them appear, says his brother, and I reflect as we bring up our virtual screens to search, now wearing warm jackets.

-It's really handy to have, no more going back to the house to look for our missing things or wondering where we put them, says my brother, who I agree with him. We can feel the wind blowing and it doesn't bother us.

-It's definitely handy, thank goodness the supply is unlimited. We can put everything away perfectly, I said, putting my hands in my jacket pockets to look at the landscape, feeling relaxed as I thought about our parents. Say, how do you think things are going for them ?

My brother remained silent as he raised his head to the sky, which was beginning to turn gray. A few rays of sunlight peeked through to brighten the surroundings a little. I felt like I was in another universe, even if it was a bit like that. My brother and I came from somewhere else, reincarnated, to live a new life…

Far from our family and our original world.

We decided to stop on the side of the road and sat on some rocks, looking at the landscape before us. The few brave people who climbed passed us, chatting, and eventually continued on their way. A few minutes passed as I breathed gently, looking at the horizon to remember our parents and our cat.

-You know, I miss them a lot. I feel bad... Knowing we're gone forever there... he says, as I listen to him, feeling the wind blowing through my hair, smelling various scents tickling my nostrils. They must be destroyed, knowing their two children...Will never come home again.

-...I understand, I'm like you, I say softly, remembering my past, the times I had with our family and other people in our home world. I feel...Like an unworthy daughter, even though...We can't help it, that's how it was. Our destiny no longer exists there, it's here...And...

I say softly, turning my head toward Erel, who is looking at a part of the mountain, her eyes, which were once brown like mine. They are now minnows with one iris ruby red and the other white as a diamond, while mine have given way to a pale red that one could almost mistake me for a vampire. Birds land near him to see some fly over our heads, I remain silent to say.

-We're both here now, you and I, we'll never separate. Whatever happens and happens to us... We'll face everything together, no matter what, I say, staring at him as he turns his head toward me, the wind suddenly blowing hard and our hair flying in the air. Because we're a family, we must live for our future... And our past, so we'll never forget them.

My brother remains silent, breathing to look at me, his eyes displaying various emotions that I can easily read and feel what's deep inside him. I hold his hand and he smiles at me gently as he says, Let's live for us and for them, Erel says. I smile at him gently. We sit on the rocks for a few minutes before deciding to get up and leave, holding hands.

-By the way, the start of the school year is approaching for us. Aren't you too nervous about going back to school ?

-Argh, don't talk to me about it. Who would have thought I'd be going back to school at my age ? I said, groaning, knowing that he and I, despite getting smaller and younger, have kept our ages when we died. I hope it goes well; school has never been my thing compared to you.

-Don't worry, it'll be fine, don't panic about it, my brother said, reassuring me as I smiled softly at him.

-I'm not looking forward to doing my homework, I said. He chuckled softly as we continued walking together on this path, admiring the scenery before us.

-Try to see the positive in things and not always the negative, even Khaos tells you that, my younger brother said, as the paladin appeared at our side in his ghostly form.

-The young lord is right, Your Grace, be more optimistic in life. Look, you've made enormous progress, just like him, in increasing your levels, ending up being S-rank hunters at your age, he says. I sigh softly, knowing they're right. I've always been naturally pessimistic, rarely being positive about the situations that present themselves to me.

-I'm sorry. It's another bad habit of mine, I say with a sigh, which the two of them understand, finally stopping to admire the horizon of the Irish mountains. This place is truly magnificent, I want to stay here forever, it's so beautiful.

-I understand, big sister, me too. I'd like to stay here, my brother says, his eyes fixed on the sky and the rocky mounds, and we see the birds being silent for once. Shall we go back to our accommodation ?

-Yeah, let's go back to our accommodation. I can't wait to spend a few days at the cottage we booked during our summer vacation !, I said happily, hoping to make the most of his dream vacation with my younger brother.

~A little later.~

-Once again, Your Grace !, Khaos shouted, covered in sweat, holding the sword in my hands, exhausted after performing the same gesture so many times. Keep going a little longer, you're almost done.

I breathe, sweating like a pig after completing the daily quest exercises. My body, over the years, has easily adapted to its hours of intensive training. My brother does the same, wielding the halberd, his weapon of choice, while I use the sword, having not chosen the easiest one to wield.

No.

I wanted one like Cloud from Final Fantasy.

And my wish was granted.

Now I have to face up to my choice.

-And it's over !, said Khaos, as my brother and I fell to our knees, sweating, trying to catch our breath, as I held my sword firmly.

-Damn, I'm starting to smell like wild boar, I said, using my weapon as a cane, as my brother did the same.

-Don't talk to me, I stink of skunk. Today's session was definitely more intense than the other times, said my younger brother, as Khaos fetched towels and water bottles to hand us, which we took. Thank you, Khaos.

-You're welcome, young lord, it's a pleasure to help and assist you in your training, said the paladin, as I wiped my sweat-covered face. You're progressing quickly, Your Grace. At this rate, you could become a true swordswoman. You have a gift for sword fighting.

-Ah, that's nice of you for the compliment. I wouldn't have thought I'd be good with a sword; I only handled firearms in my old life. Never a blade, so... It's rather nice to see that I have a certain ease with this weapon, I say softly, fixing the weapon at my waist to put it in my inventory, and I take a sip of water, contentedly. It feels good to drink.

-Ah... It looks like it's going to rain, my brother says, staring at the darkening sky, hearing the storm rumbling in the distance, feeling drops of rain, and we decide to go inside the stone house. We should decide on tomorrow's schedule and see what the weather will be like.

-Good idea, let's do that. But first, go take a shower." I'll start cooking while I wait, I say, closing the door to hear the rain falling heavily, my attention riveted on this spectacle, which I find pleasant. The lights from the little house illuminate the living room and the open kitchen. The decor is in an antique style, seeing the dark oak furniture in good condition. The room gives off a certain scent that isn't unpleasant; it smells of wood and the dried flowers left by the owners. This helps to perfume the room, which is quite large.

Time flies so quickly…

I admire the falling rain, thinking back to the years that have passed in a flash since our reincarnation, having progressed to increase our stats so quickly that we've become strong.

But it's still not enough.

We need to be even stronger.

Time is running out for the two of us before we meet the last player: Sung Jinwoo.

And yes, we're just like him, but different. Our system was created by Yggdrasil himself when we entered the world of Solo Leveling. This means that our missions come mainly from him, while still being connected to the main storyline. I decide to activate the virtual screen to see the remaining time:

Time remaining before meeting the player Sung Jinwoo:

1 month, 5 hours, and 34 minutes

Quest “The Second Awakening of the World's Weakest Hunter: In Progress.”

-It looks like the meeting will take place during the start of the school year, which will take place in September, I said softly, staring at the quest on the virtual screen, only to have it disappear afterward, remaining silent and looking at my calloused hands. Everything that's happening to us is so...strange, that sometimes I feel like I'm dreaming. And yet... It's so real, this new life that's been given to me and my brother...

I clench my fist as I think back to the sensation my body feels when my hands hold my sword. The training my body has endured all these years, to be able to reach a level always above the others. So that no one can reach me and ridicule me, like in the past, just wanting to show everyone who I am. The unpleasant moments of my past life sometimes come back to me; I've always been someone who regrets my past actions. But now, I just want to do what I want without feeling remorse and having to limit myself.

No, I want to do as I please.

-Your Grace, are you all right ?, Khaos asked, seeing that I hadn't moved, staring at the rain falling outside. Do you...need to talk ?

-...I think back to those times when people did nothing but criticize me, put me down... I experienced it during my school years and even when I was working. It... always left an impression on me, I said softly as I walked toward the kitchen to begin preparing the meal. Khaos followed me, listening to my words and sensing my sadness. I know that...I'm different from others in personality and behavior, but...I'm also a human being, just like them. So... Why do we have to be so cruel to each other ? What's the point exactly ?

I said these words as I cut the food to heat the water in the pot. There was a silence in the room, feeling his riveted attention. It's been a long time since he became my loyal soldier, the first in a long list, knowing that he will soon become the commander of my future Scarlet Funeral Procession. My gift and I haven't done a Raid yet; in truth, we're just waiting for that to allow us to progress and finally create our armies. That's why we begged Yggdrasil to create or find us a dungeon so we can be in the field. He said he'd think about it; we've been waiting for a while, hoping we can do a dungeon !

If we want to become stronger.

The best solution: real combat !

As I cooked the meat, adding spices to enhance its flavor, Khaos, who had been by my side the whole time, decided to break this silence.

-Your Grace, I know you and I are different. But know one thing: despite what happens in the future, do not lose the humanity you seek to preserve. Even so, your old life was never the most pleasant for you. Think about the one you will live here, with your brother, your future comrades in arms and who knows, your lover, said Khaos as I flipped the ground steaks with the wooden spatula, putting the pasta in the pot after the water was boiling to have my attention riveted on Khaos after that. I may be only a simple Red Specter right now, but, I aspire to be able to be by your side and help you in difficult times. You are the Ghost Monarch, but also the older sister of the young lord. You deserve to have a beautiful, happy life as a human being.

I was surprisingly surprised when I heard him speak; it was the first time he'd ever said those words to me. Since he became the first soldier of my Scarlet Funeral Procession, I've been trying to figure out how to connect with him to talk and train, wanting to become a good leader.

And...I must say he's helped me a lot; he's taught me a lot of advice on sword fighting techniques, magic, and even martial arts. This has allowed me to strengthen my skills and increase my levels, having progressed greatly thanks to him. He's a bit of a mentor to me, and my brother, who also followed his instructions, is also a mentor. As the paladin told me earlier during our first meeting: he no longer remembers his previous life or who he was, which I find sad, hoping to have pleasant memories from now on. My head turns to the pot to stir with the wooden spoon, remaining silent as I say...

-Do you think that...My humanity...Will remain intact, even if...I become...The Phantom Monarch ?, I asked him softly, lowering the heat on the hamburgers, looking at him, wanting to hear his opinion. I and my brother were given the role of Judge of the Beyond and to become Monarchs. Even so, we are not bound to the others who are the enemies of humanity. We have the power...To destroy any threat that tries to cross the threshold, and...Do you think that...It will be okay...That we will be able to... Keep this humanity, despite everything that might happen to us ?

-I think so, Your Grace. You may not see it. But you possess many qualities that you do not see. You are certainly different from other humans and Monarchs. But do not be hard on yourself. Look on the bright side and be more optimistic. After all, life is too short to live with regrets sticking to your skin, he says, as I listen, seeing through his white irises that he radiates kindness.

-...How long has it been since I last spoke to someone other than my parents or my brother ? I had my comrades from my company and platoon, but they were all hypocrites who criticized me behind my back. And...The friends I thought I had ended up leaving without giving me a reason for why they decided to turn their backs on me, I thought, recalling my past to breathe, closing my eyes. I should have been sad, angry, or felt some other emotion...But nothing. My heart and soul...Felt nothing in the face of these fragments of memories. Do you think...That...Everything will be fine in the future ?

-If you believe in yourself, then yes. Everything will be fine, Your Grace. Don't fear the future and believe in yourself. You are a Monarch and one of the two Judges of the Afterlife. You have reincarnated into this world to accomplish great things with the young lord. So, have no fear about what you will choose and do, Khaos says, as I listen to him, feeling...relaxed at his words, smiling softly as I respond.

-Thank you, Khaos, for your words and your advice. It's been a long time since anyone told me that, I say tenderly, thanking him. He nods, seeing his white irises reveal tenderness. It feels good to discuss this kind of subject freely. Well, I should at least finish the meal while my brother finishes his shower.

-Do you need help, Your Grace ?, I can help you if you'd like, Khaos asked, and I thought about it before deciding to accept.

-I'd like that. Can you cut the vegetables, please ?, I asked, pointing at the food on the chopping board. He stepped forward to begin chopping in a...clumsy manner. Um...Have you ever cooked before ?

-...No, Your Grace, I've never done this before, he said, bowing his head ashamed. I laughed a little, deciding to teach him. Please excuse me for not being able to help you.

-Don't worry, it happens to everyone. Look, you do it like this, I said, showing him the technique, as he watched me carefully. With practice, it will come.

-Big sister, I'm done with my shower, says Erel, coming out of the bathroom. I turn my head towards him, seeing that he's in his pajamas, putting on a jacket to keep him warm. It's quite chilly tonight, we should turn on the heat.

-Good idea, it's quite cold tonight. Especially with this rainy weather, I say, seeing that the rain continues to fall outside, as I watch my brother take some logs from the basket by the fireplace. I'll leave the rest to you, Khaos. If you have any problems, ask my brother. Okay ?

-Yes, Your Grace, says Khaos, picking up the knife to start chopping the vegetables. I glance discreetly to see if everything's going well.

I see that Khaos is focused on his task, feeling that it's best not to distract him. My brother puts a match in the fireplace after putting the logs in to keep himself warm. Will there be more of this peaceful moment we're currently experiencing together in the future? I hope so. We should enjoy all of this before this world changes; there isn't much time left before the portals appear here.

My steps lead me to the bathroom to undress and clean myself, the water trickling down my skin as I'm lost in my thoughts.

Sometimes, everything that's happening to us seems so unreal, I could believe it wasn't my reality...

Yet...

I'm alive here, with my youngest.

His powers that flow through our veins are too, Khaos, my first Red Specter, is just as much as we are.

-We're alive, all of this is real, and... The danger that's about to appear on Earth is too... It will be just as real, I say softly, staring at my calloused hands to squeeze them afterward, breathing as I try to relax and not get stressed.

The virtual screen appears in front of me to show my stats, compared to my brother's and Jinwoo's when he's linked to the system. I have an extra box related to stress, great. Just because I've always been a stress freak, and I see that it was 0% and is now at 5%.

-Fucking stress, I say, groaning, hating this thing that's going to really piss me off.

Save 01 Completed ! Next Loading…

[umekonae]

Chronicles of the 3 Monarchs.

Saison 1: The 3 destinies.

Arc 0: Prequel to The Phantom Monarch and The Divine Birds.

Ch 00: Hello dear Death !

Ch 01: The appearance of the two Monarchs.

Ch 02: (coming soon).

[umekonae]

Chronicles of the 3 Monarchs.

POV:

⚔️Jinwoo.⚔️

👻Ariella.👻

🦅Erel.🦅

♣️Neutre.♣️

Backup 00.

Hello dear death !

♣️Neutre.♣️

The young woman sits on the ground with her knees crossed, sighing as she stares at the man with ice-cold skin, pointed ears similar to those of an elf, hair like snow, and deer antlers who is watching the brunette. He stands straight, holding in his hand a specter made of very old wood with a pale blue sphere above it that radiates slightly. It shows a bored and annoyed face for having remained silent since arriving in this strange place with her brother who is muttering while analyzing the surroundings carefully. The soul guide Yggdrasil has his pale eyes fixed on the two newcomers in the Path of the Otherworld, where the souls of the deceased arrive to be redirected elsewhere or will go to hell or paradise in their world of origin. Depending on the power of the piece of shard that is in them, when a human from the Land of Origin dies. His soul can awaken abilities upon death called shards. Quite a few individuals have these abilities, which make them appear before him very often. So that he can guide them to one of the billions of worlds that were created by humans and are therefore real in these unique universes.

And the two current ones fall into this category, except they are quite...Special, which greatly interested him, being intrigued by these people.

-We're dead, I presume, right ?, the brunette asked, staring at Yggdrasil, who nodded. And how ?

-Drown during your boat ride, he declared. She sighed, resting her chin on her hand.

-Great, what a great idea to die in the middle of the sea during this family summer vacation, she mumbled, closing her eyes and watching her brother, who was pacing back and forth, analyzing the different paths and doors scattered throughout this immense and endless place. So ? Who are you exactly ?

-I am Yggdrasil, more commonly known as the Soul Passer. I decide whether or not you will be reincarnated in another world when you die, he explained, earning her a raised eyebrow as she watched him.

-Seriously ? Does that exist ?, she asked, not expecting the young lady's brother to approach them.

-Excuse me, what are all these strange doors and paths ?, the boy asked curiously.

-What you see over there are the different doors that allow you to go to the other universes that exist, he explained to the boy, who nodded.

-I see...So, you're some kind of judge ?, he asked, crossing his arms and nodding. Who would have thought you'd meet a divine being when you die. I never thought I'd drown. It reminds me of the manhwa or manga I read. The ones about Isekai, except that very often, the heroes or heroines die because of a truck, she said, tapping her knee with her fingers and getting up, cracking her neck.

Yggdrasil analyzes the two young people a little, looking at their shards, which are located in the center of their bodies. And theirs is extremely bright, rivaling the brightness of the sun. This kind of event has happened before in his long life as a sacred deity, and he is greatly surprised to see it after so much time, feeling that they both have a bright future.

-In any case, I welcome you to the Path to the Otherworld, dear Baileres, said Yggdrasil, seeing the two calm beings.

-So you knew us ? Do you have a list or something ?, asked the boy. Yggdrasil nodded, revealing a stone book that opened loudly, revealing words written in an ancient language that only he could read and understand.

-It's one of my precious work tools. It tells me everything I need to know about the deceased, he explained to the two, who were looking curiously at the rock book, which looked heavy to carry.

-Gee, this thing must weigh several tons, said the brunette, looking at the object with fascination, seeing that it had symbols on it, strongly reminiscent of Norse mythology.

-So ? Where are we going ?, the dark-haired man asked, and Yggdrasil replied by closing the rock book with one hand, which impressed the duo to see that he did it with a simple gesture, as if it came naturally to him.

-Well, I've seen a little of your journey, and I've also noticed that you both possess very interesting shards within you, he explained, making the two look confused.

-Uh...Tell us, Sir Yggdrasil, what exactly are shards ?, the young boy asked, observing him curiously.

-Shards are pieces of power linked to human daydreaming; everyone possesses them to a greater or lesser extent. Of course, everyone dreams, which is natural for humans. But sometimes, some don't retain them after their deaths. And those who manage to keep them are lucky enough to be reincarnated in another world. What's happening to you two ?, he explained to the two Baileres, who were surprised as they looked at each other, wondering what exactly a shard looks like.

-And what shape does a shard have ?, asked the eldest, intrigued and crossed her arms.

-The shard doesn't have a shape, strictly speaking; it can look like a star, a moon, etc. The shard takes on the appearance of its wearer, Yggdrasil said to the two, who realized the wearer was smiling. Well, in any case, I'm holding on...

-Hey, that's a rather original way of dying. To die in the sea, to drown with the fishes, said the eldest to her younger sister, who was listening.

-I admit, usually it's either because of illness, an accident, or because of Truck-kun, he says, as his elder sister nods.

-It's true, we should consider ourselves lucky to have a unique death, says the brunette, as Yggdrasil listens to and observes the Bailers discussing.

The Soul Guide analyzes the scene, finding himself very surprised by the conversation, having met different individuals throughout his life. He's seen many diverse and varied reactions, some of which he can understand. It's always difficult to accept the fact that you die to go to another world. You leave your family, your friends, your companion, and your future.

But for them, this is the first time he's heard this, and he wonders what kind of human beings he's encountered.

-Wait, what's the dumbest, most humiliating death we could have had ?, the boy asked his older sister, who was thinking.

-Dying by choking on a peanut ?, she declared, as her younger sister tapped his chin.

-Hmmm... Not bad, it would have been a dumb death for sure. But what do you think would be worse ?, he said, as the brunette was about to speak, until Yggdrasil cut them off.

-Well, who would have thought I'd hear this kind of thing one day in my lifetime. You two are pretty special, talking in such a casual tone about death and the worst situations in which to die. It's not every day I get to see that, he declared, not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

-Oh, you know, dark humor is nice from time to time. Besides, we're currently dead, so... It doesn't change much for us, declares the brunette, whom Yggdrasil knows she's not wrong.

-...You two are really strange.

-Thank you for the compliment, the duo say together, smiling as he sighs, laughing lightly.

-Well, enough about dark humor related to death. You'll be reincarnated in a world that's perfect for the two of you, says Yggdrasil, tapping the ground with his specter.

The sphere that was at its center radiates to reveal stairs and a path, leading to a door high up, where it shines. It begins to rise as the two Baileres blink at him, shrugging before following him to their destination. The closer their steps get to the door, which has a most unique design, the more the place changes, and they suddenly find themselves in a corridor worthy of a dungeon. They were surprised to see torches hanging on the stone wall, statues placed in the openings to be a little hidden by dark velvet curtains. Their footsteps are the only sounds they hear to arrive at the portal which has changed to look like a huge door with drawings on it. They represent two beings wearing strange armor to see that one has birds around him and the other ghosts, which greatly intrigued the young people. Yggdrasil stops in front to turn towards them.

-Well, I present to you the door that will take you to your new world: Solo Leveling, said Yggdrasil, as the brunette let out a fangirl-like squeal.

-SOLO LEVELING ?! SERIOUSLY ?! OH MY GOD ! OH MY GOD !, she cried with joy, jumping around, and her brother knew how to cover the ears of those who were waiting for her, except for Yggdrasil, whose ears were bleeding.

-The thing you shouldn't have said to him, said the brunette, staring at the god, who had one eye twitching. Sorry, my sister is a huge fan of Solo Leveling...especially Sung Jinwoo, the S-rank Hunter."

Yggdrasil must have cleaned his ears by making a handkerchief appear to see the woman talking very quickly, saying lots of things in French, which he understood even if it was at high speed. Her brother isn't really surprised, as he's used to seeing her in fangirl mode, especially for the famous manhwa.

-I... See that, said Yggdrasil, seeing the young woman screaming in joy, which made him laugh a little. Good, like I said. You have the honor and the privilege of going. And, you'll receive titles.

-Titles ?, said the boy, whose older sister had stopped screaming in fangirl mode and moved closer to listen. What do you mean ?

-When a Shard enters a new world, for its reincarnation. It receives a title, powers, and other things. Basically, I give it a survival kit.

-Damn, that word brings back bad memories, muttered the brunette, who remembered her former life as a soldier.

-Don't worry, everything will be fine, Yggdrasil said, smiling and snapping his fingers, two virtual screens appearing in front of the two Bailers. Well, as a Soul Guide, I will awaken the Shards that lie dormant within you !

He begins to speak in a language other than the circles of light, circling around the duo, who watch the scene with curiosity and wonder. Until the rings break and lead to the virtual screens, words appear, and the two read what is written:

"You receive the title of Judges of the Afterlife. You alone can open the door allowing the most deserving deceased among the Shards to access reincarnation. Those who dare to refuse to challenge you and gain access to the Path to the Otherworld without having received a blessing will be punished, and your role will be to prevent them from reaching the door."

-The Judges of the Afterlife ?, the two Baileres said together, reading the text, which eventually changed to read the following message.

-Indeed, you are receiving the title of Judges of the Afterlife! Which is an honor for Shards like you, because there have only been two of them since then. And it's been a while since they last held that position. I've decided to allow them to rest by letting them reincarnate in another world. And... They've secretly had a certain impact on the Solo Leveling world.

-Really ? And in what way ?, the brunette asked curiously, staring at Yggdrasil.

-Well, the Judges of the afterlife are called Monarchs there. Just like those who want to destroy the world, but in relation to others. They don't seek to defend it, nor to destroy it. No, they are seen as beings superior to those who simply observe, just as your role is that of Judges. You decide who can pass through the gate you monitor, and... Let's say your predecessors had disagreements with the Monarchs and the Dominators. Because they sought to make them their allies. As you know, one group represents the light and the other the darkness. One seeks to protect humans and the other to destroy them. But... Your predecessors couldn't break the rules given, saying they must not get involved in this kind of combat. Which didn't please some who faced them... only to lose to the Judges.

-What ?! Seriously ?! So... We have two titles, Judges and Monarchs, the brunette said, tapping her chin, and Yggdrasil nodded. Damn, I feel like we've become the final bosses of a video game.

-We might become that if someone challenges us for access to the door we're guarding, the boy said, crossing his arms and looking at the virtual screen. What title did you get, big sister ?"

-Me ? I got the title of Phantom Monarch. And you ?, the older girl said, looking at her screen and staring at her younger sister.

-Monarch of the Divine Birds, he said calmly, liking the title.

-Oh cool, plus you really like birds, she said, as the screens showed other talents, until she spotted one and froze. What ? What's that talent ?

-What do you have ?, asked the brunette, reading off her talents until he heard his older sister.

-I have a talent called 'Ex-Soldier,' seriously, even my past is coming back to haunt me !, she declared, grumbling and sighing, ruffling her wavy hair.

The younger sister knew very well that his older sister never really liked the military. She only did it for the money, the few perks it offered... And also because their father pushed her a little too, of course; it wasn't really for her. Their father was a bit obsessed with the field, forcing his daughter into it; even their mother told him to stop forcing her. But the brunette didn't exactly have the most incredible degrees, and she had trouble finding a stable job. It was the only place that accepted her, even though it wasn't interesting in her eyes.

-Oh shit, bad luck. And, what does your talent say ?, he asked curiously.

"Ex-Soldier: Allows you to awaken memories of your time as a soldier. What you think will disappear from your mind will return to you. Defense methods and other skills will return to you if you need to recall a particular skill. Your skills will be doubled if you use them for an extended period of time if you're in combat,"

she said, reading the description to see the talent's rank, her mouth open. Excuse me ?! This bullshit is S+ rank ?!

-Huh ?!, the brunette said in surprise as she showed it to him, and he was as shocked as his elder sister. Damn, who would have thought that your past as a soldier would become a powerful talent after your reincarnation ?

The brunette grumbles, unhappy about hating it. She always hated her old job, which she found really awful. Even so, she experienced good times and bad. She would have preferred to receive another talent of that rank.

-Can't you change it ?, she asks Yggdrasil, to which he shakes his head.

-I'm sorry, young Baïlère, but I don't decide what you receive. I only awaken your powers with my own talents that have been assigned to me, and the package you receive is linked to the gifts that lie dormant within you, Yggdrasil declares, holding his scepter, to which the brunette sighs as the divine analyzes it. I understand that you never liked your previous job, but I tried to make this talent more powerful. So that you can try to appreciate it a little more.

The young woman remained silent, staring at Yggdrasil before looking at the virtual screen, which listed her talents and the one with the name "Ex-Soldier." Part of her wanted to lash out and show her anger, but instead, she decided to remain calm and sigh, showing a little annoyance.

-Well, I'll try to appreciate this shit, she declared, sighing softly, as the virtual screens disappeared afterward. By the way, did you have an interesting talent too ?

-Yeah, it's also an S+ rank, just like you, he declared. She was intrigued to see her younger brother embarrassed.

-...And it is ?, she asked, and he remained silent before sighing and saying.

-My talent is called "Bird Banquet"..., he said, finding the name a bit strange and ridiculous, even reading the description and rolling his eyes, not expecting it.

The brunette knows her brother's passion for birds, being a huge fan. He's always loved his flying creatures, often saying he dreamed of owning one. His brother has a shelf full of books about them. He even had an old stuffed bird that he'd owned since birth, given to him by his older sister when he was born.

Perhaps that's where his love for his feathered animals comes from; he even had the habit of creating a personality for this stuffed animal by giving it a name. To create a voice, his parents and his older sister found it funny and cute to see him do it. He always ended up getting embarrassed, often being teased by the young woman.

But it wasn't mean, and he knew me very well.

-So ? What's the information on it ?, she asked with interest, as he hesitated before reading the description, and not really willingly.

"Bird Banquet: Your affinity with birds allows you to communicate with them, tame them, and create an army. You can also influence other birds that aren't part of your army, but to tame a creature of a high level, you must play the flute to tame it. You must be with the Ghost Monarch, who will also play a musical instrument to assist you. The higher the creature's rank, the more musicians it will take to tame the beast."

There was a sudden silence between the two, and even Yggdrasil, who was present and listening, didn't say a word. The brunette stared at the virtual screen and her brother with an unreadable expression, turning her head toward the Soul Guider, speaking in a tone that spoke volumes about her emotions.

-You can't…, she said, as Yggdrasil shook his head at her, and she sighed, telling her brother, We're not in trouble with his talents.

-I confirm, Erel said, sighing softly, as the man coughed to draw their attention to him.

-Well, you can figure out the rest later. I was able to offer you a place to stay, and I also registered you for your school, since you'll be reincarnated as young children. You'll be going to the same one as Sung Jinwoo."

-Ah, it must make my sister happy to know we're in the same school as..., thought Erel, looking at her older sister who was starting to shed anime tears. Yggdrasil was surprised, but not him, who guessed the reason. Oh yes, that's true. She hates school.

-No !!! Not that ! Not this hellish environment I hate so much !, she cried, falling to her knees to play the perfect dramatic role, like an actress with several years of experience under her belt.

-...Did your sister do theater before ?, Yggdrasil asked Erel, who nodded in response. I understand better why she's... So good at it. I understand that you hate it, but for the sake of your mission, you two... You have to go back and meet Sung Jinwoo when he was young.

The brunette sighed as she stood up, not wanting to be truly thrilled by this news. She always hated school because of the bad memories she experienced: bullying. She was always discreet, staying in her corner, until some kids started doing horrible things to her.

Ripped up her things in front of her.

Humiliated her by criticizing her for making fun of her, which often led to her crying.

That's why she never liked school, because of the people who did nothing but hurt the young lady since she was young. Over time, she grew and matured, eventually moving on.

Despite the scars still very present,

Erel remained silent as he walked towards her, taking her hand to reassure her.

He didn't need to speak.

Just holding her palm to feel the slight tremors of his sister's body, the boy knew very well: Some fears never truly go away.

-...Big sister, let's go. In this new world, together, nothing can happen to us. Because we're both in this adventure. So, fear nothing. I'll always be by your side, he said, smiling tenderly at her, his brown irises fixed on hers, giving a small smile as he gently squeezed her hand.

-You're right, let's go together, she said, seeing the door open, and the two decided to enter at the same time, while Yggdrasil watched the duo walk away, entering the world where they would now live.

-I wish you both good luck, dear new Judges of the Beyond, and... Welcome to you, Phantom Monarch and the Divine Birds. May your new life be most enriching, he declared, as the great door closed afterward.

The young lady heard sounds that echoed like echoes, disturbing her and wondering what was happening before she opened her eyes with difficulty. The light was suddenly too strong and blinded her, which she had cast into a shadow with her hand, feeling as if she were in a city just by listening to the cars passing, the pedestrians chatting among themselves, and those asshole cyclists passing by, thinking they were kings on the sidewalk. She couldn't see anything at all, knowing that the young lady must be on a street, surely crowded with people, judging by the noise. Her eyes even noticed that she no longer possessed her young adult body, but that of a child who must be seven or eight years old.

-Damn it, where am I ? Where is my brother ? I can't see a thing !, she thought as she began to move forward, trying to look for her brother, feeling as if she were carrying weights, feeling her difficulty moving, which was disturbing her. Shit, what's this ? Why am I having so much trouble moving forward ?!

"You who appeared in this world, do you think you're worthy of the title of Ghost Monarch ?"

The brunette heard a voice asking who she belonged to, only to see shadows resembling gray flames appear. This surprised her, and she wondered about the being speaking to her, and in this most strange situation, she stopped, feeling as if she were carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders.

Like Atlas...

Or Kephale, for those who know the reference.

Anyway, she was breathing with difficulty, feeling beads of sweat trickle down her forehead. She almost thought she'd run a marathon when she felt her energy draining, which made the mysterious being laugh as he appeared before her.

He was very tall, and could easily hit her without worrying, lest she be sent flying. Unfortunately for her, he hides his appearance and face by being in the form of a reddish silhouette.

The man felt that the new Ghost Monarch's body was trying to adapt to this world, like the Monarch of the Divine Birds, who was in the same state as his elder.

But instead of going to see the young man further away,

He preferred to approach her.

Because this reincarnated woman had just inherited this throne, which had been abandoned for too long.

-Who are you exactly ?, she asked, trying to speak while the being analyzed her, feeling as if the brunette's soul was trying to suck up all the Mana around them.

The being was about to speak to see that her appearance was changing, only to return when she was an adult, seeing her in the same position.

But his gaze...

He felt as if he saw flames in his eyes.

"You have just unlocked the Steel Soul ability! Thanks to your soldiering background, you have a greater chance of resisting and negating effects that can affect you physically and mentally, and can also return effects to their original owner, increasing the power of this effect."

-Oh, nice. For once, my years as a soldier are useful, she thought, seeing the virtual screen appear before her eyes, only to see the being reveal its appearance.

She hadn't expected this, observing it silently: a shadow that doesn't really possess a form, as if it had lost its true appearance years, even centuries ago. Despite this, Ariella wasn't reassured by the immense size of the humanoid, who remained silent, only to see that the new Ghost Monarch was most interesting.

She exudes the soul of a true warrior.

He kneels to bow before her reincarnated form.

He hadn't thought she could be so interesting.

He, who is one of those rare beings found in this monochrome world, a crack between reality and the unreal, is said to be unsurvivable.

But he did.

“Yggdrasil has spoken to me a lot about you, saying that you would be the perfect person to whom I could pledge allegiance. I am a being who has remained in the space-time rift for a long time, I have spent my entire existence here. I ended up forgetting who I am over time, losing my old form to become a humanoid paladin. I know we don't know each other. But… I swear to you that I will be loyal.”

-Well, this is really strange. I've barely arrived and already have someone who wants to serve me ?, she thought, blinking to see the virtual screen appear with a message.

"You have just received the Scarlet Funeral Procession skill, which allows monsters and other dungeon creatures to join your army. By making a pact with them, they will become Red Specters, able to take on a ghost form or not at will, returning to life by having to draw on their Mana. The more you increase your power, the stronger they will be to receive abilities."

-Damn, I've got so many talents all at once. This could be interesting, if I have an army like Jinwoo and my brother, she thought, staring at the being lost in thought and deciding to accept. She holds out her hand to try to speak like a leader, freezing to think. Uh... How do we do this kind of thing ? If I imitate my old platoon leader... No, bad idea, that egghead was just an asshole and a very bad example. Argh, I don't know how to be a good leader ! Okay, let's do this with our hearts !

She breathes softly, trying to relax, the beating of her organ slowly slowing down. Her irises close for a few seconds before opening again. She hadn't noticed, but they're no longer chocolate brown.

But pale red like Andesine, that precious red stone nicknamed the magic stone.

At that moment, she had finally inherited her title of Ghost Monarch; all the mana in the vicinity had just been sucked away by it.

Her mouth opens to speak in a calm and noble tone, making her sound like a queen, or even more.

-You who stand before me, having come from afar and from the space-time fissure. You who have chosen to become a Red Specter of my Scarlet Funeral Procession, be the blade that protects your Queen and slays those who dare to contradict my words. In my name, you will fight. In my name, you will defend my honor and my ideals. And in my name...Be the commander of the future Red Specters. Your name will be Khaos, she declares, red rings appearing with each sentence, to see a pale red flame create above them both. Inflame.

At her words, the fire that had been floating moves towards Khaos to envelop him like a blazing mantle. His appearance changes to reveal that he takes on that of a paladin wearing pale red armor, wearing a helmet with a halo behind it that could be mistaken for an angel. He holds a very large sword in his right hand and a huge axe in the other. Khaos raises his head towards the brunette to see her still holding out her hand. He must disappear his axe to take her palm as he declares.

-I am at your service, Your Grace. I will obey your every command without question. I will be your most faithful servant and advisor in our coming battles, Khaos said, nodding as she felt her body begin to lighten, only to see the white space begin to disappear, revealing buildings, passersby, vehicles, and the rest of the landscape. The brunette, who was in her adult form, reverted to a child, standing in the middle of the street while Khaos was in will-o'-the-wisp form. Fortunately, normal people couldn't see him. This greatly suited the young lady, who searched the area for her younger brother before starting to walk.

A passerby bumped into her, and she finally fell to the ground, groaning as she looked up to see the guy leave without apology.

-Holy shit, what an asshole ! Couldn't he apologize, that bastard ?! she said, getting up to see a small hand reaching out in her direction, her pale red irises focused on odd-colored orbs to recognize the boy. E…Erel? Is that you?

-Yes, it's me, big sister, he said, smiling as she placed her hand on his to steady her after pulling him up. You didn't hurt ?

-Oh no, it's okay. I just wanted to gut that asshole who bumped into me without apologizing, Ariella said, in a really bad mood. Khaos, who was standing next to her, said.

-Your Grace, I can take care of this man if you like, he said. Erel was surprised to see the will-o'-the-wisp near his elder sister.

-Who is he ?, he asked, the brunette staring at Khaos, deciding to calm him down.

-Easy, Khaos, don't start killing people when we've barely arrived in this world, she said, stopping him, and he decided to do nothing and nod.

-Please forgive me for my grotesque behavior, Your Grace. I will be more careful with my behavior in the future, Khaos said in a polite and gentlemanly tone to the brunette.

-Don't worry, it's forgiven, Ariella said, waving her hand at Khaos, as the brunette stared at her brother afterward. This is Khaos, the first Red Specter of my Scarlet Funeral Procession. Khaos, this is my younger brother.

-It's a pleasure to meet you, Sir, Khaos said, greeting him politely. Erel was disconcerted to see that the humanoid was so... Respectful.

-Uh... Me too, it's an honor to meet you, Khaos, Erel said, his attention riveted on his sister afterward. How many abilities do you have ?

-Hmmm...Not bad, and you ?, she asked, to which he sighed a little in response.

-Not much, anyway, here we are in South Korea, Seoul, in the world of Solo Leveling, he said, as the brunette admired the surroundings, marveling at them, her expression changing dramatically afterward.

-Do you think we could go to Japan since we're right next door ?, she asked, to which he shrugged in response.

-We'd have to be adults for that, or... We'd have to have parents or guardians, but..., Erel said, sighing sadly like her older sister.

-We don't have anyone..., they both declared at the same time, feeling depressed that the brunette decided to try to cheer up her younger sister.

-Hey, at worst, we'll always find a way to travel. To the countries we want to visit when we're older, she said, and he stared at her, nodding in response and smiling softly.

-You're right, by the way, you named your Red Specter Khaos. A bit like one of the characters from Honkai Star Rail in Amphoreus, Erel said. The younger sister knew his older sister's love for that video game, and he also adored this sci-fi fantasy RPG.

-Oh, you noticed ? I think it sounds good as a name, I could have totally called it Kephale. But Khaos sounds much better, the older sister said to her younger sister, placing her hands on her pelvis, staring at the will-o'-the-wisp near the brunette. Well, we should start looking for where we're going to live from now on. Yggdrasil sent a message with the coordinates, we should take a look.

-Good idea, let's do that. Let's go home then, said Erel, and the two of them began walking together, followed by Khaos until the boy started running. Try to catch up with me, big sister !

-Hey !! Slow down, dammit ! You know running has never been my thing !, she shouted, setting off in pursuit, while the paladin followed, finding the scene between siblings rather cute and amusing.

⚔️Jinwoo.⚔️

I'm walking down one of Seoul's many crowded streets, walking home from the mall with my family and little sister after spending the day together.

-Mom ! Mom ! Carry me, please, Jinah says, hopping to stretch out her arms. My mother laughs softly, picking her up and holding her close. Thank you, Mom !

-Easy, Jinah, Dad says, joking to mess up her hair. She laughs softly, and he looks at me with a smile. What do you want to eat tonight ? Are we going out or eating at home ?

-I want to go out !, Jinah says cheerfully, and Mom strokes Jinah's hair.

"Why don't we go out to dinner with the family? It's been a long time since we've eaten out together," Mom says, and Dad nods, looking at me, patting my head tenderly.

-And you, Jinwoo ? What do you think ?, he asked, and I said quietly.

-The restaurant is fine with me too, I said, and he nodded, following my family, chatting with them, until I heard two children's voices.

-Go faster ! I'll outrun you !, the boy shouted, running fast, and I saw a little girl chasing him, complaining.

-Argh, I hate running! Stop doing that, you idiot !, she shouted, and the brunette laughed as he continued to run.

-Well, those two have energy, Mom said, staring at the kids running at high speed, and I couldn't see what they looked like.

-Kids these days, they're really energetic, my dad said, laughing softly.

I watched the two children chase each other and run off into the distance. I didn't know that at that moment.

They were about to enter my life.

And that our destinies were more intertwined than I thought.

Save 00 Completed ! Next Loading…

[umekonae]

Fate Damoclès Ace Vol.1

List of chapters.

Extra. Ora et Labora.

Prologue I: Assassin.

Prologue II: Berserker (in progess)

Prologue III: Archer (coming in the future)

[umekonae]

🎶✨Hello everyone, today I present to you the first chapter of the Au fait with my brother on Fate. The story takes place in France with events that take place after the Holy Grail War in Japan. I hope you like it and enjoy reading !✨🎶

Extra.

Ora et Labora.

A religious silence.

An architecture similar to that of Gothic cathedrals, the walls are a flawless dark gray seeing that the rock has not been damaged by time.

Which is mysterious.

The pillars are covered with strange symbols made of a material that was liquid for a period, before eventually drying and remaining on it for a very long time.

Not a sound is heard.

The ground is lightly covered with a thick layer of dust that has not moved in some places. The whole place is plunged into total darkness, preventing anyone from easily finding their way.

But in the middle of the corridor, where we see traces of shoes going in one direction.

They go straight to a huge door made of a hard and fairly dark oak, where there are gold decorations with diamonds encrusted in it. There are two rather large lion heads with crowns on their manes, their mouths are wide open showing their fangs.

The entrance is slightly open.

We can see lights that are lighting up part of the room which is immense, a little further, we find candles that form an arc at the level of four staircases placed in different places that lead down.

Suddenly, we could hear a choir of monks singing prayers, the ceilings are covered with paintings that show various medieval scenes for some.

And others that date from a future era.

Where the first mages of France and their Servants appeared, to fight while seeking to have the Holy Grail.

Sacred chalice of the famous Arthurian mythology, which can grant the wish of the person who obtains it and wins the war against his adversaries.

When a man begins to sing alone in an ancient language, his voice resonates everywhere while hearing musical instruments being added.

The noise has as if awakened a buried part of this religious area, to notice that the top opens slowly by creating a hubbub. Which allows to admire the stained glass windows of colors similar to that of the space that was hidden by the rock.

The moon's rays thus illuminate the place entirely, making this immense sphere shine with golden steel rings covered with seals. The white colored ball is in the middle, moving the immense structure of sparkling metal.

The mechanical noise has awakened the souls of the past.

Then, the song ends for a few minutes before resuming.

A very tall figure wears a cape with a hood on his head, preventing anyone from seeing who the individual is.

His attention is drawn to the object.

Asking himself various questions about its operation.

There is the statue of the goddess of Victory Nike with her wings spread behind her back, who holds between her two hands raised towards the sky a crown of laurels.

When footsteps sound behind him, a being approaches wearing the same type of clothing as him.

He is smaller than the first one currently present, his shiny black moccasins stop to leave a margin of distance.

We can notice that he holds in his right hand, a cane with a silver eagle's head with jet eyes. Covered with words forming circulars from top to bottom on the darkened wood.

Neither of them speaks.

Leaving them for several seconds in this harmonious and sacred silence, to then hear the newcomer break this peace.

"It seems that this object still fascinates you as much, even after all these years have passed. You are still interested, which is really curious for a being of your kind.", declared the man with the deep and almost mocking voice, that the second said nothing while still having his attention on the iron device.

"Aren't you tired of staying locked up here again? You could have explored the whole world for centuries, but you didn't. Which makes me wonder about your way of thinking and your ideals...", continued the man who continued to speak until the other cut him off. "You really have this bad habit of opening your mouth for nothing, don't you know how to speak more intelligently? Instead of telling your nonsense, you who call yourself of noble lineage.", said the tallest in a calm and composed tone while the second gritted his teeth and his stick to release lightning around him.

Lightning eagles manifested themselves around him, ready to attack the giant.

Which did not scare this individual.

Who rather didn't care to tell the truth, to turn his head slightly towards the birds which were transparent blue.

"So this is what you plan to attack me with ? It's rather...Weak for a man who claims to be part of the Brotherhood of Gévaudan.", said the giant, still speaking calmly, which annoyed the noble mage even more with his words.

"Shut up! Maybe I should teach you a lesson for daring to make fun of me !", shouted the noble mage loudly, holding out his cane that the birds were ready to attack.

Until a noise rang out.

A heavy door opened to create a draft, which swept away the dust on the tiled floor.

The monks chants stopped at that precise moment.

To hear the sound of footsteps echoing in the great hall, where the two beings who knew who was approaching were located.

"Tch, I will have your skin one day.", the noble mage said softly while looking at the giant, to make the lightning eagles disappear.

The colossus laughs at the giant's threats, because, even if he knows that he will want to kill him.

He is simply not capable of it.

Because, between him and this miserable human who possesses supposedly powerful magical powers.

The giant will win without a problem.

When the third finally arrives not far from the duo, he already notices that there is tension between them. Which makes him laugh by saying in a rather smiling tone.

"Come on, come on my dear colleagues. Why do you always argue? What's the point of bickering, when we're allies ?", said the newcomer, raising his hands a little, to try to relax the atmosphere that the noble mage was annoyed by hitting the ground with his cane. "So stop playing nice, even if we are allies. I will always refuse to team up with a snake like you, especially when it can release its venom at any time.", spat the noble mage that the third laughs at the words of this one, to advance by tapping on his cape that purple sparks appear. Mist envelops him that snakes manifest themselves as if by magic, which annoys one of them by seeing the reptiles crawling on the smooth rock. "You have manifested your miserable snakes again, you are really obsessed with them Georges.", criticized the noble mage which makes the newcomer laugh, while the giant does not react by completely ignoring the conversation between the two.

"Come on, come on, why do you hate these elegant creatures so much ? Even if they have abilities that disgust people, you should admire their qualities a little more Franck.", said Georges to Franck who mocks his ally's words, he will always hate this liar and manipulator who thinks he is better than everyone.

Just because he is considered the oldest.

Let him be treated like a great sage among a few mages.

But not in Franck's eyes.

Who is angry with him by really wishing to not have to deal with him, even if he will never admit that Georges is gifted in various fields.

The giant applauds by finding this scene amusing to his taste, to start walking that we hear a metallic noise at the slightest step he takes. Which attracted the attention of the duo who turn their heads towards him who stops moving forward.

"Well, well, here I see my partners arguing. Why don't we try to discuss in a more friendly way, instead of this bickering ?", declares the colossus who makes a gesture of the hand to see his arm being covered with a dark metal gauntlet. "Because after all, we are allies in this whole plan that will soon be able to activate. You've been waiting for this for years now, after 300 years, when the last Holy Grail War took place in France. It's time for us to wake up this weakened world and finally... Reclaim what is rightfully ours."

He says this while raising his arms to the sky at the moment when the moon is just above the stained glass windows, which lights up the place and the immense circle made of golden steel rings that begins to move slowly.

The moon is full tonight.

It almost seems like everything was prepared especially for this day.

The white sphere in the middle shines brightly behind the giant's back, making him look like a kind of Saint or Prophet who predicts the future.

The flames of the candles go out when the wind suddenly blows, the chants of the monks start again to become louder with the sound of the music that resounds.

Franck, seeing and hearing what surrounds him, was not particularly reassured by asking himself various questions. While Georges admires the scene by showing a sinister smile on his face, to feel various emotions in him unleashed by having only one desire...

"I can't wait to be able to admire this war of the Holy Grail again, it could be entertaining for all these mages. It's time to make them wake up a little.", said Georges laughing softly as his irises sparkle in an unfriendly way.

The young woman with braided blond hair looks at the horizon from her seat, sitting on a train that is taking her directly to the North of France. There were few people that morning in March, so it was quite quiet during this journey. The sun timidly shows the tip of its nose, still being able to see the clouds that are very present in the blue sky. Her purple irises are focused on the horizon that appears little by little, being able to see the forest still hidden in the fog that is gently lifting.

This country has changed a lot since her death.

She who is known as the Maid of Orleans for having sacrificed her life for the good of her kingdom, ending up dying there by burning at the stake to be treated like a witch.

She did not think she would return there.

"Everything has really changed, the country has become more modern, while still keeping traces of the history that has marked it for generations.", she said softly as she saw the landscape scroll by through the window, to see the passers-by present in the same carriage as her.

There are elderly people, families, couples, groups of friends and those who are alone chatting with each other or doing other things.

She can admire this kind of scene after being chosen to become the Ruler of this new Holy Grail War, personally, she would never have thought of returning to her native land after her death.

Her thoughts drift to what she experienced in her first life, having fought alongside many knights and the one who became the king at that time.

To be treated differently at first compared to the others, because after all, she is a woman and no one imagines taking up arms and saying that she hears voices telling her what to do to fight the enemy.

Yet, she did it to end up dying.

When the sound of the train stopping at the station echoes in the carriages, which brings her out of her thoughts as she grabs her suitcase to go to the automatic doors. Her light brown boots slam against the concrete floor to finally be at her destination.

Compiègne the royal city.

"I have finally arrived, I have to go to the office of the Association of the Order of Hermes. That's where I could meet that person, the Holy Grail War is fast approaching after all.", she murmured as she walked to pull her purple suitcase with her right hand, finally leaving the place to venture into the city which is very large.

There are neighborhoods that are still in the architecture of the old days, while others are more modernized or are being built and for some repaired. Vehicles pass on the roads which are quite crowded, while on the sidewalks, we find pedestrians who go in different directions in groups or not. The blonde puts her white scarf with light gray squares back on, to be happy to have bought some warm clothes to cover herself.

The weather is still cold.

"It's quite lively here, despite the weather.", she thought as she continued on her way to follow the instructions she was given, to go to the building where the organization she had an appointment with was located. Her steps ventured a little further into the streets to arrive in a rather quiet area, where she knew that here it was reserved for mages and their families.

Because yes, there are in France, neighborhoods reserved exclusively for them to avoid them being mixed with civilians.

Who are unaware of the very existence of magic.

So, some prefer to live more quietly by staying away from non-mage citizens. That's why, in many urban and rural areas. Places have been specially created for these people who want to rub shoulders with other individuals like them.

To access them, you have to detect the spell that is on the wall. When a mage detects it, he finds himself in a circle placed on the ground that makes him invisible to see through the illusion.

She puts a foot in the blue ring that she can see on the paving stones, being at the destination to see that the wall that was present at the moment. Was in truth only a huge arch decorated with flowers, two pillars that have statues of two male and female magicians. With written on a sign made of stone the name of the place.

"Marianne"

As the name that one of the symbols of the country bears, there is even the bust of this one embedded in the rock with the Phrygian cap on her head. She analyzes the buildings that are in an old and chic architecture, seeing that they are well maintained and clean while keeping the charm of the past era. As soon as she ventures into the main street with her luggage, her violet irises notice the children who play together laughing happily.

Some play hopscotch which is colorful, soccer on a constructed field or in a park or other games to see that everyone has a smile on their face.

"This place is really rich and clean, only mages and their families can live here. They really look like privileged people when you see all this, I heard that shops, businesses and even schools are placed here. Away from the attention of civilians.", she thought as she continued on her way to see lots of people chatting with each other in the street, everything here has been perfectly created to make it look like a small town in a big city.

The journey was very pleasant and peaceful until her destination: the Association of the Order of Hermes, which is one of the most important in Europe to help keep a balance. In each country there is an organization with a Brotherhood that is represented by 5 people, its individuals are specialized in one of the magics that exists on the continent and are considered the strongest. But also, must be linked to the ancient nobility. These are the conditions to be met to be a member, a whole hierarchy has been created so that everything is in harmony and prevent the slightest disorder. The building is gigantic to look a bit like a castle because of the architecture, but, it is not one.

"I finally arrived, fortunately I was given directions so that I could find my way easily.", says softly the blonde who holds her suitcase to then go inside, seeing that the decoration is in an old royal style. Quite a few employees are walking the corridors of the establishment, talking to each other to go right and left. This one advances to the reception to see a woman working on her computer, to notice the presence of the newcomer by smiling politely at her.

"Hello miss, what can I do for you ?", asked the employee that the young lady says.

"Good morning madam, I have an appointment this morning with Sir Albret at 9:30.", she said as the agent nodded, to type on his computer keyboard while searching in the diary while checking and then raised his head towards her.

"You are Miss D'arc ? Is that right ?", she asked as the blonde acquired by showing her ID to prove it that she checked carefully, having passed through a machine that analyzes to validate the authenticity which is approved. "Very well. Welcome to you Miss D'arc, Mr. Ciel is waiting for you in the Salon des Héros on the 2nd floor."

"Thank you very much," said Jeanne, taking her ID card back to put it away, so she goes to the 2nd floor level holding her suitcase with her hand.

A few people pass by her to look at her while chatting discreetly, it's the first time that people here see a young girl who is out of the ordinary. Which intrigues the employees who stare at her while trying not to be spotted by her, alas, she quickly noticed by sighing a little softly to finally arrive in front of the room. There are two light wooden doors with silver deer on them that have aquamarine eyes, the antlers are transparent with flower-shaped engravings. As soon as she was in front to be on the carpet, the eyes of the statues are focused on her to analyze her carefully before letting her in.

The entrance is finally open, the doors open slowly.

She takes a few steps to admire the interior decoration, seeing that everything here is clean and well maintained here. All the furniture present is in an old and elegant style, made in a light wood with golden lines that shine placed in certain places where the creator's seal is found. Paintings that represent heroes and heroines are on the walls, with tapestries on the floor that hides the parquet. The ceiling is covered in paint that was redone some time ago now, the windows light up the whole place to be able to admire the different details present. Her purple irises are searching to see a fifty-year-old man, who wears an elegant dark brown suit while reading a book on one of the sofas. He is focused on his reading until he notices her presence, to close the book by putting a bookmark. Once the novel is placed on the coffee table where the tray with the teapot, the fine white porcelain cups and the few biscuits present on a plate is located. The individual stands up to walk elegantly while standing straight, his moccasins clicking lightly to arrive right in front of the young girl while greeting her gracefully.

"Mademoiselle D'arc, it is an honor to meet you in real life. I never thought I would meet one day in my entire existence, the famous Joan of Arc who would come to the Order of Hermes. I present myself before you, Albert Ciel, I hold the title of Count and I am also the president of the Association of the Order of Hermes.", declares Sir Albret while introducing himself to Joan who greets him politely.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Sir Albret, as you know, the new Holy Grail War will take place a second time in France. The last one took place in 1710, 300 years since then, they have collapsed. And it will take place here again with some changes, compared to the previous one. And I was chosen by the Holy Grail to take the position of Ruler.", she explained as Sir Albret listened to her speak, nodding his head, understanding what she was saying to decide to ask questions.

"I would like to ask you a few questions about this, I understood that there would not be 7 mages this time. But 14 participants in total, do you know why exactly ? After all, in all the Holy Grail wars that take place all over the world. It has always been like this for years now, so why is it changing now ?", Sir Albret asked Joan of Arc who remained silent for a few minutes before answering.

"As you know, I was chosen by the Holy Grail to judge and act when the mages and their servants do not respect the rules. And as you have noticed, this time, it is different from the others by not having 7, but 14 mages who will fight to obtain the Holy Grail which will have new features. The two Factions are the purple and the gray who will be teammates during the battle, to conquer certain places that will expand the kingdoms of one of the two groups. The goal is to win all the territories and then at the end, make the members of the Faction fight each other. To know who will win the Holy Grail.", explained Joan of Arc to Sir Albret who listened to everything while nodding, to snap his fingers that a female automaton is activated from the glass display case that slowly opens.

The robotic being looks like a doll wearing maid's clothes, to walk with the elegance of a ballerina which intrigued Jeanne. She had already heard of creations that have human appearances, created by non-mages having suspected that mages will have also built some. She ends up stopping near the man with black hair slightly grayed by time, who touches a little his clean beard which is of mid-length size. He stares at the machine with the appearance of a woman to say after.

"Did you record what Miss D'arc just said ?", he asked that his fluorescent blue irises radiate at his words, that she nods while making a mechanical noise that is quite soft.

"I just sent the audio file to your secretary now Sir Ciel, do you need my help with anything else ?", asked the robotic servant who has a synthetic feminine voice, which Sir Albret thought about while deciding to ask Jeanne.

"Do you want to stay here a little longer Miss D'arc ? I can understand if you decide to leave, your work requires a lot of energy. Even so, I know that you are different from us humans. You are also in a time like us.", says Sir Albret as Jeanne d'Arc is surprised that someone is worried about her.

It is true that she is a Servant by not having the same needs as before when she was still human, this one does not particularly need to sleep or even eat.  Being able to easily hold out for quite a long time compared to when she was still human, the young lady knows that many mages consider her and other heroic beings as objects or dogs that are good to be used. To satisfy the selfish desires of their Masters, which she does not really appreciate. But, there are those who are not like that.

Which reassures her on this subject.

"Thank you for worrying about me, it is rare to see people who still treat me like a human. Although I have not been one for a long time now, but indeed, I would like to ask you questions about the participants...", said Jeanne of Arc as the robotic servant suddenly moved her head, to turn to Sir Albret.

"Sir Ciel, Madame Jaune has just given me the list of mages who are currently on the list for the Violet and Gray Factions.", said the robotic servant that the man nods seeing the automaton that prints a list, seeing an opening appear that sheets come out of its forehead that it grabs and holds out.

"Thank you very much, here is the list of participants that we were able to have for the two Factions Miss D'arc.", said Sir Albret while holding out the documents that she takes.

"Thank you Sir Albret, I see that the Association of the Order of Hermes are very professional.", said Jeanne of Arc smiling to read what is written having a lot of information on the different mages, until seeing what details that appeal to her. "All the mages of the Gray Faction are people of the nobility, except one who is a soldier. It is quite rare to see this kind of person participate in the Holy Grail War, especially since they have the advantage for certain things by being more trained and adapted to the field. But...I see that he has never been to a school for mages, which is also rare to come across this kind of person.", thought Jeanne of Arc while looking at the information on this individual that is written, having a kind of presentiment.  "Is that all you have as information about him ?" she asked, Sir Albret remaining silent with a gesture of his hand, the robotic servant coming out of his belly which opened in two to see a red folder with "Top Secret" written in white.

"Miss D'arc, what's inside concerns this soldier in particular. We have discovered...Quite a few things about him, which should... Interest you, to know more about him. And...I would advise you to be careful in his presence.", Sir Albret mysteriously declared that this had made him curious and developed a premonition in his being at his words.

"I understand, thank you for warning me.", Jeanne said taking the folder to keep it, feeling that this war of the Holy Grail, is going to be long and complicated enough to continue looking by stopping in front of a particular document. "Excuse me, haven...Saber and Caster & Masters yet manifested for the Violet Faction ?"

There was a short moment of silence to see that Sir Albret shows a sad face, touching his glasses to remove them by holding them with his fingers covered in white gloves. While the robotic servant returns to her display case to put herself back in standby mode.

"To tell you the truth...They were present at the beginning, even having been able to meet them in person a few days ago. But...A tragic event occurred, the two...Died mysteriously while they were preparing to summon their Servants.", explained Sir Albret that Jeanne was surprised not expecting that at all, feeling that everything is going strangely at first. "We discovered that someone assassinated them, which means that both positions are currently vacant.  Trying to find out if there are not two new mages who have been chosen, we continue to do research on this subject Miss D'arc. We are sorry about this.", said Sir Albret while bowing to her that Jeanne was surprised to make a gesture of the hand, to be embarrassed by his behavior.

"Stand up Sir Albret, nothing is your fault. I find that this event is very strange, it seems that someone sought to kill them for a good reason. But what is it ?", said Jeanne while asking herself questions to touch her chin. "All this is really strange, who would do this exactly ? Why do I have the impression...That this war of the Holy Grail is going to unfold in a strange way ?"

The Holy Grail War, an event that has mysteriously appeared since time immemorial.

7 mages are elected.

7 servants appear by listening to the orders of their Masters.

There are a total of 7 classes for its Servants:

Assassin, Berserker, Lancer, Rider, Archer, Caster and Saber.

All its legendary heroes reappear to fight alongside the participant, of course, many methods are used to be able to reach the Golden Chalice as quickly as possible.

Many battles take place all over the world, sometimes causing disasters during these fights that often end up being bloody.

But, for the second time after 300 years.

It takes place again in France, which is an extremely rare event.

And it will also be a first in history.

There will not be 7 people chosen, no, but 14 who will be part of two different Factions and will represent a part of the country.

Many new rules will be rewritten and added, and these individuals will have to be the most cunning and the strongest to win the victory by collaborating together or not.

So let the battle begin.

Extra. The End.