The Key of Yliaster

By Graham Jones

Alex’s life was about to take a turn, as he journeyed forth from his comfortable home in New York City to Firdalkyl Kingdom, an island nation that had recently recovered from the fire of a revolution, and a place of many secrets. What lies beneath its beautiful forests and ancient ruins, no one knows. Hence, a few are drawn to these secrets, seeking to uncover the truth, and power, behind them. When Alex arrived, he had no idea about the upheavals that would arise in the kingdom. Alex and his friends will have to go through many challenges and hardships, as they confront those who seek to disrupt the peace of the kingdom, and uncover the secrets of the island.

Where will their endeavors lead them? What will they discover? Who will they confront? How will they survive as they go on with their adventure?

Find out, in 'The Key of Yliaster.'

• Language: English
• Publisher: Graham Jones
• Release date: Nov 3, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311644053

Graham Jones

Graham M. Jones is Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Book preview

The Key of Yliaster

Graham Jones

Copyright 2014 Graham Jones

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Edition, License Notes:

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard

work of this author.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Prologue

Chapter 1: From New York to Firdalkyl Island

Chapter 2: Royal Academy Entrance

Chapter 3: New Friends, New Enemies

Chapter 4: The Ghost Girl of the Tower

Chapter 5: The King and His People

Chapter 6: Night of the Corpse Devourer and the Marionettes

Chapter 7: After The Night

Chapter 8: Sophia

Chapter 9: The Duel

Chapter 10: Himinn Fortress

Chapter 11: The Meeting with the Reaper

Chapter 12: The King’s Birthday

Chapter 13: A New Darkness

Chapter 14: The King’s Brief Excursion

Chapter 15: The ‘Miracle’ Medicine

Chapter 16: New World Order

Chapter 17: The Snow Festival

Chapter 18: Chaos in the Capital

Chapter 19: The Secret of the Library

Chapter 20: The Ancient Castle

Chapter 21: Final Confrontation

Epilogue

Prologue

???: Could you believe it? I mean, I’m really going to Firdalkyl. It’s like some dark force from the Nether-realm is pulling strings or something.

White-haired man: "Is that so? That’s not outside the realm of possibility… I guess. Still, to think that Bishop Ignatius would make a move like this with your father…"

???: You know, you could use a bit more enthusiasm. But man, even though I’m really excited right now, I also feel… I don’t know, a bit on edge, I guess.

White-haired man: Your worry is rather unnecessary. I’m sure you’ll be fine at that school. Just think of it as training.

???: That’s not what I meant. I mean, what if I won’t be able to make any friend there? What if they bully me? And what if they try to sexually harass me and make me do dirty stuff and —

White-haired man: "All right, don’t overthink about stuff that’s not going to happen. Look, just act normal. I’m sure you’ll be able to make more friends than me."

???: Act normal, huh?

White-haired man: "Precisely. Just don’t drive them crazy. I wouldn’t want the people at the Academy to experience the pain that I’ve gone through."

???: Hey, that’s not very nice. Don’t you have the word ‘tact’ in your vocabulary?

White-haired man: "I’m just advising you as a friend, seeing how your definition of ‘normal’ is different from other people."

???: I know, I’m just messing around.

White-haired man: "And that’s what I’m afraid of."

???: Hehehe… right, but, you know, joking aside, I appreciate your concern.

White-haired man: "We won’t see each other for a while, so may the fortunes of war smile upon you."

???: Nobody’s going to war, but thank you anyway! Okey-dokey, I’ll go pack my stuff! See you around! Oh, on second thought, could you help me carry some of them?

White-haired man: "Hmm… Of course. After all… you’ll be you, no matter where you are."

Chapter 1: From New York to Firdalkyl Island

It was a certain autumn morning in New York City, when the city was about to liven up. The cold wind brushed through the city, shaking the leaves on the trees back and forth. People were walking here and there, minding their own businesses. A commuter was rushing through the crowd, trying to catch his subway train. He ran past a blind homeless man, who was sitting by the entrance of a department store. As the commuter ran past the man, he held out a can, hoping for some changes, but the commuter merely dashed forward without noticing. The man then put down his can, and leaned his head against the wall. He looked toward the sky, mumbling something to himself.

A certain teenage boy was walking in a lethargic manner, while looking at the ground. The boy was carrying a bag, slung over his shoulder. His hair was short and blond, and he had some freckles on his face, as well as blue eyes. His build was rather slim and tall, and not at all imposing. He was wearing a simple blue denim jacket over his white shirt, as well as blue jeans. He then spotted the homeless man. As the boy approached the homeless man, he reached into his pocket, searching for his wallet. Something then got his attention, however.

He could see three men who had their jackets’ hoods pulled over their heads walking toward the homeless man. They looked at the homeless man, and then briefly looked at each other, while grinning.

They then walked toward the man and one of them kicked his can of changes, scattering coins and notes all over the ground. Some of the notes were blown away by the wind. The homeless man, hearing the clanking sounds, immediately sprung forward. His mouth gaping open, he groped the ground with his hands. Meanwhile, the three men merely watched in amusement, while some pedestrians passed by, took a look, and then went on with their businesses.

The boy watched with a pained expression on his face. He then began to walk away, seemingly decided that it was none of his business. However, almost immediately, he stopped his feet again, as he saw a passing girl tapping the shoulder of one of the men.

Hey, stop smirking like an idiot, the girl said, help the old guy pick his money up, and apologize to him. The girl was wearing a black jacket that had a spider-web pattern on the back. She also sported shoulder-length black hair.

Who the hell are you? One of the men said as he walked toward the girl. He then brought his face toward hers. Aren’t you supposed to be in school or at home with your mommy or something?

Pick them up, and apologize to him, she said, I won’t say it a third time.

The man then let out a loud laughter. Did you hear what this kid said? And what if I don’t, girly? He said with a smirk, what, you’re gonna run back home and cry on your mommy’s shoulders? The other two men then laughed with him.

You know what, kiddo, you’re quite a babe yourself, another of the men said, why don’t you come along with us? We can do all kinds of fun stuff together. He then reached out his hand toward the girl, but she immediately smacked it away. Several pedestrians then gathered around them. Some had their cell phones out, snapping pictures of the scene.

The hell is your problem, kid? the man said. He then tried to hit her, but as his hand was about to reach her, she ducked down, grabbed his arm and then twisted it behind his back. She then shoved him onto the other two men, and they fell down from the impact. The crowd meanwhile was cheering her on, while booing the men.

Damn it. The man said and got up, and dashed at the girl. He threw a punch at her, and she ducked down to dodge. She then punched him in the nose, causing him to stagger backward. Blood was flowing down his nose like a river as he put his hands over it. Everyone then heard the sound of the sirens blaring through the streets.

Shit, the man said, let’s get outta here! They then shoved some of the spectators away, as they ran through the crowd, and then headed into an alley.

Pfft, all talk and bark, the girl said as she brushed some of her bangs aside. She then crouched down, and began picking up the coins and notes for the homeless man. Seeing that, a few other pedestrians also joined in and helped her.

Thank you, the girl said with a smile. Soon, the homeless man was able to get most of his money back. The girl and the other pedestrians then gave him some spare changes. They then resumed to their routines, and walked away. As the girl was walking away, the boy observed her as she slowly grew smaller in the distance.

Huh… I guess not all people are like me, he said to himself. He then put a tiny smile on his face, walked toward the homeless man, and dropped in a few changes. He then walked across a crosswalk, took out a map, and checked it. He looked around a few times, verifying the landmarks. Eventually, he was able to reach a parking lot, and looked around for a certain person.

Over here! An old man shouted to him, while waving his hands around. He was dressed in a black cassock, and his hair was mostly gray. He was standing next to a car.

The boy then timidly walked toward him. He then looked at the man’s face for a moment, while the man was calmly smiling at him.

You must be Bishop Ignatius, right? The boy said.

In the flesh, Ignatius said, do you have your letter of recommendation, Mister…

Alex… the boy said, from house Hofenstein.

Ah, yes, Ignatius said, I heard enough about you from Cardinal Makarov. Alex then searched his bag, took out his letter of recommendation, and handed it to Ignatius.

No doubt about it, Ignatius said with a smile as he skimmed the letter, only his handwriting can be this difficult to decipher.

You don’t say… Alex said while turning his face to the side.

The only thing that matters is that it’s the real thing, Ignatius said and folded the letter, now, we only have to wait for the other person to arrive.

There’s another one? Alex said.

Of course, young man, Ignatius said, you’re not the only student assigned to me, after all. She should be here any moment now. Ah, speak of the devil. The two of them can see the girl with the spider jacket running toward them. She then panted heavily as she stopped to rest, putting both of her hands on her knees.

I made it, she said to herself, and then looked around. I wonder if this is the right place…

It is indeed the right place, Ignatius said with a smile and nodded at her.

Huh? Really? She said, thanks, man. Anyway, I need to look for a certain someone. Later!

There’s no need for that, Ignatius said, we’re the people that you need to find. There was a brief moment of silence between them. Alex was just tapping his foot against the ground while looking down.

W-wait! You mean you’re actually THE Bishop Ignatius? The girl said as she pointed her finger at him. Ignatius then nodded.

Wow, I didn’t know that, she said to herself, I’m sorry for not recognizing you, and, uh, for being late. I didn’t know how to read the map, so —

Calm down, young lady, Ignatius said, it’s not your fault. It’s a big city, so it’s only natural to get lost. You only have the city designers to blame for this.

Ahaha… right, the girl said. She then turned to Alex, and you must be? Alex was startled as she asked him, and slightly jerked his head up to face her.

Oh, I’m Alex.

Cool, the girl said as she nodded to herself. She then held out her hand toward him, and smiled. Claudia Vander. Just Chloe is fine, though.

Okay. Chloe it is then. Alex then shakily shook her hand.

By the way, have we met before? Chloe said as she tilted her head, I think I saw you somewhere.

I think you mistook me for someone else, Alex said.

Hmm… well, lots of stuff happened today. Anyway, you’re going to Firdalkyl, too, right?

Yes, Alex said.

All right, Chloe said, then, I’ll look forward to it.

Ignatius then checked her recommendation. After that, he beckoned both of them into the car. Soon, they were riding on the streets of New York. Alex and Chloe were seated in the back, while Ignatius took the passenger seat. Chloe was staring outside the window, putting both of her hands against the glass.

Wow, this is so cool! She said.

What? You never rode in a car before? Alex said as he looked outside the window, placing his palm on his chin.

Nope, Chloe said, this is my first time riding in one. I saw them as a kid, and it was great and all… But actually riding one is just so awesome!

That’s great… Alex said.

Ah, how I envy your youth, Ignatius said. That kind of energy might just be what the Holy Knights need, after all.

It’s going to be hard work, isn’t it? Chloe said and folded her arms.

It will be. If you want to be a Holy Knight, there’s no other alternative, Ignatius said, but well, I’m sure you’ll be fine.

You’re not just sugarcoating this, are you? Alex said, and crossed his legs.

Judging from your recommendations, it seems that you performed your duties exceptionally well as apprentices to your sponsors, Ignatius said, I’d say that I made a fairly accurate assessment of your abilities. Make no mistake, though. Being a Holy Knight will require a bit of… sacrifice, on your part.

Hey, what’s with the hesitation in your voice? Chloe said.

Oh, don’t mind me, Ignatius said, I like being a bit enigmatic from time to time.

You know, you’re kinda scaring me right now, Chloe said, but that doesn’t matter. I’ll just think of it as a fun adventure.

Haha, you’re quite idealistic, aren’t you? Ignatius said. Positive thoughts are always good for the soul, after all. Ah, we’re finally here.

They had now arrived at a harbor. They then exited the car. Ignatius thanked the driver, who slightly bowed to him, before driving away. They then got onto their ship after they finished their boarding procedures. The ship then sailed out to the sea. Some of the waves clashed against the ship’s body as it pushed forward.

Hey, Alex, check it out! I think I might have seen some sharks! Chloe said as she ran onto the deck and leaned over the railings.

Then don’t fall off the ship, Alex said, seeing them from here is fun and all. Being their meals isn’t.

After they toured around the ship for a long time, the sun had gone down. Chloe had gone back to her room, while Alex was standing on the deck, his back leaning against the railings. He gazed at the star-filled sky, tapping his fingers against the railings. Ignatius then came onto the deck, his hands behind his back.

Can’t sleep? Ignatius said.

I’m just getting some fresh air, Alex said.

Oh? I see what you’re talking about, Ignatius said, the night air is really nice. I might even say that this is one of God’s greatest blessings.

Sorry, I don’t buy into that kind of religious stuff, Alex said.

Oops… that was careless of me, Ignatius said, it just slipped off my tongue sometimes.

It’s all right, I won’t hate you for it, Alex said, so, is everyone onboard going to Firdalkyl?

Some people, not all, Ignatius said as he leaned over the railings, holding onto them with his hands. It’s a quite attractive and mysterious island after all. Just as there are people who are drawn to the unknown somehow, some will no doubt be repelled by it. I’d personally say that it’s worth a visit for anyone.

You make it sound like it’s a tourist spot, Alex said, I thought that it was only a training spot for Holy Knights and what not.

Oh, you should wait until you see the sights there, Ignatius said. Though, considering the problems that it has right now, and our duties, we might not be able to fully enjoy it.

Problems? Alex said and slightly squinted his eyes.

To be specific, terrorism, and factionalism, Ignatius said, its constitutional monarchy is installed pretty recently, after all. There are still some radical people who want their old regime back, and they probably won’t rest until they get what they want. That’s why there are no tourists there, but just a handful of researchers from around the world.

I got it now, Alex said, that’s why the Holy Cross was allowed to be on the island.

Very nice deduction, Ignatius said.

I didn’t even say my answer yet, Alex said.

But you do have an idea, don’t you? Ignatius said, why we’re there, and what’s lying ahead?

So, we’re basically there to deal with those ‘terrorists’ and the like? Alex said.

You read my mind, Ignatius said, indeed, that’s what we have to do in order to get the king to approve of our presence. But well, protecting the people from harm is just what the Holy Cross does.

Protecting the people… why did they choose to ask the Holy Cross for help of all people? Alex said to himself.

They could have asked the United States and other countries to help stabilize their country, Ignatius said, but well, they picked us because we don’t have an army big enough to occupy the entire island if necessary.

So they’re playing it safe, Alex said. He then took a deep breath, and then got off the railings.

They probably made the right choice. The world of politics and diplomacy can get pretty messy sometime, Ignatius said. He then put his hand on Alex’s shoulder. But you’re still young, so don’t worry about stuff like this.

So you’re telling me that kids shouldn’t mess with adults and their games? Alex said with a vacant look in his eyes, but well, it’s not like I want to poke my nose into where it doesn’t belong.

Get some rest, Ignatius said and patted his shoulder, we have lots of businesses to take care of tomorrow, after all. He then went back into the ship’s cabin. Alex then took a look at his watch.

I guess I’ll call it a day, he said. Then, he went back to his room and went to bed later.

Chapter 2: Royal Academy Entrance

It was still early in the morning. Alex was still asleep with his face on the pillow when Chloe repeatedly knocked on his door. Alex then slowly rose up and brushed his hands against his eyes. He then went to the door and opened it just a little, and peeked outside.

Hey, when are you going to get up? Chloe said, get outta there already.

Is this an order from the Bishop? Alex said as he yawned.

No, but it’s nice to be up early, Chloe said with a smile.

Then, I’ll be back in bed, Alex said. See you later. He then shut the door and went back to his bed.

Hey! Don’t just close the door on me like that! That’s kinda rude, you know, Chloe said. Alex simply ignored her as she pounded on his door.

Come on, you’re going to miss the beautiful sunrise, Chloe said. It’ll be awesome, you know. Alex did not respond and tried to close his eyes instead.

Okay, whatever, Chloe said and went to the deck by herself.

By the time Alex got up and went to the deck, he could see the island of Firdalkyl in the distance, as well as its neighboring islands, which were connected to Firdalkyl by several bridges. The island’s northern part was covered with a forest, and a castle stood among the sea of trees, standing at the northernmost edge of the island. Its towers and buttresses were light blue in color, while the roofs were dark blue. Vines and other plants had grown on them, however. Along the beach were several ports and shipyards. There were also some ruins of what looked like ancient Gothic-like churches scattered here and there in the forest. There were also a few craters and clearings in the forest.

Ignatius, Alex, and Chloe then got off the ship and went into the port.

All right, Ignatius said. Welcome to the Kingdom of Firdalkyl, home to the royal house of Valois, as well as one of the Holy Cross’ North American Branch training facilities.

This place is even more awe-inspiring up close, Chloe said as she looked at the buildings, don’t you think so?

I guess, Alex said. You can say that it’s a bit different from what we’re used to.

Now then, let’s not tether here any longer, Ignatius said. Our next destination will be the castle town Bjarnar, where the Royal Academy is located. Come. They then caught a horse-drawn carriage, which took them straight to the capital. They could feel the carriage shaking up and down as it moved across the narrow street. They drove past the houses, as well as Gothic-style churches. Many people were walking down the streets, conversing with each other.

These houses don’t look too modern, Alex said as he looked outside the window, it’s like they’re trapped in the Renaissance period or something.

But it’s refreshing compared to New York, no? Ignatius said.

Yeah, you don’t have to worry about air pollution with these horses, that much is certain, Alex said.

Ahaha, that’s not exactly what I meant, but okay, Ignatius said with a wry smile. The horse carriage then stopped before a train track. A brief moment later, a train, which had mounted machine guns and cannons on some of the heavily armored cars, ran across the track.

Damn… Chloe said. That thing’s packing lots of heat.

It’s probably carrying supplies for Himinn fortress, Ignatius said, it’s only natural for it to be heavily armed.

Himinn fortress? Chloe said, what are you guys storing there?

Ammunitions, guns, tanks, and so on, Ignatius said, the Holy Cross also had some troops stationed near there, so we also have some of our weapons delivered through this train.

What kind of weapons? Alex said.

You’ll learn about them in class, Ignatius said. The train then passed, and the carriage soon resumed its course.

Still, where did they get the materials to build such a thing on an island nation like this? Alex said.

Well, they do import materials from certain select groups and nations, Ignatius said, that’s all I’ll say.

They have now arrived at the Royal Academy, situated near the forest. A long and tall wall stood before them. There were two knight statues guarding the entrance, which held onto their swords’ handles as the swords were stuck into the pedestals underneath them. The knights’ faces were concealed by their plain helmets, as they stared down at anyone who passed through the entrance.

As they walked through the entrance, they could see before them a large courtyard, with a fountain in the middle, as well as some trees planted here and there. A large clock tower stood at the farther end of the school. On their sides were several rectangular and long buildings. At the north-easternmost corner was a large, square building, seemingly a laboratory, which is enclosed with its own wall. There were also other variously shaped buildings, such as the amphitheater, the auditorium, as well as a large library that have two separate wings.

As Alex looked up, he could see that there were some soldiers walking on the roof, with sniper rifles in their hands. There were also a few soldiers patrolling around the school’s grounds.

Ugh, what’s with the security? Chloe said.

Some big shot is going to be here, Alex said as he looked around. That’s the most likely explanation.

That is exactly the explanation, Ignatius said, the king is going to pay a visit to this school sometime tonight, after all.

The king? Chloe said, I wonder what he looks like.

Well, what do you imagine him to be like? Alex said.

Let’s see, Chloe said and stroked her chin with her hand, he’d have brown beard and hair, as well as a red cape and golden crown. Oh, and he will always be smiling cheerfully at his people! That’s what I have in mind.

You’re thinking about the Burger King mascot, aren’t you? Alex said.

Hey! That’s just my idea of what a king looks like! Chloe said and pointed at Alex.

Okay, okay, you two, Ignatius said, if you’re done enjoying the scenery and arguing, we need to hurry to your class and introduce you to the teacher in charge.

Yes, sir, both of them simultaneously said. They then followed Ignatius into one of the rectangular buildings, and before them were a row of doors, with numbers plates on them. They then entered room 107. In that room, a young woman with hair tied into a bun, wearing a black dress and glasses was sitting on the table at the front with her legs crossed. She was reading a book, titled Manual to Herbal Remedies and Healing Magic, by Nadeshiko Kandagawa, translated by George Baldwin.

Good morning, Melissa, Ignatius said. Hearing that, the woman immediately looked up from her book, and smiled broadly. She then closed her book, put it on the table, and then got off the table.

Hello, Melissa said and adjusted her glasses, these two must be the last ones to arrive, right?

That is the case, Ignatius said, and now, I must do the honor of transferring them to your care so that I can be free.

You’re their advisor, aren’t you? Melissa said, putting her hand on her hip.

Come on, I’m not allowed to jest once in a while? Ignatius said.

Let’s just put the jesting aside for now, Melissa said, ah, pardon my rudeness. Allow me to introduce myself: I am Melissa, your homeroom teacher. My colleagues call me Ms. Dunois, but you can just call me Melissa. I’ll be teaching you about the History of the Holy Cross and Magic, as well as Herbs and Medicines. Look forward to it, okay? She then shook hands with them.

Everything seems to be proceeding smoothly. Then, I’ll take my leave, Melissa, Ignatius said. If you two need to see me, I’ll be in my office on the second floor… usually. Later, then. He then exited the room.

All righty, Melissa said. Let’s get the formalities out of the way first. She then handed two folders to Alex and Chloe.

Inside are the map of this campus, Melissa said, as well as the rules and regulations of the place. It also contains a list of places that you’re prohibited to enter on the island, so make sure to check that out.

Interesting, Alex said, thanks for the tip.

No problem. Just read the notes in there, and you should be set. Now, I think you must be pretty restless since coming here, Melissa said and clapped her hands together, shall we go and meet the other students?

Sure thing! I’d love to meet some new people, after all, Chloe said. It’ll be fun.

Or disastrous, depending on whether you make new friends or new enemies, Alex said.

Do you ever say anything besides cynical stuff? Chloe said with a frown.

Heehee… I’m sure he’s just shy, Melissa said. Come now. I’ll show you the way to the dormitory. After that, we’ll go to the welcome party.

Melissa then led the two of them to an L-shaped building and guided them through it. Later, they moved into their rooms after taking care of the checking-in procedures. Melissa then led them into a hall, lit by chandeliers. They could see many students. Some were dancing, some were just socializing with others, while others were feasting on the food at the tables.

Now, then, Melissa said, get in there and have some fun. Make some new friends while you’re at it.

Look at all the food! Chloe said with wide and brightened eyes. She then turned to Alex, What are we waiting for?

You can go on ahead, Alex said, I’ll just stand here and watch.

Man, you’re no fun, Chloe said. Seeing how well my previous attempts went, I’ll leave you out of this. She then turned away and immediately went to the table.

What’s wrong? You’re not good with people? Melissa said.

I’m not required to socialize with other people now, am I? Alex said as he shrugged his shoulders.

Technically, you don’t have to, Melissa said, but you’re wasting away your youth right now. Plus, it’s always important to have someone you can rely on, no?

That is true, but —

Come now, don’t be shy, Melissa said as she pushed Alex into the crowd, go in there and hook up with some pretty girl if you can, okay? She then winked at him and showed him a thumb up.

Goddamn it, Alex said under his breath, I guess I have no choice, then. He then silently walked around the crowd, looking around to see if there’s anything interesting. He could see Chloe talking and laughing with some other students, but he didn’t care that much. He then suddenly bumped into someone.

Sorry, Alex said. However, the student merely brushed his own sleeves, and then walked past Alex. Alex did not get a good glimpse at him. Not that he would care in the least.

This is such a pain in the ass, Alex said, if I can just go back to my room and sleep right now…

And thus, he wandered on and on, without making eye contact with anyone.

Hey, what’s with that guy? A student said, he’s been walking around in circles for ages now. It’s kind of creepy.

Yeah, he does look kind of gloomy, another said, could he be the one they mentioned in one of our school’s legends? You know, like how there’ll always be a gloomy student that will bring disasters every four years or so?

He’s probably just a normal first-year. And come on, you believe in that kind of garbage? It’s like believing that Ecclesia Maledictorum exists or something.

After the party, the students were assembled in the auditorium. Alex sat in the seat closest to the exit, which were guarded by soldiers. A school official in military uniform then came onto the stage and went to the podium. As he began his speech, Alex started to yawn while covering his mouth.

Good afternoon, everyone, the official said, thank you for gathering here today, at this prestigious academy. Whether you’re here to sharpen your mind in magic arts and science or foster your skills in physical combat… It was at this point that Alex seemed to block everything from his ears, and just let the time passed.

Well then, that should be it, ladies and gentlemen, the official said, tomorrow, you shall begin your training and education in earnest. With that, I shall close the ceremony. Thank you all.

Alex then went back to his room in the boys’ dorm and sat on his bed. He then opened up his suitcase and took out a white uniform, with the Holy Cross’ crest pinned onto the shirt’s breast pocket. The crest was silver in color, and depicted a cross, emitting light from its center. Alex stared at the uniform for a while.

Serving family duty, huh? Alex said, I wonder if I’ll become stronger if I go through this…

Alex then heard people cheering outside. He then opened the window a little and peeked outside.

Oh? Judging from that retinue, he’s probably the king himself, Alex said, seems a bit young, though… oh well. He then closed the window and took out a book, and spent the rest of the night reading as much of it as possible, before going to bed.

Chapter 3: New Friends, New Enemies

The next day, classes had started. Every student was just getting into their seats, as well as chatting with each other. Alex was sitting at one of the seats in the back, staring outside the window. He then got bored, and decided to count all the students in the room. There were fifteen of them, including him.

Melissa then walked into the classroom, carrying several thick books in her hands and then put them on the table. She then took a deep breath, and then exhaled.

Okay, good morning, class, Melissa said with a smile, I’m sure you all enjoyed your welcome party. She then briefly glanced at Alex, and then cleared her throat.

Alex, can you move to the front? she said, there are still some open seats up here. Let’s see… Jonah, do you mind if he sits next to you?

Not at all! Jonah said, come on, bro, get up here! Alex then moved to the seat next to Jonah, who was a big and burly student with a crew cut and dark skin, black eyes and hair. Chloe was also seated right behind Alex.

Excellent, Melissa said, now, each and every one of you, turn to the person next to you and introduce yourselves! Ready… go! she then clapped her hands. Everyone then introduced themselves to the person next to them.

Okay… Alex said, without looking at Jonah, "you should have heard the