
Beyond the Borders

1

Junkomi Eno

# Copyright

Written by Junkomi Eno   
Book Layout _&_ Design by Rittsu   
Cover Art by Rei‑chan   
Map Illustration by Chizu Senkai   
Editing by Miru Miru   
Copy Editing by Kyuri Tokidashi

Beyond the Borders Volume 1 © Copyright 2017 by Junkomi Eno

Cover Illustration © Copyright 2019 by Rei‑chan   
Map Illustration © Copyright 2019 by Chizu Senkai

All rights reserved. This book or any portion there of may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Seventh Edition   
10 9 8 7

ISBN: 978-0-463654-828

Published by Kuro Ookami Inkou™ at Smashwords

Smashwords Edition, License Statement   
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.

If you enjoyed my work feel free to favorite me at Smashwords: www.smashwords.com/JunkomiEno
Table of Contents

Copyright

Part One: The Black Knights

Prologue

Chapter One: Order in the Court

Chapter Two: The Rose War

Chapter Three: Brutal Training Methods

Chapter Four: Welcome to the Black Knights

Chapter Five: There's No Goddesses in Hell

Chapter Six: Scarlet Thorn

Chapter Seven: Silent as the Grave

Chapter Eight: The House Doctor

Chapter Nine: A Shot in the Dark

Epilogue

Part Two: The Duty of a Soldier

Prologue

Chapter Ten: The City of Mejorin

Chapter Eleven: Whispers of the Blade

Chapter Twelve: Mountain Yunaria

Chapter Thirteen: The Road to Ezorn (Part I)/Battle of Ikou Bridge

Chapter Fourteen: The Road to Ezorn (Part II)/Battle of Ezorn

Epilogue

Part Three: Sisters

Prologue

Chapter Fifteen: The Snow Fairy

Chapter Sixteen: The Fall of Sylveria (Part I)

Chapter Seventeen: The Twins of the Rhyine

Chapter Eighteen: The Fall of Sylveria (Part II)

Chapter Nineteen: The Aftermath

Chapter Twenty: The New Recruits

Chapter Twenty-One: The Fate of Magic

Epilogue

Part Four: The Beginning

Prologue

Chapter Twenty-Two: A Rose Lost in Time

Chapter Twenty-Three: The Aeonian Cycle

Chapter Twenty-Four: The Tragedy at the Rhyine

Chapter Twenty-Five: Daddy's Girl

Chapter Twenty-Six: The Whispers of the Wind

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Her First Time in the Army

Epilogue

Afterword

About the Author

Kuro Ookami Inkou

# Part One  
The Black Knights

## Prologue

_Why did I sign up for this_ , Aryia thought. She was nervous about jumping out of a cargo plane at roughly ten thousand meters in the darkness of night. While her wind magic was great for defending herself in a fight there was only so much her magic could do... and flying was not one of those.

Of course, there was no going back now. This was the job she signed up for and a job she would have to carry out to the best of her ability. The thought of her parachute malfunctioning made her exceedingly anxious. This was her first real operation since she had joined the Black Knights and she questioned if she could actually do it.

As Aryia continued to question herself Lylianna noticed the uneasy look on her face. She decided to go over the plan again for Aryia's sake. The last thing she needed was a soldier who forgot their role.

"Listen up, at 0200 hours we received an order from HQ to destroy a communications outpost. Everyone there is to be killed on‑site, while the HVT is to be taken alive."

HVTs — High‑Value Target — were always more valuable alive, Lylianna knew this as did the rest of her team.

"Don't forget your roles. We will go in pairs of two. Melissa, you are with Ryliah," Lylianna said as she walked down the middle aisle of the plane.

Captain Melissa Rial was the medic of the squad. She stood at a height of one hundred fifty‑five centimeters and weighed about forty‑two kilograms. While her blue hair, tied in cute pigtails, and pale flawless skin made her look like an adorable little girl, deep down she was the most sadistic medic in the whole world. She rarely, if ever, used any anaesthetic when fixing up her patients. To her, hearing their screams of anguish and fear of pain was like an erotic stimulant. Aryia had mixed feelings about her due to her sadistic methods of treatment, even if she was a skillful doctor. Part of her had even become a bit algophobic due to her.

In contrast to Melissa was Second Lieutenant Ryliah Hartfell standing at a height of one hundred sixty‑two centimeters and weighed forty‑six kilograms. With her long crimson hair and fair skin tone she was quite beautiful. Her expert skill with the sword made her deadly in close‑quarters combat. She was sweet and kind, completely the opposite of Melissa. Although, she was still able to kill a person should she be put in a life or death situation.

"Deadeye, you cover us from a sniping position that you believe would work."

First Lieutenant Bartholomew Graves — aka Deadeye — had orange spiky short hair and dark skin. He was known as the best sharpshooter in the West. As the tallest member of the team he stood above the others at one hundred eighty‑two centimeters and weighed about fifty‑two kilograms. He had the look of a stone cold killer and the personality to match. Aryia barely knew anything about the guy other then the fact he was a skilled sniper.

"Aryia you are with me."

Private Aryia Kozyki, the newest member of the team. Her long green hair and tan skin made her quite cute for her age. She stood at a height of one fifty‑two centimeters and weighed roughly thirty‑nine kilograms. While she was cute her somewhat nonchalant way of dealing with situations made her appear lazy and immature. This time however, there was no way she could be impulsive on a mission like this.

"Make sure your gear is set. Last thing I need is any of you dying on me from a parachute malfunction," Lylianna said as she turned to them.

Major Lylianna Veltress — nicknamed Major by her teammates — was the most unique of the team. Being the shortest of the members she stood at a height of one hundred forty‑two centimeters and weighed only thirty‑four kilograms. Her long white hair and ghost‑like pale skin made her standout on the battlefield. The bangs of her hair covered her right eye which was red while around the iris was a clock outline with roman numerals imprinted into it.

Lylianna's magic — like her appearance — was unparalleled. She could not cast fire from her hands like Ryliah, heal others with water like Melissa, run faster with wind like Aryia or sense others through the earth like Deadeye. Her magic was special in that it allowed her to stop time within a three meter radius around her. The only drawback to her magic was that it could only last for ten seconds.

The plane continued to fly to the drop zone as Aryia's mind began to wonder. Unlike her training exercises the enemy would be shooting back if they had the chance. She knew she couldn't screw up. While she seemed to worry about her abilities the rest of the team was calm and collective. All of them were considered elite soldiers. They had been on many missions before this and survived off the bare minimum to live. As soldiers they knew just how harsh the battlefield was. Aryia still had yet to truly learn that, even if she had been through the same training as they had.

"Five minutes until drop off," said a voice over the intercom.

"You heard the man, five minutes."

Lylianna slammed her fist against a button on the nearby control panel. Above the bright red button were two words, _Raise_ / _Lower_. The cargo hull of the plane slowly lowered revealing the sea of achromatic clouds. While Aryia stared out at the vast ocean of the clouds an LED on the wall of the plane lit up a dim red hue. Lylianna continued to stand there at the edge of the plane. _I hope Aryia remembers to deploy her chute_ , she thought as she turned back to her squad. She hoped this mission would be over before the two hour time period. If they didn't...

"One minute until drop off."

While the rest of the squad remained calm Aryia continued to have a look of fear on her face. _What if my parachute doesn't deploy_ , she thought. Within a minute the LED on the wall of the plane turned a dim green hue, signaling for the members to jump. It was now or never. Aryia did not have time to think about things any longer.

Without a second to waste Lylianna fell backwards into the sea of clouds. None of the members could see her from where they stood. While the others seemed calm Aryia was now even more anxious then she had been before. In a way, she could feel her heart skip a beat or perhaps it actually did.

Free falling from ten‑thousand meters was nothing new to Lylianna. The feeling of wind rushing against her body was something she had grown accustom to. After passing the clouds she could see the ground below her or rather she could see the vague outlines of hills and trees along with some buildings off in the distance.

Melissa was as cheerful as ever. She appeared to be completely carefree about jumping from a plane.

"See you guys at the bottom!"

Following a few seconds behind Lylianna, she ran and jumped off the edge in a swan dive like motion. As she fell an audible _WWWEEEE_ , was heard until it slowly faded out of ear shot.

"She acts just like a kid," Deadeye said as he walked calmly off the edge.

Ryliah noticed the look on Aryia's face. She placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Don't worry Aryia."

She simply smiled at Aryia, hoping that it would calm her, at least a little bit. As Ryliah leapt from the plane Aryia stared out into the darkness of the sky. _Jump_... _just jump_ , she told herself. She continued to tell herself that over and over again until she finally jumped into the dull gray sky. For a few seconds she could not see anything. It felt somewhat cold possibly due to the fact the clouds at one time had been the cause of a small rainstorm.

Once she was past the thick layer of the clouds she could make out faint outlines on the ground. With the wind rushing against her body she felt slightly tired due to the act of trying to keep her body straighten out as the wind continued to push against her. She felt as if she was going to pass out as she felt a bit dizzy and light headed. However, she needed to stay awake and alert. As she continued to fall, the ground was quickly coming into view. She would have to open up her parachute soon.

Three‑hundred five meters...

Two‑hundred ninety meters...

Two‑hundred seventy‑four meters...

Two‑hundred forty‑four meters...

_Now_!

With haste she pulled the rip cord while her body jerked slightly from the sudden decease of momentum. Even with this decease she was still descending faster then she had hoped. As the ground started to come into view Aryia could only make out one thing. Trees, trees and more trees... she knew this was not going to be a soft landing.

バーン〜

Aryia's knee managed to slam into a tree branch that dislocated her knee. Lucky for her she was so focused on trying not to die that she didn't even notice she had shattered her left knee bone. As she continued to plow through more leaves and limbs she finally stopped.

Lylianna noticed Aryia's landing as Ryliah met up with the rest of the squad. Once they were ready Lylianna gestured with a few hand signs to head out. The four of them moved slowly and quietly for fifteen meters until they noticed Aryia on the ground. Aryia had felt a sharp pain shoot up her left leg when she hit the ground, however, she was more surprised by the fact that there were guns trained on her. Lylianna quickly signaled a hold fire command as she bent down on one knee to take a look at Aryia's leg. While she checked on her the rest of the team covered their fire sectors ready to silence anyone that was unlucky to walk into their sights.

As Lylianna ran her fingertips slowly up Aryia's left leg she pressed down gently against her knee. Aryia covered her mouth with both her hands — trying not to let out a loud scream. As bad as she wanted to, she knew she couldn't.

Once Lylianna was done she signaled for Melissa to fix Aryia up. Melissa smiled an evil grin as she dropped her medical bag next to Aryia. She knew that Melissa was going to put her through intense pain. Opening up the medical bag, Melissa pulled out a small wooden board and shoved it in Aryia's mouth. The board was meant to stop a person from biting off their tongue and to keep them quiet during any painful medical treatments. Before Aryia had a chance to even think about what was happening Melissa had already relocated her knee back into place. Aryia could feel the sharp pain coursing throughout her whole body as she heard the sound of a bone popping back into place. _I hope I never have to experience something like that again_ , Aryia thought.

After the ordeal was over all of them continued on with their mission. Due to the HALO — High‑Altitude Low‑Opening — jump, the squad was only a few clicks from the outpost. They moved slowly as a unit through the dense forest, silently as to keep the element of surprise. On occasion the only sound that could be heard in the distance were orthopterous insects.

As they continued on, halfway through the forest Aryia started to feel an excruciating pain in her left knee again. Melissa noticed as Aryia tried to keep the pressure off her injured leg. _Oh my, she must need some numbing medication_ , Melissa thought. Without even a simple warning Melissa pulled out a needle with numbing gel in it. As she stabbed the needle straight into the side of Aryia's knee she almost felt herself falling over. The pain of the needle into her knee was beyond agonizing, however, after a few seconds the painful sensation was gone completely. Melissa smiled another evil grin. _Does she just enjoy teasing me like this_ , Aryia thought.

As the five of them continued on they finally made it to a clearing in the dense forest. In front of them was the target building where the commander would be.

The communications outpost was somewhat small. It appeared to have seen better days as the metal walls on the outside appeared to be rusting due to weathering and age. All of the squad quickly hit the dirt to avoid being spotted by any guards that could have been patrolling the perimeter. Lylianna pulled out her binoculars and surveyed the landscape. _Hm, no guards around the perimeter? That is strange_ , she thought. She signaled for Deadeye to take up a sniping position as the rest of the team slowly crawled up to the outpost wall.

Hugging up against the cold metal wall the four of them crept up to the entrance of the outpost. As they came to the doorway Lylianna signaled for the team to stop. The entrance was about three meters wide and from what she could tell the door wasn't even there. Perhaps the guards got tired of opening and closing the door and decided to simply get rid of it. That question would never be answered.

Lylianna peeked beyond the doorway, taking note that it was pitch black inside. After putting on her XGLRG — Experimental Green Light Refracting Goggles — and seeing that it was clear she signaled for Ryliah and Melissa to take the other side of the doorway. Both Ryliah and Melissa put on their XGLRGs as Aryia followed suit. Aryia began to feel more anxious then ever as Lylianna's hand signaled for all of them to take the building. Her and Melissa entered the outpost as Ryliah and Aryia brought up the rear. Lylianna and Aryia hugged the right wall as Melissa and Ryliah hugged the left. Everyone had their weapons at the low‑ready position. All of them slowly scanned the hallway, ready to engage any hostiles that came into view.

They moved slowly, being careful about planting their foot down. The metal floors could give away their position if they stepped to fast or to hard. Lylianna quickly threw up her hand signaling the squad to stop. Everyone dropped to one knee as she ordered them to hold position. A few meters ahead was a corner. Around the corner was a soldier who patrolled the inner corridor, slightly bordering on ennui. His careless missteps gave away his position to Lylianna, who could hear them as clear as a pin dropping. Like a ninja in the night she rushed to the corner and pulled out her dagger. As the guard came into view she grabbed him and began a series of complex close‑quarter tactics, like an assassin she killed the guard swiftly and quietly. _Only one guard_ , Lylianna thought. _Something isn't right here_.

One‑by‑one the four of them cleared each room, noting that most of the soldiers were sleeping. Aryia felt bad that she had to kill them like this. Part of her wondered about how their families would feel when they finally got the news.

_No, I shouldn't think about it. Lylianna told me not to show emotions on the battlefield_.

With all the rooms cleared out aside from one the squad converged on the last room. It was a somewhat spacious bedroom with plain stone walls, however, unlike the other rooms there were no windows. In the corner was a small candle that could be seen still burning on top of a wooden oak desk. A small bed was in the back of the room, centered proportionally. From what the squad could tell it appeared as if the target was asleep.

_Something just doesn't feel right_ , Lylianna thought as she removed her goggles. Still, she knew that they had to complete the mission. With a few hand signals she ordered Aryia to remove the bed sheet. As Aryia inched closer to the bed trying not to make a sound the others had their weapon sights trained on the target. She inched even closer as her heart started to pound. Pulling off the sheets revealed a straw dummy. In that split second Lylianna knew this was a trap. She quickly covered her eyes as Melissa and Ryliah removed their goggles, trying to shield their eyes for what was to come.

バング〜

A white light engulfed Aryia's sight along with a loud ringing in her ears. She fell to her knees wondering what was happening around her. Lylianna quickly removed her goggles and turned to the door as Ryliah and Melissa readied their weapons. A girl that looked just like Lylianna rushed in quickly from the dark corridor and matched her in hand‑to‑hand combat. Both girls ended up disarming each other but Lylianna was able to pull out her backup pistol. Within those few milliseconds of the fight more then a dozen guards with fully‑automatic rifles entered the room, their weapons trained on all the other members. _Damn, they got us_ , Lylianna thought.

As Aryia's sight and hearing returned to a relatively normal state she seemed confused at the fact that there was a girl that looked just like Lylianna. Once she looked around she realized they were screwed. Lylianna's eyes scanned the room as she made a mental note of how many guards there were. _With her here this is a losing battle_ , she thought.

Outside of the outpost Deadeye laid prone watching the entrance through his sniper scope. He had a bad feeling about this mission. Suddenly, he rolled over on his side quickly drawing his backup pistol. He was right to be paranoid. Standing over him was a dark skinned girl with long orange hair, her twilight eyes piecing through the darkness. Her sniper rifle was trained on his head. If the two of them had pulled the trigger both of them would be dead. Deadeye knew he could win if he managed to push the barrel out of the way. Due to having a smaller weapon he had an advantage. Before he could act however, another girl landed just a few meters from them. This girl also had orange hair and twilight eyes but wore a pair of glasses. She pointed her dual pistols at Deadeye's head.

"Hello!" she said in a cutesy voice.

Deadeye knew he couldn't win this battle. With a simple smile he turned his gun the opposite way, offering it to the sniper that still had her rifle trained on his head. She merely nodded as she took the pistol from him. He laid his head back and turned on his radio.

"Major, it seems—"

"I know..."

_It looks like we have no choice_ , Lylianna thought. As she unloaded the magazine from her pistol she tossed it to her left while tossing the pistol to her right. Afterwards she pulled out her dagger slowly. With a simple flip she held the sharp end of the dagger and threw it backwards, forcing it to stick straight up into the head of the straw dummy on the bed.

"Stand down."

Without another word she placed her hands on top of her head as Melissa and Ryliah lowered their weapons to the floor — kicking them over to the guards along with their other weapons. Aryia did not want to drop her gun. _Damn, what should I do_ , she thought. _Maybe I could use my wind powers_.

However, she felt odd when she tried to tap into her magic, almost as if something was blocking it. Even though she did not like it, Lylianna had ordered everyone to stand down so she had to comply. She slid her weapons over to the guards and feared for what was to come next. The girl that looked like Lylianna simply smiled as she twirled her gun for a bit before finally holstering it into her thigh‑holster.

"Good girl," she said.

Her tone was like that of a queen or someone of royal status, however, her dress said the complete opposite. After everyone discarded their weapons Ryliah, and Melissa dropped to their knees and placed their hands behind their backs. Everyone knew what was about to happen — everyone but Aryia...

As the soldiers tied up Ryliah and Melissa they remained calm, even when they placed a cloth sack over their heads. Once all of them were tied up the guards proceeded to knock them out with a blow to the back of the head. The last thing any of them heard before completely passing out was Lylianna's voice. Her icy words rang through Aryia's.

"If any of you talk, I will kill you myself."

## Chapter One  
Order in the Court

"The crimes one commits is seen before the eyes of Tzira."

— Tzira bat Nikolai

Aryia braced the butt of the rifle against her shoulder as she tried to slow her breathing. _Focus, and breathe. This target is as good as dead_. She steadied her aim, hoping that this time she would be able to hit the training dummy from fifty meters away. The wind blew slightly over the grasslands of the training grounds just North of the capital of Sylveria. As Aryia readied her shot, a somewhat older man dressed in a military uniform walked up to her. Even though his name was stated clearly on his name‑tag many just referred to him with a simple _Yes Sir_.

Of course, the nickname — thanks to Aryia — was Sergeant Loudmouth due to his constant yelling.

"Private Kozyki! What the hell are you doing?!"

The sergeant's voice rang loudly throughout her ears forcing her bullet to veer off course. _What a waste of a bullet_ , she thought as she lowered her gun. As the sergeant continued to yell, other soldiers started to stare.

"If I was that piece of cardboard I would have already killed you!"

"Well, I could have killed it if you hadn't interrupted me."

With that simple remark the sergeant looked as if he was about to pop a blood vessel. _Of all the soldiers in Sylveria why did I have to be stuck with the lazy one_ , the sergeant thought. As the sergeant stared menacingly at her she stared back. _Of all the sergeants in the Sylveria Army why did I get stuck with the one that enjoyed yelling at the top of his lungs? I swear this man yells in his dreams_ , Aryia thought.

"War is not a game soldier, if you hesitate in combat, you will die! Do I make myself clear?! Now drop and give me fifty push‑ups!"

She playfully stuck out her tongue.

"Nope, you have to catch me first."

Using her wind magic to give herself an advantage, she dashed in the opposite direction of the sergeant. The red blood vessel on the sergeant's face was now as red as his hair. He knew there was no way to catch her. By the time she was out of ear shot there was not much left for him to do but continue to instruct the other Privates.

After running for some time Aryia decided to keep running due to the freedom she felt from it. If only freedom could be more then what it was.

Everyone knew the Kingdom of Sylveria and the Republic of Versyi were at war with each other. There was a time when the whole kingdom was just known as Sylveria, however, those days were gone. The citizens of Sylveria believed Versyi to be nothing more then a group of anti‑Selverist while Versyi believed Sylveria to be nothing more then a kingdom of oppressive slave drivers. Aryia simply wished the fighting would end. She just could not understand why the two groups did not get along. She continued to run through the streets of the Priserra Academy, taking in sights.

Priserra was the grand capital of the Kingdom of Sylveria. It was home to many things, one of them being a large castle to which the Emperor of Sylveria called home. The other was the Priserra Academy — a military academy — that trained the best soldiers to fight. While the people that attended the academy were considered students, all of them were still soldiers. Any of them could be called on one day to serve their kingdom, no matter their age.

As she dashed throughout the streets, dodging common people left and right, she noticed a white haired girl enter her field of vision. Aryia knew she did not have time to stop the collision that was about to happen. _Not good_. Closing her eyes she braced for impact. A few seconds passed as she noticed that she was still running. _Why am I still running_? She opened her eyes only to be greeted by a large red brick wall. _Shit_... _shit_... _shit_... _shit_!

バタン〜

Lylianna watched as Aryia hit the brick wall with enough force to crush a human skull. _What an odd girl_ , Lylianna thought. Without time to waste she headed for the large building a few meters from her. She meet up with the rest of her squad who were standing out front of the courthouse. Unlike other soldiers of the military Lylianna and her team were easy to pick out from the rest due to their uniforms.

Lylianna wore a simple black undershirt over a black military‑style overcoat. Her red‑checkered color military skirt was a bit shorter then the other skirts seen in the other military uniforms. She wore a pair of black knee‑high socks along with black combat boots. On her right shoulder was her rank of major while on her left was a white horse chess piece.

The rest of the squad wore the same uniform, aside from Deadeye who made the smart choice of wearing a simple pair of black pants.

"Is everyone ready?" Lylianna asked.

"Yes ma'am!" the rest said in unison.

Upon entering the courthouse they all removed their black berets that held the white horse emblem pin on it. Lylianna stood in the hallway while the rest of her team entered the main courtroom with the other people.

* * *

Aryia finally came to after a few seconds. _That was painful_. As she got to her feet she looked around and realized that the girl was nowhere to be found. She had never seen a girl like her before. _What kind of magic ‑user is she_?

People continued to pile into the courthouse as Aryia wondered what was going on. She could only fathom a guess that an important trial was taking place. Deciding to sneak into the building — even though it was a public trial — she made her way down the long corridor and into the main courtroom.

The courtroom was quite spacious and looked immaculate for what it was. Looking around the courtroom she noticed people splitting off to the left or right, entering in what appeared to be a square enclosure — which was nothing more then a wooden railing only about three meters from the ground — around the courtroom for the spectators to watch. To the front of the room was a tall, dark oak wooden desk where the judge would sit and pass judgment based on logic, reason, facts and evidence.

Standing in the center of the room was an older gentleman pushing around fifty years of age. His black hair was trimmed short; his military uniform pressed and clean to the military standards. He seemed quite calm for a guy about to be put on trial. As people continued to pour in Aryia managed to get a spot near the front. Once the courtroom was packed with spectators a loud booming voice echoed throughout the room.

"Bow!"

Like a herd of sheep everyone but Aryia bowed. After noticing that she was the odd one out she quickly lower her head too as not to draw attention to herself. Entering the room was a slightly tall man covered in a black robe. He wore a matching executioner's mask to hide his identity. Once the judge sat down everyone raised their heads. As the judge spoke his voice was deep with a serious tone to it.

"Colonel Cortez, you are being charged with high‑treason against your own kingdom. How do you plead?"

"Not guilty sir."

* * *

Standing against the wall — just outside the doors of the courtroom — Lylianna could tell the trial was not going as well as she had hoped. As minutes dragged on it appeared that Colonel Cortez was going to be found innocent. _I can't let it end like that_ , she thought.

"Very well, Colonel Cortez, I find you—"

Lylianna pushed open the large doors, stepping into the main room before the judge could pass his sentence. All eyes were on her as she made her way to the center of the courtroom. Aryia remembered how she almost ran into the girl. _Who is this girl_ , Aryia wondered. Lylianna stepped up to the judge's desk.

"If I may sir, I bring forth evidence that proves the Colonel was working with the enemy."

Silence filled the courtroom for a brief second.

"Sir, there is no need to listen to this girl. She has no evidence to speak of."

The judge looked to Lylianna who showed no sign of falsehood. He thought for a minute.

"I will allow it. Proceed Major."

Aryia was shocked to learn that the girl she almost ran into held the officer rank of major. Lylianna placed her hand into her coat pocket and pulled out a voice recorder. The colonel started to look nervous. As a conversation between the him and a female played on the recorder the colonel began to sweat profusely.

"As you can see, Colonel Cortez plans to betray the Kingdom of Sylveria."

The judge's eyes gazed over to the colonel. There was nothing he could say to defend himself. With the events that transpired the colonel knew he was done for. Pulling out a dagger from his coat pocket he rushed straight for Lylianna with intent to kill.

"You bitch!"

Lylianna turned in the direction of the colonel. Within a blink of an eye he found himself surrounded by Deadeye, Ryliah and Melissa. Deadeye had his pistol pressed up against the colonel's head. Ryliah's dagger was only a centimeter away from his heart while Melissa laid under him with her pistol pressed up against his genitals. It was clear to the colonel that if he moved even a millimeter he would be dead.

"You Black Knights are all the same. Weak cowards—"

"If you are done colonel, I believe you have a prison sentence to adhere to. Unless you would rather serve those years in the ground."

Lylianna grabbed the dagger from him, a calm but cold expression showed on her face as she stared into his eyes. Once she had the dagger the Military Police Force moved in to apprehend the colonel.

"Colonel Cortez, due to the overwhelming evidence presented and the blatant attempt of murder on an officer, I sentence you to death."

"If it is all right with you sir, I would like to drop the murder charge," Lylianna said turning to the judge.

The judge seemed a bit confused and shocked.

"Are you sure Major?"

"Yes sir."

"Very well. Colonel, thanks to the Major you will be sentenced to life in prison."

The Military Police put the colonel in handcuffs and carried him out of the building. Lylianna looked to her team, and then at her watch. Without any words the four of them exited the courtroom.

* * *

Aryia left after taking note of the time. She knew she had a history class in a bit but the truth was she hated history. Math, science, and history were subjects that she failed most of the time. _What good is it learning about battles fought before our time_ , she thought as she made her way into the main academy building. She always believed that being able to adapt in the present was better than clinging to the past.

Inside the academy was no different then a standard private school aside from the fact that all the students were soldiers in training. The teachers were also soldiers, some of which were retired from the wars past. As Aryia walked down the hallway she noticed three other girls heading her way. The three girls were from the same unit as her and seen as the popular girls in the academy. In a way, they were more like idols than solders. As the self‑proclaimed leader crossed paths with Aryia the two of them bumped shoulders just slightly.

"Watch where you're going."

"You bumped into me!"

Before Aryia could even say another word the girl grabbed her by the collar of her uniform — slamming her against the lockers. She held Aryia slightly off the ground, staring menacingly at her.

"What did you say to me, you little wind rat?"

Aryia felt a sharp stinging feeling in her ribs causing her pain. While the three girls continued to bully her they failed to notice the two girls walking down the hallway.

" _Yare yare_ , looks like we have three little girls being naughty," Melissa said in a playful tone.

The three girls turned to see where the voice was coming from. _What are they doing here_ , Aryia wondered. Melissa stood there with her hands in her coat pockets — a cunning smile on her face. In contrast Lylianna had an expressionless face, like that of a stone‑cold killer.

"Picking a fight of three‑against‑one is a smart tactic. Logically, the greater the numbers the higher chance there is to win."

After Melissa was finished speaking the leader of the group dropped Aryia to the floor. Aryia could feel the acute pain in her right rib, like being stabbed with a knife. The three girls squared off against Lylianna and Melissa.

"Should I let you handle it Major?"

"Of course Mel."

Melissa stepped back and leaned against the lockers, crossing her arms. She knew this would be over quick. Aryia figured three‑against‑one was completely unfair. _There is no way she can fight three people like that_ , she thought. The three girls rushed forward at Lylianna, however, they ended up hitting the ground like bricks as they held their sides. They appeared to be in great pain from what Aryia could tell. _How did she do that in just a blink of an eye_ , she wondered.

"Now, get out of here."

Lylianna's tone was demanding, it was clear to Aryia that she was not kidding. As the three girls got up from the floor they limped away as fast as they could. The three of them were in intense pain, almost as bad as Aryia.

"What did you do to them?" Aryia asked.

"I merely put them in their place."

She believed Lylianna moved way to fast. Even the well known mistress of wind magic — Zhan‑Ming — could not even more that fast. As Aryia tried to get up from the floor she found herself rapidly holding onto the area where she was hit.

"Looks like they hit you harder then you thought," Lylianna said as she bent down beside her.

She lifted up Aryia's shirt taking note of the pale purple bruise starting to form. As she slowly traced her fingertips over the bruise Aryia winced slightly.

"Mel, take her to the medical lab and fix her up."

It was surprising to Aryia that Lylianna — a small, petite girl — could lift her with ease. As Lylianna handed her over to Melissa she began to walk in the opposite direction. Before she walked out of ear shot, there was one thing Aryia needed to know.

"Wait, what is your name?"

"Lylianna Veltress."

## Chapter Two  
The Rose War

"The fall of man will forever come at the hand of man. I shall not protect you on that day, but know that once your life is over a new one shall begin anew."

— The Tzira de Velmuous: Vol. One

As Melissa carried Aryia down the hallway she wondered just how old Melissa truly was. Neither Melissa nor Lylianna appeared to be the age they actually were. The truth was both of them were older then Aryia by only a year. _If she is the same age as me that would be hard to believe_ , Aryia thought as she looked over to Melissa. Once the two of them reached the medical room Melissa helped her to one of the medical beds. The doctor — whose name tag read _Dr. Suyuri_ — stood up from her desk with a slight worried look on her face.

"What's wrong?"

Doctor Suyuri made her way towards the two girls.

"Not to worry, I am a doctor."

"Wait, are you Melissa Rial?"

"Yeah, that is me."

The fear in Doctor Suyuri's face showed. She recalled the first time she dislocated her wrist. Without any numbing shots the pain of having it relocated was a nightmare. The woman quickly left the room trying not to relive the fear of that day as Melissa seemed confused as to why the doctor was leaving.

"Take off your shirt and let me see where that mean girl hit you," Melissa said.

Aryia removed her shirt slowly as she noticed the bruise — now turning a darker shade of purple — was a bit bigger then it had been before. She winced slightly as Melissa's fingers lightly traced over the bruise. Melissa grinned as Aryia whimpered every time she pressed down on it. After a few minutes passed of Melissa's _playful_ fun, she numbed up the area and bandaged it up.

"What did Major Veltress do to those girls? She moved way too fast."

Melissa simply giggled at the question. She knew the truth behind it.

"Maybe one day she will tell you."

With that answer Melissa walked over to the desk Doctor Suyuri had been sitting at and grabbed a pen and notepad. On the pad she wrote in an elegant handwriting:

Aryia Kozyki was under my care, please excuse her for being late.

—Dr. Rial

After ripping off the paper she handed it to Aryia.

"Show that note to your teacher when you get to class."

As Aryia looked over the note Melissa started to head for the door.

"Okay, well maybe I will see you again. Bye."

* * *

Lylianna looked over the files of every Private in the Sylveria Army. Of all the Privates there was only one that stood out to her. _Aryia Kozyki, age eighteen, fails to follow orders_... She continued to read off the list of comments and facts on her dossier. Even if she didn't follow the rules there was potential within her. _Maybe I can see what she is made of tomorrow_.

"Major."

"What is it Ryliah?"

"I did some digging into where your sister could be..."

* * *

Aryia headed to history class after leaving the medical lab. The history teacher was busy giving a lecture on _The Rose War_ , however, she stopped once she noticed Aryia entered the room.

"Private Kozyki, glad to see you decided to come to class."

Most of the classrooms looked the same. Pine wood floor with raised benches all pointing down to the front of the room so the students could see the blackboard. As Aryia handed the note to the teacher she worried if it would be enough to excuse her from the first ten minutes of class. After looking at the note the teacher's face began to turn as white as a ghost. She began to relive the painful memories with Doctor Rial after a weapon discharge left a large scar on her leg. Doctor Rial ended up removing the bullet without anesthesia or even numbing up the area.

Shaking the horror from her head she folded up the note and looked to Aryia.

"I am sorry you had to deal with her. Anyways, take your seat, please."

Aryia seemed confused by what the teacher meant by that. She pondered it while she made her way to her seat.

"Now, continuing on with the lecture. General Ryuuriou is known to have won the _War of Roses_ against General Hyatame..."

The teacher continued on with the lecture about the _The Rose War_ that took place in the year 325 a.g. It was known as one of the bloodiest wars to ever take place in Alvenfhiem. As the teacher continued to drone on Aryia found herself not only bored but also a bit sleepy.

Hours continued to passed until the end of classes. Aryia was finally relived to be done. She quickly made her way back to her barracks — which acted like dorm rooms in normal schools — and laid down on her bed. All of the beds were lined up, spaced evenly with each other, and looked the same. Olive‑drab colored sheets with a white pillow; big enough to only fit one person, maybe two if the people were short enough. The barracks itself was no different then a standard army barracks aside from a large wooden bookshelf near the back wall.

While Aryia laid back on her bed she noticed her friend Mari reading a book entitled _War of Roses_. Unlike Aryia, Mari wasn't a magic‑user of any kind. She would spend her time studying about the history of warfare and keep her mind sharp with tactics used in the bygone years.

She and Mari were the best of childhood friends. Mari always looked up to her ever since the day she saved her from being bullied at the age of seven. As Mari looked up from her book she noticed Aryia laying on her bed, tired from today's events.

"So, where did you run off to this morning?"

"I saw a court trial and got into a fight."

"Same old Aryia. Always up to no good, aren't you?"

"Only when I'm bored."

"You're almost always bored."

Before Aryia could reply with a comeback the door of the barracks flew open as the sergeant with a loud voice yelled at the top of his lungs.

"Attention!"

The whole room stood at attention. Aryia continued to lay on her bed as she was just to tired to even move. As the sergeant walked down the aisle of beds he noticed Aryia had not snapped to attention. While the military academy did train soldiers they were also considered students. Under the _Code of Military Doctrine: Section of Military Laws_ harming students was prohibited in any physical way.

"Private Kozyki, I believe I ordered everyone at attention!"

She continued to lay there as if she hadn't heard the sergeant's booming voice.

"Did you?"

"You will stand at attention now soldier!"

Aryia stuck her tongue out in a playful manner while the sergeant looked as if he was about to pop another blood vessel. After a few seconds he had an idea and his angry expression formed into a calm one.

"You're right, I can't make you. However, I can punish the rest of the platoon for your insubordinate attitude."

Walking to the end of the room he looked to everyone else that stood at attention.

"Everyone but Private Kozyki head outside now and get ready for a ten kilometer run."

As the sergeant left the building the sounds of annoyance echoed throughout the room. Part of Aryia felt bad for getting Mari mixed up in her selfish desires. Within a few minutes everyone changed out of their MDUs — Military Dress Uniforms — geared up in their BDUs — Battle Dress Uniforms — and headed out the door.

Aryia laid there in her bed wondering about what she would do tomorrow. She grew tired of the boring daily routine; she wanted something different to happen. While she laid there thinking to herself the sudden sound of the door opening jarred her from her thoughts. She looked to see who was there but was confused when she saw there was no one.

Out of the corner of her eye she noticed a shadowy figure standing beside her bed. Without any thought to her attack she swung her right arm horizontally at the figure. She soon realized the shadow she saw was only Lylianna. She caught Aryia's wrist, stopping her attack as if it was child's play. Aryia was a bit surprised to see her standing there.

"What are you doing here Major Veltress?"

"Just call me Lylianna, and I could ask you the same question Private Kozyki."

"Aryia. As for why I am still here... the drill sergeant forced everyone but me to go on a ten kilometer hike."

"Oh?"

Lylianna's expression never changed as Ayria continued to speak.

"In my defense, I hate being told what to do."

"Perhaps the army is not the job for you."

"Maybe so, but my family was the military type. My grand parents actually served in the _The Rose War_."

"So, you are simply following in your family's footsteps."

"No, I want to free this whole world of war."

"And how do you plan to do that?" Lylianna asked.

"I... I am not sure..."

"Next time think before you speak."

"What do you mean by that?"

Before Aryia had time to blink Lylianna had completely disappeared from her sight. She questioned if she had just been dreaming. She laid back as a few hours passed. The rest of the platoon finally returned from their long hike. Cold stares of hate could be felt throughout the air. No one wanted to talk to Aryia aside from Mari who looked as if she was about to pass out. Mari ended up falling onto Aryia's bed. _Poor Mari, I should have just listened to the sergeant_.

"I am so tired Aryia," she said in a sleepy tone.

Mari laid there at the end of Aryia's bed. Feeling bad for her, she grabbed Mari and helped her into her own bed. Mari's head sank deeply into the softness of the pillow.

"We had to run ten kilometers; then we had to do one‑hundred sits‑up along with one‑hundred push‑ups and then run another ten kilometers back."

_Wow, that is rough_ , Aryia thought as she started to feel bad.

"Aryia, can you massage my feet? Please?"

She didn't want to as she was not one for feet but part of her felt she needed to make it up to Mari. She slowly untied Mari's bootlaces, slipping her boots off. Her black knee‑high socks were soaked with sweat and smelled awful. As she carefully removed her socks Mari looked as if she was relaxed.

"Hey Aryia..."

"What is it Mari?"

"Don't forget we have that exam tomorrow."

_Shit_...

Aryia had completely forgotten about the exam. The exam was meant to test the student's understanding of war tactics, order, and teamwork. It was made up of two teams — a red team and a blue team — that were randomized. Each team was made up of fifteen members on it. The goal of the exam was to capture the other's team flag or eliminate all the players on opposing team.

_Hopefully Mari and I will be on the same team_.

* * *

The next morning every Private in the academy lined up with their platoon in the open field that would be used for the exam. While the field was quite large — about one‑hundred forty‑thousand kilometers squared — it did have a few different types of terrain from mountains to dense forest. Each team had a base camp that would act as their main base along with where their flag would be held.

It was 0850 hours and the instructor had yet to show up. After ten minutes had passed a tall man holding the rank of Second Lieutenant stood before all students lined up in a row. In his right hand he held a clipboard that listed out the teams and who would be on them.

"Listen up, today your exam begins..."

The instructor explained the rules of the exam and how the team that won would be eligible for a promotion to the rank of Corporal. As the instructor continued on with the rules Aryia started to feel bored and was ready to just start the exam.

"You must choose one member on your team to act as a general. They will be your leader..."

Aryia, along with the others, were puzzled by this new rule. In the exams past they never had to appoint a leader. Most of the exams were simple and would usually take an hour or two to complete.

"All of you will be given a rifle, pistol, rubber knife and two grenades. Don't worry the guns only shoot paint balls, same for the grenades. If you get hit with a bullet or grenade then you are out..."

As the instructor continued on about where to go once a student was tagged with a paint ball he explained that they were free to use their magic.

"Once you capture the enemy flag you have to return it to your main base. Finally, all of you will be given three days worth of rations..."

_Okay, that is new. How long is this exam. Actually, how big is this field_ , Aryia thought. The rest of the students gathered up their weapons and rations as well. Everyone also received a map of the area. Once everyone had their gear they stood in line and awaited further orders.

"Now, listen up as I call your name and your team color," the instructor said as he looked to his clipboard.

Aryia's heart was pounding as she prayed to the four goddesses' in the sky. _Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Belgore Lufrain, red team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Marilyn... uh... Marilyn Be‑Bel—"

"Its Marilyn Belzeir VI Fainalia de Celienya Von Reymilchstein Kozun, sir. However, feel free to call me Mari, sir."

"Right, Mari, blue team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Rosé de Sinclair, red team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Izumi O'Hara, blue team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Lili Meltuşe, red team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Alice Yaro, blue team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Emilia Vallière, red team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Red, blue team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Lain Debella, red team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari_.

"Aryia Kozyki, blue team..."

_Please dear goddesses' in the skies above, let me be with Mari. Wait, did he just say I was on the blue team? Thank the goddesses_. Aryia was over joyed that she was on the same team as Mari. Of course, many of the other students hated the idea that Aryia was on the same team as them. They did not want her on the team due to her track record of not listening to anyone.

Once everyone was ready two instructors lead the two different teams to their main bases. After the two teams made it to their camps the sound of a loud horn bellowed through the air. This was the signal to start the exam.

"Wait, who is going to be our general in this exam?" one guy asked.

"I think Mari should be our general," a girl chimed in.

Despite Mari having brown hair and no magic to speak of it was clear that almost all of the students wanted her to be the general to lead them. She seemed to be a bit embarrassed by the overwhelming support of her fellow students. Everyone knew that she would be a great general due to the amount of time she spent studying war tactics and history in general.

"Well, if everyone believes I should... then okay," Mari said blushing a little.

In the center of the base camp was a large wooden table that everyone gathered around. Mari laid out the large map of the field taking note that she would have to use some math to calculate where their base camp was located. Aryia had no idea where anything was located on the map, while other students had a rough idea of where they were.

Mari worked out the calculations to triangulate where they were. It wasn't an exact location but it was as close as she would be able to calculate without the use of a GPO — Global Positioning Orbiter.

"Why would they give us a map without any useful information on it?" one student asked.

"It seems the instructors want to make sure we understand the art of intelligence gathering. That would explain why we cannot see anything on this map."

_Wow, she is so smart_ , Aryia thought.

"Do you know where the enemy base is at?" Aryia asked.

"I have a rough idea but I am not one‑hundred percent sure."

"Then lets go attack them!"

Aryia's outburst was met with expressionless stares from her teammates. Her outburst of stupidity made most of them question just how useful she would be. However, Mari knew that Aryia just had her own way of looking at things. Of course, war tactics was not her most strongest of suits.

"Aryia, that would be stupid. Think about it, if we just go and attack them without knowing what we are facing then it will be a losing war. If we want to win we need to be smart and treat this like a real war."

Aryia's head lowered slightly. It was heartbreaking for her to hear her own friend basically telling her that her idea was stupid. Mari placed her hand on Aryia's shoulder.

"Look Aryia, you're a great scout due to your speed but you need to think logically and be tactical about things from time to time."

Aryia looked away like a small child being scolded by a parent.

"Aryia you're my best friend and I trust you so trust me as well, okay?"

With a simple smile Aryia nodded.

"I do trust you."

Mari continued to study the map, trying to work out what would be the best way to scout out the field and defend the flag. She could tell from the map that there would be a few choke points that could decide the outcome of their battles. As she studied the map the others waited around, striking up conversations about non‑trivial topics.

"All right, with fifteen people we should split two groups of four people into a scout team and an assault team."

"Why two groups of four?" one girl asked.

"A four man team is adept enough to be of use in any situation."

Mari looked over to Aryia.

"Aryia, I want you to take Izumi O'Hara, Alice Yaro, and Red. You will be leading the scout team."

"You can't be serious," Red said with an annoyed look on his face.

"Do you have a problem with me being a leader?"

Aryia stared threateningly at Red. It was clear to everyone around them that the two of them would not get along.

"Yeah, I do. I don't like the idea of being under an incompetent leader like you."

Before Aryia could say anything Mari quickly chimed in.

"Noted, next is the assault squad."

Mari continued to break off the fifteen students into smaller, more manageable, fire teams. In total there were four units. Scout, Assault, Rook One, and Rook Two fire teams. Aryia felt as if Mari was taking this seriously. She knew that she would need to be serious as well and do the best she could.

Once Mari assigned the teams she gathered everyone around the map. Grabbing a few small rocks from the ground she placed them on various places on the map.

"Okay, fire teams One and Two set up a defensive position due North of the forest here," she said pointing to one of the rocks.

"Roger," the Rook team leaders said together.

"Assault team, your job is to cover the right flank for now. Once we scout out the enemy base however, be ready to join up for an attack with the scout team."

"What should I do?" Aryia asked.

"Aryia I want your team to scout out the mountain ridge‑line several clicks North‑West of here. That mountain will function as a tactical vantage point for us along with a temporary make‑shift secondary base."

"Right! You can count on me. Lets go team!"

Aryia was eager to prove to Red that she was not incompetent in any way. Once everyone was ready the four of them headed North‑West. They crossed rolling grasslands with beautiful pine trees scattered over the vast landscape. With the morning dew setting into the untamed grass the whole scene was a painter's dream come true. Two hours passed until Aryia finally noticed the mountain coming into view. A small forest separated the base of the mountain from the top. The treetops were thick and overgrown to the point that it was impossible to see anyone coming from the top of the mountain.

As the four of them pressed on through the dense forest they had finally made it to the clearing just at the base of the mountain. Aryia looked up to the mountain top and noted just how big it truly was. _Its like a giant gray wall_ , she thought. _Now we just need to hike up the mountain's massive slope_.

"So, what do we do now oh great leader?" Red said in a mocking tone.

"What is your problem Red?"

"Aside from the fact you're the leader?"

"Red that is enough. Mari made Aryia the leader of the squad so you need to man up and deal with it," Izumi said stepping in front of him.

Aryia was a bit surprised that Izumi was actually sticking up for her.

"G‑Guys w‑we s‑should t‑try t‑to f‑focus o‑on—"

Alice tried to get out her words out but unlike the others of the group she was very soft spoken and overshadowed by Red.

"Oh shut up Izumi. We both know Aryia isn't worth the trouble. She is a failure as a soldier and as a leader."

Before anyone else could speak a shot rang out. Red paint splattered on the ground a few centimeters from the group. The shot came from a sniper perched near the top of the mountain. It was a good thing for them that the sniper was a horrible shot.

"Sniper! Take cover," Izumi yelled.

The four of them took cover behind a few of the large trees. They were hidden from sight due to the overgrown tree limbs and green foliage. However, it also made it impossible for the scout team to return fire from their current position. With this limitation they would be forced to step out in front of the sniper's line of sight — which would be bad.

_How did the red team get here before us_ , Aryia wondered.

"Return fire," Aryia yelled.

As she stepped out from the large tree she tried to fire off a few rounds but she noticed that the weapon was only a bolt‑action rifle. _Damn, why is it a bolt ‑action rifle_. She quickly hunkered back into cover, annoyed by that fact.

"Why did they give us a bolt‑action rifle? I hate these single‑shot type weapons."

"Because stupid, a full‑auto rifle has no control," Red said firing off a shot.

The four of them continued to fire randomly up at the mountain. All of their shots missed the sniper's hiding position due to the inefficient range of their weapons. While the guns they held were once real, they were no longer used in today's wars. It was a simple rifle that had a wooden base along with some metal parts. Unlike other rifles this one was so old that a small lever near the bullet chamber had to be cocked back just to load another bullet into the chamber. The rifle was accurate to about two‑hundred fifty meters. Aryia did not like this type of rifle at all.

Peeking her head out Aryia tried to get a fix on the sniper's location, however, a stray paint ball forced her back into cover. _If that shot had come any closer I would have been out for sure_ , she thought.

Aryia wondered if the sniper was alone or if it was two of them working in a pair. Her team continued to blind fire up the mountain as she tried to come up with a plan. _Red has his fire magic, Izumi has her water, while Alice_...

"Alice can you make a large rock near the base of the mountain?"

"Y‑Yes."

"What is the plan Aryia?" Izumi asked firing another round.

"I will use Alice's rock as cover and if she can get the rock to follow my movements up the cliff face it should allow me to see the sniper and possibly get a shot on them."

"Possibly?" Red questioned.

"And what about Red and myself?"

"Both of you should lay down what suppressing fire you can to keep the sniper from firing on me as I move."

"All right."

"Whatever."

Slamming her palms into the ground Alice was able to form a rock that was just big enough for Aryia to take cover behind. Izumi and Red began to fire off shots alternating back and forth. _This is my chance_ , Aryia thought. Using the power of her wind magic Aryia dashed behind the rock Alice had made. She tried to listen closely to the volley of the bullets to try and pin point the location of the sniper.

One shot rang out.

Followed by a second shot.

Within a fraction of a second a third shot could be heard.

_Now_!

Aryia quickly hurried up the side of the slope. She was moving so fast that Alice had some trouble keeping up with her movements. She stopped half‑way up the mountain but was completely out in plain view for the sniper. As the sniper aimed their sights on Aryia and loaded the weapon, they fired a shot. At the very last second a rock appeared in front of Aryia blocking the paint ball.

Peeking her head out quickly Aryia was able to get a fix on the sniper, noting that the sniper was a female and she was alone. _Okay, this is my chance to prove myself_. Aryia believed this was her chance to get shot on the sniper. She waited for the sniper to fire. _One_... _two_... _three_...

She dashed quickly from behind the rock and straight up the mountain. As she came closer she noticed that the sniper was Rosé de Sinclair, a wind magic‑user like herself. Using her wind powers Aryia began to dash even faster then before straight up the mountain. Her idea was to use the lip of the mountain ridge as a ramp to gain just enough air time to get a shot on Rosé. Once she was near the top she flew into the air three meters — spinning one‑hundred eighty degrees. Aiming her rifle carefully, she fired a shot hitting Rosé in the back.

Aryia landed on her feet at the top of the mountain. She noticed that there was no one else on the mountain top. As Rosé stood up she held up her hands and smiled.

"Wow, that was some nice teamwork there Aryia."

With a simple wave of her hand she began her walk to the elimination zone. The rest of Aryia's team made their way up the mountain as Aryia took in the sight of the astonishing view at the top. Once all the members had gathered at the top Izumi looked to Aryia.

"What are your orders?"

"We hold up here I guess."

The four of them set up camp by using Alice's earth magic to create a small dome fire pit on the ground along with small stone shaped beds for each of them. Izumi gathered what leaves she could from the forest below to try and make the beds a bit softer. After a few hours had passed all of them started to feel a bit hungry.

Looking over what supplies they had Aryia noticed that all the rations appeared to be the same, based on the ten point size font printed on the back. Rice pudding, beef & beans, and chocolate powder among other things. With these rations it was possible for one soldier to live off of a single ration for a whole day. However, most medics and hardened combat soldiers knew it was possible for a person to survive off of only one‑fourth of the ration — though it would not be filling for someone untrained to deal with it.

"It might be better if we all share one ration together," Izumi said.

Being a medic in training she understood exactly how much nutrition the body needed to survive. While the portions would not be filling it would be enough to live and it would also allow their rations to last for longer then three days.

"That is a good idea," Aryia said as she put away her ration.

"That is a dumb idea," Red said opening up one of his rations.

It was clear to the other three that Red was not going to listen to anything anyone had to say. While he ate one of his own rations Alice shared one of her rations with Aryia and Izumi. As Aryia took a bite of the cold beef & beans she quickly wanted to throw it up. _I had heard that military rations tasted like wet dog ass, but this is just horrible_.

Hours passed as twilight began to fall over the horizon, painting the once green grass into a faded golden color. The air around the mountain top was quiet, almost perfect silence. Aryia recalled that Mari had never explained what to do after they made camp at the mountain. She figured that it would be best to just wait and see what happened. _Waiting, ugh... I hate waiting_.

Izumi, Aryia and Alice sat around the dome that held the fire, crackling as the wood burned slowly. All of them had sat in silence for some time until Izumi asked everyone why they joined the army.

"I dreamed I would one day become a great medic like Doctor Rial, so I ended up joining the army so I could study and get paid to do it," Izumi said hugging her knees to her chest.

"I‑I j‑just w‑wanted t‑to o‑open u‑up a‑a f‑flower s‑shop b‑but I‑I n‑needed m‑money."

Everyone turned to Red.

"I have my reasons."

Without another word Izumi and Alice turned to Aryia.

"What about you Aryia?"

Aryia thought for a second. She had joined the military to try and end the war. Maybe it was a childish dream but she truly wanted the war to end.

"When my parents died I realized that my only dream was to try and end the war that plagues our land."

At first no one spoke. In truth, everyone wanted the war to end but it was not so simple. The wars over the years had taken its toll on the kingdom as a whole, even if it did not appear to. On the Eastern Front Zone — known as the Rhyine Theater — the fighting ruined many lives in the City of Rhyine. So much so that the city was nothing more then rolling hills of black dirt and ruins.

"You're delusional if you think you can end the war."

"Shut up Red," Aryia finally yelled.

Red pulled out his pistol and pointed it at Aryia. It took her a few seconds to realize that he was aiming his gun at her. Izumi quickly stood in between the two of them, hoping to stop the needless violence.

"Knock it off you two, we have a mission to complete."

After a few intense seconds — that felt like minutes to Aryia — Red finally holstered his pistol. Aryia decided it would be better for her to leave the camp. She figured scouting out the area alone would be the best for everyone.

"I am going to scout out some of the land. Everyone hold your positions here until I get back."

Without another word Aryia headed out, down the slope of the mountain.

* * *

Camping out a few kilometers from the battle zone was a base camp in the out‑of‑bounds area where all the privates stayed in tents until the exam was over. In the center of the camp was a large table with a map displaying the positions of the two main camps and landmarks of the area. Leaning against the table Lylianna looked over the field map noting all the possible choke points and how each team was doing. Beside her was Melissa placing down markers to show where each of the teams were from when she last scouted the area.

As she studied the map, one of the instructors made his way over to her. After saluting, he spoke.

"Ma'am, as ordered I have learned that the red team had their first causality around 1205 hours, ma'am."

"Any idea who?"

"Yes ma'am, the causality appears to be Private Sinclair, ma'am."

"I see. Dismissed."

The instructor left as Lylianna continued to look over the map. She could see in her mind how this war was going to play out.

"So, what do you think Major?"

"I think we should see how _she_ handles herself."

* * *

Aryia felt lost as she wondered through the overly dense forest. Looking at her watch she noticed it was going on 1920 hours. With the last bit of light fading she decided it was time to return to her unit. As she looked around she noticed a bright light in the far distance. She soon realized that what she believed to be a light was actually a fire. The fire was spreading far too quickly to be a natural wild fire which worried Aryia. _There is no way that is a natural fire. It has to be from a fire magic ‑user_.

Doing what she was good at Aryia used her wind magic to dash in the opposite direction of the flames. It was hard for Aryia to know just what direction she was running in due to her horrible sense of direction. Suddenly, two female soldiers appear in front of Aryia, aiming their rifles at her. One shot rang out as she quickly dodged to the side, pulling out her pistol to shoot back. However, the girl managed to back‑flip out of harms way. Another shot rang out, missing Aryia by a few centimeters.

Unsure where to go Aryia continued to run as the two soldiers gave chase. It took a second but Aryia began to realize that the two girls giving chase were able to keep up with her. _They have to be wind magic ‑users like me_. She continued running as she tried to fire off a shot but ended up missing. It was hard for her to aim and keep up her constant velocity. As Aryia turned around to look where she was going she noticed a tree appear in front of her. _Holy crap_! Swerving to the left she managed to barely miss it. She continued on until she saw a clearing a few meters out.

Dashing even faster Aryia finally reached the clearing. She was running so fast that she ended up hovering a few centimeters off the ground. Turning quickly she fired off two shots in rapid succession. Both shots missed forcing the other two wind‑users to scatter to her left and right. As her feet touched the ground Aryia braced herself, sliding against the dirt the friction forced her to come to a stop. Dropping to one knee she aimed her pistol at the wind‑user to her left.

Aryia had the girl in her sights. She recalled how the loudmouth sergeant nagged her for taking her time, so without a second thought she squeezed the trigger. As if flying in slow‑motion the paint ball hit the girl in her left arm. The other girl on the right side aimed her weapon and fired. Aryia quickly tumbled out of the way and tried to aim her gun on her target. _No time to think, just shoot_. Firing off one shot Aryia managed to hit the other girl in the chest.

Once she realized there were no more people around she quickly tried to catch her breath. _I should have brought my water and some food_ , she thought as she started to walk back to her team, slightly exhausted from the skirmish.

* * *

Two‑hours and twenty‑minutes had passed. Darkness fell upon the land making it hard to see things from afar. After the long and grueling walk back to the mountain Aryia was greeted by staring down the barrel of two rifles.

"Its just me."

Aryia raised her hands to show that she was not a threat in any way. As Izumi and Alice lowered their weapons Aryia noticed that Red was no where to be seen.

"Where is Red?"

"He disobeyed orders and went off on his own after you left."

"Good, we didn't need him anyways."

"While that may be true, however, saying something like is a sign of poor leadership."

She was at a loss for words. _Am I really that bad of a leader_ , she thought. Without any words to say Aryia sat down beside one of the large rocks. Izumi sat down next to her while Alice watched one side of the mountain.

"I saw the blaze a few kilometers out. Care to explain that Aryia?"

"I ended up coming in contact with two members of the red team. The two were wind‑users like me. However, I am unsure about the fire."

As Aryia got up to look out into the darkness she could see a heavy orange blaze raging in the distance.

"At the very least I believe it was a fire‑user. My guess is they were trying to trap me."

Suddenly, the sound of rocks sliding down the mountain could be heard. Aryia and Izumi quickly picked up their guns as Alice headed to the other side and prepared to open fire. Leaning over the edge, the three of them trained their weapons in the direction of the sound. Standing before them was a soldier who was on their team. He quickly raised his hands.

"Friendly! Friendly!"

The three of them quickly lowered their guns once they saw he was one of their own. After a bit of explaining the guy handed a note to Aryia from Mari explaining what her team should do and about what was happening. As she opened the note, she could tell that it was from Mari due to the handwriting.

To Aryia,

Our right flank was wiped out. We were forced to shift our fire teams to the right flank. I need your team to check out the left side. If their defense is focused on the right side then logically the left should not be as protected. Should you see a chance to take the red team's flag from their base, take it. Good luck.

—Mari

"Tell Mari that I will check it out. Also tell her that we eliminated three of the red team's members so far."

The courier nodded as he made his way down the mountain and into the darkness.

"All right, lets move out," Aryia said as she gathered up her supplies.

After traveling a few clicks from their current position the three of them came to a tempered area with a lot of overgrown grass. The trees were far more dense then any of the other forest areas. Aryia and the others managed to find a river that was flowing due South from what Izumi could tell. There was a small open meadow just near the river bank, however, setting up a normal camp there would be too obvious.

"Hey Alice, any chance you could morph this clearing into a rolling hill that blends into the environment?" Izumi asked.

"Y‑Yeah. I‑It w‑will t‑take s‑some w‑work b‑but I‑I c‑can t‑try."

* * *

As the three slept inside the earth igloo that Alice created for them, she found herself waking up after feeling tiny vibrations in the ground. The hill was well camouflaged to look as if it had always been there. While most people would see it as a normal hill a trained earth magic‑user would be able to detect if there were any life forces inside — assuming they were within range.

Alice quickly sprang to her feet, trying to wake up Izumi and Aryia. She knew that they would not have long if the enemies were earth‑users.

"I‑Izu‑Izumi, A‑Ary‑Aryia, w‑wake u‑up," she whispered.

Waking up from their peaceful sleep, Izumi quickly grabbed her gun as Aryia rubbed her eyes.

"T‑There a‑are t‑three p‑people t‑ten m‑meters f‑from u‑us."

Before Izumi could ask if any of enemies were earth‑users the igloo quickly started to break apart. Alice braced the igloo with pillars of dirt so the three of them could get out in time. Seconds after Alice left the dirt hill it began to cave in on itself. While Izumi and Aryia managed to get to cover quickly, a stray shot hit Alice square in the gut.

Aryia and Izumi laid down suppressing fire after realizing where the shot came from. _Maybe I can flank them from the right side_ , Aryia thought.

"Izumi, cover me."

"Roger."

As Izumi continued to fire off single shots Aryia dashed to the right flank, however, she found herself quickly ducking behind a rock after a shot rang out, missing her by a few centimeters. Aryia found herself pinned down by one of the of enemies and unable to move. She was unsure what to do. After thinking for a bit she remembered that she still had two grenades. Pulling the pin from one of the grenades she blindly threw it overhead — hoping by the grace of the goddesses that it would hit the target.

"Grenade! Take—"

ブーム〜

Peeking up from behind the rock Aryia noticed that there was still one guy left who was to focused on Izumi to even care about her. Taking aim Aryia fired one shot hitting the guy in the arm. After the fire fight Izumi walked over to Aryia.

"It looks like they got me. Good luck Aryia."

With a simple pat on the shoulder Izumi headed out of the forest and for the elimination zone. As Aryia sat there against the rock she found her eyes slowly starting to close until she finally drifted off to sleep.

* * *

Lylianna lit a candle and placed it at the end of the table. Melissa, Deadeye and Ryliah stood there looking at the map as they ate a few cold rations. Most of the students that had been eliminated were asleep in their tents, waiting for news about if their team would win.

"Any news on how things are going?" Lylianna asked looking to Melissa.

"So far it seems that part of the forest here was burned down."

"What is Aryia's team doing?"

"Last I checked..."

As Melissa continued to explain what intelligence she had gathered Izumi overheard her mention Aryia's name.

"Excuse me, did I hear you asking about Aryia?"

Lylianna turned to Izumi along with the others. After Izumi's eyes adjusted to the dim‑lit light she realized that the four people in front of her were officer ranking.

"S‑Sorry," Izumi said saluting.

"At ease. Now do you know something about Aryia?" Lylianna asked looking back at the map.

"Yeah, she is the last one left on our squad aside from Red but I have no idea where he ran off to. Before I got shot we were around this area."

Izumi pointed to the area on the map of their last known location.

"Is there some reason as to why you are interested in Aryia, ma'am?"

"It is better if you don't know."

With those words Izumi had an uneasy feeling.

* * *

Aryia awoke the next morning slightly confused. It took her a few seconds to realize that she had fallen asleep in the forest. _I can't believe I managed to sleep in a forest like this_. After hearing her stomach growl louder then a train whistle she opened up one of her rations. Eating cold beef & beans almost made her sick to her stomach. As she ate her meal slowly she could her the sounds of birds flying overhead. _Now what do I do_ , Aryia thought as she took another bite.

Once she was finished she looked over the rushing river. While the current wasn't strong enough to knock her down, it was still moving slightly fast. The river was to wide to jump, even with a running start. _I guess I have to cross it_ , she thought. Not wanting to get her BDU wet she removed her military boots and socks. Upon rolling up her pant legs she stepped into the water. _Holy crap! That is way too cold_. Treading carefully Aryia walked through the knee‑deep river feeling the small pebbles and sand against her bare feet. As she continued she hoped that no one would get the drop on her.

After crossing the river she waited a few minutes to let herself dry off. As she sat against a tree. She opened the note from Mari and read over it again. _I guess I need to scout out this area. Chances are the enemy base is nearby_ , she thought as she put her socks and boots back on. She made her way through the dense forest until she came to a clearing in the heavy thicket of woods. Noticing a few tents ahead she dropped to her stomach, hitting the dirt hard.

Glancing over the area she could see many tents along with a few members of the red team. As she surveyed the land she was startled by the sudden sound of a man's voice.

"Don't move."

_How did they know I was here_? Aryia could feel the barrel of the man's weapon against her head. Part of her was afraid, yet another part of her wondered why he had not fired his shot yet.

"Man, you are to easy to sneak up on."

_Wait, that voice_...

Turning around slowly her gaze met the man who was kneeling beside her. It was Red, smirking at the fact that he got the drop on her. Even if she hated the guy, she had to admit that she was glad to see him. As he laid prone beside her, she turned back to the camp to watch the other team.

"So, where were you?" Aryia whispered.

"Unlike you — I was busy gathering intelligence."

Now she wasn't glad to see him. As the two of them watched the camp in front of them Red went over what he had gathered from watching the main camp for some time. Summing up the main points he concluded the main camp was lightly defended and — with a bit of planing — could be taken out pretty easily. For once the two of them were in agreement about something.

Aryia looked over how many magazines she had left. With all the fire fights she had been in she was running low on ammo for her rifle. Taking her by surprise, Red handed her a few magazines he still had.

"Don't waste them."

She quietly loaded her weapon and thanked him for the ammo.

"So, what is the plan Red?"

"You can attack from the East flank, and I will attack from the West flank."

"That is a plan I can get behind."

"Yeah, attack the place in ten minutes no matter what."

Red quietly got up and circled around the camp's outer edge to the West side as Aryia waited there looking at her watch. It was 0830, according to her watch. The waiting was killing her, with each passing minute feeling like an eternity. After ten minutes had passed Aryia quickly got up and started to rush the enemy camp. Running and gunning down each enemy that came into view.

As Aryia flanked the East side, Red finally rushed from the West side skillfully taking out each enemy with a single shot. After eliminating the whole camp Aryia quickly found the red team's flag and ran back for the safety of the woods. Red followed behind after setting fire to the main camp. The two of them ran as fast as they could — heading for their home base.

* * *

The mountain top was quiet as Aryia and Red sat in silence eating their rations. It was almost hard for her to believe it but they had managed to captured the red team's flag. Now they just needed to get back to their base camp with it in one piece. _I hope Mari is all right_ , Aryia thought as she stared out at the picturesque landscape. Red was busy looking at the map trying to figure out how the enemy would move and where they might be. He was a bit surprised that they had not ran into anyone else from the other team along the way to the mountain.

After a few minutes Red had figured out that it would take about two hours to get back to their main base. Once the two of them were finished eating and had an idea about what to do, they both headed out. Aryia was quite happy that they would win this exam.

When they got to their main base the quiet stillness of the base camp filled Aryia with a bit of worry. _Where is everyone_ , she wondered. Red was also worried, as he noticed that their flag was still in the same place that it was always in.

"I don't like—"

Before Red could finish his sentence a single shot rang out from in front of them. As Red looked down at the red paint splattered on his vest he knew he was out.

"Damn it!"

As Aryia readied her weapon she noticed people coming out of the forest, their guns aimed at her. She was surrounded by the red team. Walking out from the East side was young man holding a girl hostage. Belgore Lufrain — the red leader — had managed to outsmart Mari and take her hostage.

Belgore stood seven meters away from Aryia as he held his pistol to Mari's head. While there was no rule against using hostages, no one had ever thought to use a tactic like this before.

_Think Aryia, think... what can I do to get rid of all these people_? Aryia closed her eyes as she holstered her gun. This is the only thing I can do. Holding out her arms, she breathed and exhaled slowly. _Lets do this_! Spinning around on the ball of her foot like a figure skater, a strong wind began to form around Aryia as bits of dirt and pebbles kicked up violently. The faster she spun the more visible the wind current could be seen. She continued to twirl faster and faster, unable to get a sense of what was happening around her.

## Chapter Three  
Brutal Training Methods

"There is no place for emotions on the battlefield."

— Lylianna Veltress

The next day Aryia laid in her bed, feeling defeated. Her pride was wounded along with her intelligence in decision making. _How could I make such a stupid mistake_? Burying her head into her pillow, she felt as if the world was crashing down around her. Her team refused to speak even a single word to her.

"Don't beat yourself up Aryia. You did the best you could," Mari said patting Aryia's head like a dog.

Aryia didn't speak.

"A... tten... tion!"

The echoing voice of the sergeant blasted through the room. If there was a moment to be had it was now lost.

* * *

Lylianna laid in her bed reading a book entitled _Torture & Terror: The Psychological War_ as Melissa entered the room. Without looking up, Lylianna continued to read over her book about the ancient torture methods of slowly ripping out a person's entrails in just the right way to keep them alive but in complete agony.

"Major, I believe they will be training today."

"I know. Make sure everyone is ready."

"Are you sure you want her though Major? You read how she completely failed to judge her own magic."

"It is not a matter of what I want, but rather a matter of what she wants. Besides, we can always train a rat. In fact, if she joins you will be training her for quite a while Mel."

Melissa had a large grin across her face as Lylianna closed her book. After getting to her feet she grabbed her black beret from her hat rack.

"Lets go."

* * *

Knife sparring matches were another part of the exam. This was something Aryia knew she would be able to pass due to her speed. As she and the others stood in the burning heat waiting for instructions Mari appeared to be nervous. Unlike the others Mari wasn't the strongest — her strength came from her intelligence.

After a few minutes the instructor appeared with a clipboard. Oddly enough it was the same one from the field exam they had.

"Right, listen up. When I call your name, grab a rubber knife and wait for my instructions."

_I wonder who will be first_ , Aryia thought.

"Mari your opponent will be... Rex."

Rex was quite tall for a nineteen‑year‑old. Lucky for her, he was a non‑magic user as well. After grabbing a rubber knife the two of them squared off in a make‑shift ring, which was nothing more then some grass with a red rope laid in a large square around them.

"The first one to land a blow with their rubber knife wins the match. Keep in mind that magic is forbidden."

_Dang it_ , Aryia thought. _There goes my one advantage_.

Mari and Rex both held their knives at the ready, like they had learned in basic training. Rex felt confident that he would win this fight easy while Mari tried to block out all the fear and doubt in her mind. As Aryia cheered her on from the sidelines she noticed Lylianna standing on the sidelines, as well as the others she saw in the courtroom. _What are they doing here_ , she thought.

Whispers could be heard as students wondered just who the odd group was.

"Have you ever seen them before?" one girl asked.

"That girl looks way to young to be in the military."

"Be careful I heard from a friend of a friend that there is a group controlled by the Emperor and the group is free to abduct and kill you."

"Sounds like bullshit to me."

Whispers continued among the students until the instructor finally spoke a word.

"Fight!"

Before long the students completely forgot about Lylianna and her team and focused on the fight that was taking place in front of them. Rex lunged forward preparing to strike with and overhand, downward thrust. Mari recalled in a book how to deal with such an attack. Rushing forward she quickly grabbed his wrist and plunged shoulder first into the side of his ribs, knocking him off his feet and onto his back.

The sound of cheering was heard as Mari was slightly shocked by how she managed to bring Rex down. With rage in his eyes he quickly stood to his feet, grabbing his knife. Seeing this as a chance to go on the offensive Mari rushed forward with a furry of swings. Rex barely managed to dodge each blow before finally seeing an opening.

Grabbing her wrist and with forceful power, Rex snapped her wrist back as the sound of her bone snapping out of place could be heard. Everyone fell silent aside from Mari who was screaming in pain. With one quick motion Rex stabbed her in the gut, forcing her to fall back. Mari reacted by trying to catch herself but ended up falling on her broken wrist. She managed to dislocate the joint completely causing her more pain then ever.

"Rex wins."

Aryia quickly ran over to Mari as whispers started to surface from the other students.

"Did you see that?" one guy whispered.

"Yeah, he totally broke her wrist," a girl whispered back.

Melissa and Lylianna walked over to Mari as Aryia tried to help her up.

"Don't move her," Melissa said as she bent down on one knee beside Mari.

Aryia watched as Melissa created water from her hand and conformed it around Mari's wrist like a cast.

"Try to relax, this might hurt a bit."

Melissa popped her wrist back into place as Mari whimpered softly. After a few seconds her wrist felt as if it had never been dislocated.

"T‑Thank you Miss..."

Giggling over being called _Miss_ , Melissa smiled.

"Just call me Melissa."

As Aryia and Melissa helped Mari to her feet Aryia could not help but feel angry at Rex for cheating the way he did. Before Rex could fall back in line Aryia stepped forward.

"That was completely unfair!"

"Hey, all is fair in war," Rex said with the cockiest of attitudes.

Before Aryia could speak further, Lylianna stood between the two of them.

"While that is true, there is a difference between sparing and being a bully."

Rex's expression quickly went from cocky to annoyed.

"What did you say you little brat?"

"I believe my words were quite clear."

Hate filled his eyes as he stepped forward. Rex was ready to fight and about to raise his fist before the instructor stepped in, holding him back.

"Private Rex, need I remind you that assaulting an officer can land you years in prison."

"Lieutenant..."

The instructor turned to Lylianna.

"Ma'am?"

"If he wishes to attack me I will be more then happy to have a sparing match with him, however..."

Lylianna looked to Rex glaring with the eyes of an expressionless murder.

"I do not play with toy knives."

Pulling the combat dagger from her sheath, she carefully tossed it to Rex.

"Try to actually stab me if you can. I will not use any magic, nor will I attack, only disarm."

_She must be crazy to let him use a real dagger_ , Aryia thought as she helped Melissa carry Mari to the sidelines. Lylianna stood there as calm as a peaceful night sky while Rex looked as if he was ready to kill her. The instructor had a bad feeling about this match, however, seeing as how Lylianna outranked him there was nothing he could do.

"Fight!"

* * *

Staring at the pointy end of a dagger with a dislocated shoulder caused Rex to see his life flash before his eyes. Whispers could be heard as people wondered how Lylianna moved the way she did. Aryia recalled Lylianna moving that fast when she beat those three girls, yet she still could not figure out how she did it. After scaring Rex, almost to death, Lylianna looked to Melissa and then back to Rex.

"Bullying those that are weaker then you will only lead to you being dead by someone better then you."

Lylianna sheathed her dagger and started to walk back to to the sidelines as Melissa walked up.

"Patch him up Mel."

An evil grin formed on Melissa's face as she giggled.

"With pleasure, Major."

Relocating Rex's shoulder forced him to scream like a child. Without any numbing shots or using water magic, Melissa made sure that the relocation was slow and painful. _And here I thought she was sadistic with me before_ , Aryia thought.

"Now go sit on the sidelines like a good boy," Melissa said after relocating his shoulder.

Lylianna turned to the Lieutenant.

"Oh yeah, Lieutenant, if I may, could I request a match?"

"By all means, ma'am."

She turned to Aryia.

"Aryia, I want you to face Melissa."

Aryia had a look of confusion upon her face. _Why me_ , she thought. Everyone seemed a bit surprised by the fact that Aryia was chosen. Deciding to go along with it she started to pick up one of the rubber knives.

"Use Melissa's dagger."

"Are you—"

"It is fine. We train with real knives all the time," Melissa said handing Aryia her dagger.

"The rules are still the same, Melissa will not use any magic or attack. She will only disarm, however, you are welcome to use your powers Aryia," Lylianna said as she headed for the sidelines.

_This isn't fair at all_ , Aryia thought. _But at least I have it easy_. Melissa had a cheerful expression on her face as she simply smiled at Aryia.

"Don't worry about hurting me, okay?"

Aryia coiled back, ready to spring forward and attack as Melissa stood there calmly.

"Fight!"

Like a coiled viper Aryia sprang forward as she tried to cut Melissa's arm. Melissa — as if she knew what would happen — twirled on the ball of her foot dodging the dagger completely. Aryia quickly used her magic to bounce back from the ground and lunge at Melissa again. The other students were impressed by how fast her fury of blows were. However, most of them were more impressed with how Melissa could dodge all of those strikes.

_This girl is like a fairy_ , Aryia thought as she continued to strike. After failing to land a single blow Aryia held out her hand to shoot off a burst of wind. To her surprise Melissa was even able to dodge that without any effort. She continued to use her speed to try and land a blow but nothing seemed to get by Melissa.

Once Aryia realized nothing was working she decided to take a step back. _No matter how fast I go she just dodges everything I throw at her_.

"You have pretty fast strikes Aryia, but you need to work on them," Melissa said giggling.

_Maybe I should try something she wouldn't expect_.

Flipping the dagger in her hand Aryia threw it directly at Melissa's head. While the dagger flew in Melissa's direction Aryia used her magic to dash quickly at her. Twirling out of the path of the dagger Melissa caught the hilt of it. As Aryia continued to run Melissa spun around on the ball of her foot.

Within the blink of an eye Melissa was behind Aryia holding her close while the dagger she caught was pointed directly at Aryia's throat. Aryia was beyond confused as to what happened.

"Nice try," she whispered into Aryia's ear.

As Aryia's mind processed the events that had happened her body began to shake. _If she hadn't stopped me just now... I would have ran into that dagger_ , she thought. _I... could have died_...

Melissa could tell Aryia was starting to feel the fear of death.

"There there, its all right. Just relax," she whispered, petting her head gently.

Aryia could feel her knees starting to sink. Lucky for her Melissa was able to hold her in place. As she helped Aryia to the sidelines, whispers filled the air about the match between the two of them.

"That was so cool."

"I know! How did that blue haired girl dodge those attacks so easy?"

Lylianna turned to the instructor.

"We need to speak with this girl. Please feel free to continue with your exam."

With a simple _yes ma'am_ and a salute the Lieutenant readied the next match. Mari wondered where the group was taking Aryia.

* * *

Inside one of the medical rooms Aryia laid there on the bed as Melissa checked her pulse. It was beating a bit fast still from her sudden trauma of staring death in the face. As Melissa stroked Aryia's hair to try and calm her she turned to Ryliah.

"Ryliah, can you go make some tea for Aryia?"

With a simple nod Ryliah stood up from her chair and headed out the door. Deadeye leaned against the wall with his arms crossed as Lylianna looked to Aryia who still seemed a bit afraid from the events that took place.

"Aryia, there is a question I wish to ask you."

"S‑Sure, what is it?"

"I will be blunt. I want to recruit you for my team. Will you join us?"

Confusion showed on her face. _She wants me on her team_? Ryliah came into the room carrying a cup of warm tea. Sipping the tea slowly calmed Aryia's nerves. She looked to Lylianna who was still staring at her with no expression in her face. _Why does she want me on her team_?

"Why do you want me on your team? And what kind of team is it exactly?"

"Simply put, we are Black Knights. A branch of the military that takes orders directly from the Emperor himself."

"Is it actually okay then for me to even join? As you know, I am only a Private."

"Of course, I don't care about rank only results and the ability of a soldier to obey orders."

_Maybe if I join them my abilities could improve and I could even climb up the ladder in rank_ , Aryia thought. _Then again, it could be super tough_.

"Would you mind if I think it over for a bit?"

"You may, however, do not delay too long. We will need an answer within three days, otherwise we will assume your answer is no."

After finishing her tea she placed the cup down on the wooden table beside the bed. Aryia looked around the room as all eyes were on her. She noticed that none of the Black Knights had name‑tags on their uniforms.

"I do have a question before I go," Aryia said as she got up from the bed.

Lylianna stood up from the chair as the rest of her team gathered around her.

"I assume it has to do with our names?"

"Well, uh... yeah. I noticed none of you have name tags on your uniforms."

"Names are usually forgotten on the battlefield. However, if you wish to know our names I do not mind telling you."

* * *

Aryia laid there in her bed thinking about the offer Lylianna gave her. Part of her wanted to take it but part of her was afraid. _If they report to the Emperor then that must mean they go on dangerous missions_. Mari noticed the look on Aryia's face.

"Hey Aryia, what's wrong?"

With a sigh Aryia looked over to Mari.

"Lylianna gave me an offer."

"Who?"

"The short girl with white hair."

"Oh, and what was the offer?"

"She asked me if I wanted to join the Black Knights."

Mari had a look of shock on her face as if she had seen a ghost.

"So... they are real?"

"It seems so," Aryia said laying her head back down.

"Wow..."

"Just what are they anyway?"

"Well, not much is actually known. There are no books written on that branch of the military. It is almost like they don't exist."

"That can't be true. We all saw them at our close combat exam."

"We did, however, most people assumed the Black Knights were nothing more then rumors or just some made up branch of the military."

"I see."

"Anyways, I think you should join them. I mean, they are trying to recruit you so that means at the very least you have the potential they are looking for out of everyone here."

As she closed her eyes Aryia found herself drifting off to sleep, dreaming of what it would be like in the Black Knights.

* * *

The next day Aryia pondered about joining the Black Knights. She found it impossible to focus on her classes — not that she focused on them to begin with — until it was time for lunch. Mari and Aryia decided to grab a bite to eat from one of the local cafés on the campus academy. Surprisingly, it was not packed as it usually was during this time of day.

As the two of them sat down at a table Aryia noticed Lylianna and Melissa grabbing some food as well. Melissa grabbed some warm soup while Lylianna grabbed a chocolate bar. Afterwards the two of them sat down at the table with Lylianna sitting next to Aryia and Melissa sitting beside Mari.

"What are you two doing here?" Aryia asked wondering what Lylianna was up to.

"We have to eat too, you know?"

Lylianna looked to Aryia with an expressionless face. _Somehow, I don't believe that_ , Aryia thought. Without thinking too hard about it Aryia started to dig into her meal. While they ate there was one question on Aryia's mind.

"What is it like in the Black Knights?"

Lylianna didn't speak for a second as she took a bite of her chocolate bar. Silence filled the air as Aryia and Mari sat there anxious to hear the answer.

"It is what you make it."

_Why does that feel like a cop ‑out_?

"I think you should join Aryia," Mari said taking a bite out of her sandwich.

Aryia was a bit surprised that Mari was so supportive of her joining. She looked to Lylianna as she continued to bite into her chocolate bar. Melissa finished her meal as the two of them stood up from the table.

"I want to join."

"Are you sure? I will warn you now that if you join it will not be easy and there is a chance—"

"It is okay, I will join."

"Very well, come to the East Wing of the Administrative building, room A6. It would be best if you eat a few more meals before you come."

Without another word Lylianna and Melissa headed out as Aryia wondered why she would need to eat more.

"I hope to see you as an officer one day," Mari said with a smile.

Once Aryia was finished with her meal she quickly headed for the Administrative building. Knocking on the door of room A6 she heard Lylianna's voice from behind the door, beckoning her to enter. Opening the door she noticed her standing near the back wall, staring out of the window. Aryia realized that there was no one else in the room aside from the two of them.

"I came here as quickly as I could."

"Did you eat another meal?"

"No, why would I?"

"Oh, that is too bad."

As Lylianna turned to face her, Aryia felt a stabbing pain in her neck. Behind her stood Melissa with a sadistic smile on her face and a syringe in her hand. _What did she do to me_ , Aryia thought as she felt her head starting to spin from the knockout drug. Before Aryia could think about anything else a cloth sack was placed over her head. Unable to see or move she slowly started to lose consciousness. Aryia thought she could hear Lylianna's voice as she drifted off into the deep abyss of the unknown void.

"Your training begins now."

* * *

Waking up to complete darkness, Aryia began to hyperventilate as she realized that she was not only naked but also strapped down to some wooden table. _What the hell is this_? Screaming out for help and struggling against the binds that held her down did little for her.

Suddenly, the sack cloth was removed from her head and Aryia could see exactly where she was. The room was quite small, with aluminiferous walls painted in a dim metallic blue color while bright burning flood lights lit the room. This room was far worse than any doctor's office Aryia had seen.

Around her stood the Black Knights, emotionless and expressionless. Aryia wasn't sure what was going on but she knew she needed answers and she needed them now.

"W‑What's going on?"

"You said you wanted to join the Black Knights," Lylianna said as she looked to Aryia.

Melissa headed over to a small table with different tools on it as Lylianna leaned against the wall with her arms crossed. Deadeye and Ryliah left the room as Melissa returned to Aryia's side with a small knife used to make incisions. As an evil grin formed on Melissa's face Aryia began to worry.

"W‑What are you going to do to me?"

"What do you think?"

Aryia tried to struggle loose from her binds but to no avail. Whoever tied her wrist and ankles up did a great job.

"Every member of the Black Knights has to be able to survive torture and interrogation. There is a reason we are an elite special forces group."

As Melissa started to bring the knife closer to Aryia's stomach she grew more terrified then ever before.

"Y‑You can't do this!"

"Actually, I am free to train my soldiers as I see fit. If you happen to die during training then... oh well. It simply means you weren't fit to be apart of the Black Knights."

Melissa slowly plunged the knife into Aryia's stomach. She could not help but scream at the intense pain. As Lylianna began to leave the room she looked back to Aryia.

"If you survive, you will have the right to call yourself a Black Knight, remember that if you start to feel hopeless. Not many can survive our training."

Lylianna left the room, closing the door behind her as Aryia screamed in pain again. Melissa continued to torture her in the most brutal and painful ways possible. Surprisingly, Aryia managed to barely stay conscious.

"You are so fun to watch," Melissa said licking her lips.

"P‑Please... no more," Aryia begged with tears in her eyes.

Melissa slowly ran her fingertips over Aryia's breast.

"Maybe this would feel a bit better," Melissa said giggling.

Aryia started to feel a bit relaxed as she gently rubbed around the tips of her nipples. It was a bit of a weak spot for Aryia that even she herself didn't know about. Letting out a soft moan and closing her eyes she began to feel a sense of peace.

"Is there anywhere else that makes you this relaxed?"

"I‑I don't know."

As she continued to tease Aryia, Melissa traced her finger down to her weakest area.

"It appears you are enjoying this too much. I can feel just how sensitive you are down here."

Before Aryia could enjoy anymore pleasure Melissa quickly pressed the knife into her thigh. Aryia could not help but let out a loud scream due to the fact it caught her off guard.

"Here is a lesson for you Aryia. Never let your guard down," Melissa said as she plunged the knife deeper into Aryia's thigh.

Hours passed until Aryia could no longer take anymore. She passed out just as Melissa was getting to the more gruesome and brutal torture methods.

* * *

The small holding cell was barely nine‑meters squared and dimly‑lit. It smelled of sewer water while the dull‑gray brick walls appeared to have patches of dried red blood on them. In the corner of the room was a small bucket. Surprisingly, it was the only thing that looked remotely clean. _Where am I_ , Aryia thought.

With tears in her eyes Aryia curled up into a ball and began to cry. _What did I get myself into_? As she softly cried into her chest she suddenly heard a door unlock. After a few seconds she could hear footsteps against the cold stone floor. Beyond the cell bars stood Lylianna with a piece of paper in hand.

"Please, I don't want to do this anymore," Aryia begged as she looked up to Lylianna.

"This paper here is a confession. If you sign it you state that you are not fit to become a Black Knight and that you will be returned to your unit without any ability to gain a promotion now, or in the future. Simply speaking, if you sign this you will remain a Private forever."

Lylianna slipped the paper through the cell bars along with a pen. This was Aryia's chance to get out, even if it meant being a Private until the end of time. Picking up the pen she was close to signing the paper before Lylianna spoke.

"Keep in mind if you sign that I will kill you here and now."

Aryia could feel her heart skip a beat as her pen stopped centimeters away from the dotted line. _Kill me, can she even do that_? Fear started to grow in Aryia's eyes.

"Y‑You can't do that Lylianna!"

"Oh but you see, I can do as I please. Once you sign it I can kill you and burn the paper then merely tell people you died during training."

Sliding the paper and pen through the bars Aryia refused to sign it. As much as she hated this, she feared death more then anything. Lylianna grabbed the pen and paper and started to make her way down the corridor.

"Oh, just one more thing. You should use that bucket to urinate in and use one corner to release your ordure. You will have a hard time if you don't."

Without another word Lylianna left, leaving Aryia more confused then ever. Time passed as Aryia tried to figure out what day it was. She continued to trick her mind, trying not to think about what she would have to go through next. After a few hours Aryia heard the door open again. Standing before her this time was Deadeye with a small bowl of rice. Sliding the bowl through the food slit Deadeye left without saying a word.

Aryia looked at the bowl of rice and soon realized that it would not be enough to fill her up at all. Eating a few pieces of rice she began to fill hungry again. _That small serving of rice was not enough at all_. After some time passed she had to use the restroom. Using a bucket to hold her own urine was not only embarrassing but felt odd to her.

A few more hours passed as she continued to eat a bit of the rice she was given. She started to notice that she was never given any water. Even if she wasn't the most tactical of people Aryia knew that water was something she would need in order to live.

Hearing the door unlock at the end of hallway always made her feel nervous. The footsteps clacking against the stone floor was psychological torture to her at this point. Standing there was Melissa with a grin on her face. Aryia quickly backed away into one of the corners of the cell. She had started to fear Melissa.

"Yare yare, it looks as if you are starting to have psychological distress. Don't worry, soon all that fear will push itself out. I will make sure of that."

Melissa noticed that Aryia had yet to drink anything since she had been held captive in the cell.

"You know, your own urine can be drunk if there is no water," Melissa said with a wink.

_What the hell! I have to drink my own urine_ , Aryia thought. Melissa left without another word as Aryia stared at the bucket. She didn't like the idea of drinking her own urine but what choice did she have? It was clear to her that the others were not going to give her much food or any water. She would have to survive on her own and endure the painful torture sessions. Staring at her own urine she tried to mentally prepare herself for it. _Drink it or die_...

Grabbing the bucket she inched it closer to her lips. Before she could take a drink she turned her head to the side and threw up. The idea of drinking her own urine made her stomach queasy. It was nauseating to think about but it was something she needed to do in order to live. If she didn't get used to it now she would die quickly in this hellhole.

Aryia looked to the ceiling. _Dear goddesses, please help me through this_. As she continued to pray aloud the door opened. She continued to pray as Lylianna and Melissa stood there.

"Praying? Melissa be sure to torture her in a more painful and slow method."

"You got it Major!"

* * *

One month passed as Aryia became beyond paranoid of the sound of footsteps and the opening of the door in the distance. Her smooth flawless skin had become rough and red with scars and burn marks. As she sat there in her cell propped up against the corner wall, she felt as if it would never end.

The sound of the door opening down the corridor made her hug her knees to her chest. _Who is it this time_ , she thought. Standing before her was Lylianna dressed in her military uniform. She sat down in the wooden chair with her legs crossed as she stared expressionlessly at Aryia.

"I think you should be able to see now that in our group we don't hold back in training. We train as if we were truly on the battlefield. Now, stand up."

Aryia tried to get up but failed to. Her legs and arms were weak from the whole month without a decent meal. She tried to pick herself up again.

"I said stand up, now!"

With pain and tears in her eyes Aryia finally stood to her feet. She was unsure what was keeping her up at this point as she felt as if she could collapse at any second. Lylianna stood up and unlocked the door to the cell.

"Lets go."

With barely any movement in her legs Aryia staggered over to Lylianna. The two of them headed down the corridor until they came to a door. As Lylianna opened the door the lambent light forced Aryia to turn away. Her eyes had yet to adjust to the luminous glow of the room.

Leading her through what seemed to be a maze of corridors and stairs the two of them finally stopped at a wooden black door. On the door was a simple white knight symbol with the icon of a bed under it. After opening the door Aryia stepped into the room. It looked very much different then the small cell she was in.

The walls were painted a somewhat dark green color while at the base of the walls was a dark oak baseboard trimmed wood. Five beds were lined up against the back wall spaced evenly, standing out due to the black silked sheets. Off to the left was a large walk‑in closet that held what appeared to be military uniforms.

As Aryia stood there she was glad to finally see a somewhat normal room. The feeling of the soft monotone carpet against her bare feet was a welcome gift for her. Lylianna made her way to the closet as Aryia stood there taking it all in.

"Here," Lylianna said holding up a Black Knight military uniform.

Taking the uniform in hand Aryia started to feel tears roll down her eyes.

"Welcome to the Black Knights, Aryia."

## Chapter Four  
Welcome to the Black Knights

"The Sylverian Military is broken into three general branches: The Army, The Air Service, and The Seaman Guard. There is a fourth that isn't officially recognized, known as The Elite, which is home to The Special Forces groups. All branches of the military follow the Code of Military Doctrine set forth by the Emperor, however, it is rumored that there is one group that is not bound by this code."

— The Military Manual: Chapter One

It felt as if Aryia's body was going to snap into. Training for little over a month nonstop from sun up to sun down was taking its toll on her. Unlike the academy, the Black Knights trained with real bullets and real daggers. The stress was high for her as if she shot her own teammates it was possible they would end up truly injured or worse...

After countless hours of training she collapsed onto her bed and closed her eyes. Part of her wanted to sleep but part of her was so paranoid now that she was afraid to completely fall asleep. While she laid there Lylianna was busy reading a book entitled _The Fear of Darkness_. Melissa and Deadeye were busy playing a game of 思棋理 as Ryliah sat in the corner of the room polishing her swords. Aryia was quickly awakened from her half‑sleep state by a knock at the door.

"Aryia, get the door," Lylianna said without looking up from her book.

Tired from training all day Aryia stood to her feet, trying to shuffle over to the door. As she opened the door she was taken aback by the young the girl that stood before her.

The girl stood at a height of one hundred seven centimeters; weighing only thirty‑one kilograms. Her skin was as pale as Lylianna's, however, Aryia found it strange that the girl had twilight blond hair with lilac colored eyes. _Who is this girl_ , Aryia thought. She was dressed in a lavender silk robe with a gold‑trimmed accent. On her left side stood an old man in a black suit resembling that of a butler.

" _Aevtha_!" Lylianna yelled as she stood to her feet.

Like trained soldiers the rest of the Knights stood up and then dropped to their left knee, bowing their heads slightly. Aryia was a bit confused as to what Lylianna had said. She continued to stand there dumbfounded until Lylianna slammed her elbow into her gut forcing her to bend over followed by grabbing her head and shoving it into the carpet below.

"Lylianna, what the—"

"Silence."

"It is okay Lylianna allow her to stand."

"As you wish, my lady."

Aryia slowly stood to her feet as she wondered what was going on. The girl simply giggled.

"I am Princess Amalthea, the daughter of the current Emperor of Sylveria."

_So, this is the Emperor's daughter_ , Aryia thought. _She is kind of cute_. Princess Amalthea looked to the rest of the Knights.

"All of you may rise."

Lylianna and the others got to their feet but continued to stand at attention.

"There is no need to be so formal."

"I am sorry my lady but we are meant to serve you and as such we will continue to show you the respect you are due," Lylianna said still standing at attention.

Princess Amalthea simply smiled.

"You are always so serious, aren't you Lydia."

"Yes, my lady."

With a sigh Amalthea's head slightly tilted as she placed her hands on her hips.

"Very well, at ease."

Melissa and Deadeye went back to playing their game as Ryliah went back to polishing her swords. Lylianna continued to stand there looking at the princess.

"My lady, if I may ask, why are you here?"

Princess Amalthea walked up to Aryia with a cute smile on her face.

"I just thought I would come by and see the newest member of my personal guard. Private Aryia Kozyki, right?"

Aryia looked slightly confused.

"Personal... guard?"

"Yes, the Black Knights are also the personal guard for the Emperor and anyone of the royal family blood line," Lylianna said.

The Princess had a sad look upon her face as she recalled the reason for the existence of the Black Knights. A group of knights that were only bound by the Emperor's orders but free go beyond the rules, Black Knights.

"I rescued the princess myself a few days after she was taken hostage years ago," Lylianna said after noting the confusion on Aryia's face.

_Wow, she rescued the princess by herself_.

"And that is when my father created the Black Knights," Princess Amalthea said trying to push the memory out of her head.

The room fell silence.

"Well, I should be going before my father realizes I am gone. My life is in your hands now, Aryia."

"Y‑Yeah, don't worry, I will keep you safe Princess."

With a smile Princess Amalthea left as Aryia headed for the comfort of her bed. She was beyond exhausted and just wanted to sleep. As her eyes slowly started to close she heard Lylianna's voice.

"We train at 0500 hours."

"I know."

* * *

Aryia awoke at 0400 hours half asleep. She noticed that the bedroom was empty. _I bet they are at the training grounds_ , she thought. Getting up from her bed Aryia headed to the washroom. After slowly removing her clothes she stepped into one of the showers. Feeling the warm water against her body was like a breath of fresh air.

As she bathed in the water she looked over the scars on her body. Burn marks, and cuts covered her body from head to toe. Melissa was truly a sadistic torturer that knew the human body well. Aryia was a bit upset that she no longer had a flawless body. Part of her wished she hadn't joined the Black Knights, but part of her was glad she was able to tough it out. Earning the Black Knight emblem made her feel special.

Once she was finished she proceeded to get dressed in her Black Knight BDU. Unlike the standard military BDUs the Black Knight's BDU was a black splattered camouflage with a white knight emblem on the left shoulder. While the standard military BDUs were able to withstand the basic natural elements such as rain and snow, the Black Knight's BDU was able to withstand the four elements of magic, to a certain degree.

After grabbing her gun from her weapon locker in the closet she made sure she had a few magazines for her weapon along with some flash‑bangs. All members of the Black Knights had weapons that they customized themselves out of the highest quality metal in the world. _It is still hard to believe I made a weapon out of zixkium_ , she thought as she continued to load her weapon. Zixkium was one of the rarest metals in the world of Alvenfhiem. In fact, it was so rare that only the Emperor's blade and the Black Knight's main weapons were the only weapons to be made out of this metal.

Aryia's weapon of choice was a medium sized rifle that could switch between fully automatic and single‑shot. However, due to Lylianna's strict training Aryia never had the chance to use the full‑auto operating system on her gun. Over the course of training with the Black Knights she had grown used to firing single‑shot. In just one month she had almost become a trained rat. She never once dared to deify Lylianna — who she would just call Major like everyone else — as that would just lead to her being tortured by Melissa. Looking at her watch she decided to head out for the training grounds even if she would be early. It was better to be early for training then to be late as Lylianna did not tolerate latish tardiness.

* * *

Outside the training grounds it was slightly dark due to the fact the sun had yet to rise. Lylianna and her team stood front of an abandon building waiting for Aryia to show up. Staring at her watch Lylianna took note of the time.

"It is 0450 hours."

"Yeah, Aryia is going to be late if she doesn't hurry," Ryliah said as she loaded six‑shots into the chamber.

The rest of the Knights made sure their weapons were ready as they continued to wait. Melissa noticed Aryia running up to them with her weapon slung on the back of her shoulder. Lylianna continued to look at her watch, 0459 hours.

"Cutting it a bit close there, aren't you?" Melissa winked.

"I just wanted to make sure I had everything."

Suddenly, Lylianna's watch started to beep.

"Today, all your training will be put to the test Aryia."

"Right."

* * *

Lylianna looked to her team as they stood there ready for the training exercise. The weapons that of the Black Knight's used were vastly different from each other but blended well with each corresponding member.

Aryia looked to her own weapon, noting just how lame it looked. Her weapon didn't combine the elegance of a gun and a blade like Ryliah's. It certainly wasn't made for long range sniping like Deadeye's. Her weapon did not strike fear or terror into the heart of the enemy like Melissa's hybrid scythe rifle. Aryia's weapon didn't even have a cool engraving on it like Lylianna's. Her weapon just had the engraving of a leaf on the barrel. _Man, why didn't I make my weapon cooler_ , she thought.

"All right, for this mission we have two hostages that were taken by a group of terrorist in there. It is believed there are eight in total," Lylianna said.

Everyone made sure the safety on their weapons were off and set to a single‑shot mode.

"The people playing the hostages are real, remember that Aryia."

"Yes ma'am."

Lylianna pulled down a pair of steam‑punk looking goggles over her eyes that had been resting comfortably against her forehead. These goggles were designed to reduce the blinding light of the flash‑bangs that they used when clearing rooms. Once everyone was ready they all formed up on the front door. Aryia stacked up beside the front door with Lylianna behind her while Melissa and Ryliah stood on the opposite side. She could feel Lylianna's hand on her shoulder. She knew this meant stand‑by.

Even if this was just a training exercise Aryia still felt a bit nervous. She knew if she screwed up her teammates — or even worse innocent lives — could get wounded or killed. Time appeared to slow as she waited for Lylianna to give her the signal. She could feel her heart racing as her mind shuffled through what she needed to do.

_She appears to be nervous_ , Lylianna thought taking note of the fact Aryia was slightly shaking.

With a simple tap on her shoulder Aryia knew it was signal to go. She kicked down the door with the help of her wind magic as Melissa threw in a flash‑bang. Aryia quickly rushed into the room just as the grenade bounced on the ground.

バタン〜

A blinding white light filled the room as Aryia covered the left side. Following behind her Lylianna covered the right side as Melissa entered and covered the front. Ryliah entered in soon after, her eyes sweeping the room. The room they were in was a slightly large living area. There were no terrorist in sight as the team slowly moved though the area with their weapons at the ready. Ahead of Aryia was a pine wooden door. With a simple hand signal Lylianna ordered Aryia and Ryliah to clear out the left room as she watched the door on her side. Melissa's eyes were on the stairs in the far left corner should anyone come down them. Stacking up against the door Ryliah placed her hand on Aryia's shoulder. With a tap of the shoulder Aryia quickly opened the door as Ryliah threw in a flash‑bang. As Aryia entered the room to her left she noticed one paper target. Drawn on the large paper was a man pointing a gun in her direction. As she aimed her gun at the paper only two words ran through her mind. _Terrorist, fire_. A single shot rang out from her gun hitting the paper target square between the eyes. Within a split second Aryia could hear a second shot coming from Ryliah's weapon.

"Clear!" Aryia and Ryliah called out.

As Aryia came out of the room she covered the stairs while Lylaianna and Melissa cleared the room off to the right. Two shots rang out followed by _clear_. Within a fraction of a second Lylianna and Melissa were out of the room and standing ready to clear the second story of the building. Lylianna motioned with her hand for Aryia to take point up the stairs. Carefully, Aryia made her way up the stairs with her weapon at the ready. Stopping halfway at the ascending squared U‑shaped stairs she waited for the rest of team as they made their way up in a single file line. The first one to the top of the stairs was Ryliah followed by Melissa. Finally Lylianna headed up. Once Lylianna had passed her, Aryia followed behind her until all of them were at the top of the stairs.

The second floor was nothing more then a long hallway. At the end of the corridor two doors could be seen. Melissa and Ryliah hugged the right side wall as Aryia and Lylianna hugged the left. Lylianna and Ryliah had their weapons at a low‑ready position to take out anyone that could come out either of the two doors. Both sides stopped once they got to the doors. With a wave of her hand Lylianna ordered Melissa and Ryliah to clear the room on the right. Like lightning the two of them cleared the room — no shots were heard.

Stacking up on the last room Aryia could feel her heart beating faster. _These are real hostages, I can't screw this up_ , she thought.

* * *

Aryia sat at the round table as she tried to figure out what food to eat first. The Black Knight's training was beyond what any normal person could deal with. They managed to rescue the hostages without any problems and did it in only two‑minutes and fifteen‑seconds to boot. Once they had finished that training they went on to hand‑to‑hand combat training and magic training. Aryia still never guessed just what magic Lylianna could use, if she could even use magic.

After hours of training all of them had returned to their barracks — dubbed the Black Knight Headquarters — to eat a warm meal. Before Aryia could dig into the elegance feast in front of her, there was a knock at the door. Ryliah stood up from the table and headed for the door. Upon opening it, standing there in the doorway was Princess Amalthea's butler.

"Pardon the intrusion Knights but the Emperor requests your presence."

With a bow the man left. Before Aryia could enjoy even a grain of the food that was laid out Lylianna ordered everyone to move out. Saddened by the lack of food in her stomach Aryia had to suck it up. From the way Lylianna had described the Emperor, he was not a longanimous man. As they all headed to the Emperor's palace Aryia realized that this was her first time ever stepping foot inside the massive castle.

Unlike the common buildings in the city the castle was isolated high on a cliff and surrounded by a moat. Soldiers patrolled around the outside of the of the castle along with two guards that stood at the gates. As the Knights headed for the entrance one guard tried to stop them. It was clear to Lylianna that the soldier was new to the guard.

"I am sorry I cannot let you pass—"

"Hold your tongue boy. Do you even know who you are talking to?"

The man was quite young and appeared to be in his teens while the other man was clearly older. The young man — named Garey — had just joined the Emperor's Guard a few days ago while the older man — whose name was Greg Cockerel — had been apart of the guard for many years.

"These are the Black Knights lad. They are free to come and go as they please. Emperor's orders."

The young man quickly bowed his head and apologized, letting them pass.

"Thanks Greg," Lylianna said walking past.

"Aye. No problem Major."

Inside the castle the hallway was large and quite long, decorated with a red carpet with gold‑trimmed accent. Wooden doors could be seen on the left and right sides of the hallway while at the very end of the corridor was a giant wooden door. Standing at the sides of the large door were two more guards who stood as still as statues. As the Knights came closer the guards opened up the doors. Beyond the doors was a large room with a ceiling that appeared to reach the heavens. The red carpet extended down into the center of the room where it stopped, leading into a large circle made of golden tiles. In the back of the room — centered perfectly with the circle — was the Emperor's throne while on the right was a smaller throne for the next in‑line to be crowned emperor.

The Emperor sat at his throne protected by the two guards standing beside it. Princess Amalthea sat on the smaller throne with a carefree smile on her face at the sight of seeing the Black Knights.

As the Knights entered the circle they all dropped to their left knee and bowed their heads. The room was silent as the Emperor's eyes noticed the new addition to the Knights.

"I see you have a new member, Major."

His voice was deep and projected throughout the room as one would expect of someone of royalty. Lylianna did not lift her head as she spoke.

"Yes, your grace."

Standing up from his throne the Emperor held out a hand for his sword. A guard dropped to one knee and held out the sword with both hands to show respect to the Emperor. The sword was coated in a black zixkium with gold vyellum around the sharp edge of the blade. Engraved into the blade was the Royal Family's Crest, outlined with a deep lilac color. As the Emperor came closer to the Knights they bowed their heads even lower.

"What is your name girl?"

"Aryia Kozyki, your grace."

The Emperor touched the sword on Aryia's shoulder. She could feel the cold metal, even through her clothes.

"In the name of the four goddesses and in the presence of Princess Amalthea Faethdella Serpth, I — Emperor Umbael Serpth — grant you the honorable title of Black Knight."

Aryia was now truly a member of the Black Knights. She felt a sense of pride as she continued to kneel there. After the Emperor was done he returned to his throne.

"Rise my Knights."

The Knights stood to their feet continuing to stand at attention. _I wish he would hurry up, my ass itches_ , Aryia thought.

"I have a task for you. My military advisers have informed me that things are... unpleasant at the Eastern Lines. Tomorrow I want all of you to head to the Headquarters there. Major, I trust you will listen to the state of affairs there and make the judgment call on your own merit."

"Yes, your grace."

"You are dismissed."

* * *

_This could be my first actual mission_ , Aryia thought as she loaded up her gear. Part of her was excited about it but part of her was also a bit anxious. The fear of death was always in the back of her mind. She wondered just how the other Knights dealt with the subconscious fear of death.

Aryia found it impossible to fall asleep once the mid‑night hour fell. The thought of her first mission was eating at her. _Everything will be fine, I just need to sleep_. Hours continued to past until she finally got a few hours of decent sleep. At 0600 hours she awoke to the sound of the alarm clock. Lylianna had made sure to set the alarm early to get Aryia up on time. Sleepy from the lack of sleep, she looked as if she was going to pass out the second she sat up.

Melissa handed Aryia a cup of coffee to help her wake up. The taste made Aryia want to gag but Melissa had promised her that it would help her be alert and focused. After a few seconds she began to feel awake and alert. Everyone started to gather up their weapons and pack up anything that they might have needed.

Once everyone was packed and ready to leave they hopped on the helicopter that was prepared to take them to the Eastern Lines HQ at 0700 hours. The long flight on the way to the base give Aryia time to think about things. _What if we end up getting captured by the enemy_ , she thought. Her biggest fear aside from death was the thought of being tortured. Even if she had endured Melissa's sadistic torture methods, in the back of her mind she was still afraid.

Lylianna could see the fear on Aryia's face as she briefly looked up from her book entitled _The Goddesses' Delusion_.

"Aryia."

"Yes Major!?"

"Relax. Remember your training and you will be fine."

"R‑Right..."

A part of Aryia felt calm as her body relaxed slightly. _The Major always seems to know just what to say_. Hours flew by until they had finally landed at the Eastern HQ. As the Knights disembarked they were greeted by a sergeant named Kyiline.

"Welcome to the Rhyine, Major," he said saluting her.

"Thank you."

"General Pethella wishes to see you."

"Very well, is there a housing unit my team can stay in while I meet with her?"

"Yes ma'am. Over there is a house that just became vacant," Kyiline said with sadness in his voice.

"Everyone, remain on stand‑by until further orders."

"Ma'am!"

Lylianna headed off to the large building in the center of the area as the rest of the Knights made their way to the small — now abandoned — building the sergeant had pointed to.

* * *

Lylianna stood there as General Pethella showed her photos of the areas they had managed to recon. A small communications outpost that almost blended in well with the terrain. It was believed that this was being used by the enemy to intercept radio transmissions from several kilometers away.

Lylianna studied the photos carefully.

"Is this all?" she asked looking to Pethella.

"It was the best we could get. Judging from where the plane was at, it was at this grid reference."

Pethella pointed to the rough location to which was believed to be the outpost's position.

"That is pretty deep behind enemy lines."

"Yeah, which is why I was thinking of sending an elite special forces team to take it out."

"I could do that for you General. It just so happens that I have an elite team with me."

Pethella simply laughed.

"Well, I had actually planed to call on one of the other special forces but if you feel you want to stretch your legs a bit, by all means."

"All right, the Black Knights will take over. If you don't see us back in two hours assume the worse."

"We do have reason to believe there is an officer in that outpost."

"Based on..."

"A gut feeling of mine."

"You and your gut feelings," Lylianna said with a sigh.

* * *

Hours had passed as Aryia laid on one of the beds. It was as hard as a rock so sleeping was near impossible. As Lylianna entered the room the Knights looked to her. Aryia was a bit anxious as to what Lylianna would say.

"Get your gear ready by 0200 hours. We will be dropping from the sky tonight."

Without another word Lylianna started to leave. Aryia quickly got up and followed her.

"Major, what is the mission going to be?"

"You will know in time. For now, gather your gear and then get as much sleep as you can."

Aryia nodded as she headed back into the room. Everyone was getting their gear ready as Aryia started to pack hers. She packed ten magazines, a map of the area, two rations just in case the mission lasted longer then a day, and a few survival items. Once she was done Aryia laid her head down on the bed and tried to get some sleep.

_This is my first real mission_...

* * *

At 0200 hours on the dot Aryia felt someone shaking her awake. It took her a few seconds to realize just who it was.

"Aryia, the Major said to meet her out front of the HQ in thirty minutes, okay?"

"Yeah, don't worry."

Ryliah left as Aryia stretched and tried to blink her eyes a few times to wake up. Once she had gotten over the grogginess of first waking up she grabbed a quick bite to eat from the kitchen along with something to wash it down. After finishing up what constituted as breakfast for her. She grabbed her XGLRGs and made her way out to the front of the HQ.

Lylianna stood out front with the rest of the of the team. Deadeye was sitting down on a crate testing the scope on his sniper rifle as Melissa checked and double checked her medical bag. Ryliah was busy making sure her sword was sharp and ready for action. Everyone knew that there was one thing true about being behind enemy lines and that was no one knew what would happen.

"Good, everyone is here now."

Lylianna looked to her squad.

"HQ wants us to destroy an enemy communications outpost."

"Where is it?" Aryia asked.

"Behind enemy lines, where else?"

"Rules of Engagement?" Deadeye asked.

"Free to engage, but only if necessary. There is word that a HVT may be there. If possible, capture and return with him or her alive. If not, shoot to kill."

"Do we have a layout of the building?" Ryliah asked sheathing her blade.

"Sadly, no. The best we were able to get were aerial views of the building from the outside."

Lylianna handed a photo to Melissa. She studied it for a few seconds and passed it on to Deadeye.

"There is one entrance into the building from what we can tell with the photo. We pair off in twos. Melissa with Ryliah, Aryia with me. Deadeye, sniper cover. We have two hours at most for this operation so be ready. Once the target area is destroyed we extract by helicopter at the red circle you see there on the map."

Aryia looked over the map. The hike to the extraction point was pretty far but she had trained non‑stop to be apart of the Black Knights.

"All right, looks like our ride is here."

In a large field to the South was a make‑shift airfield for planes to land at. On the runway was a large cargo plane that had just landed after gathering supplies from the rear lines. After a few minutes of refueling the plane as ready to fly again.

The Knights made sure their gear was in order and boarded the plane. As the plane started to take off Aryia began to wonder...

_Why did I sign up for this_?
  *[HVT]: High-Value Target

## Chapter Five  
There's No Goddesses in Hell

"If the goddesses were real, then there would be no war."

— Melissa Rial

_What happened_ , Aryia wondered. She recalled that they had been captured by the enemy, but could not remember anything past that point. She noticed that she was stripped down to her black colored underwear. Fear began to plague her mind has she started to have Post‑Traumatic‑Stress flashbacks from when she was held in a cell.

This time she was not alone, while she curled up into a ball and sat in the corner Melissa, Deadeye and Ryliah were all stripped to their underwear. Unlike Aryia though all of them were calm.

"Aryia you need to remain calm," Melissa said.

"Easy for you to say. I still have nightmares about what you did."

"I put you through all that in hopes that when a day like this happened you would be ready."

"Well, I'm not, okay..."

Melissa just sighed.

"Aryia, you are a Black Knight, start acting like one. Fear can only hurt you if you let it."

Deep down Aryia knew she was right. She had survived the hell Melissa had put her through but she was still afraid. In the back of her mind she feared the pain of being tortured in any kind of brutal way.

"You are right Melissa."

The silence in the air gave Aryia a moment to think about things. Anything was better then thinking about what torture devices they might use on her. _Who was that girl that looked just like the Major? Where are we_?

"Why are we in our underwear anyway?" Aryia asked.

"It is a humiliation tactic," Melissa said.

"And who was that girl?"

Before anyone could answer the sound of a metal door swinging open interrupted them. The footsteps of three guards could be heard in the distance. Two guards dragged Lylianna to the holding cell while the third guard opened the cell door. Like a piece of trash the two guards threw Lylianna into the cell without a care in the world. After locking the cell door they left without saying a word.

Aryia was shocked by what she saw. Lylianna laid there on the concrete floor looking half dead. Melissa gently grabbed her head and placed it in her lap. Lylianna's body was covered in deep cuts and burn marks. Blood continued to pour out of some of her wounds and from her mouth where a back tooth was ripped clean out at the root.

"It looks as if the Major has been through hell."

No one said anything as Melissa tried to nurse Lylianna with what she could. Aryia was quite impressed with what Melissa could do with her magic. A few hours passed until Melissa had finished patching up Lylianna the best she could. All of them sat in silence as Aryia's fear continued to grow.

"Are we going to die here?"

Silence...

"Would someone just answer—"

"Stop talking Aryia."

She was surprised Lylianna could even speak after everything that she had been through.

"We are soldiers, we live and die in war. You signed up for it. Now start acting like a soldier."

"I know but—"

"If you continue to show weakness then I will kill you myself. I will not have a pussy in my squad."

Aryia didn't say another word. After hearing that, she was too afraid to even open her mouth. However, there were still questions that she wanted to know. A few more hours passed until Aryia finally decided to ask.

"Major..."

"Yes?"

"Who was that girl? She sort of looked like you but..."

Lylianna didn't speak for a minute.

"Her name is Layla... my older sister."

* * *

Layla and Lylianna Veltress were born from two non‑magic users, Adam and Eve. As non‑magic users they dreamed of being able to harness the power of magic and use it to allow people born with no magic to be able to cast magic. Being scientist they studied the works of Damarius — his greatest of books being _Evolution of Magika_ — that purposed the theory of genetically altering a non‑magic user to give them the ability to use magic.

The older child, Layla — born 342 a.z.e — was the first ever non‑magic user to be genetically modified to use magic. However, it was odd to them that the child that once had brown hair now showed signs of having white hair. Along with her white hair, her left eye was red with an odd symbol imprinted in her iris.

As the couple experimented on their child they soon realized that she could not cast magic. The two of them moved on and had another child. The younger child, Lylianna — born 347 a.z.e — was the second non‑magic user to be genetically modified. Like her older sister, she too ended up with white hair but instead of her left eye being odd, her right eye was red with the imprint of a roman numeral clock circling around her iris.

At first it seemed as if both children could not cast any of the four basic elements. This lead to Adam and Eve to believe they had failed... until one day they realized both kids held magic that was beyond the standard four elements. Unlike the standard elements however, these new types of magic were limited in their use. The range of the magic was only good for three meters and would take quite a toll on their human bodies if they tried to force the magic to last longer then the ten seconds that it allowed for.

Adam and Eve knew that the two children they had were special, so too did the Emperor of Sylveria. Under his order he demanded that Adam and Eve create more of these white haired magic‑users. However, the two of them refused and burned down their lab, killing themselves in the process. Layla and Lylianna watched as their parents and home died in front of them. They were the first and last of their kind.

* * *

No one spoke a word. Aryia now understood just how Lylianna was able to move so fast and why it felt as if she couldn't use her powers around Layla.

"In the end, we both became rare magic‑users."

_Hard to believe she can stop time_ , Aryia thought.

In the moment of silence the sound of the door opening could be heard. The sound of boots against the concrete gave Aryia a traumatic shock. Standing before the cell was Layla and a few guards. With an evil smile she looked to her sister.

"It is so nice to see you all again," she said with a cutesy tone.

This threw Aryia off guard for a second. Layla turned to Aryia, pointing her finger at her.

"I don't recall seeing you before though."

With a simple snap of her fingers the guards opened the cell door and grabbed Aryia. Part of her was scared but she tried to hide it as best she could. The guards dragged Aryia into a decently sized room. She was horrified by what she saw.

The room had splatters of blood on the floor centered around the chair in the middle of the room. There was a wooden desk a few centimeters away. As the guards continued to walk her over to the chair she felt something lodge into the sole of her foot. It hurt her, yet, she tried not to show any expression of pain.

After forcing her to sit in the chair the guards tied her hands behind her back. Layla sat down on top of the table in front of her and crossed her legs as she looked into Aryia's face.

"You are quite pretty."

Aryia didn't speak.

"Sorry about the mess, my little sister was always the messy one," Layla said with a giggle.

Aryia knew not to say a word to her. There were only three pieces of information that she could give out according to the _Military Code of Law_.

"I noticed you stepped on my little sister's tooth. Hand me your foot and I can get that out for you."

_What kind of game is she playing_ , Aryia thought.

Layla grabbed Aryia's foot and slowly pulled the tooth out.

"You have pretty feet, you know?"

She put her foot down and continued to remain silent. Layla sighed.

"You are starting to act like my sister. Name, rank, and number."

"Private Kozyki, number two four nine nine eight six zero nine."

Layla giggled as she stood up from the desk.

"My sister must have trained you to handle intense pain and torture."

Aryia continued not to speak a word as she recalled what Lylianna told her. She remembered the first day she joined the Black Knights and how Melissa trained her to handle all forms of torture. Still, it was scary for her. The fear of pain and death...

"You know, I think my little sister likes you."

With a simple wink Aryia was thrown for a loop. _What does she mean by that_? She stared at the ground hoping to focus better. _I need to stay on my guard_ , she thought.

"Do you want to know why I did what I did to my sister?"

Looking up from the floor Aryia admittedly was curious to know why Layla did all this. Layla smiled gently, taking note of Aryia's curiosity.

"Have you heard of Colonel Cortez?"

"I know of the name. He was in a court session that I managed to sneak into."

"Oh, naughty girl. I like it."

Layla paced back and forth in front of Aryia as she spoke.

"He and I were planing to over throw the Emperor of Sylveria. That is all."

Layla noticed the shock on Aryia's face.

"I don't know if you noticed this but the Kingdom of Sylveria is nothing more then an oppressed kingdom controlled by a mad king. To put it in a more simple phrase, you work for a dictator."

"You're wrong. He cares about his people and he cares about us. We won't be here forever, just watch."

With a smile on her face Layla straddled her lap. This completely took Aryia by surprise. Gently brushing Aryia's bangs to the side, Layla whispered into her ear.

"I would hate to torture such a beautiful girl like you, but if you keep talking like that..."

Like a coiled viper Layla grabbed her dagger holstered near the back of her hip and stuck it into Aryia's mouth.

"I might just have to cut out that tongue of yours."

Aryia was unable to speak.

"Your Emperor doesn't care about you. Just give it time to sink in."

Layla stood up and snapped her fingers as the guards hulled Aryia back to the holding cell, throwing her in just as they did Lylianna. Melissa was a bit surprised that Aryia didn't have hardly any wounds to speak of. She sat up against the cold brick wall trying to process everything that just happened. For a moment everyone was silent until Lylianna finally spoke.

"What did you tell her?"

"She told me her plan and about the Emperor being nothing more then a dictator."

"I see."

* * *

One week had passed as the Knights remained in the holding cell, living off of a limited supply of food and water. Day and night all of them were sadistically tortured to almost no end by Layla. As luck would have it, Aryia had it the easiest of all the other members. Layla never brutally tortured her like she did the others. All she did was try to sexually tease her and talk to her.

In a way, Aryia felt bad that she had it easier then the others. _I wonder if this is some type of interrogation tactic_ , she thought as she laid her head down in Lylianna's lap. Normally, Aryia would sleep in the corner but she was just too tired at this point to even move. Lylianna did not mind it though as she leaned back into the comfort of the cold brick wall.

After a few more weeks of torture Layla realized she would not get anything more out of the Knights and headed out for the City of Versyi. Aryia began to fear the worse as three weeks turned into four weeks. _They should know we are in trouble, so why hasn't anyone come to our rescue_ , Aryia wondered.

Aryia started to doubt the Emperor. _Maybe he truly doesn't care_.

"Okay, is everyone ready?" Lylianna asked.

Everyone but Aryia nodded.

"Ready for what?" Aryia asked.

"To get out of here of course."

* * *

Three guards unlocked the cell door as one guard entered the cell to take Lylianna. Uncovering the bangs from her right eye time froze around her. _Ten seconds is all I need_ , she thought as she kept track of how many seconds had passed. With time frozen around her she rapidly grabbed a dagger from one of the guards and killed all three of them silently and quickly. With haste she threw down the two guards as her magic ended. Deadeye grabbed the other guard in the cell and covered his mouth to keep him from screaming out as he collapsed.

Aryia was amazed at what just happened. To her — an everyone else but Lylianna — everything appeared as one fluid motion, happening at the blink of an eye.

"Lets go," Lylianna said grabbing the Versyian rifle off of the now dead soldier.

Deadeye and Ryliah grabbed the rifles from the other two soldiers while Melissa took one of the daggers and handed a pistol to Aryia. Checking the magazine, Aryia estimated that it held eight bullets.

Melissa took point as Lylianna followed close behind her, her weapon in a low‑ready position. Following behind Lylianna was Deadeye and Ryliah while Aryia guarded the rear. Moving silently and swiftly the Knights made their way down one of the hallways.

Coming to a door, Melissa held out her hand signaling for everyone to hold their position. She placed her ear to the door and listened carefully. After a few minutes she held up three fingers, signaling that she could hear three soldiers beyond the door. Melissa dropped to one knee and drew out a model of the room beyond to the best of her ability. She plotted out where the guards were based on her best understanding. Aryia held up her hand and made her way quietly to the door. Putting her ear to the door she could hear exactly three guards and could imagine in her mind exactly where they were at. She pointed out where the guards were at, noting that Melissa was off a bit.

Deadeye confirmed where each of the soldiers were, noting that one of the guards was now heading through a door to the South. Once the guard was gone Deadeye pointed out that there were two guards and they were not facing the door.

Lylianna ordered Melissa to sneak in and kill them both. With a simple nod Melissa opened the door and silently rushed into the room and killed the closer of the two guards, slitting his throat. Melissa threw the dagger as the other guard turned to the sound of his dying friend. The last thing he saw was a dagger flying at his face before the world around him turned black.

With a simple hand signal Melissa let the others know it was clear. They continued through the complex until they came to a room that looked like a place to store weapons and ammo.

"Grab what you can, clothes and gear then move out. Two minutes," Lylianna said watching the door.

Aryia went first putting on a uniform and grabbing a fully automatic weapon. With time to spare she grabbed a few magazines that already had clips in them. After she was finished gathering what she could she headed to the door and stood ready as Ryliah, Melissa and Deadeye changed into Versyian uniforms as well and grabbed what weapons an ammo they could. Lylianna was last person to put on a uniform and gear up.

Once everyone was ready they slowly moved down the hallway. Even if they had gear and weapons they still would be no match for a base of fully armed soldiers. Heading down another hallway Deadeye mapped out the complex as the Knights continued to look for an exit.

* * *

Hiking for eighty kilometers in the dead of night through the woods would kill a normal soldier but for the Knights this was just like training. Unlike training however, they had the whole republic to worry about so they had to move fast before the whole country side was alerted to their break out.

After hiking East for some time they came to a river. The water was quite calm as everyone set up defensive positions around the area.

"Five minutes for food and water and then we continue on," Lylianna said.

Aryia was a bit surprised that they couldn't stop for at least a bit of sleep. Melissa and Lylianna ate quickly as everyone else continued to defend their fire sectors. Once they finished the rest of the Knights rotated out until everyone had eaten in less then five minutes.

Everyone crossed the river quickly and continued on for another ten kilometers. Aryia felt her feet aching but she continued to tell herself that it would be over if they got caught. They continued on until they came to a coast line. With the moon still out Lylianna knew what direction they would need to head in order to enter Sylveria waters.

Swimming across a vast sea was out of the question.

"Team, we have two options. Swim five‑hundred kilometers or try to build a raft and hope it holds."

* * *

Working until daybreak the Knights managed to build a raft and cross the large ocean. They soon found themselves in Sylverian waters and quickly captured by the Sylverian Seamen Guard. A few days passed as they were kept in a holding cell on a ship bound for the a coast town. Once they had hit land they were quickly moved to a prison. Aryia felt as if she had been through hell but at least being in a Sylverian prison was better than the torture that everyone went through.

A few hours passed and everything was soon straighten out as soldiers apologized for treating the Knights like enemies. Lylianna told them not to worry about it as the Knights headed out to see the Emperor. However, before they hopped on a helicopter to the capital they ate a meal fit for a king.

Aryia was more then overjoyed to have a decent warm meal as she downed her food quickly.

"You should pace yourself," Melissa said eating rather slowly.

Disregarding her advice, Aryia continued to eat as fast as she could and drank water until she found herself starting to choke on her own food. After a few seconds of pounding her chest she managed to get the food and drink down the right pipe.

"I told you to slow down," Melissa said with a smile.

* * *

Once they had arrived at the capital the Knights headed for their barrack to change into more suitable clothes. Aryia began to miss her weapon she had made, however, she knew that she could just make a new one, although it would not be as great. _I wonder if we will ever get our weapons back_.

Inside the throne room they knelt before the Emperor and awaited what was to come. Lylianna felt this would be the end of Black Knights. As the Emperor stared at his Knights he questioned just what he should do.

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't have all of you executed where you kneel?"

Princess Amalthea seemed shocked by the question her father had asked. More surprised then her was Aryia, the others however seemed quite calm. Aryia stood up.

"Wait, your grace we—"

Before Aryia could finish Lylianna slammed her elbow into Aryia's ribs forcing her back down to one knee as she held her stomach.

"Forgive her, your grace, she did not mean to speak out in your presence."

Princess Amalthea felt sad for what the Knights were going through. She had heard rumors that they were captured by the enemy, and if that was true then it was uncalled for to be treating them as if they had failed.

"We were set up by someone from within the Sylverian Kingdom."

The Emperor had an angry look about his face.

"And just what are you implying? That I set you up?!"

"No your grace, I merely meant that it was someone else, possibly within the Eastern Line HQ."

"I see, is that all?"

"Layla Veltress had planned to over throw you with the help of Colonel Cortez."

"Very well, if that is all..."

"That is all, your grace."

"I now sentence you all to death."

The room was silent as the words that came from the Emperor's mouth slowly sank into Aryia's brain. _Did he just sentence us to death_ , she thought. The horror on Princess Amalthea's face showed as the rest of the Knights pulled out their pistols. All of them held the guns to their head in unison, ready to die on command of the Emperor. Aryia was the only one who had yet to do as ordered. Lylianna quickly pinned Aryia down and held her pistol to her head. She tried to pull out her pistol, however, Lylianna quickly disarmed her in a flash. As Aryia's pistol slid a few meters across the chamber floor Princess Amalthea sprang up from her throne.

"Stop this! I order you Knights not to do it!"

"I am sorry my lady but your father's orders overrule your own."

Tears began to form in Amalthea's eyes. She did not want to lose her Knights. Without warning she ran for Aryia's pistol on the floor and picked it up. Like the Knights she held the pistol to her head and looked to father.

"Father, stop this or I will kill myself as well. If you kill them, then you kill your own daughter."

Everyone in the room was shocked by what came out of the Amalthea's mouth. Lylianna didn't get shocked by many things but this managed to take her by surprise. Aryia was more confused then surprised by what was going on while the Emperor seemed more annoyed then anything. A few seconds passed until the Emperor finally let out a deep sigh.

"Very well, Knights I retract that order. It seems my daughter holds some empathy for failures. Now, leave us."

"Yes, your grace."

Lylianna holstered her pistol as she got off of Aryia and picked her up by the shirt collar. The rest of the Knights holstered their pistols as well. Amalthea handed the pistol back to Aryia and smiled a weak, but happy tear‑filled smile. Without speaking another word they left, heading back to their Headquarters.

"What the hell was that?" Aryia asked as they entered their Headquarters.

"If the Emperor tells us to kill ourselves then we do it," Lylianna said as she grabbed a book from the bookshelf.

"But that is stupid!"

"I recall you are the one that signed up for this team. I did not force you."

"Yeah, but you—"

"Enough. This conversation is over."

Lylianna laid back on her bed and opened up a book entitled _A Soldier's Will_. Aryia decided to try and get some much needed rest as she laid her head down.

* * *

Melissa looked over all the medication and medical supplies in the medical room. _I need a drink_ , she thought. Entering the mess hall she noticed that they were out of alcohol. As Melissa headed out the front door she noticed Princess Amalthea walking up.

"My lady."

Melissa dropped to one knee.

"Please stand up Melissa, treat me as if I was a normal person."

"As you wish, my lady."

"Now, tell me what happened with your mission, everything please."

* * *

Princess Amalthea entered the Black Knight's bedroom without warning.

"Aev—"

"Sulł! Melissa told me everything all of you went through. So, don't bother standing up just rest."

Lylianna felt a bit conflicted but she obeyed and sat up in her bed. Aryia was happy and laid back down closing her eyes, still alert to what was going on around her. Amalthea sat down next to Lylianna and looked into her eyes.

"Remove your shirt for me Lydia."

She quickly removed her shirt baring her cicatrix infested body before the princess. As soon as she saw her body Princess Amalthea soon wished she could have retracted her statement. Seeing all the cuts and burns over weeks... months, made the princess uneasy.

"By the goddesses..."

Princess Amalthea hugged Lylianna gently. She wished she could have taken away the pain that Lylianna went through.

"It is fine, my lady."

As Amalthea got up from the bed she turned to Aryia.

"Aryia."

Aryia quickly opened her eyes and looked to the girl who now had a smile on her face to hide the pain of what she saw.

"Yes Princess?"

"Make sure you take care of Lylianna. Sometimes she gets so involved with her duty to the royal family that she forgets she is human too."

Lylianna blushed slightly — avoiding eye contact — trying not to show it as the princess left. _Wow, the Major is cute when she blushes_ , Aryia thought. Closing her eyes she drifted off into a deep and pleasant sleep.

Aryia awoke to the sound of Lylianna's voice. She only managed to get a good four hours of sleep. Even if it wasn't the standard eight hours that one would normally get she was still glad that she could sleep in a nice soft bed.

The Knights gathered in the mess hall. As they sat around the table, Lylianna stood up.

"So, we know that Layla was conspiring with Colonel Cortez to overthrow the Emperor. The question is, what is her next move?"

As Aryia pondered the question she ate a nice warm meal made by Ryliah. It was hard to believe she was a talented cook. While she continued to eat Aryia recalled what happened in the throne room and then what Layla said to her. _Maybe Layla was right_ , she thought.

"What if Layla was right?"

Everyone looked to Aryia.

"Right about what?" Ryliah asked.

"About the Emperor being—"

Lylianna held her pistol to Aryia's head.

"Do not finish that sentence or I will kill you myself."

Aryia's body froze in fear.

"As a Knight you live and die by the Emperor's orders. No matter how crazy they are. Do I make myself clear?"

Aryia could only nod. No one said a word after Lylianna holstered her pistol. The rest of the Knights knew deep down that the Emperor was truly an oppressive dictator, however, they had to follow his orders until his death.

"We will continue to piece together this assassination plot later, that is all."

Once Lylianna was finished with her food she got up from the table and headed to the library.

"Is she always like that?" Aryia asked.

"The Major just wants you to be in the right frame of mind," Melissa said as she left the room.

"As Knights we cannot let emotions, feelings or beliefs get in the way of orders," Deadeye said getting up as well and leaving.

"This is the life we live until we die Aryia," Ryliah said leaving Aryia alone in the mess hall.

She thought about what the others had said. _This is the life I chose but that doesn't mean I have to like it_ , she thought. As Aryia finished her food she got up from the table to clean her plate. _I wonder how Mari is doing_. After cleaning her plate Aryia headed to the bedroom to apologize to Lylianna for what she said. Lylianna simply told her it was fine and went back to reading her book.

"There is something on your mind?" Lylianna asked looking up from her book.

"Oh, uh... I was just wondering if I could go see how my friend Mari is doing."

"Be back by 1800 hours."

Aryia was happy on the inside as she headed out. Before she could step out the front door she ran into Ryliah.

"Where are you off to?"

"I was going to see Mari."

"Would you mind if I tagged along?"

"I don't mind but we have to be back by 1800."

"All right."

Ryliah went to her room and grabbed her beret along with Aryia's. After putting on her beret she thanked Ryliah for grabbing it for her. Once the two of them were ready they headed out for the barracks.

* * *

Lylianna continued to read her book until there was a knock at the door. With a sigh she placed a bookmark on the page she was at and headed for the door. Standing at the door was Princess Amalthea's butler.

"I am deeply sorry to disturb you Major Veltress, however, the Emperor wishes to speak with you."

"Only me?"

"Yes."

"I see."

Grabbing her beret Lylianna headed for the castle as Greg stopped for a second to chat.

"Welcome back Major, heard you had a shitty week."

"That is the life of a soldier Greg."

"Aye."

Not wanting to waste anymore time with talking, Lylianna headed for the entrance as quickly as she could. Once she was in presence of the Emperor she dropped to one knee as always. The Emperor sat there on his throne as Amalthea sat on her throne with a large smile on her face.

"It seems that the Black Knights are still useful Major."

Lylianna did not speak.

"For whatever reason my daughter wanted the Black Knights to be by her side for this."

"I see. Thank you my lady."
  *[a.z.e]: After the Zeroth Era

## Chapter Six  
Scarlet Thorn

"The winds of time blow on forever, like an arrow. However, an arrow will soon stop and hit the ground."

— The Thief of Time: Vol. I

Aryia and Ryliah walked down to the academy in silence. She wondered what it was like for Ryliah to join the Black Knights and why she joined it in the first place. Ryliah didn't speak for a bit as she recalled the time she was a Warrant Officer, training at the very academy they were heading to.

Before they were able to get onto the academy base grounds the two of them were stopped at the gate by one of the Military Police.

"Please state your business."

"We were hoping to get onto the academy grounds to see a friend," Aryia said.

"You will need to file the proper paperwork and—"

"I don't think so," Ryliah said trying to walk past the guard.

The guard quickly stepped in front of her. Ryliah removed her jacket revealing her rank on her shoulder. Without another word the soldier quickly snapped to attention and saluted.

"I am sorry about that ma'am, you are free to go in."

"Private Kozyki is with me as well."

"Yes ma'am."

Without another word the two of them continued on. Aryia noticed the smirk on Ryliah's face.

"It must be great to pull rank like that," Aryia said with a coy smile.

"Heh. When you get to be an officer rank it is quite fun to pull rank on those below you. Bet you are also glad I tagged along."

"Yeah, if you weren't here I would've had to sneak my way in here."

"And just how would have you done that?"

"Easy, with a cardboard box."

The two of them headed into the barrack as Aryia began to reminisce of the time she spent with her platoon. Inside the barracks was a girl who was busy mopping the floor. Looking up from her cleaning duty she noticed Ryliah and Aryia.

"Oh, hey Aryia. What brings you by here?"

"I was hoping to talk to Mari."

"She is out on the training field for sword combat."

Aryia and Ryliah thanked the girl as they left the barracks and headed for the training field. At the training field each of the squad members were paired with each other practicing sword techniques. Aryia took note of Mari and how her swordplay was improving quite a bit.

"Everyone line up!" the instructor shouted.

All of the privates lined up as whispers could be heard from some of them.

"Hey, isn't that Aryia?"

"I don't think so."

Ryliah buried her hands into her coat pockets as the instructor started to speak.

"We will now commence with the sword sparing exam. The goal is to disarm your opponent or land a fatal blow with the wooden sword. First up will be..."

As the instructor looked to his clipboard and then around at the students he noticed two girls that appeared to be out of place.

"Can I help the two of you?"

"No, carry on," Ryliah said.

The first fight was between two guys. Both of them were slightly muscular and appeared to know what they were doing — at least in Aryia's mind. Ryliah, however, noticed many flaws, from their battle stance, to how they held their weapons.

"So who do you think is going to win?"

"In a true fight both of them would be dead," Ryliah said.

"Five Yukaris says the red head wins."

"Do you really want to bet money on a match that I already know the outcome?"

Aryia nodded.

"Orange hair then."

"Fight!" the instructor shouted.

With that word the two guys rushed at each other like two jousters, locking swords. Both were evenly matched until the guy with orange hair disarmed the weapon from the red hair student. Aryia was slightly upset that she was now down five whole Yukaris. Ryliah simply smiled.

"Told you."

Aryia handed the money to Ryliah as the instructor looked to his clipboard.

"Private Kozun and Private O'Hara."

Mari held the wooden sword with both hands. She appeared confident but Ryliah could see through all of that. Izumi held the wooden sword with one‑hand, like a rapier.

"I hope Mari will win."

"Sad to say, but she won't. Her stance is flawed and not counter‑balanced at all."

Aryia was a bit upset that Mari wouldn't win.

"Want to bet on it again?" Ryliah asked jokingly.

"I would rather not this time."

As Mari and Izumi fought the battle was pretty clear that Izumi would be the winner. While Izumi did try to lessen her skill‑level to give Mari an advantage, it did not help at all. The battle continued until Izumi disarmed Mari and held the wooden sword against her throat. Izumi smiled as she helped her up to her feet. Once the match was over Mari noticed Aryia standing on the sidelines. Like a wispy child she ran over to her and hugged Aryia tightly.

"Aryia, it has been too long. You look so different."

"You still look the same."

"Anyways, what are you two doing here?"

"I wanted to come by and see you."

Mari simply smirked.

"Did you miss me too much?"

The two of them laughed until the sound of the instructor jarred them from their time together. He ordered her to get back in line, however, before Mari could move Ryliah revealed her rank.

"We need her for a few minutes, feel free to carry on."

Realizing that Ryliah outranked him the sergeant gave a quick salute and called the next two people for the exam.

"I wish I could have passed my exams. The tactics and written exams are easy for me but the physical stuff is not my forte. It feels like I am going to stay a Private forever."

"Aww. Don't say that Mari, you will become an Officer one day."

"I could talk to the Major to see if she could recommend you for an Officer track," Ryliah said.

"W‑Would you really do that?"

Mari was quite shocked. Even Aryia was a bit shocked but she was happy if Lylianna would even consider doing that.

"You would still have to know how to fight. So that means working on your physical prowess but if I have free time I can try and help out when possible."

Ryliah looked at her watch, taking note of the time.

"I can help too," Aryia said.

"We will have to do sword training another day though. Aryia we need to go now."

"That would be amazing, thank you."

Aryia and Ryliah walked away as Mari headed back to the sidelines and fell in‑line with the rest of the platoon.

## Chapter Seven  
Silent as the Grave

"Time does not stop for anyone, just as death does not care how young or old one is."

— The Thief of Time: Vol. II

Aryia and Ryliah entered their Headquarters exactly at 1800 hours on the dot. Lylianna called all the Knights into the mess hall. The look on her face was quite serious. Everyone gathered around the table and sat down as Aryia tried to figure out what was going on.

"One week from now we will be on guard duty for Princess Amalthea as she travels to Luporus for business. Melissa, you will get the medical supplies ready. Deadeye, Aryia, you two will head out to the city and scout out the area, report back as soon as possible. Ryliah, ready all the weapons, ammo and other gear."

With a simple _yes ma'am_ , all the Knights gave a quick salute and did what they were ordered. Aryia and Deadeye planed to head out to Luporus the next day, spending the rest of their day looking at the route to Luporus. Normally, traveling between cities was harmless — most of the time. Aside from wildlife attacks from stray animals that came to close to the main roads, there wasn't much in the way of bandits. In fact, an encounter with bandits was quite rare... for normal people.

It was another matter for the members of the royal family. Since Emperor Umbael Serpth took the throne after the passing of his late father he slowly ran the kingdom into the ground. With the birth of his daughter and the death of his wife the Kingdom of Sylveria continued to find itself in more wars over small things.

As Deadeye studied the map he marked off possible ambush points on the road to Luporus.

"So, I guess we are going by car?"

"Yeah."

"Won't a helicopter or plane be faster?"

"A helicopter would still take a while. The main problem with going by plane is that the nearest runway is about three‑hundred kilometers away from the city."

"I see."

"Another reason why we don't go by plane is due to Princess Amalthea's fear of flying."

"The princess has a fear of flying?"

"And heights, yes."

Aryia was a bit shocked to hear that. Apparently, Princess Amalthea was just fine with killing herself for the Black Knights but flying and heights were out of the question. As Deadeye continued to mark off points on the map he looked at his watch.

"Okay, lets head out to Luporus tomorrow at 0600. That okay with you?"

"Yeah."

* * *

The sunrise greeted a new day for Aryia as she woke up at 0500. Deadeye had been up for a few hours before her drinking coffee and reading the Sylveria Daily Times. Aryia grabbed a plate and gathered a few eggs and bacon. Not being the best of cooks this was the only meal she could make.

"Would you like some coffee?"

"I have never been one for that stuff," Aryia said pouring herself a glass of milk.

The two of them sat in silence. _What is going through his mind_ , she wondered. Once both of them were finished Deadeye waited outside in a black jeep — that had the Knight's emblem on the side of it — as Aryia proceeded to get dressed.

"You know, in theory, we could get their faster if we used a more archaic method of transport."

"What you mean there is, 'Hey Aryia use your magic to push a cart while I laze around in the back' or something like that."

"No, I mean it would shave off an hour or two if we did that."

"Yeah, I will stick with driving an extra hour or two."

"Fair enough."

The ride in the jeep gave Aryia enough time to think about things. An hour had passed until Aryia finally opened her mouth.

"So, how did you make it into the Black Knights?"

Deadeye remained silence. Aryia started to wonder if she touched a nerve. A few minutes passed as he thought about how best to tell his tale.

"Well, it all started back when I was sixteen..."

* * *

Without much going for him Bartholomew Graves turned to the life of a thief. Using his earth magic to map out houses and other valuable places, he could steal almost anything from anywhere. He had been doing this for years after his parents abandoned him.

Everything was fine until he tried to steal from the Emperor himself. Bartholomew was quickly caught before he could even make it into the inner compound and thrown in a jail cell. He suffered days of torture as the guards beat him senseless. There was almost no rest for him as he slept for only a few hours each day. He started to believe he would spend his life like this rotting away in a jail until he got old.

Two years passed until one day two little girls showed up at his cell. They both looked to be no more then twelve‑years‑old.

"And just who are you?" Bartholomew asked.

"Your new goddess, if you believe in those fairy tales," the white hair girl replied.

"With everything that has happened, I don't believe in the goddesses anymore."

"Good. I could use someone like you for my team."

"You... run a team. How cute. Aren't you a little young to be playing soldier?"

"Cockiness leads to stupidity. And that is why you're in jail."

"Shut up brat. You don't have any idea what it is like."

"Have you ever been cut open alive?"

Bartholomew had a confused look on his face.

"Have you experienced the pain of having your arm dislocated and popped back into place without anything to numb the pain?"

"Are you trying to make me sympathetic to your shortcomings?"

"No, merely trying to give an idea of what is expected of my team. If you join me I expect you to follow me into the depths of the unknown."

Standing and moving closer to the cell bars Bartholomew looked over the little girl who was so short that he had to look down.

"I don't follow children."

"And what if I was to make you a deal?"

"What kind of a deal?"

"I will get you out of here. Then you and I will fight, one‑on‑one. If I win you will join my team. If you win then you are free to go."

"And how do I know I can trust you?"

"You just have to take my word for it."

He mulled over the idea for a few minutes. In the end, he figured it was better then staying locked up in a cell for the rest of his life.

"Fine."

The white haired girl turned to the other girl.

"Mel, get the guard for me please."

"Yes ma'am."

After a few minutes a guard appeared.

"Release this prisoner at once."

The guard had a confused look about him.

"I am sorry Captain but I can't do that."

"Fine. I invoke the Black Knight Invocation. Under the order of the Emperor I have full rights to conscript this prisoner. Should you fail to allow me to fulfill my invocation you will be sentence to death."

The guard was at a loss for words. He quickly opened the cell door. Bartholomew was shocked that the guard actually let him out. After getting a decent meal and some water Bartholomew was ready for the one‑on‑one fight. There was no way he could lose to a twelve‑year‑old girl.

* * *

Aryia was a bit surprised at what she heard. Deadeye just laughed as they continued to drive. They were getting close to the City of Gernod, which would be their first stopping point.

"She beat my ass, and even ruptured one of my eyes. Hence the nickname Deadeye."

"Hard to believe you started out as a Private though."

"We all start somewhere."

Stopping at the City of Gernod the two scouted out the area for any ambush points and other such choke points. While the city wasn't as big as the main capital it was still home to a pretty big population. Workers went about their job as street merchants sold their wears to the common folk. The gray stone walls around Gernod protected the city quite well. Not only from wildlife but from the coastal winds that blew in from the East.

After looking around the city Aryia headed back to the jeep. They continued on to the City of Luporus.

* * *

The City of Luporus was a large port city made of the finest white stone. Home to the Seaman Guard — the jactitation among the people of Luporus. The city did quite well with trade routes along the sea. People were busy walking the impeccable streets, pushing carts of fish and other fresh foods from the ships docked in the harbor.

A few hours had passed since Deadeye and Aryia made it to the city. With daylight still burning they both disembarked from their jeep and headed into the city. This was Aryia's first time in Luporus.

"Aryia, check any buildings that you think the princess would visit. She is only supposed to be heading to the Liquescent Inn and the Town Hall but better to account for any other places off the beaten path," Deadeye said handing her a map of the city.

"Right."

Aryia looked around the city, taking note of buildings and the businesses. Stalls and other small shops littered the sidewalks as people sold various foods. As Aryia looked at the map she noticed where the Liquescent Inn was at and headed off in the direction of it.

As she came into view of the inn she was taken aback by just how elaborate it was. It was truly fit for a queen — or in this case a princess. The outside of the building was made of a soft twilight colored stone with white‑walled accent around the window frames. A paved gray‑tone pathway lead up to an excessively eccentric entrance.

_I can see why the princess would stay at an inn like this. Great place for a princess... and an assassination_.

Aryia stepped into the inn, taking note of all the patrons. It was quite a fancy place with gentlemen that wore suits with top hats while the women wore elegant frilly dresses. The main lobby bustled with the sounds of idle chatter and high‑heels clacking against the hard wood floor. In front of Aryia was a long red carpet that lead up to a wooden desk, where an older gentleman with long green hair stood. She made her way up to the front desk taking note of the people around her. _Hopefully, no one will try to attack me here_ , she thought as she secretly held onto her pistol, hidden in her coat pocket.

Ever since she had joined the Black Knights she had become more and more paranoid. She saw the world in a different light just as the other members did. No longer did she see people as being kind and generous but now she saw everyone around her as suspicious. Anyone could be an enemy or a trained killer.

Stepping up to the desk she took note of how many room keys were on the back wall.

"Can I help you?" the man asked.

Aryia looked into the man's eyes.

"I was just curious as to how well‑known this inn is. I have a friend that is thinking of staying here."

"Ah. Well, the Liquescent Inn is the best inn... in Luporus."

"I see. What is the price for one room?"

"One room is five hundred twenty‑five Yukaris for a week and for each day after the first week is an extra four hundred fifty‑nine each night."

"That is not too bad a deal."

"Yeah, most inns in the area and other cities charge six hundred Yukaris a night."

"Sounds good. I will let my friend know about how good this place then, thank you."

With a wave of her hand Aryia left. As she look around the front entrance she noticed that it was quite an open space. She made her way to the market square. The market was more packed then food in a ration as she carefully maneuvered through the crowd. As she continued to walk around she suddenly heard a voice behind her.

"I take it you are done."

It was Deadeye.

"Yeah. Anything to note on your end?"

"Not much, aside from the cliff side tower to the East. It worries me."

"Why is that?"

"It is the perfect sniping nest for taking a clear shot. I was able to watch you enter the building and could see one of the beds from an open window."

"I might not be a trained sniper but that doesn't sound good."

Deadeye began to walk back to where he had parked the jeep as Aryia followed behind.

"Short answer, no... it is not good at all," Deadeye said as he started up the jeep.

The drive back to the capital was silent as Aryia thought about what could be done to keep the princess safe.

"I have a crazy idea."

"What?"

Aryia shook her head after a few seconds. It was a crazy idea.

"Never mind."

## Chapter Eight  
The House Doctor

"Under the order of the Emperor of Sylveria, any Officer ranked member of the Black Knights may invoke the right to conscript. Failure to uphold the conscript from an official Black Knight will lead to the termination of subject(s)."

— The Black Knight Invocation

Aryia had a surprised look on her face as she watched Melissa pile medical supplies into a black med‑bag. It was quite impressive to her just how much equipment she could fit into just one small bag.

"Do we really need all that stuff?"

"Yeah. You never know when we may need it. Besides, better to be prepared."

After thinking about it for a brief second Aryia realized she could not argue with that logic.

"I guess you are right."

Melissa simply giggled as she packed the last bit of supplies into another medical bag.

"Say, do you want to go with me to see the Princess? I need to make sure I have all the relevant information on her medical record and give her a bit of a check up to make sure everything is up‑to‑date."

With a nod the two of them headed out for the castle. They had no trouble getting through the guards as Greg greeted the two girls with a smile which was a bit surprising to Aryia after what they went through with the Emperor.

"Just how much power do the Black Knights have?" Aryia asked as they made there way up some stairs.

"Honestly, we don't have much. The rank of Black Knight holds almost no merit on a person's current rank."

"So, basically, the Black Knight rank is virtually pointless?"

"Pretty much."

Melissa knocked on the wooden door of the princess's room. After a few seconds Princess Amalthea opened the door. She stood there in a strapless dress top and a short frilly skirt both as white as snow. The short skirt revealed her pale bare legs and small petite feet.

"Greetings my lady. Sorry to drop by so late."

"Melissa, Aryia! Come in please. It is no trouble at all. I was just busy looking at all the financial budget papers for the trip."

Aryia was quite surprised by Amalthea's room. The room was covered in cute stuffed animals and had a feminine pink and white motif that was obvious to the naked eye. Princess Amalthea jumped into the comfort of her large bed.

"So, are you here to preform a medical evaluation Melissa?"

"Yes, my lady."

"You are always so formal to me," Amalthea said giggling.

As Melissa put her bag on the floor next to the bed Aryia stood against the wall. Amalthea could tell Aryia wanted to sit down but was too afraid to sit anywhere.

"Aryia feel free to sit down if you wish," Amalthea said.

"T‑Thank you Princess."

Aryia sat down in a wooden chair across from the princess as Melissa pulled out a needle from her bag.

"I am going to need to get a vial of your blood my lady, so please try to relax for me."

Princess Amalthea held out her arm as Melissa carefully stuck the needle into her arm, slowly drawing some blood. It surprised Aryia just how sweet and gentle Melissa was being with Princess Amalthea.

"Aryia, you appear to have something on your mind," Amalthea said with a curious look.

"I‑It is nothing, Princess."

"Aryia, you are free to speak your mind with me. Treat me just like any other normal person."

"I assume you will be staying at the Liquescent Inn, correct?"

"Yes, why? Is there something wrong with that inn?"

"I just have a bad feeling about it. I am sure Deadeye feels the same."

"Then what should I do?"

After finishing up the examination Melissa placed her things in the bag.

"Princess, please keep in mind that it is nothing more then a feeling I have. There is no need to change your plans just because of what I say."

Princess Amalthea stood up from her bed and made her way over to Aryia.

"Aryia, I trust the Black Knights with all my heart. All of you mean more to me then you realize. None of you are tools in my eyes. My father may see all of you as tools to use, I however, see all of you as human."

It was a shock for her to hear that come from Amalthea's mouth. _She is such a kind and caring person_ , Aryia thought.

"So please, if you have an opinion then speak it."

"Very well, Princess... I believe that staying at that inn will possibly lead to your death."

* * *

Aryia and Melissa headed back to the Headquarters. There was a lot to think about and still much more to do. As the two of them stepped inside Lylianna ordered them to meet her in the planning room.

"Listen up, we will be discussing the contingency plans for the Princess's trip to Luporus. Nothing leaves this room, do I make myself clear?"

"Ma'am, yes ma'am!"

"Right, first I want everyone to give me a sit‑rep. Mel, report‑in."

"I have everything packed, but I still need to test Princess Amalthea's blood for any other medical conditions."

"Very well. Ryliah."

"All guns, ammo and gear is packed and ready to go."

"Deadeye, Aryia."

Lylianna noticed the worried look on Aryia's face.

"If you have something to say then say it Private."

Aryia took a second before finally deciding to answer.

"Very well Major... I believe the Princess will not be safe at that inn in Luporus."

As she continued to explain, Lylianna's expressionless face did not change. She turned to Deadeye.

"Do you agree with this Lieutenant?"

"Yes Major."

Lylianna laid out a map of the city as Deadeye pointed out possible sniping points. Aryia reported everything she saw inside the inn and how much it would cost.

"Major, if I may, I have an idea."

"Go ahead then. We are all ears."

## Chapter Nine  
A Shot in the Dark

"Darkness falls over the town of Aldemia. The town believes it is safe from the horrors of the war — this is only an illusion. A shot rings out, sending the town of Aldemia into chaos."

— _Of Assassins & Darkness: The Novel_ by P.L. Darmun

Nighttime fell upon the City of Luporus. Aryia and Ryliah stood outside of the room where Princess Amalthea slept. A few hours passed until the sound of a gunshot rang. Aryia quickly readied her rifle and opened the door to the room. Ryliah rushed in with her weapon at the ready and finger on the trigger. Before her stood what appeared to be a woman — based on the slim figure — at the window.

The assassin was a bit confused as to what happened but quickly regained composure and tried to escape out the window. Within a blink of the eye Aryia noticed Lylianna had managed to throw the assassin down onto the solid hardwood floor; holding a pistol to the assassin's head. Ryliah looked outside the window as Aryia trained her gun sights on the assassin.

"Sniper is down," Deadeye said over the radio.

"Copy that," Lylianna replied.

Lylianna removed the hood from the assassin, taking note the girl was quite young for her age possibly close to Aryia's age. She had long crimson hair while her sadden eyes told a deep story of lost, and pain.

"So, are you going to tell us why you and your now dead friend tried to kill a member of the royal family?"

The girl remained silent.

"Deadeye, be sure to tell Mel to get over here. We have a new toy for her to play with."

"Right."

Aryia started to have flashbacks to the time Melissa tortured her to no end. _I almost feel sorry for this girl_ , she thought. After a few minutes Melissa appeared carrying a black bag with her.

"This is your last chance to talk. If you don't then she will get the answers from you," Lylianna said pointing to Melissa.

Looking up at Lylianna the girl appeared as if she wanted to speak but couldn't.

"Wait, Major I think... this girl is a mute," Aryia said as she dropped to one knee beside the girl.

With a simple nod the girl looked as if she was telling the truth.

"Open your mouth," Lylianna demanded.

The girl looked to Lylianna and opened her mouth. Upon opening her mouth Lylianna noticed that the girl had no tongue.

"Her tongue has been cut out. She isn't a mute, she just cannot speak," Lylianna said getting off of the girl.

Punching the wall — with a force powerful enough to leave a massive dent — it was clear to the others that Lylianna was mad. No one dared to say a word.

"If we give you a pencil and some paper can you explain to us who hired you?" Aryia asked in a calming tone.

The girl nodded. Aryia grabbed a piece of paper from the desk in the room along with a pen. She handed them to the girl and told her to sit down at the desk.

"Lets start with your name."

* * *

The new room of the princess slept in was far from perfect. It was ten times smaller then the room at the Liquescent Inn. Old wooden floors creaked when stepped on along with having splinters, the wood was showing clear signs of molding. As the princess sat on the malodorous smelling bed — hugging her knees to her chest — the rest of the Knights sat in silence.

Princess Amalthea's mind ran through what would have happened had she stayed at that inn. It scared her knowing that if she didn't have her Knights that she would have been dead. The bluff that she told her father was nothing compared to actually being killed by someone. Melissa and Lylianna noticed the expression on Amalthea's face.

"I am sorry for he change in accommodations, my lady," Lylianna finally spoke.

"It is fine. Better to be alive then dead."

There was fear in Amalthea's tone as she hugged her knees tighter.

"Just relax, my lady, we won't allow any harm to come to you."

"The Major is right Princess. You should try and get some sleep," Aryia said in a calm voice.

Amalthea laid back on the bed as Aryia tucked her in. A few hours had passed until the princess had managed to drift off to sleep.

"Aryia, Melissa, Ryliah, you three take the first watch," Lylianna whispered.

The three of them nodded and stepped outside. While they stood there the dim‑lit hallway gave Aryia an uneasy feeling. Looking to her teammates, it was clear to her that they felt the same way. Hours passed as the three of them stood there.

"Hey Melissa, I have a question for you," Aryia said as she sat down against the wooden wall.

"What is that?"

"What was it like for you to join the Black Knights?"

"Now that is an interesting story," Melissa said with a smile.

"I would actually love to hear it," Ryliah said.

"If I tell you, then you have to promise not to tell the Major. Keep this just between us girls, okay?"

* * *

Aryia and Ryliah looked shocked. Words could not begin to describe the story that they had heard. Melissa simply smiled with a cheerful expression on her face.

"And... that actually happened?" Aryia asked slightly dumbfounded.

"Maybe it did, maybe it didn't," Melissa said with a wink.

As the morning sun rose all the Knights gathered together as Princess Amalthea rubbed her eyes. She was not one for the early mornings like the others. While the princess had something to eat and drink the Knights went over the plans for how they would handle taking Amalthea to the Town Hall.

After a few minutes the princess was dressed and ready as the Knights escorted her out. Deadeye had set up a sniping position to watch the entrance of the Town Hall while the others walked with Princess Amalthea. The Knights looked quite different from how they normally dressed.

Lylianna was dressed in a black corset, with red‑laced strings. Around her arms were black and red striped arm‑warmers. Her frilly‑layered black skirt was shorter then most skirts but she still managed to hide a pistol holster strapped to her right thigh and a dagger sheathed on her left. She, like the rest of the Knights wore her military boots.

Melissa decided to dress in the same outfit as Lylianna only adding to the look with a pair of black/white striped knee‑high socks and a military‑style cap.

Ryliah was dressed pretty causal and appeared to be just another towns person while Aryia just threw on a simple brown overcoat with an undershirt and a skirt.

As they came up to the entrance of the Town Hall one of the town guards stopped the princess at the door.

"State your business please."

"I am Princess Amalthea," she said pulling out her family crest.

"Very well, we will have to ask that your bodyguards to remove their weapons if they have any at the front entrance here."

"I will not allow my Knights to escort me unarmed. They keep their weapons or I shall not enter."

"R‑Right... very well then. You may proceed."

As Princess Amalthea walked into the building Lylianna turned to Aryia.

"Stay out here and be alert."

"Right."

Aryia stood against the wall as she watched the princess enter the Town Hall. She waited for a few minutes as the two guards gave her strange looks. _Why does it feel like something is going to go wrong_ , she thought.

* * *

Princess Amalthea sat at the center of the large wooden table as men — nearly approaching their fifties — sat around opposite ends. It was clear the princess was new to these kinds of meetings and was ill‑prepared for it, even though she had practiced and looked over the papers time and time again. Lucky for her Lylianna was there to lend her a helping hand.

The hours passed as the princess explained the budget for the city from the tax laws to the commercial enterprise budget — or CEB — for the city's treasury and listened to what all of the members of council had to say. Most of the council members were nice and explained the concepts that appeared to be over Amalthea's head. If there was something she just could not understand Lylianna was able to explain it in a more simplified way.

A few more hours passed until the meeting was finally over. Princess Amalthea left the building hoping she did a great job. With plenty of daylight left to spare the Knights escorted Princess Amalthea back to the capital, safe and sound. Before the Knights could get any rest however, the Emperor demanded to see them.

Kneeling before the Emperor became almost mundane for Aryia. She had gotten used to a lot of things since she joined the Black Knights.

"I would like to thank you all for keeping my daughter safe and returning her home. Perhaps I was wrong about all of you being defective."

With that shocking complement — and slightly demoralizing statement — Aryia felt a sense of pride about her. After the words of extolment from the Emperor the Knights returned to their Headquarters to sleep for the rest of the day. As they entered the bedroom Aryia dropped into her bed without even removing her uniform.

"Don't forget we train tomorrow at the break of dawn," Lylianna said as she removed her clothes.

"Yeah, yeah," Aryia said with a wave of her hand.

## Epilogue

Aryia awoke at 0500 hours and put on her BDU. She had slowly gotten used to waking up early, and functioning off of as minimal sleep as possible. _What would it have been like had I not joined the Black Knights_ , she thought as she headed out the door.

Outside on the training field the other Knights were dressed and ready to go. Lylianna looked to her squad as she pulled out a map.

"We run one‑hundred kilometers in two hours or less, without using magic."

The first time Aryia had to run for that long she recalled how she almost dropped dead near a hillside. However, she pushed through it with her willpower. After a while she had managed to get used to it until running one‑hundred kilometers was nothing more then child's play to her now.

Once all of them had finished their run they proceeded to practice hand‑to‑hand combat training without so much as a break. Aryia faced off against Lylianna who always won due to her magic's ability to stop time.

Hours passed until it was nearing 1800 hours. Aryia fell onto her bed, face‑planting into the soft pillow. Lylianna merely sighed as she sat down beside her.

"You should learn to remove your uniform before you sleep."

"But Major, I am so tired after today."

In truth, Aryia did have a bit of energy left but she could never let her know that. Lylianna removed Aryia's clothes and grabbed a simple sleepwear outfit from the closet. Once she had taken care of her, Lylianna removed her own clothes and laid down on her bed. She was pretty tired after all the events that had happened and was glad she would get a chance to relax for a few days at the very least.

The next morning Aryia was awaken by Melissa, who sounded worried.

"Aryia the Major wants us all to gather in the mess hall now. Get dressed, come on."

Aryia quickly sat up, taking note that it was 0100 hours. _What could it be_ , she wondered. After getting dressed in her uniform Aryia made her way down into the mess hall. Everyone appeared to be worried. While Lylianna appeared to be calm it was clear, deep down she was more worried then anyone else in the room.

"So, what is this all about?" Aryia asked.

Silence...

Lylianna looked over to Aryia.

"Princess Amalthea is missing."

# Part Two  
The Duty Of A Soldier

## Prologue

Captain Lylianna Veltress — age twelve — knew that if the princess was taken across the border it would be near impossible to get her home. She stood there her in her room, dressed in nothing more then a simple black tank‑top and panties. Many thoughts ran through her mind. If she was going to do something, she would need to do it now.

Second Lieutenant Melissa — age twelve — watched as Lylianna paced back and forth.

"There was word that they captured one member involved in the kidnapping but..."

"...by the time they get anything from them it will be too late."

"Correct Captain."

Lylianna headed to her closet and proceed to get dressed into her Army BDU.

"Captain, what are you doing?"

She didn't answer. Once she was dressed she made her way out of her room as Melissa tagged along. _If no one else will do anything I will take matters into my own hands_ , Lylianna thought. As the two of them headed up to the front entrance of the castle two guards stopped them.

"Halt, you are not—"

Before the guard could finish his sentence Lylianna had managed to incapacitate both within a blink of an eye. Lylianna and Melissa continued along, reaching the inside of the Emperor's throne room.

"Yare yare, you're so cute when you are serious Captain," Melissa said giggling.

Without speaking Lylianna forced open the throne room doors and made their way down the red carpet. The Emperor's face showed signs of anger, however, Lylianna showed no fear as she and Melissa stopped inside the circle, kneeling and bowing their heads. Within seconds no more then a dozen guards surrounded the two of them.

"What is the meaning of this?!" the Emperor yelled.

"I apologize, your grace. I simply wanted to ask you for a chance to do something that no one else can do."

"You burst into my castle unannounced and expect me to just give into a request I have yet to hear. What do you take me for?"

"I merely wish to save your daughter, your grace."

The room remained silent for what seemed to be a long minute, however, it was soon filled with the laughter of the Emperor.

"I must say you are a funny one..."

"Captain Veltress, your grace."

"You think I would just put my faith in a little girl when I have all the military at my command?"

"While it is true you have the military at your command, they are bound by the military laws and code. What if you had an elite unit that only followed your orders and was not bound by laws or code? A unit born to serve only the Emperor and protect anyone of the royal blood line."

The emperor dismissed his guards and appeared to be thinking about the idea.

"Do you mean like those in the days of old? Knights, I believe they were called."

"Yes your grace, exactly like knights."

"Hm..."

The Emperor thought for a few minutes about what Lylianna had proposed. Part of him was interested in the idea.

"I have a proposal for you. If you can get my daughter back I will consider this elite military unit of yours."

"May I ask for a small favor, your grace."

"Speak it."

"All I want is one day to extract information from the prisoner that was caught."

"Very well, granted. If that is all..."

"Yes, that is everything. Thank you, your grace."

Lylianna and Melissa stood up as they made their way to the exit. As the two of them made their way to the holding cell where the prisoner was being held Melissa spoke.

"So, how do you plan to get information out of a prisoner in just one day?"

The two of them stood in front of a large building plastered with red bricks and mortar. There were a few windows seen near the front of the building. Lylianna turned to Melissa, staring without any expression on her face.

"Simple Mel, that is what I have you for."

Melissa simply giggled as they made their way up the stairs and into the building.

"You must love me a lot Captain."

"I love your torture methods. They are quite useful. It also helps that you are a trained doctor."

"Technically, I am not a doctor yet."

"You will be Mel. I believe in you."

Inside, the building looked rather normal. Pine wood floors and white walls gave the building a sense of purpose, however, the two of them headed for a black door near the back of the room that looked a bit out of place. Beyond the door was an a stairwell leading down into what was a dungeon for holding prisoners. The lighting was atrocious as the two of them continued down the hallway. Once they passed three of the cells — that were empty — they stopped at the cell near the end of the corridor. Inside was a young girl with long green hair and dressed in rags stained with dried blood of the prisoners past.

"You are the one that took part in the kidnapping of Princess Amalthea, are you not?"

The girl looked up to Lylianna, her piercing green eyes glared at her through the dim light. She remained silent as Lylianna continued with her questions.

"Who orchestrated the kidnapping?"

Silence.

"Fine, if you won't speak then my friend here will get the answers from you."

The girl continued to remain silent.

"Mel, do whatever you need to do."

"Hehe, sure Captain."

* * *

Lylianna leaned against the wall with a cup in her hand. Sipping slowly on the warm liquid she had waited for a few hours in the silence of the hallway. Before long Melissa appeared before Lylianna, her hands and clothes soaked in blood. A smile appeared on Melissa's face.

"She was quite a hard nut to crack, but she became more talkative after an hour or so, hehe."

"So, what did you find out."

Melissa pulled out a map of the kingdom and showed her the route that the kidnappers would be taking.

"She said the others should cross the Ruins of the Rhyine within a few hours possibly. I tried to get the name of the leader but the only name she spoke was Layla."

Lylianna dropped her cup onto the floor at the mention of that name. Without another word Lylianna headed for the building where her room was located as Melissa followed, slightly confused by what Lylianna was doing. As Lylianna packed a bag with rations and other supplies. She turned to Melissa.

"What medical supplies do you think I will need?"

Melissa helped her pack some medical supplies that would be appropriate for general medical treatment.

"Captain I still don't get what you are doing."

"Getting the princess back."

* * *

Lylianna stood at the edge of the cargo plane as it flew about nine‑thousand meters — thirty‑thousand feet — towards the Ruins of Rhyine. The cargo plane was meant to only take supplies over to the front lines but Lylianna managed to hitch a ride and had a parachute ready to jump from the plane once they flew over Rhyine.

As she stared out into the endless sky one question was on her mind. _Will I make it to her in time_? One of the crew members that helped Lylianna put on her parachute looked to the map in his hands.

"In about five minutes we should be over Rhyine."

"Good."

"Have you ever jumped from a plane before Captain?" the man asked.

"There is a first time for everything."

After five minutes had passed Lylianna jumped from the plane. Free falling from nine‑thousand meters with a backpack full of gear. The wind rushing against her made her feel slightly anxious, even if she didn't want to believe it. As she continued to fall, the ground below was starting to come into view.

As she pulled her chute fear started to sink in. _Damn it, come on_. She pulled once again at the rip cord only for nothing to happen. Without a second thought she pulled the emergency rip cord. The shift in momentum jerked her back as she started to descend slowly. As she continued her descent, three soldiers came into view.

One soldier was dragging what appeared to be a little girl. Lylianna pulled out her pistol and steadied her aim. In her mind she knew she needed to take out the two soldiers on the sides first. Firing out two shots in quick succession both of the soldiers dropped dead to the ground as Lylianna unbuckled her parachute, falling a few meters she hit the hit rolling to lessen the impact.

Lylianna aimed her pistol at the final soldier who was holding the princess at gunpoint.

"Drop the gun Layla."

"And what if I was to say no?" she replied with a smile.

Lylianna continued to hold her gun steady, finger on the trigger. Over a hundred thoughts ran through Lylianna's mind as she tried to figure out what her best option was.

"Here is what you are going to do little sister. Remove the magazine from your weapon, and toss it here."

Removing the magazine from her weapon Lylianna tossed her magazine in the direction of Layla and the trembling princess. She removed the magazine from her main weapon as well.

"Now, toss your guns."

Lylianna threw her gun to the side along with her main weapon as Layla removed the gun from the princess's head.

"Don't worry Princess, I won't allow any harm to come to you," Lylianna said.

Layla pushed the princess forward.

"Start walking princess," she commanded.

Princess Amalthea walked over to Lylianna, fear growing with each step. She continued walking until she finally made it over to Lylianna. With one final step she fell forward into Lylianna's arms.

"Are you all right Princess?"

"Y‑Yes. Thank you."

"Stand over there then, please."

Princess Amalthea slowly made her way over to the side out of harms way. Layla holstered her pistol as she walked forward. Lylianna quickly pulled out her dagger and readied herself as Layla unsheathed hers.

"You know I always won those training exercises."

Lylianna remained silent as she held her ground. The two of them stood there, facing off like an _affaire d'honneur_. As the wind howled Lylianna rushed forward with her dagger set to pierce her sister's heart. Stepping outside of the killing zone Layla quickly grabbed Lylianna's wrist with her free hand and twisted her wrist, following up with a hard throw to the ground. Lylianna could not help but drop her dagger as her arm was twisted one‑hundred eighty degrees.

"See, I could have already killed you if I wanted to," Layla said as she stepped back a few paces.

Lylianna laid there on her back with the stinging pain in her wrist. She quickly stood to her feet, fighting the pain as she grabbed her dagger. _Beating her will be tough with her magic powers able to negate my magic_ , Lylianna thought as she readied herself. _I can do this_.

Rushing forward like a flash of lightning Lylianna attacked, however, Layla could read her sister's movements as she blocked each strike with ease. Lylianna continued until she felt Layla's hand grab her wrist. As Layla flipped her sister over her shoulder Lylianna hit the ground harder then before, her face planting into the dirt.

"Why do you continue to fight little sister?"

Lylianna could feel her arm was dislocated. Damn it, she thought as she tried to stand up.

"Unlike you... I care about my duty as a soldier."

As she held her left shoulder Lylianna tried to figure out what she could do to defeat her sister in combat. Layla was always better then her when it came to weapon combat mainly due to the fact that Lylianna could not rely on her magic. In a test of skill Layla had the advantage, but even still she knew she could not give up.

Holding her dagger in her right hand Lylianna readied herself. Layla smiled as she circled around Lylianna.

"Honor, dignity, pride? What good will that do?"

Layla continued to circle around Lylianna like a vulture. _She may be better then me but I can't let her win... for Princess Amalthea's sake_ , Lylianna thought as her eyes followed Layla's movements closely. As Layla turned her back Lylianna rushed forward, seeing this as her chance to attack.

Like a coiled viper Layla grabbed her sister's wrist and twisted it behind Lylianna's back.

"The answer is nothing," Layla whispered into her sister's ear.

Layla quickly snapped Lylianna's wrist and threw her to the ground. As Lylianna's dagger fell from her hand, Layla grabbed it. Lylianna laid on the ground as Layla stared down at her. In her eyes were the eyes of disappointment; the eyes of contempt. Stomping on her kneecap forced Lylianna to grit her teeth as Lylianna's dagger found its way into her right knee.

Lylianna was in an ampule amount of pain as blood poured from her knee. Layla grabbed Lylianna by the collar of the shirt.

"I thought you would have been smarter about whose side you would be on little sister."

With a mere sigh Layla threw her sister to the ground as she holstered her dagger. Lylianna found it near impossible to move as she laid there in agony.

"It is almost painful for me to even finish you off due to your misguided sense of duty. Then again, every story needs a hero."

Without another word Layla walked away. She headed East in the direction of the imaginary Versyian border as Princess Amalthea had a look of fear on her face. Once Layla was out of sight Princess Amalthea made her way over to Lylianna who continued to lay there, unable to move.

"Lydia!"

"I am fine Princess, I just... I need you to help me."

"But what can I do? I don't know anything about medical stuff," the princess said in a timid voice.

"All I need you to do is relocate my arm back into place."

"But won't it be painful for you?"

"It will be, yes."

Tears began to fall from the princess' eyes.

"I don't want put you through anymore pain."

Lylianna sighed.

"Princess, if you don't do this then I will die here. So, please, just help me out?"

"O‑Okay..."

The tears continued to fall from her eyes as Lylianna explained how to relocate an arm. As Lylianna grit her teeth the princess tried her best to pop Lylianna's arm back into place.

"Now, would you mind getting my backpack? It landed a few meters over there," Lylianna said pointing to the direction of where her gear had landed.

Once Princess Amalthea found it she made her way back to Lylianna. Opening up the medical bag Lylianna pulled out a few medical supplies and began to patch herself up. Princess Amalthea turned away as Lylianna went through the pain of removing the dagger from her knee and stitching up the large wound.

Lylianna carefully got up from the ground and stood to her feet as the princess tried to hold her steady. The two of them made there way over to the ruins of what used to be a house for a family. Leaning against part of the destroyed wall Lylianna sat down as the princess sat down beside her.

"We need to get back to the capital," Lylianna said as she pulled out the map from her backpack.

"I don't know which way my home is," Princess Amalthea said looking up to Lylianna.

Lylianna opened up her map and pointed to the Capital of Priserra.

"See this area right here?"

The princess nodded.

"That is where you and your father live. So, from this map the direction of your house would be..."

Lylianna took a second to get her bearings and pointed West.

"That way."

Princess Amalthea seemed quite impressed with Lylianna and how she could figure out the direction of the capital.

"Wow. You're so smart."

"It is just simple navigation Princess."

Lylianna looked over the map taking note of the towns and villages near Rhyine. After working out the distance she realized that the only nearby village was five‑hundred kilometers away. Normally, getting there would be a piece of cake for her, but with her injuries it would take even longer then usual. _I guess it would be best to wait a day and conserve our strength_ , Lylianna thought as she rummaged through her backpack.

"Have you eaten anything Princess?" she asked finally pulling out a ration.

Princess Amalthea shook her head. Lylianna opened up a tightly sealed ration labeled _Beef Stew_. After pulling out the spoon Lylianna handed the ration over to the princess. She had a face of disgust as she looked at the unpleasant food before her. Unlike Lylianna, the princess was not a connoisseur of cold rations. Taking one bite of the beef stew made the princess quickly spit it up on the ground.

Lylianna grabbed the spoon and got a spoon full of the beef stew. With a single bite Lylianna ate and swallowed it. The princess seemed surprised that Lylianna could even eat something like this.

"Doesn't that taste bad?"

"I am used to it Princess."

Lylianna continued to eat as Princess Amalthea tried to eat what little she could of the beef stew. Once the two of them had finished the ration Lylianna laid her head against the cold plastered ruins and closed her eyes.

"Lydia, I see people over that way."

After opening her eyes Lylianna could make out eight troops coming from the West. _They must be friendly troops if they are coming from the West_ , Lylianna thought. She looked to the princess who seemed a bit scared as to what was going to happen.

"It is okay. Those soldiers are on our side. Can you go get their attention Princess?"

The princess nodded and headed over to the soldiers. Within a few minutes they came over to Lylianna and tried to patch her up the best they could.

"Any reason why you soldiers are patrolling out here?" Lylianna asked the sergeant of the squad.

"First Lieutenant Rial said we should patrol somewhere near the Rhyine ruins."

"I see."

After calling for an extraction helicopter and getting the princess and Lylianna on board the two of them flew back to the Capital of Sylveria. Melissa stood there waiting as the helicopter landed at the military base. Once it landed Melissa carefully helped Lylianna off the helicopter and onto a medical jeep.

* * *

The medical room's white walls and tiled white floors made the room feel bland to most soldiers. As the princess sat in a chair against the wall, Lylianna laid on the medical bed. Melissa looked over Lylianna's half naked body. Dried blood could be seen around knee cap along with the long streak of it that had run down to her ankle.

"I take it you relocated her arm bone for her?" Melissa asked looking at the princess with a smile.

"Y‑Yes. I didn't want to but she told me that if I didn't she would die," Princess Amalthea managed to stutter out.

Melissa gently placed her hand on Amalthea's head.

"You did a good job, don't worry."

In truth, the bones needed to be reset so they could heal properly. Melissa turned to Lylianna, it was clear they both knew this. As Melissa reset Lylianna's bones and patched up the rest of her wounds she looked to her.

"Care to explain what happened Captain? I have never seen you lose a fight to anyone before."

"It was my older sister..."

"I am sorry I asked."

"It is fine."

After Melissa finished up patching up Lylianna she proceeded to sit up from the table.

"At least your injuries were not to severe."

Lylianna merely laughed as she got up from the table. Her body had been cleaned of the blood but deep scars remained to forever remind her of her battle with her sister. _If only I had been stronger_ , she thought.

A few days had passed before the Emperor called for Lylianna to see him. She was doing better as far as her wounds were concerned, however, her pride was beyond wounded. As she entered the throne room she dropped down to one knee and bowed her head before the Emperor.

"I have to say I am quite impressed with your work Captain, or perhaps I should say Major."

"Thank you, your grace."

The Emperor stood up from his throne and called for his ceremonial sword. As he stepped forward with his sword Lylianna bowed her head lower. He placed the sword on Lylianna's shoulder.

"In the name of the four goddesses and in the presence of Princess Amalthea Faethdella Serpth, I — Emperor Umbael Serpth — grant you the honorable title of Black Knight."

Once the Emperor was finished he headed back to his throne.

"You are free to form the Black Knights as you see fit Major. You are only bound by orders of the royal family and no one else. You are given complete authority to conscript anyone into the Knights no matter who they are with the Black Knight Invocation."

"Thank you, your grace."

Without another word Lylianna headed out of the castle. She knew she would need a team that was the best of the best.

## Chapter Ten  
The City of Mejorin

"In the beginning there were four Goddesses. Inyas, the Fire Goddess, Hyria, the Water Goddess, Alyesna, the Wind Goddess and Yunaria, the Earth Goddess."

— The Yon‑Megami Kyouten: Chapter I, Verse 1 & 2

Aryia was shocked to hear the words that came out of Lylianna's mouth. She shook her head in disbelief. _There is no way that is true_ , she thought.

"Run that by me again Major."

"I didn't stutter Private."

The news was a shock to all of them as they stood there.

"She couldn't have gone far. Deadeye, check the West. Ryliah the South. Melissa search around the capital. Aryia the North. I will head East. Move out."

Without another word Lylianna grabbed a communicator and left.

"She seems different," Aryia said aloud.

"This isn't the first time something like this has happened," Melissa said as she grabbed a communicator.

The others grabbed theirs and headed out, leaving Aryia alone with her thoughts. She grabbed the lone communicator on the table, placing it into her ear. Aryia headed North as Lylianna had instructed. After traveling for a few kilometers through a pathway in a dense forest she came to a clearing.

Ahead of her she could see a little girl standing there as if she was looking out to the horizon. As she moved closer she realized that it was the princess. She stood there near the cliff side that overlooked a beautiful grassland of hills.

"Princess?"

Princess Amalthea turned around, surprised that someone was there.

"Oh Aryia, it is just you."

Aryia stood next to the princess taking note of what she was looking at. Before her was a small grave stone that had the name _Faethdella Laehiea Serpth_ on it. The wind howled as the two of them stood there, silently staring out to the horizon.

"Your father is worried about you Princess."

Princess Amalthea remained silent for a few minutes.

"My father never comes to visit her grave like he promised."

"Well, your father is a busy man."

"I know but still..."

"I wish I could say I understand but sadly I don't know what it feels like. I am sorry Princess."

"Did something happen to your parents?"

"If it is all right with you Princess, I would rather not."

"Oh, I am sorry for asking then."

"It is fine Princess."

Princess Amalthea looked to Aryia with a slight smile on her face.

"You act just like her."

"Your... mother?"

The princess shook her head.

"No."

Aryia was a bit confused as to who the princess was talking about.

"Anyways, I wanted to come here today to see her."

"I understand Princess."

The two of them continued to stand there as Aryia looked at her watch. About ten minutes had passed and she knew that she would have to get the princess home at some point.

"You know, my mother told me once that people with blond hair are rare."

"I have always wondered why you and the Emperor have blond hair."

"I don't actually know why our hair is blond. The only thing I know is that there is nothing special. In a way, we are no different then people with black and brown hair."

Placing her hand on Amalthea's head Aryia smiled as the princess had a confused look on her face.

"You should consider yourself lucky. It just means you are one of a kind."

Amalthea smiled.

"Thanks Aryia."

"You're welcome Princess."

Aryia looked at her watch once more.

"I should radio the others and tell them you are safe."

The princess merely nodded as Aryia turned on her radio.

"This is Aryia. I found the Princess, she is safe, over."

Over the radio Aryia could hear Lylianna's voice.

"Right, bring her back to the castle, over."

"Copy that, out."

Aryia turned off her radio and looked to Princess Amalthea.

"Well, Princess, are you ready to go home?"

With a slight smile she nodded. Aryia returned with the princess and found herself promoted to the rank of Corporal by the Emperor. After the promotion she — along with the rest of the Knights — was sent off to the Rhyine Theater to help out with taking the City of Mejorin.

* * *

Lylianna glared at General Pethella as the two of them stood there in the planning room alone. She was reserved and cautious about what information the General would give her.

"I am glad to see you are safe. I heard about what happened and I am sorry about all that."

"It is fine, however, I would like to know just who sold us out."

"To my knowledge no one would ever do that. I was the only one who knew of that... outpost..."

General Pethella grew silent for a second as she realized what that implied.

"I know you would never sell us out Pethella. However, if I am going to help you with this mission then I need to know who sold us out."

"Lylianna as your friend, I should say that maybe it is possible that the people who set up the trap knew you would be sent to that outpost."

Lylianna didn't speak. She wanted to believe her but found it hard to believe that her own sister would know just what outpost they would raid.

"Look, I know what war can do to people. I don't blame you for being so paranoid that you believe you were set up. But believe me when I say that we were the only two that knew you were going to storm the outpost."

The room was silent soon after as Lylianna stood over the table in front of them. On the table was a large scaled map of Mejorin. Pethella took a sip of her coffee as she watched Lylianna stare at the map in front of her.

"So, this is Mejorin?"

"Quite a big city isn't it?"

"With a big city like this, there is bound to be a large food supply," Lylianna said as she looked up to Pethella.

"A soldier without food cannot fight."

"Trained soldiers can fight without food," Lylianna said as she took an aerial photo of the city on the table.

Without another word she left the room and headed to where her squad was, busy relaxing with what little time they could.

* * *

Aryia laid on the hard cold bed in a superposition state of being asleep and awake. She was bordering on sleep deprivation due to her lack of decent sleep. Of course, she was trained to handle it even if she didn't like it.

"Listen up, we will be doing a bit of sabotage. We need to be swift and silent."

She handed an aerial photo to Melissa.

"This is the City of Mejorin. I have marked in red what we will be destroying."

Lylianna looked at her watch as Melissa handed the photo to the other members.

"We leave tomorrow night at 23:30 hours. Same teams as always. Melissa you take the food storage to the far East, we will take the one to the West."

"I might be able to set up a sniping position to cover the more exposed areas," Deadeye said as he looked over the map.

"All right, silent weapons, night‑vision goggles and charges. When you plant them set them for five minutes and be ready to haul ass to the extraction point."

"Yes ma'am!" the rest of the Knights said in unison.

Aryia gathered her gear thinking about what she would need. After grabbing a standard issued rifle from the weapon rack she screwed on a silencer to the barrel of the gun. Once she had everything she needed she geared up in her Black Knight BDU for nighttime operations.

An hour had passed as Aryia checked and doubled checked that she had everything she needed. Last thing she wanted was to forget something important. Once she was ready she headed out with the rest of the Knights to a cargo plane ready to take off. Everyone was dressed and ready as they formed up with Lylianna.

"So, how are we jumping tonight Major?" Melissa asked.

"We are going in low tonight."

Lylianna loaded up her weapon and signaled for everyone to board the cargo plane. As the plane took off Aryia began to feel a bit anxious like before. The plane continued to ascend to roughly ten‑thousand meters. _At least I don't have to worry about trees this time around_ , Aryia thought. Melissa could tell Aryia was reliving her failed dropped the first time she dropped behind enemy lines.

"Hey Aryia."

"What is it Melissa?"

"Aren't you glad you won't have to worry about trees this time around?"

"Ha‑ha, very funny."

After some time had passed the red LED on the wall turned green.

"If everyone is ready, lets end this mission quickly and go home in one piece," Lylianna said.

One by one the Knights jumped from the plane. After passing the one‑thousand meter mark Aryia pulled the rip cord of her parachute. Slowly descending near to the West side of the city Aryia could see where Lylianna had landed. Aryia landed softly onto the roof of a slightly tall building.

The roof of the building was quite spacious in size. In the corner of the roof appeared to be a small entrance‑way into the building below. Aryia quickly readied her rifle as Lylianna made her way over to the doorway. Lylianna signaled for Aryia to open the door slowly as she readied her weapon on the door. In a way, this mission reminded Aryia of her training.

Opening the door slowly Aryia made her into the dark room that was minuscule in scale. She noticed a stairwell and slowly made her way down the it as it twisted downwards in a spiral. Lylianna followed behind her, her weapon at the ready‑low position. The two of them continued down until they came to a long hallway. Aryia hugged the left side of the wooden wall as if it reacting by instinct.

As Aryia held her weapon at the ready she noticed a figure moving out of one of the left side doorway. With her finger resting on the trigger she aimed her rifle at what appeared to be a woman's head. Even with night‑vision goggles it was hard for Aryia to see just what the woman was pulling from her pocket. She didn't think as she squeezed the trigger. Like a ghost the bullet made no sound as the round hit the woman square between the eyes. Her body fell to the floor like a rock.

Aryia noticed as she took a closer look at the corpse of the woman that the woman held in her a simple room key for her door. _What have I done_ , Aryia thought.

"Don't think about it. Continue the mission," Lylianna whispered.

Lylianna continued down the hallway as Aryia stood there. _I... I killed an innocent person_ , she thought. Aryia bent down next to the girl and searched for any identification as to who she was. While Aryia continued to search Lylianna made her way down into to the area where crates of food were held. Lylianna set a small square shaped charge for five minutes. The charge was meant to blow up a few of the wooden crates, however, it would engulf the whole food supply in flames within a matter of minutes.

Aryia held in her hands a locket with the name _Anna_ engraved onto the back of the locket. She looked as if she was nearing her twenties. As Aryia began to feel guilty for what she had done Lylianna rushed over to her and pined her to the ground.

"If we don't go now we will both join this girl. Get it together Corporal, that is an order."

Tears began to fall down Aryia's eyes as Lylianna helped her up. The two of them quickly made their way out of the building and heading for the extraction point. After a few minutes the others rendezvoused at the extraction point. Within a few minutes a helicopter touched down. The Knights quickly got on board.

Aryia began to feel sick. The thought of her killing someone who possibly had a family made her feel as if she was going to throw up. Melissa could see it in Aryia's eyes what she had done.

The queasy feeling became stronger as Aryia bent over. _I am about to throw up_ , she thought.

"If you throw up on me, I will throw you out of this helicopter."

Lylianna glared as Aryia swallowed. After the helicopter landed safely at the City of Priserra, Aryia bolted from the helicopter and found herself on the ground, her body convulsing as she threw up on the grass. The rest of the Knights continued on as if Aryia wasn't there. After a few minutes had passed Aryia made her way into the Black Knights HQ and up to the bedroom. She needed many things, a priest, a soft bed to rest in and water, just to name a few.

"Major... what will happen to me?"

"What do you mean?" Lylianna asked as she grabbed a book from her shelf.

Ryliah and Deadeye left from the room while Melissa stayed behind. As Lylianna opened her book — entitled _The End of Magic_ — Aryia tried to find the right words.

"I shot... no I killed... murdered an innocent civilian tonight."

"So?"

Aryia was taken about by Lylianna's unsympathetic nature for innocent lives.

"So? Is that all you have to say Major? I killed someone who didn't even have a weapon on them. They could have me put in front of a firing squad or life in prison."

Tears started to form around Aryia's eyes.

"Aryia, people die. You killed a person you believed had a weapon on them. You just have to live with it. Did you forget that as Black Knights we don't comply with the standard military code and laws?"

"So we can just kill whoever we want and get away with it?"

"Technically, yes. But what makes us different is our self‑discipline to hold back."

Aryia didn't have anything else to say.

"Look at it this way Aryia, would you rather be dead in the ground?"

"No ma'am..."

"Then get over it."

## Chapter Eleven  
Whispers of the Blade

"A skilled swordsman knows when to kill and when to incapacitate."

— Alderamin Hartfell

The wind was silent as Ryliah stood in a lustrous green meadow. Her eyes were closed; her mind clear. The only thing she could feel was her sword in one hand and the grass against her bare feet.

As Aryia was walking by she noticed Ryliah standing there. _What is she doing_ , Aryia wondered.

Like a flash of lightning Ryliah practiced her sword techniques, both attacking and defending. _Holy crap she is fast with her sword_. Aryia took note of how calm Ryliah was as she continued to practice. A few minutes passed as she continued to watch Ryliah and became amazed by how fast she was able to swing her sword. Aryia started to walk up to her, hoping to get her attention.

"Hey Ryliah do—"

Before Aryia could finish her sentence she found herself frozen in place as Ryliah's sword stopped a millimeter from Aryia's neck.

"Aryia! Are you all right?"

"I think I peed myself a bit."

Ryliah sheathed her sword as Aryia fell to her knees. After a few seconds Aryia finally stood up with the help of Ryliah as the two of them walked through the forest.

"So, where did you learn to swing a sword that fast?"

"My parents."

"Your parents must have been been amazing with the sword."

Ryliah didn't speak as the two of them continued to a clearing in the forest. The sun beamed down as the two of them stepped out into the grasslands.

"We have some time to kill. Anything you want to do?"

"Well, I did promise your friend Mari that I would train her sometime."

* * *

Entering the barracks Aryia noticed Mari was busy reading a book entitled _The War of 166_. Aryia and Ryliah were met with stares of odd looks.

"Hey Mari, its been a while."

Mari looked up from her book and smiled.

"Aryia! I haven't talked to you in forever."

"Yeah, it has been a busy time for us."

"Same for me. I have—"

Before Mari could finish her sentence the door flew open. Stepping into the room was none other then Aryia's former sergeant.

"Attention!" the sergeant yelled.

Everyone but Aryia and Ryliah stood at attention. Mari tried to stand to her feet but was stopped by Ryliah. As the sergeant made his way over to Mari he noticed that she was still sitting on her bed.

"Private Kozun, I believe I ordered everyone to attention!"

Mari slowly began to stand up from her bed.

"Sit back down Mari," Ryliah said.

The sergeant's eyes locked onto Ryliah's. It was clear he was angry.

"And just who the hell are you tell my platoon what to do?!"

"I would advise you to be careful, Sergeant."

A blood vessel looked as if it was going to pop.

"I would suggest we take this outside like true soldiers then!"

Ryliah laughed as she walked past the sergeant.

"If we do, then I don't want you to pull your punches."

She pulled the straight sword from her scabbard and handed her sword to the sergeant.

"If I agree to this you can't say I attacked you for no reason!"

"Don't worry. There are plenty of witnesses to prove we are having a friendly match."

The two of them headed outside as the rest of the students followed. Everyone gathered outside as Ryliah and the sergeant squared off.

"I feel a bit bad for all this happening," Mari said as she turned to Aryia.

The sergeant held the sword with two hands and took up a fighting stance while Ryliah held her scabbard in one hand. Her stance was calm like she was holding a rapier. Ryliah's eyes scanned over the sergeant as she noted his abominable stance.

"Mari, I expect you to watch and learn from me about proper form and technique," Ryliah said as she looked to her.

After a few seconds had passed the sergeant quickly rushed forward, swinging the blade downwards. Ryliah blocked it as if the blade was a toy, still holding the scabbard with one hand. With a flick of the wrist she deflected his blow with ease. The sergeant tried the same attack again only for Ryliah to dodge the swing like a ballerina with grace. The blade struck the ground with a powerful force — sticking into the grass.

Like a snake Ryliah twisted around the sergeant managing to get behind him along with pressing her scabbard against his neck.

"I believe you would be dead now sergeant."

"I am only dead when I stop drawing breath!"

"Don't be stupid sergeant."

The sergeant quickly tried to swing the sword around in an arc. Ryliah dodged the attack with ease and after a series of complex grapples the sergeant found himself disarmed and laying down face first into the grass. Ryliah had her scabbard around the sergeant's neck with both her hands on the ends, in a choking‑like position.

"I could snap your neck in twenty different ways and kill you in as many thirty," she whispered into his ear.

Aryia, Mari and the rest of the students were awe‑struck by how Ryliah was able to over power their sergeant with ease.

"Not to count I could break most of your major bones, easy. Now please just give up sergeant."

"I... yield!"

Ryliah released her grip on the sergeant as she got up. Mari and the other students were shocked by the fight they had watched before their eyes. As Ryliah made her way over to Aryia and Mari the sergeant stood up, anger filled his eyes. With malicious intent he rushed at Ryliah holding out the sword hoping to pierce her stomach.

At the last second Ryliah dodged the fatal blow as the sword entered into her empty scabbard. Like a flash of lightning Ryliah grabbed the sword and with a simple knife hand chop to the throat the sergeant quickly let go of the sword.

As the sergeant fell to his knees coughing Ryliah removed her jacket revealing her rank as a Second Lieutenant. The sergeant suddenly snapped to attention.

"Ma'am, I had no idea—"

"Save it Sergeant."

Ryliah turned to Mari and then back to the sergeant.

"Aryia and I have business with Private Mari Kozun."

"Ma'am yes ma'am!"

"Good, now I believe you have a platoon to train, Sergeant."

Mari followed Ryliah and Aryia a few kilometers North to an open field. Ryliah stood there watching the horizon. A few seconds passed until Ryliah turned to Mari.

"Based on how you think, I feel that you would do better with an estoc or a rapier."

"Aren't those weapons more for speed and best used by people who are, you know... fast?"

"Generally speaking, yes but a rapier can be useful in the hands of someone that understands how to read an opponent," Ryliah said as unsheathed her rapier.

As she handed it over to Mari, Ryliah walked back a few meters and turned to Mari.

"Now attack me."

Mari was surprised to hear that coming from Ryliah.

"I couldn't do that. Not with a real weapon like this. I consider you a friend."

"You will need to be ready Mari, no matter what. You may even need to kill."

"I just can't do it, not unless my life depended on it."

"So, you will only fight if you are in a life or death situation?" Ryliah asked as she drew her gunblade.

"Y‑Yes."

"Very well."

Within a blink of an eye Ryliah had covered the five meters in less then a few seconds. Mari quickly turned away in fear. After a few seconds Mari looked up only to see Ryliah's blade centimeters away from her throat. The look on Mari's face was pale.

"Mari, if I had been trying to kill you, you would be dead."

Mari could feel her knees starting to collapse from the fear. Aryia quickly ran over to her and grabbed her hands.

"It is okay Mari."

Aryia turned to Ryliah with an angry expression on her face.

"Ryliah, that was too far."

"Aryia, you should know that in war one needs to be ready. Anyone can die any second if they are not prepared to the best of their abilities."

Ryliah turned to Mari as Aryia tried to pick her up off the ground.

"Now, pick up the weapon Mari."

"Ryliah I think—"

"It is fine Aryia. I need to get stronger," Mari said as she picked up the rapier from the ground.

Mari held the rapier like Ryliah had when she fought the sergeant.

"I want to learn."

Ryliah simply smiled.

"Then your training starts now."

* * *

Nearly three weeks had passed as Ryliah trained Mari in the art of sword combat. Mari was slowly getting better as Ryliah continued to drill her non‑stop each day. As the two sparred in the open training field Ryliah looked at her watch.

"I think we can take a break now," Ryliah said as she blocked Mari's strike.

Mari sheathed the rapier that Ryliah had made for her and sat down on the grass. Ryliah sat down next to her, handing her a bottle of water.

"So, how did you become so skilled with the sword?" Mari asked after taking a sip of the water.

Ryliah did not speak as she chugged half of her water. She finally looked over to Mari.

"Hard work and practice."

"Is that really it?"

"A good teacher also helps."

"You're a great teacher."

"Thanks."

"Who was your teacher?" Mari asked as she took a sip of water.

Ryliah finished her water and looked out to the horizon.

"My parents..."

* * *

Ryliah — age seven — stood there in the presence of her father while her mother — Yatorishino — sat on her knees off to the side of the huge dojo. The dojo was a decent size with cherry oak wooden floors and walls to match. Around the room weapons racks could be seen holding various swords from short‑swords to long‑swords.

Alderamin drew his sword, a double sided blade with a saw‑tooth edge. The blade was made of the finest herrirum and plated at the hilt with silver thikerium. Ryliah drew her blade made of the more common but high‑end aytheium as she held the longsword with two hands.

"Hold the sword with one hand child."

Ryliah removed one hand from the hilt.

"Now, place your leading foot forward. Finally..."

As Ryliah placed her left foot forward Alderamin rushed forward, his blade swinging for Ryliah's left shoulder. With haste she blocked the strike as the scraping of metal echoed throughout the room.

"Always be on guard my child."

A flurry of blows soon followed as Ryliah struggled to block each strike. Before long Yatorishino stood up, holding her rapier in her right hand. With warning she entered the fight as Ryliah tried to avoid attacks on two different fronts.

Ryliah dodged a piercing strike from her mother's rapier but she found herself unable to dodge the follow up attack by her father. His sword forced the skin of Ryliah's wrist to open as blood began to pour from it. Ryliah quickly dropped her sword as she held her wrist.

Her mother and father sheathed their swords as the two of them looked to their daughter.

"You have gotten better but you still need to practice my child."

Yatorishino rushed off to gather some medical supplies as Ryliah stood up. Ryliah looked to her father, disappointed in herself for failing as her mother returned with a few medical supplies. As her mother patched up her wound Ryliah looked to her mother.

"I am sorry mother."

"There is no need to be sorry Ryliah. You did very well in your whole week of training."

Her mother placed her hand on Ryliah's head and smiled.

Ryliah continued to train day after day with her parents until she was able to defend herself from both of their attacks and land a few attacks of her own. As time went on Ryliah — age fourteen now — headed out to the capital to join the academy in Priserra. After begging her father he finally agreed to let her head to Priserra.

After a few days of traveling, Ryliah had arrived at the capital. She headed into the Recruitment Building, hoping to join the army. She believed she was ready. Ryliah stood there in front of Sergeant Grant and First Lieutenant Ikyru.

"I am sorry Miss Hartfell but you are too young to become a student of this academy," Grant said.

Lieutenant Ikyru looked over Ryliah as she stood there at attention.

"However, you should try to enlist once you turn sixteen. You could be a talented soldier possibly," Lieutenant Ikyru said.

Ryliah had a sad look on her face. As she headed for the door she bumped into a small girl. Lylianna stood in front of Ryliah as her eye fixated on hers. As Ryliah stood there she felt a slight uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. Lylianna's eye looked over to the soldiers by their desk.

"Major Veltress, what brings you by here?" Lieutenant Ikyru said as he stood up.

"I overheard that you were turning someone down."

Lylianna walked up to the desk and looked over the two soldiers.

"Yes, this young girl here is too young to be in the army, ma'am," Grant said.

"So? My sister, Melissa and I are under the age of sixteen."

Both of you were a special case Major and—"

"Then I will invoke the right to conscript her."

The men were silent as Lylianna turned to Ryliah.

"What is your name?"

"Ryliah, Ryliah Hartfell."

Lylianna looked down at the sword resting against Ryliah's hip.

"Are you any good with that sword?"

Ryliah simply nodded.

"Show me then."

The two of them headed outside. Ryliah noticed that there were two other people with Lylianna.

"This is Melissa and that is Deadeye," Lylianna said as she opened the front door.

All of them were standing out front of the Recruitment Building as Lylianna and Ryliah squared off. Lylianna unsheathed her dagger as Ryliah drew her rapier.

"I would rather you attack me as if your life depended on it, is that understood?"

Ryliah nodded.

"I will be doing the same so do not hold back," Lylianna said.

_So, this is just like when I fought my parents_ , Ryliah thought. Lylianna readied herself for combat as Ryliah studied her stance. She could tell Lylianna had a calm stance and it was clear that she knew how to fight. As Ryliah continued to study Lylianna she could see the fight play out in her mind.

Lylianna quickly rushed forward aiming at Ryliah heart. Ryliah blocked the strike with ease. As she continued to block each strike without any effort Ryliah soon found an opening. She struck quickly, the rapier centimeters away from stabbing Lylianna in the side.

_Wait, what the—_ , Ryliah thought as her rapier missed Lylianna. Without a second to spare Ryliah found herself staring at Lylianna's dagger. Ryliah was thrown off slightly but quickly dodged the attack as she jumped back to give herself distance. _How did she dodge that_ , she wondered. _There is no way anyone could have dodged that. It's humanly impossible_.

"Wondering how I dodged that?"

"You couldn't have used any kind of wind magic. My only guess is to believe that you have some magic that controls the senses or perhaps metal."

"That is a good guess but completely wrong. I have a question for you."

"And what is that?"

"How many opponents can you face at one time?"

"How ever many you are willing to throw at me."

Lylianna smiled.

"Very well, Melissa, Deadeye, ready your daggers."

_I guess it is time I use that technique I learned_ , Ryliah thought as she unsheathed her other sword from her scabbard. Lylianna, Deadeye and Melissa readied themselves as Ryliah changed her stance.

* * *

Mari was impressed that Ryliah could hold her own against three people. Ryliah took another sip of her water and looked at her watch.

"It wasn't easy holding my own against all three of them. To be honest, I thought I was going to die."

Ryliah looked up to the sky.

"Anyways, I think we have had a long enough break. Lets get back to practice," Ryliah said as she stood up.

"Right!"

## Chapter Twelve  
Mountain Yunaria

"Without a map, explaining where a place resides is beyond impossible."

— Unknown, The Cartographer

A few months had passed as the Knights relaxed in their Headquarters. Aryia laid on her bed as Lylianna read a book entitled _Beyond the World_. After getting what rest she could Aryia awoke only to realize she was not alone in the bedroom.

"Are you the only one here Major?"

Aryia sat up from her bed as she rubbed her eyes.

"At the moment, yes. Deadeye is out back throwing knives. Melissa went into the city to buy candy and Ryliah went to see your friend Mari."

"I see. Well, I should probably get a shower," Aryia said as she headed for the large restroom across the hall.

Before Aryia could close the door she was surprised to see Lylianna standing behind her.

"M‑Major what—"

"I need to take a shower too. So, I figured it was better to get one with you."

"I guess that makes sense..."

Aryia slowly removed her clothes a bit nervous about striping in front of Lylianna while Lylianna removed her clothes as if she was taking a normal shower. The two of them stood there naked as Aryia looked over Lylianna's body.

"Every scar on my body has a story," Lylianna said as she headed over to the shower.

As Lylianna turned on the shower the warm water covered her hair and body. Aryia felt odd around her for the first time in her life. She entered the shower with her, only for her to turn her back.

"These scars on my back were from Melissa."

"Why would she do that?"

"Remember, I have everyone in the Black Knights go through interrogation training. I was no exception."

Lylianna turned around to face her.

"These scars on my stomach and face were from my sister as you know."

Aryia looked over Lylianna's body once more. She had more scars then one could count.

"What about these two cuts on your wrist?"

"Those were made by me."

"I don't get what you mean."

"I tried to kill myself Aryia."

Aryia was shocked to hear that from Lylianna's mouth.

"Do you know how many people I have killed in my life time?"

Aryia didn't speak as she tried to process why Lylianna would even try to kill herself.

"I have killed far too many people to count. Most of them were bad people yes, but I have also killed innocent people too. Men... women... even children. We all make mistakes Aryia."

"Major... I—"

"You can just call me Lylianna."

Aryia brushed Lylianna's bangs to the side revealing her clock‑like eye. She moved closer to her.

"Lylianna..."

Her face moved closer to Lylianna's.

"Stop..."

Lylianna pinned Aryia against the shower wall. She looked as if she was afraid.

"I would rather not have emotional feelings..."

"R‑Right..."

The two of them stood there in silence. Lylianna blushed slightly as she turned away. Without saying anything Lylianna turned off the water and proceeded to get dressed.

"We should be ready for deployment soon. I estimate that it won't be long before the Emperor sends us to the front lines again."

Lylianna left as Aryia put her clothes on. Part of her wished she could help Lylianna but she knew that she could barely begin to understand what she went through. _I wish I could help her_ , Aryia thought as she headed back into the bedroom. Lylianna laid there on her bed with her book in hand.

Aryia headed over to Lylianna's bed and looked at her. She wanted to say something, anything to try and make her feel better.

"What is it Aryia?"

Without a word Aryia pressed her lips to Lylianna's and for a brief moment, Lylianna closed her eyes. Aryia continued to kiss her until she felt Lylianna's arms wrap around her neck. Aryia stopped and looked at her, puzzled by what she was doing.

"L‑Lylianna?"

"Did I order you to stop?"

"No ma'am."

Aryia straddled Lylianna's hips as the two of them continued to kiss. Lylianna began to relax into her bed.

"What if someone comes in?"

"Why would it matter?"

"Isn't it wrong for a Corporal to be doing something like this with an Officer."

Lylianna grabbed Aryia by the wrist and pinned her down to her bed.

"We can do as we please."

* * *

Aryia sat there on the cargo plane as it flew to the City of Mejorin. The city was now a make shift headquarters and the new area for the front lines. As the plane landed Aryia wondered just what it was they would be doing. Everyone disembarked as Lylianna turned to her squad.

"Listen up, as of right now you are all on stand‑by. Be ready to head out when I say."

"Yes ma'am!"

The squad headed for a large building that had thirteen stories. Climbing up the stairs to the top floor the Knights stood in front of a double doorway painted in a dark red. Lylianna opened the door and stepped inside as the others followed. Inside the room was a spacious office that had once been the room of a now forgotten judge. Sitting behind the wooden desk was a man dressed in a neatly pressed military uniform. The name plate on his chest read Abenest Ryker.

General Ryker was in his early thirties with short blue hair. He stood tall and proud as he looked out of the window like a king overlooking his subjects. Blowing a puff of smoke from his cigar he turned to Lylianna.

"Ah, Major Veltress, glad to see you and your... team. Welcome to Mejorin."

"Thank you General. We were ordered to help out here on the front lines."

"Yes, yes. You can stay at the house on the West corner marked on the map here," the General said handing Lylianna a map.

Lylianna looked at the map for a few seconds and then handed it to Melissa.

"Melissa, you are in charge while I talk to the General here."

The rest of the Knights left leaving Lylianna alone with the General. Once everyone had left she looked to the General. She could tell that he did not want her squad here. After blowing another puff of smoke, the General spoke.

"The road to Ezorn is being held rather well. We are pushing through but we are taking heavy losses on our side. Here is what I need you to do."

General Ryker pointed at a position on the large map sitting in the center of the table.

"I need you to take a platoon and attack from here."

"General, if you think I am going to lead a platoon of men to their death then you would be wrong."

The General slammed his hands down on the desk.

"Major Veltress, you will lead these men!"

"I don't have to follow your orders General," Lylianna said as she grabbed a spare map of the landscape.

* * *

As Aryia and the others looked around it was clear that things were bad on the front lines. Soldiers were being carried in on stretchers into a vacant building that was being used as a make‑shift hospital. The groans and screams of severely injured soldiers could be heard from outside the building.

The squad headed for the building marked on the map. It was a single story brick home which looked quaint. _A perfect home to raise a family in_ , Aryia thought. Inside the main room was a tad dull then the living quarters Aryia was used to but it was better then nothing. The flooring was a dusty dark wood that could be seen throughout the home while the two bedrooms had a fuzzy dull gray carpet.

"This is a nice little home," Ryliah said as she walked throughout the house.

"Yeah, we even have a fireplace," Melissa said.

"The problem is there are only two bedrooms," Aryia said as she entered one of the bedrooms.

Melissa turned to Aryia.

"I guess that means some of us will be sleeping together."

"I would rather not sleep with you. Last thing I need is to keep one eye open," Aryia said as she placed her bag down against the wall.

Melissa giggled.

"You make it sound as if I would do something bad to you."

"Well, I would say waking up tied to my bed was plenty of reason for me to be paranoid of you."

Melissa smiled as she headed into the other bedroom. After everyone had settled in they all sat around in the living room. Lylianna entered the house which brought the quiet relaxing time to an end. It was clear by the look on her face that something had happened between her and the General.

Lylianna looked to her squad.

"I take it something happened," Aryia said as Lylianna sat down on the couch beside her.

"The General wanted me to lead a platoon from the North, but I denied his order. It would be suicide to attack from there due to the heavy line the Versyian's have formed."

"Then what is the plan Major?" Melissa asked.

"We do something that they would never suspect."

Lylianna pulled out a map of the area and pointed to a river near the City of Ezorn.

"The Ikou River here, as you should know, is a very wide river. Just around this area is Ikou Bridge. So far, it is the only way to Ezorn. Instead of attacking the front line we will attack the rear line from here."

Pointing to a heavily wooded area that appeared to be a jungle, Aryia was a bit worried about the trees. The rest of the squad looked over the map.

"Anything else we should know Major?" Deadeye asked.

"Only fire if fired upon. We leave in one hour," Lylianna said as she stood up.

Without another word Lylianna headed outside for the weapons storage room. The rest of the Knights got up and followed Lylianna. After gearing up the Knights headed for a helicopter that was ready to take them to the position that Lylianna had specified.

Flying for almost five hours gave Aryia enough time to think about things. About the mission; about Lylianna...

Aryia looked over to her as she sat there as calm as always. _I wonder how she truly feels_ , Aryia thought. Time passed until Aryia had to focus her thoughts on the mission before her. The helicopter hovered over the drop‑zone as Lylianna slid open the door.

"Go!"

Within seconds Melissa grabbed a rope tied tightly to a handle on the side of the helicopter and started to slide down the rope, reaching the bottom within seconds. Ryliah followed soon after along with Deadeye. Aryia turned to Lylianna for a brief second and then grabbed the rope.

The area where they had dropped was a dense forest, surrounded by thick luxuriant trees. Everyone took up a defensive position after Lylianna finally descended. As Aryia laid there in the dirt watching her fire sector, the Doppler shift of the helicopter became apparent to her. Once the helicopter was completely gone Lylianna stood up.

"All right, lets go."

* * *

Aryia laid there under the thick brush of ligneous saplings. Lylianna had signaled for all of them to hit the dirt only after traveling for a few meters. Six meters out — twenty feet — Aryia could could see a Versyian soldier patrolling the woodland area. _He is probably part of a scouting party_ , Aryia thought as she trained her weapon on the man. _They probably heard the helicopter in the distance and sent him to check it out_.

The man continued to look around for any sign of people but found nothing. Once he was satisfied he turned the other way and left. A few minutes passed as the Knights continued to stay as still as the wind. Lylianna slowly got up and signaled for everyone to get up and continue on. After traveling for some time they came to a river near the base of a mountain.

"Hold here," Lylianna whispered.

Everyone took up defensive positions as Lylianna pulled out a map and a GPO. The sound of the rushing waterfall was all Aryia could hear as Lylianna continued to pinpoint where the bridge was at. Lylianna signaled for everyone to form up.

"The bridge is five‑hundred five kilometers. We hold here to eat and drink, five minutes and then we move South."

Aryia opened up one of her rations once it was her turn to eat. She had gotten used to taste of the rations. After finishing the cold beans Aryia readied her weapon as Lylianna signaled for everyone to head out.

All of them slowly made their way until they came to a clearing in the heavily dense woodland. The river continued on as far as the eye could see.

"Deadeye, cover our approach to the bridge," Lylianna said.

With a nod Deadeye used his magic to shift the ground around them. He made slight shifts when forming the hills to camouflage their clandestine approach. They moved slowly at a snail's pace until they stopped about one‑thousand meters away from the bridge. Deadeye carefully set up an observation post while Lylianna looked through her binoculars.

Once the observation post was finished Deadeye readied a sniping position just in case he was needed while the others settled into the dirt bunker he had made.

The observation post was nothing special. A simple hole in the ground with a tunnel near the rear leading down into a small area where two people could sleep when not watching the bridge.

Lylianna turned to Aryia after surveying the bridge.

"Aryia, I want you to try and get as close to the bridge as you can. We need more information about the bridge. Come nightfall start heading out."

"Will do Major."

As a crepuscule golden hue filled the once blue sky Aryia readied herself. She was a bit nervous but it quickly passed as she continued to tell herself that it would be okay.

"Be back before day break," Lylianna said as she turned back to watch the bridge.

Once she was ready Aryia quickly but quietly made her way for the bridge. Using the sound of the river to mask her steps she was able to make her way under the bridge without anyone noticing her. For a while she heard nothing but the sound of her heartbeat. It was beating a bit faster then usual.

A few hours passed as Aryia scouted out the bridge little by little. She took note of the guards and what they were doing. As she continued to gather information she overheard two guards talking to each other.

"So, are you ready for the hike?"

"Don't remind me. Even if we are walking the pathway around Mountain Yunaria it is still a pain."

_Hike? Mount Yunaria? That sounds bad for us_ , Aryia thought as she checked her watch. _I need to get this information back to Lylianna and quick_. Aryia made her way back to the observation post and sat down beside Lylianna.

"So, what did you learn?" she asked as she continued to look through her binoculars.

"There are heavy fire resistant emplacements on the bridges and I over heard a plan about a hike through Mountain Yunaria."

"I see. Aryia, spot for Deadeye while I look into this," Lylianna said as she handed over her binoculars to her.

Lylianna pulled out her map and studied it carefully. She ran through all the routes she believed a size‑able platoon would take. Once she had an idea of what might be done she turned to Aryia and Deadeye.

"Aryia, Deadeye, we need to fall back from here to the mountain base line. Once we have an idea of where this army may go we can set up an ambush along a cliff side. Aryia, get those two up, we move out now."

Lylianna quickly packed up her stuff as Deadeye did the same. Aryia headed into the small dirt enclosure to wake up Melissa and Ryliah. After waking up the two of them they all headed out for the base of Mountain Yunaria. While everyone slowly made their way back Deadeye covered their tracks.

At the base of the mountain Lylianna looked for an easy pathway that a platoon would take through the mountains. After finding a suitable slope up the mountain Lylianna signaled for everyone to follow her.

* * *

Mountain Yunaria stood ten‑thousand two‑hundred ten meters above sea level. Its precipitous geological formation made it hard to climb for most people. There was only one road that led through the mountains.

The Knights continued to follow the road until they came to a valley that was as deep as _Hyria's Trench_. It was known to the locals as _Belvogore's Pass_. Lylianna took note of the large canyon formation and figured it would be the perfect place to setup a trap.

"Listen up team, we will ambush the platoon in this valley. Deadeye, setup at the end just there. The assault will begin on your shot. Melissa and Ryliah, you two cover the rear just there. Mow down anyone that tries to leave."

After the others left — leaving just Lylianna and Aryia alone — Lylianna looked over to Aryia.

"Aryia, you and I will take the top of this valley and rain down fire so to speak."

With a simple nod Aryia headed off to try and find a way up to the canyon walls. After a few hours of setting up Aryia looked at her watch and began to wonder. She laid back against one of the rocks near the cliff overlooking the valley below. Aryia could feel her body getting a bit tired after some time but she knew that she needed to stay awake.

_Maybe I should write a memoir of my time in the Black Knights_ , Aryia thought.

Hours passed well into the nightfall until Aryia snapped to at a sound in the distance. She could make out the sounds of soldiers barking orders along with the sound of at least five‑hundred soldiers heading their way.

Aryia looked over all the ammo she had. She readied herself as the army began to make their way down the narrow valley. Minutes passed as Aryia waited for Deadeye to fire his sniper rifle. As she watched the soldiers pour into the valley she begin to wonder if the five of them could actually kill all the soldiers. Aryia continued to wonder until she heard one shot rang out, there was no more time to think about things.

* * *

Lylianna quickly pulled the pin on her grenade and dropped it on the unsuspecting soldiers below. Once she had gone through all of her grenades she fired her rifle into the crowd of soldiers who were to disordered to even fight back. _This is to easy_ , Lylianna thought as she fired her gun at the head of a running soldier. Before long the valley appeared to be soaked in blood and seemed to flow like a river. _Perhaps this valley should be renamed as Death Valley_ , Lylianna thought as she made her way down one of the gentle slopes.

The Knights slowly converged to the center of the valley, stepping over bodies and trying not to get blood on their boots as best they could. Once they had made it to the center — checking bodies as they went — Lylianna noticed a young girl sitting against the large rock wall of the valley.

She noticed that the young girl was bleeding from below the knee where a stray bullet had lodged itself. After striping the girl of all the weapons on her Lylianna looked to Melissa.

"Patch her up."

Melissa nodded as she began to remove the girl's boot and roll up her pants leg, revealing a bullet hole fifteen centimeters below her knee. Lylianna looked at the girl. It was clear she was young for her age and was no older then twenty years of age.

"What is your name?" Lylianna asked.

"Second Lieutenant Lynix Tyrivel, number zero seven zero four zero nine two."

A few minutes had passed before Melissa had managed to fix up the bullet wound, however, walking on it would prove to be a challenge.

"Aryia you will have to carry Lieutenant Tyrivel on your back," Lylianna said as she stood up.

Melissa injected a needle into the neck of Lieutenant Tyrivel that made her fall asleep almost instantly. Once they were ready the Knights headed back to the City of Mejorin with their prisoner of war.

* * *

Aryia continued to carry Lieutenant Tyrivel until they came to a large building that was once a police station. She placed her into one of the cells and locked the door.

"Melissa, Ryliah, you two watch the Lieutenant," Lylianna said as she headed for the door.

"Yes ma'am."

Aryia and Deadeye followed behind her. As they continued to walk Lylianna turned to the two of them.

"You two should get some rest."

Lylianna headed off to the command Headquarters leaving Aryia and Deadeye standing there.

"Well, you heard the Major," Deadeye said heading for the house they were staying in.

"Right."

The two of them entered the house with Aryia taking one bedroom and Deadeye taking the other. As Aryia slept she began to recall the nightmare when she killed the young girl, Anna. Waking up in fear Aryia quickly found herself pinned down against her bed. Lylianna had straddled Aryia's hips as she slept.

"Aryia calm down."

It took Aryia a few seconds to calm herself before she closed her eyes.

"Major..."

Without hesitation Lylianna pressed her lips to Aryia's. Aryia began to felt a calm peace as Lylianna continued to kiss her.

"I know how you feel Aryia but try not to think about it, okay?"

"Thank you Lylianna..."

Lylianna got off of her and looked at her watch, taking note that it was nearing 2300 hours.

"Go and tell Ryliah that you will take her shift."

With a simple nod Aryia got up and headed for the police station. She ambled over to the building as she thought about what Lylianna did. _She makes me feel calm_ , she thought. As she entered the building Melissa was laying down on one of the wooden desk, humming to herself. Ryliah stood against the wall with her arms crossed.

"Ryliah, Lylianna told me to take over your shift."

"All right."

Ryliah headed out the front door as Aryia sat down in one of the wooden chairs. She looked over to Lieutenant Tyrivel who was sitting on the bed in a black short‑sleeve tee‑shirt and camouflage patterned pants. It appeared that Ryliah and Melissa had been feeding her quite well.

A few hours passed in silence as Aryia continued to delve into her own mind. She was still feeling guilty over killing that innocent girl. It was hard for her to forget her face.

"Hey Melissa..."

Melissa sat up and looked to Aryia.

"What is it Aryia?"

"How does one deal with killing an innocent person?"

"There are many ways to deal with it. One could drink themselves to no end, which is what most soldiers end up doing. Some kill themselves to be done with it."

"None of those seem like great alternatives."

Melissa laughed.

"No, but the other way is just hope that the next mission happens. If you are to focused on a mission it is hard to think about the past."

"That just seems like running away from it."

"Not really, but antithetical people handle these things differently. The only other thing would be to talk to someone."

Aryia sat back in the chair and closed her eyes.

"Do you have trouble sleeping? If so, I could get you a drug that would help you get to sleep and stay asleep."

"I have trouble living with it..."

"It will become easier in time."

"That doesn't make me feel better Melissa."

"No, but there is no changing the past. You killed an innocent civilian and you just have to live with it until you die."

"And what if I can't live with it?"

Melissa didn't speak for a minute.

"In time you will be able to."

## Chapter Thirteen  
The Road to Ezorn (Part I)/Battle of Ikou Bridge

"Walking the road alone and not knowing where it goes is the greatest unknown in life."

— Dr. Velzyaryian

All the Knights gathered in the main room of the abandon house after Lylianna had called for them. Aryia was hoping for a mission after being unable to sleep for weeks on end. She wanted something, anything to get her mind off of it.

Lylianna pulled out a map and unfolded the large paper on the floor.

"With the Capital of Ezorn in sight it seems as if General Ryker is prepared to storm Ikou Bridge. Of course, he is a bit to eager to take the bridge. So, as the troops are forcing their way through we will parachute to the other side of the river and flank them from the North, here."

Lylianna pointed to the area where they would land.

"Wait, Major, why don't we try something that the enemy wouldn't expect?"

"Like what Aryia?"

"What if we tried going under the water and attacking from under the bridge?"

"That could work," Lylianna said looking to Melissa.

"I could always try it, although it has yet to be done, at least as far as I know."

"Right, Mel, you will work on using your magic to help us navigate under the river. Aryia, you go with her."

"W‑Wait, why do I—"

"Mel will need to practice using her magic to protect all of us. Plus you will be there just in case."

"In case... what?"

"You two have your orders, everyone else be geared up and ready. Remain on stand‑by until then."

Before Aryia could ask Lylianna what she meant by what she said she left out the door. Melissa looked to Aryia as Deadeye and Ryliah headed for the weapon storage building.

"Lets go Aryia," Melissa said in a cheerful tone.

The two of them headed for a lake a few kilometers from the city. It was a rather big lake stretching for kilometers upon kilometers. To Aryia the lake was actually rather beautiful.

"You might want to remove your clothes if you don't want them to get wet," Melissa said as she started to strip down to her underwear.

Aryia began to remove her clothes, revealing her pair of black underwear while Melissa stood there in her pink frilly underwear. Melissa held out her arms to the sides and stepped into the shallow part of the water.

"Right, stay close to me unless you want to end up drowning."

As Aryia stayed close to Melissa she noticed the water around them starting to swirl in a circular motion — about three meters — around them. Melissa appeared to be concentrating hard on moving the water. After a few minutes Aryia was able to clearly see the sand below the water's surface.

"All right, follow me slowly," Melissa said as she walked forward.

Aryia followed Melissa until the two of them were both under the water. Around them was a bubble that blocked out all the water, keeping the two of them dry.

"Wow. I have to say this is pretty cool."

"You won't think it is cool if my magic fails and we drown at the bottom of this lake."

Aryia quickly went silence and began to worry as the two of them continued on nearing the middle of the lake. As Aryia walked along the seabed she could feel the sand between her toes. Fish swam around the bubble while the two of them continued to travel along the bottom of the lake.

After a few minutes they managed to reach the end of the lake. Before Aryia could say anything Melissa fell to the ground. Aryia reacted quickly and caught her in her arms.

"Hey Melissa! What's wrong?"

"I am all right. It just takes a lot out of me to do something like that it seems."

"Will you be able to get all of us to the bridge without any problems?"

"I don't know. Using magic can take a lot of willpower and energy, as you know."

"Yeah, I know. Makes me wonder how much willpower it takes for the Major to use her magic."

Aryia slowly helped Melissa to her feet, keeping her steady for a few seconds until she got her balance.

"All right, you ready to go back?"

"Yeah, but only if you are good to go."

* * *

Melissa laid there on her back as Aryia sat there beside her. It was clear to Aryia that Melissa was tired from using her magic to cross the lake as she did. As Aryia stared out at the resplendent sky above Melissa spoke.

"How do you feel about the Major?"

_Where did that come from_ , Aryia thought.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, what do you think of her? You can be honest with me, I won't tell, promise," Melissa said with a wink.

"Honestly, I feel inspired when I see her. She has a sense of pride, power, and purpose."

"That is sweet. Personally, I cannot blame you for how you feel. All of us were inspired in one way or another by her. She is the true embodiment of what a soldier is. Strong and following her orders to the end, even if it means..."

Melissa didn't speak for a second as she closed her eyes.

"Anyways, lets try and cross the lake again."

Hours passed as Melissa and Aryia practiced going back and forth from one end of the lake to the other. Aryia noticed that Melissa appeared to be getting tired. The two continued past the mid‑way point of the lake until Melissa began to fall. _Oh no_ , Aryia thought as she quickly grabbed Melissa.

The protective bubble around them was starting to collapse in on itself. Aryia used her wind magic to rush to the surface. Once the two of them were above water Aryia swam as fast as she could back to shore.

Melissa laid there as still as a painting. Aryia was not a trained medical expert like Melissa but she knew that she would have to release the build up of water that Melissa had swallowed. Aryia pounded on Melissa's chest and pressed her lips to hers. After blowing air into her mouth she pounded against her chest again.

"Damn it Melissa! You can't die like this!"

Aryia continued to pound until Melissa split up the water in her chest. Melissa looked up to Aryia and simply smiled.

"I guess you just wanted to kiss me, heh."

With a smile and a playful punch to her shoulder Aryia laid back on the soft grass.

"Maybe I should have let you drown," Aryia said with a playful smile.

Melissa giggled.

"I think its time for us to take a break. Last thing we need is you passing out on us, Miss Sadistic Medic."

Melissa giggled even louder as she stood up.

"You are right. Lets head back. Besides, I got plenty of training in and plus there is always tomorrow."

The two of them dried off and put their clothes back on. They arrived at their temporary living quarters nearing 2300 hours. As they entered the house Lylianna was in the main room — along with Ryliah and Deadeye — standing over a map on the table. Aryia and Melissa gathered with the others as Lylianna looked to her squad.

"From what the General has told me, it seems as if they will be able to take the bridge in a month. That is assuming everything works out."

"What do we do until then Major?" Aryia asked.

"Melissa will practice taking all of us. However, this time around I want you, Deadeye, to act as backup in the event that Melissa falls unconscious or would be hit with a stray bullet. You will use your magic to bring us to the surface."

"Right."

Lylianna looked at her watch.

"Tomorrow at 0600 hours we train. Gear up and be ready. Dismissed."

* * *

Aryia's alarm on her watch beeped loudly at 0500 hours on the dot. As she sluggishly got up from her bed, she rubbed her eyes slowly. _This lack of decent sleep is going to kill me one day_ , Aryia thought. Five hours of sleep was was not a lot for her but it was better then a minuscule three hours. Aryia laid back forgetting that Lylianna had been sleeping beside her.

Lylianna opened her eyes slowly as they adjusted to the dim‑lit room. As Lylianna pulled back the covers Aryia stared in a daze. Seeing Lylianna in her pure white underwear made her look more adorable then usual.

"G‑Good morning Major."

Lylianna glared at Aryia as if she had done something wrong. She headed over to Aryia's side of the bed and straddled her lap, wrapping her arms around Aryia's neck.

"I told you to call me Lylianna."

"Even when the others are around?"

"Of course. There is nothing wrong with calling me by my name."

"Then why do the others call you Major?"

"To be completely honest I have no idea. Perhaps it is a show of respect?"

"Wait, then why don't you tell them to call you by your name?"

"I have, yet they still continue to call me by my rank."

Aryia thought for a second before she came to a realization.

"Wait a minute, why does it matter if I call you by your name or your rank."

Lylianna turned away, blushing slightly before finally turning back to her.

"You better get ready for training in fifty minutes."

Without another word Lylianna got up and headed out into the main room. Aryia laid back on the bed as she stared up to the ceiling. _Why does she want me to call her by her name like that_ , Aryia wondered. After spending a few minutes to get awake Aryia got dressed and headed into the kitchen to get a bite to eat.

Lylianna and Melissa were still in their underwear while Deadeye and Ryliah were partial clothed. The food they ate was slightly better then the rations they had grown accustom to but it was no fancy feast like back at their headquarters.

Once everyone was finished and fully dressed they made their way to lake. Melissa took the position of point man as Ryliah and Aryia took the sides. Lylianna stood in the middle while Deadeye stood near the rear.

"Mel, if you start to feel as if you can't keep it up then yell _break_. Deadeye, that will be the signal for you to use your magic to get us to the surface."

"Roger."

As Melissa used her magic to move the water beneath them Ryliah, Lylianna and Aryia had their weapons at the ready. The five of them walked along the bottom of the seabed until they crossed the halfway mark.

"Break..."

Without a second to waste Deadeye slammed his palms down forcing a pillar under them to rise quickly to the surface. Once the squad had reached the surface Melissa suddenly started to fall backwards. Lylianna caught her before she could hit the ground.

"Sorry Major, trying to keep my magic going non‑stop like that is a strain."

"I assume it is due to the extra gear and weight."

"Yeah... it is taking more of a toll on my body."

Lylianna looked back at Deadeye.

"Take us to shore."

After a few minutes all of them had made it to the shore as Melissa tried to regain her strength. Aryia sat down and stared off at the morning sky as she pondered over their plan.

Lylianna sat down next to Aryia as everyone waited for Melissa to recover.

"Lylianna, I had an idea. What if Melissa uses her magic to protect us and while she is doing that, Deadeye could use his magic to help us move quickly under the water."

Silence.

"See, there was a reason I wanted you on my team. You think outside the box."

Aryia blushed slightly from the compliment.

"We might need to get in as close to the target area as possible and then use this unorthodox method to travel about a thousand meters or so," Deadeye said as he stood up.

"Yeah, this could work. Do you two think you can do it?"

"Yes ma'am."

* * *

Almost four weeks passed since the Black Knights put their plan to practice. Day and night the five of them practiced the plan until it was time. Lylianna looked to her squad as they stood in the main room of the house — geared and ready to go.

"Tonight we attack the bridge. Remember to be swift and silent. Hit the key emplacements and get out."

"Yes ma'am!"

Without another word everyone gathered at the waiting helicopter and headed out for the same area as last time. Once they had touched down in the woods they silently made their way to the bridge. Lylianna looked at her watch. It was nearing 0100 hours. They had managed to make it back to the same spot as before where the observation post had been. In a few minutes the Knights would put their plan into action.

"Tonight we make our move. Eliminate any enemies swiftly. Once the emplacements are down, we leave as quickly as we came. Rendezvous back here."

Everyone nodded.

Aryia laid back on the make‑shift dirt bed as she stared up at the night sky. _What will happen once we take the City of Ezorn_ , she wondered. After an hour had passed Lylianna signaled for everyone to form up on her. Everyone knew it was time to storm Ikou Bridge.

## Chapter Fourteen  
The Road to Ezorn (Part II)/Battle of Ezorn

"One day I shall die, however, my name will be remembered for millennial."

— Layla Veltress

_When will this war be over_ , Aryia thought as she stood against the stone wall of the small gun emplacement. Lylianna stood at the open doorway, staring out at the river's horizon. The sound of soldiers marching and vehicles driving over the bridge could be heard.

The City of Ezorn was only about a thousand kilometers away. However, everyone knew that taking Ezorn would not be easy.

"So, what will happen once we capture Ezorn?" Aryia asked.

No one said a word. A few minutes of silence passed until Lylianna finally spoke.

"The most likely scenario is that the war will be over."

Jeeps and other cargo trucks continued to drive past as Aryia tried to picture what she would do when the war was over. Lylianna turned to the others, there was something on her mind.

"Does it feel odd to anyone else just how easy it was to take all of this territory from the Versyians?"

"Maybe you're just being paranoid Lylianna."

The others looked at Aryia with surprised faces.

"Aryia, did you just call the Major by her first name?" Ryliah asked.

"Y‑Yeah... so what if I did?"

"Yare yare, are you two dating by any chance?" Melissa said in a teasing tone.

"N‑No! Why would you think that?" Aryia questioned as she turned away, blushing heavily.

Lylianna remained silent but turned away slightly blushing as well.

"I bet you two have kissed," Melissa said as she looked over to Lylianna.

Neither Lylianna nor Aryia spoke. It was clear to Melissa now that the two of them did.

"Oh, so the two of you have," Melissa said giggling.

"All right, that is enough. Keep it up and no more rations for anyone," Lylianna said.

The others just smiled.

"Now lets get down to business."

Lylianna placed down a large map in the center of the room. She then placed down a photo over where Ezorn was marked on the map.

"So, what are looking at Major?" Ryliah asked.

"The City of Ezorn."

The picture was nothing more then a gray‑toned picture that appeared out of focus. It was so out of focus that it was impossible to see anything but the outer trees and landscape surrounding the blurry image in the center.

"How big is the city?" Aryia asked.

"Unknown, but it quite large. Possibly as big as the capital if I had to guess."

"How many guards are there?" Melissa asked.

"Unknown."

"Then what do we know?" Deadeye asked.

"We know that we know nothing."

Everyone appeared shocked.

"How is that possible? We have aerial photography and other means of collecting data. How is it we can't get anything on the city?" Aryia asked.

"Well, there have been rumors that the Versyian Republic was working on defensive measures, however, as to what these counter measures are, I have no idea."

"So what do we do then?"

"Our best bet is to head North and flank from there," Lylianna said as she stared into Aryia's eyes.

"Is there a reason why you are staring at me?"

"Isn't it obvious? The Major wants to bone you Aryia."

Silence...

"Mel, I am cutting your rations for a month."

"Worth it!"

"Anyways, I was wondering if you had anymore crazy ideas in your head Aryia."

"We could always dress up as wounded Versyian soldiers and hope we get discharged for service. Then we could move around the city freely."

The room was quiet for a bit.

"Aryia..."

"Y‑Yes?"

"...that is a stupid idea."

Aryia had a sad look upon her face.

"Right, so we flank from the North and scout out the city to the best of our abilities. We head out in two days. Gear up and be ready to move."

"Yes ma'am!"

* * *

Many thoughts ran through Aryia's mind as she readied her gear for the mission ahead of them. _Once we take the city it will be over_ , Aryia thought.

コン・コン〜

Before Aryia could finish packing up the rest of her gear there was a knock at the door. Standing in the doorway was Lylianna who appeared as if she was done packing up her gear.

"Lylianna..."

"Make sure you have everything."

"Right."

Aryia continued to pack as Lylianna walked over to her.

"Try not to think about anything but the mission for now. Okay?"

Aryia nodded.

"No need to worry."

With a kiss on the cheek Lylianna left Aryia stunned for a few seconds. Before Aryia could say anything Lylianna had already left. Aryia looked back at her bag and checked over everything again.

Hours passed as Aryia continued to check and double check that she had everything she needed for the mission.

* * *

After two days had passed Aryia found herself heading North with the other Knights. Everyone had their weapons at the ready. Lylianna felt uneasy with how quiet the morning air was while Aryia continued to watch the rear. Once the tree line was in sight Lylianna ordered everyone to hold their position.

"Major?" Melissa seemed confused as to why they had stopped.

Lylianna stared off at the woodlands ahead. _We're sitting ducks out here_ , Lylianna thought as she looked around.

"Deadeye quick—"

Before Lylianna could finish her sentence shots rang out from beyond the tree line. Everyone hit the dirt as Deadeye scrambled to form a wall around them. Bullets continued to hit against the dirt and fly overhead as Aryia, Ryliah and Melissa rushed to get up against the dirt wall.

"Return fire!" Lylianna yelled.

The others returned fire. _Shit, I can't tell how many there are_ , Lylianna thought as the bullets continued to whiz pass her. It was clear to Lylianna that they would have to retreat back to the safety of bridge.

"Everyone retreat now!" Lylianna yelled as she returned fire.

Lylianna and Melissa ran South as the others continued to lay down suppressing fire. Deadeye looked over to Aryia and Ryliah.

"My magic won't hold forever. You two go."

"It's fine, you two should go," Aryia said as she returned fire.

With a simple nod Ryliah headed back with Lylianna and Melissa leaving Deadeye and Aryia hugging the dirt wall closely as the sound of bullets continued to ring in Aryia's ears.

"Aryia you need to fall back now!" Deadeye said as he fired off a few shots.

"No, I have my wind magic to help me. You go, I can catch up."

Deadeye could not argue with her logic. He quickly got up made his way in the direction of the others. Aryia continued to lay down suppressing fire. She continued to fire until the dirt wall in front of her started to crumble.

Aryia quickly ran for the rest of the Knights taking note of the new dirt wall. She continued to run as bullets flew past her ears. After running as fast as she could Aryia found herself hitting the ground with intense force.

_Damn it_ , Lylianna thought as she watched a stray bullet rip through Aryia's knee. Aryia grabbed her knee as she started to feel a concentrated pain from the bullet wound. Bullets continued to ring out from both sides as Lylianna debated what she should do.

"Cover me!" Lylianna yelled as she jumped over the dirt wall.

"Major, what are you doing!?" Melissa yelled as she continued to lay down suppressing fire.

Lylianna rushed over to Aryia and picked her up from the ground, throwing her over her shoulder. Once Lylianna had made it to the barrier Deadeye had created she threw Aryia over it. As Lylianna climbed over the make‑shift barrier a stray bullet entered clean through her arm.

Blood poured from Aryia's knee as Lylianna kept pressure on her wound. Aryia could not help but grit her teeth as the pain continued to grow. The others continued to lay down covering fire as Melissa looked at Aryia's knee.

"Major, we need to get both you and Aryia medical attention and quick."

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this barrier isn't going to last for no more then five minutes," Deadeye said as he reloaded his weapon.

Ryliah returned fire after reloading her weapon as Aryia began to fade in and out of consciousness. Lylianna knew they needed to make it back to the bridge before they end up dead. The others continued to try and lay down covering fire as best they could until the earth barrier collapsed. Deadeye quickly slammed his hands down to rebuild the barrier as bullets flew by.

"We need to leave now!" Lylianna shouted as she looked up to the rest of her squad.

"I can hold them off for only a bit Major. If they get in close that will be another story," Deadeye said as he reinforced the dirt barrier that he had created.

"I can stay with you and hold them off as well," Ryliah said as she returned fire.

Melissa had finished wrapping up a tourniquet around Aryia's leg to stop the blood from pouring as Lylianna looked to Deadeye and Ryliah.

"You two can't die, that is an order."

"Right!"

Without another word Melissa picked up Aryia and carried her while Lylianna followed close behind.

* * *

Aryia laid there on the ground in a half awakened state. She wasn't sure what was going on around but at the same time she could somewhat tell what was going on. Her left leg was covered in blood from the bullet wound to her knee. A sudden pain shot up from her knee jolting her wide awake.

The feeling of Melissa removing the bullet felt as if a dull dagger was scraping and digging into her bone. Aryia quickly sat up in tremendous pain, however, before she could do anything Lylianna pinned her shoulders down.

"Aryia stay calm. You will be patched up soon."

After a few seconds Aryia realized where she was and relaxed. She noticed that Lylianna's hand was pouring blood onto her BDU.

"Lylianna, did you get shot?"

"Yes, however, it is a flesh wound. For now we need to focus on you."

Aryia laid back as she tried not to focus on the pain surrounding her knee. After a few minutes Melissa had finally managed to dig out the bullet.

"I hope this bullet to the knee doesn't put me out of action for to long."

"Well, chances are that it will put you out of action for a few weeks but will at least take a month to fully heal," Melissa said as she sewed up the bullet wound.

Melissa started to look over Lylianna's wound. Lucky for her the bullet had went clean through making it quite easy for Melissa to patch up.

"What happens now?" Aryia asked.

"We go home."

Aryia had a sad look upon her face.

"I am sorry Lylianna..."

"Sorry for what? You are not to blame for this Aryia."

A few hours had passed and the Knights had found themselves back in the Capital of Priserra. Melissa and Lylianna helped Aryia to her bed back at the Black Knight Headquarters. Lylianna headed for the Emperor's castle to let him know of their mission.

"If you need anything Aryia be sure to use your radio to call one of us. None of us should be one‑thousand kilometers away so it should be fine."

"Thanks Melissa."

Without anything else to say Melissa headed downstairs to let Aryia rest. After some time had passed Aryia found herself drifting off to sleep.

## Epilogue

Aryia stared at the ceiling slowly feeling as if her mind was going crazy. It had been one week since the Knights had had returned from the front lines. Ryliah and Melissa were busy getting food together while Deadeye and Lylianna had headed off onto the military base in the city's capital.

The military base — known as Area 666 — was hidden deep underground and only known to a few people. As Lylianna and Deadeye approached the entrance two guards dressed in black and red BDUs and black masks stopped them. They did not speak as they checked the two of them for weapons and any other devices.

Once they finished the two guards allowed Lylianna and Deadeye to enter the base. After passing through the large metal door and down the stairs Deadeye looked to Lylianna.

"You know, I still cannot tell if those two guards are male or female."

"Does that actually matter?"

"No, but I just wondered."

The two of them made their way down into a large main room that was made of pure vyellum plating. Men and women — most of black or brown hair — in white coats were seen working on many different experiments. Lylianna and Deadeye continued walking until they came to metal door with a sign labeled _Doctor Rina Ruzyuki_.

Lylianna knocked on the door and within a few seconds she could hear a girl's voice from beyond the door saying _come in_.

Opening the door and stepping into the room Lylianna was greeted with a sudden hug from the wildly energetic young doctor.

"It is great to see you again Lily."

"Yeah... great to see you too Doctor Ruzyuki."

"Liyuna guess who came to see us," the girl called out behind her.

Within seconds a black colored wolf made its way over to them and looked up to Lylianna.

"I still find it hard to believe you keep a live wolf in your room," Lylianna said looking to the girl.

"Don't forget Rina's other wolf," she said as she pulled out a small white fluffy wolf from her left coat pocket.

"Right..."

"Her name is Naikou."

"Naikou, right. Anyways, I need to talk to you First Lieutenant Ruzyuki."

"Rina told you just to call her Rina."

"Maybe if you stop calling me Lily I might start calling you by your first name."

"Fine, what can Rina do for you, Major?"

"I was wondering if it would be possible to create a new type of aircraft."

Rina had a surprised look upon her face.

"Oh? What kind of aerodynamic utility would Rina have to come up with?"

"I was thinking of an airplane that could fly about as high as the planes we have now — although if there was a way to increase the altitude that would be great — but instead of dropping off supplies and people what if they dropped grenades or rather something like grenades."

"Oh wow! That actually sounds like what Rina is working on right now!" she said as she revolved happily on the ball of her foot.

Both Deadeye and Lylianna seemed a bit confused.

"Wait... you what?"

"Yeah! Rina was asked by the Emperor to make an aerodynamic craft to soar through the atmosphere and drop things that would be called bombs!"

"Bombs huh? That is a fitting name. How would they work exactly?"

"Well, unlike standard grenades that require the pull of a pin and about five seconds to go BOOM..."

Rina suddenly stood on her chair to emphasize the use of an explosion going off.

"Rina..."

"Rina is sorry."

She sat down in her chair hugging her knees to her chest.

"These bombs explode once they hit the ground from an elevation of at least ten‑thousand meters."

"I see."

"Oh! There is one more thing Rina is working on but it is super secret."

"And what would that be?"

"It is a secret silly. If Rina told you the secret then it would not be a secret. But maybe Rina could tell you if you kissed her," she said with a wink.

Lylianna turned to Deadeye.

"Deadeye, leave us please. Aryia may need something like food or water."

"Roger that ma'am."

"And Deadeye..."

"Hm?"

"You heard nothing here, right?"

"I have no idea what you are talking about Major," Deadeye said as he headed for the door.

As Lylianna brushed back Rina's bangs she gave off an almost seductive aura.

"Now what were you telling me about a secret project?"

* * *

Aryia laid in her bed as Ryliah handed her some tea that she had made. All was calm until Melissa rushed into the room. She looked as if she had seen something frightening. Both Ryliah and Aryia seemed a bit confused.

"Ryliah..."

"What's wrong Melissa?"

"I overheard a citizen from the Town of Arsen. They were talking about a large fire."

"No! What about my parents? Are they still alive?"

"I have no way of knowing... I am sorry."

Without thinking Ryliah headed for the door.

"Ryliah, I know how you feel but we can't do anything right now."

Melissa tried to hold Ryliah back as best as she could.

"Just watch me!"

"If the Major finds out—"

"I know Melissa... I know... but I cannot sit here while my parents..."

Ryliah quickly left without saying anything else. Aryia was a bit surprised that Ryliah was so emotional.

"I don't think I have ever seen her so emotional before."

"Yeah, it is rare but she can be emotional sometimes. Unlike you, she bottles in her emotions until they finally explode. In some respects she is like the Major... only, not as great at hiding it."

"What do you mean?"

"There are many things the Major hides. Only someone that truly understands her can know what she hides."

"Someone like you?"

Melissa merely smiled.

"Even I don't know everything about her. There is only one person in the world that can know her."

"Who would that be?"

Melissa giggled.

"Who do you think silly?"

# Part Three  
Sisters

## Prologue

The sound of footsteps echo throughout the empty chamber of the throne room. It was normal for the Emperor to call for a soldier and promote them to a rank higher then their current rank or even demote them but as Layla knelt in front of the Emperor she wondered what would happen. She had served the Kingdom of Sylveria for a few years and showed great promise at the young age of ten.

By the time she had turned thirteen she had established a name for herself. Among those was the name of The White Witch. Of course, the nicknames people gave her meant nothing. She only focused on the task that she was given. Results were all that mattered to her.

"Captain Veltress, due to your outstanding service in the name of our great kingdom I have decided to promote you to the rank of Major," the Emperor said.

"Thank you, your grace."

"I wish for you to create a new branch of military. A team if you will of trained soldiers hand picked by you. You will lead it. Please bear in mind though that your unit will still fall under the _Military Code of Laws_."

"I understand, your grace."

"Very well, you are dismissed."

Layla stood up and headed for the exit with a slight smile on her face. She would finally be able to lead her own unit the way she wanted to. Upon exiting the castle Layla noticed her little sister approaching her. It was clear to her that her little sister was curious about what the Emperor wanted.

"So, what did the Emperor want you for?"

"Apparently, I will be leading a new unit."

"That sounds interesting."

"Yeah, I even get to recruit anyone I wish."

"Basically, you have the final say?"

"Pretty much. The unit still falls under the _Military Code of Laws_ but other then that..."

Lylianna looked to sister.

"Have you decided who will be on the team?"

"No, and I am not letting you on it."

The tone of Layla voice made it sound as if she hated the idea of her own sister being on a team lead by her. Lylianna stopped in her tracks as anger showed on her face.

"And why not?"

"You are still to inexperienced. Besides, I don't need emotional luggage weighing me down."

Without warning Lylianna tried to use her power and punch Layla in her face. Layla blocked the rage filled strike as if it was a punch thrown by a child. Grabbing her wrist, Layla slammed her sister face first into the grass, bending her arm behind her back. She held Lylianna's arm in a tight arm‑lock as spoke into her ear.

"Did you forget your magic won't work on me, little sister."

Thunder began to crackle in the far distance as dark clouds could be seen in the sky. Layla continued to hold her sister down as guards on the outer walls of the castle wondered what as going on between the two.

"Hey do you think we should stop the fight down there?" one guard asked.

"Nope. Not our problem. Let them do as they please."

"Are you sure? The small one looks like she is only eleven—"

"Again, not our problem."

Layla pulled back Lylianna's wrist forcing her arm into an uncomfortable position.

"You know, I could snap your wrist in half right now," Layla said as she twisted Lylianna's wrist slowly.

Lylianna could not help but grunt at the pain as it continued to increase.

"Maybe one day you can have your own unit, assuming you grow up."

Without another word Layla released her grip on her sister and headed off as the sound of thunder drew closer. Lylianna laid there with her face in the grass as she thought about what her older sister said. Part of her hated her, and yet part of her knew that she was right. If she was going to have her own squad one day she would need to show that that she was ready. Lylianna stood up as tiny droplets of rain began to pour down. She made her way for her barracks with only one thing on her mind, becoming better then her older sister.

## Chapter Fifteen  
The Snow Fairy

"My past memories are like my shadow, they follow me around until I die."

— Yukki Snowfell

The Town of Arsen was a quaint town, known for its wood trade from classic pine to dark oak. It was home to many woodcutters and carvers, along with established traditions passed down from generation to generation. While the town was rich in wood and workers it was also known for a talented sword‑smith.

Her name was Yuimeru Snowfell, the mother of Yukki Snowfell.

Yukki enjoyed watching her mother create swords and practice her swordplay but soon found herself wanting to understand the human body. She was fascinated with herbs and medication, why some things cured people and why others things didn't, and what the human body could take. Seeing her interest in such things her mother tried to teach her what little she knew along with buying a book on the human body. Yukki continued to study the book until she had the whole thing memorized from front to back. Before long she got her hands on other books and studied them until she knew everything in the books.

In her free time Yukki played with her best friend Ryliah. She always watched her practice the different sword techniques she had learned from her parents. Yukki was lucky to have a friend like Ryliah. The two of them cared for each other almost like sisters.

By the time she turned thirteen she had made up her mind to join the Sylverian Army and study at the Priserra Academy. Even though she knew they didn't allow anyone under the age of sixteen she was hoping they would make an exception. Her mother asked her to wait at least a year and to study the art of swordplay so that she could protect herself. Yukki decided to listen to her mother and learn what she could about using a rapier. When she wasn't practicing with her mother Yukki would train with Ryliah and would always seem to lose.

Once a year had passed Yukki headed off to the Capital of Priserra in hopes of getting into the academy there. If she could, it would be possible for her to continue her education in the medical field and gain her experience should she ever be needed to serve her kingdom. As Yukki made her way into the capital she realized that she didn't have any idea where to go.

Yukki continued to walk the crowded streets of Priserra trying to understand where things were at. Unlike her somewhat small town the city was large and seemed more congested then anything she had ever seen.

A few hours passed as Yukki continued to look for the academy. However, she soon found herself watching a young girl fall to the ground. Yukki noticed the girl was bleeding from her stomach. Without thinking about it Yukki ran over to the girl and turned her over on her back. She could tell the girl had been stabbed and only had minutes to live. People began to gather around wondering what was happening.

Without a second to spare Yukki pulled off her coat and tied it around girl's wound tightly, trying to keep pressure on it. She pulled out her bag and looked through it for a needle and some thread. Yukki began to sew up the wound after cleaning it quickly. The thread would not hold for long but at the very least it would keep the girl alive until she could be taken to a hospital.

After Yukki was finished patching up the girl she felt a hand on her shoulder. Standing before her was a girl that was at least two years older then her.

"You should come with me," the girl said with a serious tone.

"But I—"

Before Yukki could finish her sentence the girl dragged her by the wrist as the sound of sirens became louder. Yukki was confused as to what was going on.

"Wait a minute, just who are you and where are we going?"

The girl turned to Yukki and smiled.

"I am Major Layla Veltress and I am going to take you to the Priserra Academy."

* * *

_Look at how far I have come_ , Yukki thought as she wondered through the hallways of Area 666. _Spying on my own kingdom in order to save it from a tyrant_. Yukki stood in front of a closed door with a nameplate wielded onto the door that read _Doctor Rina Ruzyuki_ in large bold letters. After knocking on the door Yukki entered Rina's room. As always, she was busy writing down complex notes on a piece of paper.

Laying beside Rina was her pet wolf Liyuna with her eyes fixed on Yukki. The black wolf laid her head back down as Yukki headed over to Rina.

"You appear to be busy."

"Rina is busy working out the atomic equations to create a hypo‑thermometric explosion from a very high elevation."

Yukki didn't understand what Rina was talking about but she concluded it was important.

"I didn't understand any of that."

"To put it in simple terms it is like a grenade that goes BOOM! They will be called bombs."

"Well, that sounds cool, and top‑secret."

"Oh it is, so don't tell anyone. Rina is trusting you, okay?"

"Don't worry Rina. I would never tell anyone," Yukki said with a smile.

Rina continued to explain what the bombs were and how they would be used to allow for taking out key targets buildings with specialized planes to carry them. After a few hours Yukki had learned a lot about bombs and some other secret weapons Rina was working on. Before long Yukki left Area 666 with more information then she could have imagined. _Now, I just need to get all this info back to the Major_ , Yukki thought as she headed for the City of Luporus.

* * *

A few days had passed as Yukki made her way into the port town of Velmor. The Town of Velmor was quite large despite it being a town. It stood out with its immaculate street paved out of the smoothest stone while the houses were mostly made of strong bricks. Most of the residents walking the streets were fishermen and masons, along with traders selling their commodities.

Yukki continued to walk down the streets until she came to a red brick house. After knocking on the door and waiting for a few seconds two girls came to the door. Both girls were of dark skin and had twilight‑golden eyes. One was calm and wore a black tank‑top along with a simple pair of black panties while the other wore the same thing but of a cute pink color tone.

"Glad to see you two are enjoying your off time," Yukki said.

"Yeah, it is nice to relax for a few days."

"Do you two want to head to capital with me?"

"We will join you later."

With a simple nod Yukki left for the City of Ezorn. As she traveled along the path through the Velmor Forest the sounds of birds chirping in the distance could be heard. However, upon walking a bit further Yukki saw what appeared to be a young girl sitting on the side of the pathway. As she came closer she noticed the girl was bleeding from her leg.

The girl had long red hair with crimson colored eyes. With her white tee‑shirt and pink skirt Yukki figured the girl was nothing more then a simple traveler who had a bit of bad luck.

"Are you all right?" Yukki asked as she bent down next to the girl.

"Aside from slowly bleeding from being mauled by a bear, completely fine."

Yukki noticed the girl's leg was covered in blood along with her left arm.

"Let me see what I can do."

Yukki used her magic to help heal the puncture wounds and bite marks. However, the bite on her leg would need more work then simple water magic. As she looked through her bag Yukki pulled out a needle and some thread used for sewing up wounds.

"What happened?"

"A bear attacked me from out of nowhere. Luckily, I was able to defend myself with my fire magic."

Once Yukki had patched up the girl the best she could, the girl thanked her.

"What is your name?"

"Moritsu, Moritsu Hartfell."

"Wait, Mori... Ryliah's older sister?"

Yukki was surprised she hadn't noticed the girl before. _I haven't seen Mori in years_ , Yukki thought.

"Do you know my sister?"

"In a matter of speaking. But why are you here in Versyian territory?"

"I was tried of the way the Sylverian Army did things. They were nothing but slaves. So, I went beyond the border over to the Versyian Republic."

"So, you're fighting for freedom?"

"Pretty much. I want my sister to know what it is like to be free."

"Well then this news will stomp on your heart. Your sister is with the Sylverian Army."

"What do you mean?"

"Let me rephrase, she is apart of a special forces unit that reports directly to the Emperor."

"How do you know this?"

"Do you recall a girl by the name of Yukki Snowfell?"

"Yeah, she was my best friend. I even gave her a cute nick... name... wait... Snow Faerie?"

Yukki smiled.

"In the flesh."

## Chapter Sixteen  
The Fall of Sylveria (Part I)

"As a member of the Royal Family I will make sure to serve the people, not the other way around."

— Princess Amalthea Faethdella Serpth

Layla stood there in her office dressed in a white tank‑top, panties and knee‑high socks as she stared at the map posted on the wall in front of her. She could tell that the battlefield would be knocking on the front door of Ezorn within the coming months. _Perhaps its time to implement the plan_ , Layla thought as she traced her finger along the map. As her finger stopped on the Town of Arsen there was a knock at the door.

"Enter."

Standing at the door was a beautiful young girl. Her pale skin contrasted with her white dress hoodie and sky blue tee‑shirt, along with a cherry red‑checkered skirt, red knee‑high socks and black high‑heels.

"Ah, Yukki. I figured you would be arriving sometime today."

"Sorry for being late Major. I had to help an old friend."

Layla walked over to Yukki and placed her hand on her head, petting her like a puppy.

"My helpful little medic is always so kind to people."

Yukki smiled gently as Layla continued to pet her.

"Major I have many things to report."

"Lets hear it then."

"First, the assassin we sent in to kill the princess failed along with the other backup assassin."

"I see," Layla said as she turned to her map.

"It also seems as though the Sylverian Military is working on creating bombs that can be dropped from a plane. Basically, they are grenades that explode when they hit the ground."

Layla did not speak as she continued to look over the map.

"I guess its time to begin _The Fall_."

"Are you sure we should continue with the plan Major?"

"Of course, once he is dead the people of Sylveria will be free until the princess takes the throne, however, dealing with her will be easy once we get my little sister out of the picture."

"There is one more thing to report Major."

"What is it?"

"I have only heard rumors so I have no evidence to prove it is true but it seems the City of Mejorin has fallen into Sylverian hands."

Layla grabbed a marker from her desk and drew the Sylverian Kingdom's symbol over where the city was on the map.

"We should assume it is taken until proven otherwise. It looks as if they are getting closer to our front door faster then I thought, wouldn't you agree Yukki?"

"Yes Major, it would seem so."

"When Neki and Reki get here tell them to gear up for our covert operation."

After saluting her Yukki started to make her way for the door.

"Wait," Layla said as she turned to Yukki.

Yukki turned to Layla with a puzzled look on her face.

"We might not make it out alive."

Layla made her way over to her and slowly brushed her azure colored bangs to the side, revealing her precious silver eyes. Yukki was unable to hold back her blushing.

"M‑Major—"

Before she could finish her sentence Layla placed a finger over Yukki's lips.

"No talking. Tonight I reward you for being such a great spy."

Without any warning Layla pinned Yukki's wrist against the wall. As her lips pressed against Yukki's it was hard for her to suppress her moaning. Layla's hands began to explore Yukki's body as she slowly removed her clothes. Within a few seconds Yukki found herself stripped down to her underwear and unable to move as Layla pinned her on the wooden desk. Pens and pencils scattered onto the floor as chills ran down Yukki's spine.

Biting down on Yukki's lip forced her to moan a bit louder then before. Layla began to run her finger slowly down her stomach as Yukki's back started to arc back.

"You appear to be loving this to much."

"Y‑Yes Major."

Layla smiled as her tongue began to explore more weaker areas on Yukki's body.

* * *

With a soft yawn Layla awoke from her peaceful slumber. A few days had passed since she shared a romantic night with Yukki. She stood up from her bed and headed for the restroom to take a shower. As the warm water trickled down her body many thoughts ran throughout her mind. There was no going back.

Hours passed late into the evening as Layla looked at her watch. _Neki and Reki should be here by now_ , she thought as she stared out the large window of her home, overlooking the city. A sudden knock at the door jarred Layla from her deep thought of the world. Upon opening the door, Layla was greeted by her team.

"We are ready to begin whenever you are Major," Neki said.

"Gather at the planning room. I will be there in a bit."

The three of them nodded and headed out for planning room. Layla looked to her watch once more noting the time. It was 2100 hours and the sun was just setting below the horizon. With the twilight sky fading Layla headed a few meters East just outside the city. Among the dense woods and brush was a well hidden trapdoor.

Layla made her way down the narrow corridor being careful not to fall off the ladder. Upon climbing down about three and a quarter kilometers the cave system became a sprawl of complex tunnels, like a labyrinth. This place was known to only Layla, her team and a few trusted scientist. It was nicknamed the _Cave of Shadows_.

After heading down a dim‑lit stone corridor Layla opened a door that lead into a large square room. Neki, Reki and Yukki stood around a sizable rectangular wooden table with a map of Alvenfhiem. Off to the side of the room was a couch with a woman laying there.

"Doctor Hokoru, did you sleep here again?"

"Yeah, I was trying to work out how we could better use those concepts of bombs to create something more... powerful."

Doctor Rikou Hokoru was a mature woman of fair skin and long brown hair. She wore a long white lab coat over her black tank‑top, along with a pair of army cargo pants. As she stood up from the couch she slipped on her black high‑heels.

"As it turns out," Rikou said as she adjusted her glasses, "I can possibly create a more powerful explosion."

No one said anything as Layla made her way to the end of the table.

"Right, well, you continue working on that. All right listen up team, our covert operation will take place in a few hours. We will drop behind enemy lines and set fire to the Town of Arsen here," Layla said as she pointed to the town on the map.

As Layla continued to explain the plan Rikou decided to make a cup of coffee for everyone.

"Once we set fire to Arsen we need to move quickly across this mountain pass and hitch a ride on a boat that will take us to Luporus. After that we blend in with the common folk and prepare for the next phase of the operation."

"Yes ma'am!" everyone said in unison.

"Get your gear and get ready to move out. Dismissed."

* * *

The cargo plane flew silently twenty thousand meters and into Sylverian territory. Everyone remained silent as they all thought about what they had to do. It was possible they would die, possible they would have to kill someone close to them. However, all of them knew the risk; all of them wanted the same thing.

Layla stood up from her seat and looked to her squad. She could tell Yukki was more nervous then the others as Arsen was her home.

"Listen up, I know all of are scared about what we are doing. We could all die, however, remember that we are fighting for the freedom of the people."

The dim red light on the plane started to blink.

"This time we will carry out our plan with pride and with honor. We shall go down in history as heroes."

After a few minutes had passed Layla lowered the plane's cargo hull and stood at the edge. The night air blew ferociously, blowing Layla's bangs away from her left eye. A few seconds passed until the light turned green. The others stood up and looked to Layla.

"Lets free the kingdom," Layla said as she jumped from the plane.

The rest of her squad jumped from the plane with haste as they all fell through the clouds. Once they were at an altitude of about two thousand meters they pulled their ripcords and landed into the nearby woods of Arsen. After everyone regrouped with Layla they made their way to outer edge of the forest. With the town in sight it was time for them to commencement their plan. Layla looked to her squad with a smile on her face.

"Lets burn this town to the ground."

## Chapter Seventeen  
The Twins of the Rhyine

"Killing is the only thing we know, the thing we are good at..."

— Neki Kuuhaku

Reki and Neki Kuuhaku were only ten‑years‑old when their home was razed to the ground. Fire continued to spread, destroying buildings and forcing villagers to flee in terror. Parents ran through the streets with their children in their arms trying to escape the horrors of the war.

Before the Kuuhaku twins could fled with their parents to the outskirts of the city two soldiers of the Sylverian Army gunned them down in front of them. Seeing their parent die broke both twins mentally. Without hesitation they encased both soldiers with their earth magic and crushed them in a coffin of dirt and rocks.

Both twins fled the city and traveled with a few of the other kids that were running from the war zone taking place. As nightfall came all the kids made camp on the road to Mejorin. Reki and Neki sat alone in an earth hut they made and spoke to no one. Both of them were angry at the Sylverian Army, maybe even the world.

As the two twins laid there awake in their hut a little girl — who was no more then six years of age — innocently made her way inside.

"Would you two like some—"

Before the girl could finish her sentence Neki shot a small rock at the girl's forehead. The small rock acted like a bullet, piecing the girl's skull and entering her brain only to fly out the other end. Within a matter of milliseconds the little girl laid there dead at the entrance. Neki looked to her sister.

"I say we kill this whole camp."

Reki simply nodded.

Within a few seconds both twins killed the whole camp of twenty or so kids between the ages of four to twelve. A river of blood stained the once green grass in a now dried crimson. With all the kids dead the two twins made their way to the City of Mejorin. Both of them knew what they wanted to do. As the twins walked the streets of Mejorin they managed to find shelter in an abandon house that was for sell. For them it would only be a temporary home until the dawn of a new day.

At the break of dawn Reki and Neki both made their way to a building that was recruiting people for the Versyian Republic.

"I am sorry but I cannot allow kids of your age to join the Versyian Army," said a recruiter.

Reki and Neki stood in the office of one of the Versyian recruitment buildings. The two of them were annoyed that they could not join the army to fight the cause. Neki turned to her sister as they walked out of the building.

"Go find their weapon storage and take a few of their guns. Not too many but just a few. Oh, and grab some ammo," Neki whispered.

Reki nodded as she headed for a nearby weapon storage building. Neki waited at the abandoned house as a few hours passed. After night had fallen Reki managed to return with a sniper rifle and two automatic rifles. Neki smiled and placed her hand on her sister's head.

"You are the best little sister ever."

Reki smiled as she handed the sniper over to Neki.

"No, you should keep the sniper. You are the quiet one after all."

One whole year passed as Neki and Reki practiced their weapon training. The two of them practiced everything they could think of, from firing weapons at targets to knife combat. Both twins continued to practice their hand‑to‑hand combat until the sun was just passing overhead. As they stopped to take a break the two of them noticed a girl who appeared to be in her teens walking through the forest. They seemed puzzled by the girl as she did not appear like any other magic‑user they were used to seeing.

The girl noticed the twins and wondered just who they were and why they were out here alone in a forest with knives.

"What are you two girls doing out here without your parents?"

"Shut up and get lost!" Neki said as she stood to her feet.

Reki stood up as well.

"Or what?"

"We will kill you," Neki said pulling out her knife.

Reki pulled out hers as well as the two of them slowly closed in on the lone girl. The twins surrounded the girl, ready to strike.

"You two should be careful about picking fights you can't win."

Reki rushed forward, flanking the girl from behind. Without any effort the girl dodged Reki's thrust attack and grabbed her wrist. She quickly twisted her wrist and threw her to the ground with her arm behind her back. Like a flash of lightning the girl had managed to disarm Reki and hold the knife to her throat.

"Sis!" Neki called out as she tried to use her earth magic to attack.

Neki soon realized that her earth magic wasn't working.

"Wait... what—"

"I told you, you shouldn't pick fights you can't win. Consider yourselves lucky I am not with the Sylverian Army."

The girl release her grip on Reki and picked her up from the ground like it was nothing. Reki quickly ran over to her older sister.

"It is clear by the look on both of your faces that you two hate the Sylverian Kingdom. As luck would have it I too happen to hate the Kingdom of Sylveria," the girl said as she threw Reki her knife.

Reki caught the knife as the girl began to walk towards the twins.

"You two may be to young to join the fight but in time you will be able to. Until then, join me and we can bring a new era into this world."

"Oh? Give us one good reason why we should join you?" Neki asked.

"Because I plan to kill the root of all our problems, the Emperor of Sylveria himself."

Both Neki and Reki appeared shocked at the words that came out of the girl's mouth. They both found it hard to believe that this one girl would bring about the fall of an evil kingdom like Sylveria but somehow they felt as if she was serious. The two twins looked to each other. Without a single word they both nodded and looked up to the girl.

"All right, we will join you, but what could you possibly teach us?"

"Oh there is plenty I can teach you."

Without another word the girl headed East for the City of Ezorn. Both girls followed the girl in silence until Neki finally asked a question on her mind.

"What is your name?"

"Layla Veltress."

* * *

Neki and Reki continued to do push‑ups with mud caked on their faces. The two of them had spent years training with Layla and learning many of the skills she had learned in the military. As the rain beat down on both of the girls Layla looked to her stopwatch.

After completing one hundred push‑ups in only a minute both twins stood at attention. Layla smiled as she handed both of them a dagger. Walking a few meters away from them she pulled out her dagger and turned to them.

"Now, attack me."

Both twins rushed at Layla as she readied herself. She could read their attacks like a map — dodging and blocking their strikes — only counterattacking when the time was right. Without their earth magic both twins found it even harder to land a single blow on Layla as she threw them to the ground time and time again. By the end of the day both twins were covered in mud and dried blood from their nose bleeding.

"That is enough for today," Layla said as she sheathed her dagger.

Reki handed her dagger over to Layla as Neki thought about what to do. Deep down she didn't want to give up but part of her knew that it was a losing battle. Even still, she knew she had to keep trying as that was all she could do. As Neki walked closer to Layla she played out in her mind how she would attack her when her guard was down.

Like a coiled cobra, Neki tried to pierce Layla's rib‑cage. Within the blink of an eye Neki found herself staring at the tip of the dagger. Layla had managed to disarm her — forcing the dagger to stick up straight in the ground — along with bending back her arm and holding her back the tips of her hair.

"You know, if I was to drop you, even from a few centimeters here, this would still be enough to kill you with that dagger," Layla said as she continued to hold her.

Neki could not speak as she began to see her life flash before her eyes. Layla threw her to the side and picked up her dagger.

"I admit that was a nice try but it was easy to read that sneak attack from a kilometer away," Layla said as she wiped the mud from her dagger.

Layla held out her hand as Neki looked up to her.

"Come on lets go back home. You two deserve a bit of rest."

The three of them headed back to the City of Ezorn and into the warm house that Layla called home.

Layla's home was located on the thirteenth floor of a penthouse apartment and quite big for an apartment. The main room was decorated with a dull gray carpet and white opaque walls. There was hardly any furniture to speak of aside from a large fireplace near the center of the North wall. The West wall was mostly a large glass window that showed the busy city street below.

Neki and Reki removed their combat boots at the door as Layla did the same.

"You two can take a warm shower. I will get the fireplace going to try and make it a bit warmer in here."

The twins headed for the bathroom as Layla threw a few small logs on the fireplace. After closing the door behind them Neki removed her sister's shirt as Reki did the same. Once they were both naked they turned on the warm water and stepped into the shower. The two of them could feel their body starting to get warmer as they slowly washed each other's hair.

## Chapter Eighteen  
The Fall of Sylveria (Part II)

"Kingdoms will rise and Kingdoms will fall."

— The Veliamander Chronicles

In the City of Luporus Layla, Yukki, Neki, and Reki were busy sitting around a small wooden table in the back at the Liquescent Inn — thinking about their plan to murder the Emperor. The inn was filled with chatter about the fire that had burned half of the Town of Arsen.

Layla's team blended in well with the rest of common folks of Sylveria, however, Layla was forced to hide her hair by drawing up the hood on her black leather jacket. Dealing with her bangs would have been troublesome had she not tried a new type of experiment Doctor Rikou had managed to create. The doctor had managed to create a liquid that could change the color of one's hair but the results of what could happen when applied were untested. While her bangs made her look like a fire magic‑user the rest of her hair remained white.

"You know Major, you actually look like a real fire magic‑user," Yukki said as she sipped on her tea.

"Is that so? Maybe I should get the good Doctor to make more progress on that new substance then."

"It could be useful for infiltration missions and such," Neki said.

Layla took a bite of her chocolate bar as she looked to her team.

"Right, now we need to carry out phase two."

Everyone nodded.

As the four of them continued to eat and drink they overheard two men talking about the fire in Arsen.

"Did you hear about that fire? It is all over the news."

"Yes, quite the horror but such is life."

"Indubitably."

"It says here the Hartfell family died in the fire among many other families."

As Yukki finished her tea Layla held her hand.

"I know what you thinking but now is not the time for that."

Yukki grabbed Layla's hand and held it tightly. She was overcome with guilt for the loss of Ryliah's parents. Part of her knew the risks going into the mission, yet, part of her wanted to condemn her actions. While she continued to contemplate her moral choices Layla stood up from her chair.

"Lets go."

Without another word she headed for the exit as only sound from her were the tapping of her high‑heeled boots against the hardwood floor. The rest of the team followed behind as they left a small bit of change on the table as a tip.

* * *

Almost a week had passed as the four of them walked the trade road to the Capital of Priserra. Large sand‑stone walls towered about thirty meters to the sky with cylinder watchtowers at each of the four corners. Around the whole walled city was a large valley stretching as far down as seventy six meters and spanned as wide as nine‑hundred fourteen centimeters.

As Layla and her team crossed the wooden drawbridge two guards stopped them.

"State your business here," said one guard.

"We are merely travelers from Luporus," Neki said stepping in front of the guard.

Yukki placed her hand on Neki's shoulder. Neki quickly turned around and stepped to the side.

"My cousins and I are traveling to the Town of Arsen for a while," Yukki said with a cheerful smile.

"Oh, Arsen was burned to the ground if you didn't know."

"I was unaware."

"Well, if you need a place to stay there is an inn in the West part of the city known as the Grand Dragon Inn."

"Thank you sir," Yukki said as the guard moved to the side.

Yukki and the others walked passed the guards and into the city. People went about their lives buying and selling goods, foods and wares. As they continued to walk along the stone paved roads Layla looked to her team.

"Today, we shall go down in history."

Everyone nodded as they split off in different directions, leaving Layla alone. Ahead of her Layla could see the inner wall that held the castle where the Emperor stayed. As she made her way forward she noticed that she had bumped into someone. When she looked down Layla realized that she had bumped into a small girl who appeared to be no more then twelve‑years‑old.

The petite girl looked up to Layla with her crimson colored eyes and smiled.

"I'm sawwey. I should have looked where I was going."

Her voice was innocent and pure. Layla bent down on one knee to meet the girl at eye level. She was barely pushing one hundred twenty‑seven centimeters while her body had to be no more then thirty‑four kilograms.

"It is all right," Layla said with a smile.

"Okay, well I need to go now. I has to try and buy me an ice‑cream cone."

"Are your parents not with you?"

"A person in a robe told me that my parents are in a better place with the goddesses. I don't really understand it but I hope they will be back soon."

Layla looked away in disgust. _How can those religious zealots do this to a poor young girl like her_ , Layla thought as she placed her hand on the girl's head.

"I hate to break it to you sweetie but that man in a robe lied to you. There are no goddesses."

"Then where are my parents?"

"I am sorry but they are dead..."

"What does that mean?"

"That they are not coming back."

The little girl didn't say a word while Layla was at loss for what she could say to comfort the girl.

"Here, how about you take all of these Yukaris and buy yourself an ice‑cream."

Layla smiled as she handed the girl one hundred‑thousand six‑hundred Yukaris.

"Can I really have this?"

"Sure," Layla smiled.

The little girl smiled a cheerful smile and skipped merrily off to one of the city stores. Layla's eyes darted back to the inner wall. She headed forward, ready to put the plan into practice. As Layla walked up to the castle entrance she found herself stopped by two guards.

"Who are you?" one guard asked.

Layla didn't speak. Both guards looked to each other and quickly readied their weapons. Slowly, Layla removed her hood revealing her long white hair. Garey lowered his weapon.

"Oh Major Veltress its only you—"

"That's not the Major lad its—"

Before either of the guards could finish their sentences Layla incapacitated the younger looking guard within the blink of an eye. She quickly threw down the older guard, taking his spear from him and forced the spear into his leg — pinning his leg to the ground.

Layla headed inside the castle — taking out more guards — and opened the large wooden door leading into the throne room. Sitting at his throne was the Emperor along with Princess Amalthea. The guards readied their weapons after taking note of the guards laying on the floor.

The Emperor stood up from his throne in anger as the guards rushed forward with their weapons drawn. With fast reflexes Layla pulled out a throwing dagger strapped to her thigh and hidden under her skirt. She threw the dagger quickly as it headed for a collision course with the Emperor's heart.

The sound of metal scraping was the only thing heard.

* * *

Lylianna stood there between Layla and her target. After a few seconds dozens of guards with weapons drawn surrounded Layla. The other Black Knights entered the throne room and stood with Lylianna ready for anything that Layla would try.

"Give up Layla. You're out numbered."

Layla smiled as she raised her hands into the air.

"You're right little sister."

Without saying anything Layla dropped to her knees as the guards moved closer.

"Your grace, I would like permission to imprison my sister in our holding cell," Lylianna said as she turned to the Emperor.

"You may do as you wish, however, she is to remain alive. Her execution tomorrow will serve as testament to any would be assassin."

"As you wish," Lylianna said as she motions for the Knights to arrest Layla.

Melissa placed a blindfold over Layla's eyes as Deadeye tied Layla's hands behind her back. As they walked her out of the castle Ryliah held her blade close to Layla's throat.

"What do you plan to do to her Lydia?"

"Nothing my lady, torturing her will result in nothing but wasted time," Lylianna replied as she made her way for the exit.

At the Black Knight's Headquarters Layla was thrown into the same holding cell Aryia was once in for her training. Deadeye removed the bindings from Layla's wrist as Melissa removed the blindfold. After closing the cell door Lylianna turned to her team.

"Leave us."

The others nodded and made their way for the door, leaving Lylianna and her sister alone. She turned to Layla who stood there with a smirk on her face.

"So, tell me sis, just what are you planning?"

Layla simply giggled.

"You know, just planning to kill the Emperor is all."

Lylianna was unamused by her sister's lack of empathy as she began to walk away.

"I won't let my guard down with you."

"I wouldn't have it any other way, dear little sister."

After closing the door to the dungeon Lylianna gathered the Knights in the planning room. Something was bothering her and she knew Layla had something planned. Once everyone had gathered in the room Lylianna looked to her team as they wondered why she had called all of them there.

"Is something wrong Major?" Melissa asked.

"Layla let herself get captured. I don't know why but we cannot let our guard down for a second."

"Then what is the plan Major?" Melissa asked.

Lylianna was silent for a moment. _With Aryia out of action we will be short on resources_ , Lylianna thought.

"We do what we can. Two of us will need to always be with the Emperor and two others with Princess Amalthea."

"All right, who is guarding whom?" Ryliah asked.

"Deadeye and Ryliah, you two guard the Emperor. Melissa and I shall guard the Princess."

"Yes ma'am!"

"One more thing, we have a gift from our good friend Doctor Ruzyuki."

Lylianna opened a large box sitting in the back of the room revealing the Black Knight's old weapons but they were different. Instead of being coated in zixkium the weapons had a light blue substance that was believed to be stronger and more durable then zixkium. Each of the Knight's looked over their new weapon.

"What are these weapons made out of Major?" Ryliah asked.

"Apparently, they are made out of an experimental element that has yet to be named. Consider these weapons as prototypes."

"These are quite nice," Deadeye said as he looked through the scope of the sniper.

"I agree," Ryliah said as she studied the sharpness of her gunblade.

"Be ready tomorrow to guard the royal family. Dismissed."

Lylianna left with Aryia's weapon in her hand. As she entered the bedroom she was shocked to see Aryia reading a book entitled _The Slayer of Goblins_. Aryia appeared to be deeply invested with the book that she failed to notice Lylianna standing in the doorway.

"Is this the end of the world?"

Aryia look surprised as she looked up from her book.

"Major... I mean, Lylianna I didn't hear you come in. What did you mean by that though?"

"It was a joke, seeing as how I have never seen you read before."

Lylianna made her way over to Aryia and placed the weapon in her lap.

"What is this?"

"Doctor Rina Ruzyuki created new special weapons for us made out of an element that has yet to be named and is still unknown at this point."

Aryia looked over the gun and checked the sights to make sure they were lined up perfectly. She opened the action to make sure there wasn't a bullet in the chamber. Once she saw that it was safe she held the rifle butt against her shoulder, aiming down the sights at a blank space at the wall. As she held her breath to steady her aim, her finger slowly squeezed the trigger.

"I should also tell you Layla tried to assassinate the Emperor a few hours ago."

Aryia was silent as the only sound heard was the click of her weapon.

"I should have been there..."

"It is fine Aryia. You need to get better so you take part in missions. Focus on that."

With a kiss on the cheek Aryia felt her heart skip a beat.

"And that is an order soldier."

Aryia smiled as she wrapped her arms around Lylianna.

"Yes ma'am."

Lylianna brushed Aryia's bangs back and stared into her eyes.

"How are you sleeping?"

Aryia looked a bit sad as she laid her head down on her pillow.

"Not the best... if I am being honest."

"I am always here if you need me."

"I know. Thanks, Lylianna."

Lylianna blushed slightly as she turned away.

"Anyways, Melissa and I will be guarding the Princess for a while. Deadeye and Ryliah will be with the Emperor."

"Will it be enough to stop whatever your older sister is planning?"

"I don't know..."

The two of them remained quiet for a few seconds.

"Anyways, get some rest. I need to get ready," Lylianna said as she stood up from the bed.

Lylianna grabbed her gun and slung it on her shoulder.

"Don't work to hard Lylianna."

With a wave of her hand Lylianna headed down stairs to the weapon storage room and packed what gear she believed that she would need for her duties. As she continued to pack up medical supplies Melissa entered the room with a backpack strapped over her left shoulder and her scythe in hand.

"I am ready if you are Major."

"Lets go."

Melissa looked to Lylianna as they headed for the castle.

"Are you sure you don't want me to try and get information out of your sister?"

"It would be a waste of time for you Mel. She will not talk. You could torture her any way you wish and she would just laugh at you for trying."

"She has to have some kind of weakness."

"With her, there is no weakness."

The two of them entered the castle and made there way up to Princess Amalthea's room. After knocking on her door Lylianna turned to Melissa.

"Watch the outside here. If you feel there is a threat on the princess's life you are free to terminate them."

Lylianna turned on her radio to check the communications.

"Radio check."

"The radio appears to be working Major, over," Deadeye said.

"Likewise, over," Ryliah added.

"You are free to kill on‑site if you feel there is a threat to the Emperor, over."

"Understood, over."

"Comms will be minimal. Only radio in if it is important. Over and out."

As Lylianna turned off her radio the princess opened the door. She wore a white strapless dress with a frilly layered skirt that stopped fifteen centimeters above her knees. Her white knee‑high socks complimented her outfit perfectly.

"Lydia? Melissa? What are you two doing here?"

"Pardon me my lady," Lylianna said as she made her way past the doorway.

Lylianna closed the door behind her and looked out the window. After closing the curtains on the window she turned to Princess Amalthea who had a confused look on her face.

"Lydia, what's going on?"

"We are just taking precautions, my lady. As you saw my sister will not stop until both you and your father are dead."

Amalthea sat down on her bed with a scared look upon her face. It was scary for her to think there was someone that wanted her dead.

"Don't worry my lady. We will keep you safe."

"I am more worried about my father. As you know he is old, and doesn't have any magic to speak of."

"Your father will be fine. I sent Ryliah and Deadeye to watch over him."

* * *

The Emperor sat at his desk staring at the papers in front of him. Ryliah and Deadeye stood at the sides while the large office room remained as silent as the night sky. After a few minutes had passed the Emperor put down the papers and sighed heavily.

"These people always complain about the taxes on their property but I see no problem with them. What do you think of this... Ryliah, was it?"

Ryliah turned to the Emperor and placed her hand over her heart.

"Yes your grace. As to what I think, I am afraid I cannot give you my opinion on the matter."

"Ah, taking the safe road and staying out of it then?"

"Yes, your grace."

As the Emperor neatly stacked the mess of the papers — separating them by priority — he looked to Ryliah and Deadeye.

"Would either of you two care for some wine?"

"No thank you, your grace," Deadeye said.

After a few minutes had passed a servant entered with a bottle of wine and a wine glass.

"Oh, Jeverious, we were just talking about having some wine. Perfect timing."

"You know me sir, I like to be ready to serve," Jeverious said as he poured the wine in the glass.

Once Jeverious had finished pouring the wine Deadeye felt something was wrong.

"Jeverious, you should drink it first."

"I am sorry but I can't as this is the Emperor's—"

Before he could finish his sentence Ryliah held her gunblade to his throat.

"We insist."

The Emperor found it suspicious that his own servant was making a big deal out of drinking some wine.

"But I—"

"Drink it," the Emperor demanded.

Jeverious seemed rather frightened as all eyes were on him. Without another second to spare Ryliah slit the man's throat as blood poured down from his neck. After only a few second the servant laid there in a pool of his own blood. The blood began to soak into the crimson red carpet, making it look more red then it did before. As Ryliah sheathed her gunblade the Emperor looked up to her.

"Was that necessary?"

"I apologize your grace but we cannot take a chance with your life. The Major ordered us to kill on‑site."

"Remind me to take out the amount needed from her paycheck to clean this carpet."

The Emperor made his way to the throne room as Deadeye and Ryliah followed closely behind. Once he was seated in his throne the large wooden door slowly creaked open. What Ryliah and Deadeye saw beyond the door surprised them.

Layla stood there with a single‑shot rifle and armed to the teeth with daggers.

"Good evening, your grace."

Before Deadeye could draw his gun Layla fired off one bullet from the rifle that she stole. With blinding speed Ryliah drew her gunblade as the sound of the bullet flew past the Emperor — missing him by mere centimeters. Deadeye aimed his sniper at Layla as Ryliah took up a battle stance with her blade.

"Now now you two, I don't have time to play," Layla said as she pulled out a dagger sheathed on her left leg.

Deadeye turned to the Emperor.

"Your grace, please leave at once."

With haste the Emperor headed for a wooden doorway off to the side of the throne room. Once the Emperor had left the room Ryliah looked over to Deadeye.

"Go with the Emperor. I can handle her."

As Ryliah rushed forward at Layla, a shot rang out hitting the ground near her feet. She stopped dead in her tracks as she tried to figure out where the shot came from. Dropping down from the ceiling was Reki who smiled as she cocked back the lever on her sniper rifle.

Suddenly, a large human size hole appeared next to Layla. Coming up from the hole was Neki holding two pistols in each hand. One was black while another was silver.

"Play time!" Neki said in a playful tone.

"I believe the two of you remember my friends Reki and Neki," Layla said with a smile.

Ryliah continued to hold her battle stance as Deadeye had his weapon trained on Layla. He knew this would be a tough battle. Before the two of them could make a move the wooden door behind Layla opened. Ryliah was surprised by the girl that appeared before her.

"Yukki?"

"Long time no see Ryliah."

Yukki pulled out her silver rapier and pointed her blade at Ryliah. Layla looked over to Deadeye and Ryliah.

"If you two don't mind, I have an Emperor to kill."

Layla rushed forward, heading for the door the Emperor had went through. Ryliah tried to intercept her but a shot whizzed by her ear forcing her to stop. Deadeye was unable to assist due to Neki having her sights trained on him. Layla was soon out of sight as Deadeye and Ryliah tried to figure out what they could do.

Ryliah looked over to Yukki.

"I can't believe you would betray your own kingdom."

Yukki didn't speak as she squared off with Ryliah, her blade at the ready.

"Lets end this quickly then," Ryliah said as she readied her blade to kill.

* * *

Melissa rushed into the room, scaring the princess half to death. Lylianna stood up, fearing that something was wrong.

"I think something is wrong. I thought I heard gunshots coming from the throne room."

Fear started to show on Princess Amalthea's face. Lylianna placed her hands on Amalthea's shoulders.

"Don't worry my lady I will make sure your father is safe."

Lylianna turned to Melissa.

"Mel, take her to Area 666 and wait in an easily defend‑able room."

Melissa nodded as she held out her hand for the princess. With the princess out of harms way, Lylianna rushed out into the hallway as she ran through mind what could possibly be happening. _If the Emperor ran through the wooden door he would have taken the hallway down to the first intersection and turned left_ , Lylianna thought as she rounded a corner running as fast as she could.

Lylianna continued running until she could hear the sound of footsteps down one of the hallways. As she turned the corner she was shocked for a brief second by what she saw. A throwing dagger pierced the heart of the Emperor killing him instantly. Before Lylianna could do anything her sister rushed forward with her dagger.

As Layla tried to plunge her dagger into her sister's gut Lylianna sidestepped and grabbed her wrist, trying to disarm her. The two of them quickly found themselves trading blows back and forth as each tried to land an attack on each other.

"What were you thinking Layla?!"

"I was thinking _would you kindly please die today_ , if you must know."

Lylianna took a step back as she and Layla encircled each other. Both of them studied each other's movements, like two loins in a den.

"As I have said before, your Emperor was nothing more then a tyrant. He had to be put to death for the sake of freedom."

"Do you not see the hypocrisy here? You want people to be free from a tyrant yet you yourself are being a tyrant," Lylianna said.

Layla could only laugh at the statement that came from her sister's mouth.

"Me? No dear sister if there is anyone what is a hypocrite it is you."

Like a speeding bullet Layla rushed forward as Lylianna tried to defend herself.

"I am going to kill you Layla."

"You may kill me, however, my name will echo throughout the world for millennial."

Layla managed to unsheathe a hidden blade from her her wrist like an assassin. Lylianna dodged the blade as it missed jamming into her eye by mere centimeters, however, it threw her off balance allowing Layla to quickly throw her to the ground with tremendous force. Before Lylianna could get up her sister was already running for the exit.

_Damn her_ , Lylianna thought as she rushed over to the Emperor. The dagger was buried deep into the Emperor's heart. After checking his pulse it was clear to Lylianna that the Emperor was dead as could be.

Lylianna rushed out to the throne room only to hear Layla's voice shout out, _It is done!_ Before Ryliah and Deadeye could chase after the rest of them Lylianna quickly told them the news.

"The Emperor is dead..."

Both of them appeared frozen in time as they heard the news.

"W‑What do you mean Major?" Ryliah asked as she turned to Lylianna.

Lylianna turned away. Part of her could not bare to repeat the words she had said aloud. The throne room was silent as everyone thought about what they could have done to protect the Emperor.

"Sylveria has no ruler until the Princess is officially crowned as Queen. At this moment, we need to do everything we can to keep Princess Amalthea safe. She is the last of the royal family," Lylianna said as she left the throne room.

As Lylianna walked around the exterior of the castle she found bodies of guards dead. _That would explain why there were no reinforcements_ , Lylianna thought as she continued to explore. Once Lylianna had finished looking around the castle she — along with Deadeye and Ryliah — headed for Area 666.

Princess Amalthea was busy watching Rina work on complex equations as Melissa stood ready with her weapon. As Lylianna opened the door Melissa quickly aimed her weapon until she realized it was Lylianna.

"Lydia!"

The princess ran over to Lylianna, hugging her tightly.

"I am so happy all of you are alive. Is my dad okay too?"

No one dared to speak a word. Melissa was able to tell by the look on the other's faces that the answer was not one of good news. Princess Amalthea looked up to Lylianna with an innocent stare. Lylianna could not help but look away. _How am I going to explain this to her_ , Lylianna thought.

"Princess Amalthea..."

"He's dead... isn't he..."

Silence filled the room.

Without saying a word Lylianna signaled with her hand for everyone to move out. The Knights readied their weapons as they made their way for their headquarters. Everyone of the Knights were more alert then they had ever been as Princess Amalthea wondered where they were going.

As all of them entered the Black Knight Headquarters Lylianna signaled for the others to check the whole building. Lylianna stayed at the entrance with the princess as she wondered what was happening.

"Don't worry my lady, I told the others to clear all the rooms to make sure they are safe."

Within a few seconds the others returned signaling with their hands that the floors and rooms were clear. Lylianna and the princess made their way up to the bedroom. Upon entering the bedroom Princess Amalthea was surprised to see Aryia laying on her bed with a white bandage around her knee. Without thinking Amalthea ran up to Aryia and wrapped her arms around her neck.

"Aryia did you get hurt?!"

Aryia placed her hand on Amalthea's head.

"I am fine Princess. It will heal in a few weeks and I will be back on my feet soon."

"That is good to hear," she said with a smile.

"My lady you should get back to your room at the castle. The others will escort you there," Lylianna said as she signaled for Melissa to stay behind.

Ryliah and Deadeye escorted the princess out of the headquarters as Melissa stayed behind. Lylianna turned to her, it was clear to Melissa that Lylianna was under emotional distress over the loss of the Emperor but was hiding it behind the will of a soldier.

"All of you are to watch the princess non‑stop. I don't care if you have to rotate out but I want two people always watching her day and night. Follow her everywhere, even if she has to piss. Is that clear?"

"Yes Major," Melissa said as she left the room.

After Melissa left Lylianna turned to Aryia who could tell something was wrong but wasn't completely sure. Lylianna removed her gun and shirt, along with her combat boot, socks and pants. Without saying a word she laid down on Aryia's bed as she placed her arm over her eyes to block out the light in the room. A deep sigh escaped her mouth.

"What happened?"

"The Emperor is dead..."

Repeating that phrase again stabbed Lylianna in the chest. This would go down in history as her greatest failure.

"I should have been there with you guys..."

"No! Don't start blaming yourself for this," Lylianna yelled.

"You're right, we should blame the person who started all this... your sister."

"I agree..."

Aryia wrapped her arms around her, holding her tight.

"Lets try not to think about it for now," she whispered into her ear.

"Right."

The two of them closed their eyes as they laid there. It was clear that Lylianna was tired.

"Hey Aryia."

"Hm?"

"You know, you will have to start addressing the Princess as Queen once she officially takes the throne."

"Maybe she will be nice enough to let me keep calling her Princess."

"And if she doesn't?"

"I will do it anyways."

"Don't be surprised then if I have to kill you."

"If that was meant to be a joke I am not laughing Lylianna."

"Technically, it isn't a joke."

Aryia gently kissed Lylianna's cheek as she whispered into her ear.

"You better kiss me while you do it then."

"Of course. Now shut up and let me sleep."

"Yes ma'am."

## Chapter Nineteen  
The Aftermath

"Magic is like a light. It can guide us but at some point a light will burn out and become useless."

— From Damarius' _Evolution of Magika_

Several days had passed since the death of the Emperor. Amalthea was watched day and night by Lylianna and the rest of the Knights. Part of her could not believe she was now the Queen of Sylveria.

As Amalthea and her Knights walked down the hallways the aroma of burning candles filled the air. The candles gave the stone gray toned walls a sense of warmth, along with the soft crimson carpet with gold leaf trim.

"You know, this doesn't feel real," Amalthea said with doubt in her tone.

None of the Knights spoke as they continued to walk, keeping alert for any danger. Lylianna stayed close to Amalthea's side just in case an assassin managed to get to close. Amalthea looked over to Lylianna with a worried expression.

"Do you think they will return?"

"We will find them, my lady."

As they entered the empty throne room everyone but Lylianna spread out to cover more room. Amalthea took her seat on the throne.

"This feel so odd," she said as she stared out at the almost empty room.

"It will become familiar to you in time, my lady."

After a few minutes had passed a young girl entered the throne room from the wooden door near the back. She was one year younger then Lylianna and had long brown hair with beautiful hazel eyes. In her hands were stacks of papers that appeared to be at least sixty centimeters tall. Before the girl could get to close to Amalthea, Lylianna stepped in front of her.

"It is okay Lydia."

Lylianna stepped to the side at the order of Amalthea. The girl handed the stack of papers to her as she spoke.

"My lady, here are the budget reports along with the current taxes and wages of the city, along with the local areas."

Amalthea looked surprised at the amount of papers she was holding in her hands. The stack was quite heavy for someone as tiny as her.

"Miraizu... do I have to look over all of these papers?"

"Yes my lady, along with with the other reports involving the complaints of the people."

"I guess I can't just ignore all of it, can I?"

"Technically my lady you could, however, I would advise against it as it would make you appear to the people as lazy," Miraizu said as she adjusted her glasses.

"You're right. It is time I be the responsible queen this kingdom needs."

"Don't worry my lady, the Black Knights will help you as much as we can until you get to where you can handle it yourself."

Amalthea could not help but smile.

"I love all of you. Did I ever tell you all that?"

"You just did my lady," Lylianna said with a smile.

Amalthea looked over the papers one by one to see what she would need to do. As she read through them a thought came to her.

"Hey Lydia, have you thought about recruiting more soldiers into the Black Knights?"

"I have my lady."

"And how is Aryia doing?"

"She is doing well, my lady. However, she is still unable to walk although I believe in a few more days she will be able to start walking. That is what I believe anyways."

"I was hoping to promote her to the rank of Sergeant. She was always so sweet and kind. I think she has earned it."

"If you feel that is the case my lady then you are free to do as you see fit."

"Do you believe she has earned the promotion?"

"My opinion does not give any objective view point on the subject matter my lady."

"I don't care Lydia, I asked for your opinion."

"Very well my lady. I believe Aryia has earned the promotion with her service to the Kingdom and to you."

Amalthea handed the stack of parchment papers back to Miraizu.

"I will take care of all these when I get back."

"As you wish my lady," Miraizu said as took the papers.

As Amalthea headed for the exit of the castle Lylianna and the rest of the Knight gathered around her in a protective formation.

"Where are you going my lady?" Lylianna asked.

"Isn't it obvious? I am going to go see Aryia and promote her," Amalthea said with a smile.

## Chapter Twenty  
The New Recruits

"Even though they are gone I can still feel them through my swordplay."

— Ryliah Hartfell

Aryia laid in her bed as she thought about what she would do once her knee healed up. It was nearing mid‑afternoon and she was beginning to grow bored of laying there day after day. _I hope I can still keep up with the training Lylianna demands_ , she thought. A sudden knock at the door jarred her from her thoughts.

Amalthea stood in the open doorway with the others close by her side. Aryia would have normally stood to show respect to Amalthea as all the Black Knights did, however, due to her knee she was allowed to stay where she was.

"Oh Princess, it is surprising seeing you here. I would stand but my knee still hasn't healed enough yet."

A soft giggle escaped Amalthea's mouth as she stepped into the room.

"You know Aryia, I am a queen now. That means you have to address me as such."

"I told you Aryia," Lylianna said.

"However, I don't mind if you continue to call me princess," Amalthea said with a wink.

A large grin came over Aryia's face.

"Ha. Pay up Lylianna."

As Lylianna walked over to her she had an ill‑mannered look of annoyance across her face. Lylianna pulled out her wallet along with one hundred Yukaris, and handed it to Aryia. It was hard for Aryia not to continue grinning over her victory with Lylianna, however, her grin quickly turned into pain as Lylianna flicked Aryia's wounded knee gently.

"You two had a bet going... involving me?"

"We sure did Princess. Lylianna thought you would force me to address you by your formal title but I bet her that you would be the kind‑hearted person you are and allow me to continue calling you as I always have."

Amalthea turned to Lylianna and made an almost adorable pouting face.

"Lydia, I am shocked you would think I would force someone to do something as simple as that!"

"I am sorry my lady."

"Its fine. Anyways, Aryia when do you think you will be able to get up and walk again?" Amalthea asked as she turned to Aryia.

"Hopefully soon, Princess."

"Okay, well, I need to get back to the castle to do _fun_ business stuff," Amalthea said as she rolled her eyes.

Aryia smiled gently as she figured it was paperwork that would be to boring to someone like Amalthea. As she turned for the doorway Lylianna stopped her.

"Wait, my lady. Did you forget the reason you came here?"

"The reason..."

She turned around to face Aryia. Amalthea was unsure about what she could have forgotten. After a few seconds of thinking she finally remembered what she had forgotten.

"Oh right! Aryia, I wanted to promote you to the rank of Sergeant."

The idea of being promoted was the last thought that entered Aryia's mind. She was at a loss for words as she continued to remain speechless, her mouth slightly hanging open. Aryia suddenly felt Lylianna elbow her in the ribs.

"This is where you say thank you Aryia."

"Ri‑Right. Thank you so much Princess, truly."

Without warning Amalthea ran up to Aryia and wrapped her arms around her neck, hugging her gently.

"No need to thank me. Just get back on your feet so you can protect me too," she said with a smile.

"Of course, Princess."

Amalthea — along with the rest of the Knights — left the room leaving only Lylianna behind. She turned to Aryia who was wondering why she had stayed behind.

"We will be getting new recruits soon. I hope you will be up to the task of training them once you can walk, Sergeant."

"Of course, Major."

Lylianna smiled faintly as she headed out the door.

* * *

Several weeks had passed as the end of the closing summer month would soon turn into fall. Aryia was finally able to put a bit of pressure onto her leg without her knee hating her for it, although, she still had to be careful not to overwork herself and end up bedridden again. As the clock struck mid‑day Aryia found herself heading out to the training field where the Knights would usually train. She had been lucky enough to get a ride out to the field by one of the Military Police Officers on duty. After dropping her off, he quickly left, heading back to the city.

Lylianna stood in the open grasslands staring out at the horizon. As Aryia made her way to Lylianna she could see her eating a chocolate bar.

"You must love chocolate."

"That should be obvious."

As Lylianna took another bite of her chocolate bar a light breeze rustled the grass beneath them.

"So, when did you find time to pick out new recruits?"

"I made fliers and stuck them on different walls in the city. Also, I asked some people I knew to hand them out when they headed off to neighboring cities, towns, and villages."

"And you are going to weed out the weak ones by putting them through some kind of boot camp like the other branches I take it?"

"Exactly. Those that sign up for this are warned in advance that they could lose their lives during training so I honestly would be surprised to even get three recruits, if that."

As Lylianna took another bite of her chocolate bar the sounds of a truck could be heard in the distance. The cargo truck pulled off to the side of the road, letting out close to two dozen recruits. Most of the recruits were men in their early to mid‑twenties and still only held the rank of Private while a few held the rank of Corporal. Among the half of a dozen men were a few women as well.

Aryia was shocked to see among all the recruits that Emilia, Alice, Izumi and Mari had all signed up. She became so overjoyed as she tried to head over to her friend. Before Aryia could move Lylianna grabbed her by the collar and whispered into her ear.

"Be professional."

"Right, right."

All the recruits lined up as Lylianna stood in front of them, her face showing no sign of compassion. Aryia knew this expression all to well. The face of someone serious who was ready to put the recruits through the ringer.

"Attention!"

Lylianna's voice rang out, striking fear into the hearts of the recruits. All of them snapped to attention faster then a board snapping in half. Aryia continued to stand at ease while she watched Lylianna pace back and forth.

"All of you are here because you believe you have what it takes to join the Black Knights. We will see in time."

She continued to pace back and forth as she sized up each of the recruits.

"You will be put through hell with your training. Some of you may die. If you don't think you can do it, then get back on that truck."

After a few seconds a few of the privates dropped out of line and headed for the cargo truck, their heads held down in shame. Lylianna continued down the line of recruits staring each one in the eyes.

"If you think you need motivation from someone then this is not the branch of the military for you."

A few more soldiers dropped out of line.

"If you fall no one will pick you up. If you need medical attention you will patch yourself up."

Even more soldiers dropped from the line until only Mari, Izumi Alice and Emilia remained standing at attention. Lylianna glared into Mari's eyes. Aryia could feel death in Lylianna's stare.

"Keep in mind your friends won't help you."

Mari felt fear growing deep inside the pit of her stomach as she stared into her piercing green eye.

"Now, if anyone wishes to drop out you better do it now."

No one said a word as Lylianna looked to her watch. All of them continued to stand at attention. Lylianna then looked to the remaining soldiers standing in line.

"All right, your training begins now. You will do one hundred push‑ups in two minutes. If you do less then that you fail."

Lylianna pulled out a stopwatch as she looked to the recruits.

"And... begin!"

While Emilia quickly got into the push‑up position the others seemed surprised by the number of push‑ups Lylianna wanted them to do in just a short amount of time. Aryia watched as all of them tried to do push‑ups as fast as they could. She could tell that Mari would struggle through the Black Knight training as she was not the most physically fit. Of all of the new recruits Emilia was the most likely candidate to get into the Black Knights.

"One minute," Lylianna called out.

Emilia had managed to finish the one hundred push‑ups and continued until she hit over one‑hundred twenty. Izumi and Alice were getting close to the one‑hundred mark while Mari was closing in on the fifty mark.

"Thirty seconds."

As Izumi and Alice finished their set Mari continued onwards.

"Ten seconds."

The others stood at attention as Mari was closing in on the one‑hundred mark.

"Thee... two... one..."

After Mari had finished she quickly stood to attention like the others just barely able to stand.

"Stop."

Lylianna looked over the recruits, taking note that Mari looked ready to fall to the ground.

"Next one‑hundred sit‑ups in two minutes. Go!"

Everyone was taken aback by the lack of a break but in a way it made sense. Aryia knew all to well the training the four of them were going through. The pain of doing exercises in only two minutes, and what was to follow...

Mari lagged behind just as before, finishing the second Lylianna called time. After pulling out a map Lylianna handed it over to Emilia.

"All of you will run two point forty‑one kilometers to the location marked on the map. If any one of you fails to make it then none of you pass."

Fear engulfed the recruits as they stood there in shock. Aryia knew why Lylianna was doing this. She was inadvertently trying to get them to work together. Even if the Black Knights were capable of working alone, they also needed to know how to work in a team.

"You have nine minutes to make it. Begin!"

Without another warning everyone started running for the city while Aryia and Lylianna watched them.

"Almost two and a half kilometers in nine minutes? That is nothing compared to what you make us actually run," Aryia said as she looked over to Lylianna.

"Don't worry, once they make it past all the basic training they will come to know the real training."

"I take it Melissa will be taking part in that training."

"Of course. I can't have any member of the Black Knights knowing secret information, only to get captured and tell it to an enemy."

"I hope Mari will be able to handle it."

"Doubt it. However, I have been wrong before."

"Still mad about losing those one hundred Yukaris?"

"Shut up..."

"Want a chance to win them back," Aryia teased.

"Its fine."

"How about this, if she fails I will be your slave for a day."

"You are confident. Very well, if Mari gives up at any point during her training then you will lose and be my slave for a whole day."

"All right then."

After shaking on it the two of them headed for the cargo truck that continued to remain parked on the side of the road. Lylianna sat in the middle of the seat while Aryia sat in the passenger seat. The driver turned the vehicle around and headed for the city at Lylianna's orders. As the truck passed the recruits Aryia noticed Mari was gradually falling behind.

The truck stopped in front of the East Wing of the Administrative Building prompting Lylianna and Aryia to get out. Once the two of them were standing in front of the building the truck continued on to its final destination.

"I believe you remember this building."

The two of them headed inside the building as Aryia recalled the memories of that day.

"How could I forget?"

As they stopped in front of the room Aryia began to have flashbacks. She recalled how she believed she was ready to join the Black Knights and quickly headed to room A6. On that day she knew what it was like to see fear; to taste fear...

Upon entering the room Aryia noticed there were four syringes on the wooden desk with a blue liquid substance in them. Aryia could only guess they would be used to drug the recruits and take them to the holding cell.

"Any reason why there are four syringes on that desk?" Aryia asked.

"Four syringes, four people."

"There is no way you could have known the four of them would make it."

"Honestly, I wasn't even planning on those four making it. I just wanted four new members to help with other missions."

"Other missions?"

"As a five person unit we are spread thin. While we guard the queen the others can focus on keep pace and patrolling the city."

"So, more manpower basically."

"Pretty much."

* * *

Aryia laid there in her bed looking over the book _Torture & Terror: The Psychological War_ Lylianna had recommended for her to read. Part of Aryia was scared and disgusted as she read the numerous ways in which a human could be tortured but part of her understood why it was sometimes necessary to do inhuman things to evil people to get vital information that could save lives. Lylianna entered the room and sat down on her bed as she untied her boots.

"It is your turn to feed them."

After removing her boots Lylianna laid down into the comfort of her own bed as Aryia got up from her own. She headed down into the kitchen and grabbed a bowl of rice. It had been five days since the new recruits had been locked up in the holding cell that Aryia once found herself in. As she made her way down into the dark damp dungeon she began to have flashbacks of all the torture she went through. _After all this time I still remember it_ , Aryia thought as she stopped at the cell that held the recruits.

Aryia could see the fear in their eyes and body. She knew exactly what they were going through. They were stripped down to their underwear, the same as Aryia had been. One silver bucket sat in the corner filled only half‑way with their bodily fluids. It was a sad sight for Aryia, watching these girls hold on to each other... shaking from the fear of what Melissa was doing to each of them.

Mari and Alice appeared to be having it the worse of all of them. Both girls hugged each other closely while Izumi and Emilia sat side by side on one end of the cell. Aryia could tell that the two of them were slowly losing their nerves and their minds. As Aryia dropped the single bowl of rice into the cell the four girls converged on the bowl like wolves.

_They need to learn to be calm_ , Aryia thought as she sat down in the wooden chair across from the cell. Mari looked up to Aryia as she stuffed what rice she could in her mouth. The poor girl appeared to be on the verge of tears.

"A‑Aryia, did you have to go through all this too?" Mari asked.

"I did, of course, I had to go it alone."

"How did you do it?" Izumi asked as she sat against the cold brick wall.

"You have to push your mind past your limits. You live everyday as if you are on the battlefield... fighting to survive."

"But what if we can't do that?" Emilia asked as she shoved more rice into her mouth.

"Then it is simple..."

Aryia got up from the chair and headed down the hallway for the door.

"You die."

Her voice echo down the hallway and into the cell. After that the only sound the four girls heard was a door closing shut. Part of Aryia wanted to help those poor girls but she knew that she couldn't. They needed to learn on their own.

As Aryia entered the bedroom she noticed Lylianna was reading a book entitled _Twilight's Dawn_. She looked up from her book and up at Aryia.

"How did it go?"

"Basically, I told them they had to push past their limits or die."

"Sounds like something I would say."

"I guess I am slowly turning into you more and more each day."

"Until you can stop time you aren't like me."

"You know, in all the time I have known you I still don't know what it is like to see your magic from your perspective."

"I can't exactly do that... or rather... I don't want to do something like that just for fun."

"Is it more draining on you?"

"Yes."

"What is it like?"

"You would think having the power to stop time around you would be the greatest magic in the world but what isn't great is what this magic does to a person."

Lylianna sat up from her bed as Aryia made her way over to her, sitting down beside her.

"This magic doesn't just physically drain me like other magic, it also drains me mentally. Ten seconds is the maximum time I can spend casting this magic... that is, at most, ten seconds spent lost from reality."

"I am not sure I get what you mean."

"It is like..."

Lylianna got up from her bed and paced back and forth as her brain tried to think of a way to explain what it was like to Aryia. Several minutes passed in silence until Lylianna finally looked to her.

"It is like a fully loaded gun. You have all the clips in your magazine, you are whole. Firing a shot is like using the magic, you lose a part of yourself into the abyss."

"I think I get it now... I am sorry you have to go through that..."

Lylianna walked over to Aryia and wrapped her arms around her neck as she straddled her hips. With a cute but faint smile she kissed Aryia's forehead.

"Don't be. I am fine with it. Better me then some other person."

Aryia smiled as Lylianna kissed her lips slowly.

## Chapter Twenty‑One  
The Fate of Magic

"Pain is only in one's mind. If you free your mind of such delusions it opens the mind and allows a person to carry on beyond what they believe."

— Torture _&_ Terror: The Psychological War, Chapter I

Two weeks had passed as Aryia continued to feed the four girls that were becoming more paranoid with time. Aryia looked through the bookshelf Lylianna had in hopes to find something interesting to read. Over half the books she owned were nothing more then detailed information books on an assortment of subjects. She had very few — if any — books that explored the more eldritch inconsistencies of the unknown world.

As she looked for anything good she noticed a book entitled _Evolution of Magika_ by Damarius. Aryia had never questioned it before but now, as she stared at the book, she began to wonder. _Where does magic come from_ , she thought as she picked up the book.

While the book wasn't a first edition she assumed that it still had relevant information containing all the research pertinent from years ago. Aryia sat down on her bed and opened the book.

"Stealing books from my bookshelf I see."

Aryia jumped slightly at the sound of Lylianna's voice as she stood there at the doorway in nothing but her underwear. Lylianna made her way into the closet and gathered her Black Knight military uniform.

"Hey Lylianna, before you leave I have a question."

"What is it?"

"Where do you believe magic comes from?"

After getting on her uniform Lylianna made her way over to her bed carrying a pair of black knee‑high socks.

"I don't believe it comes from the fictional goddesses if that is what you are asking."

"Oh no, I was actually interested in knowing just where it is we get our magic and why."

Lylianna slowly put on her socks, pulling them up just above her knee until they were form fitting.

"It is a bit of a subjective answer but I believe our magic comes from the very planet we stand on. Others would believe magic was handed down by the four goddesses, but it is stupid to believe in such fairy tales."

"So, assuming what you said was true... then what would happen to the magic? I mean there has to be a limit on it."

"It is true that when we use magic we can only use so much before it drains us but that alone does not mean that the magic itself has a limit. Of course, if it does then it would mean that one day all magic would go away."

"That is a scary thought."

"It isn't much different then dying. It simply happens and that is it."

"You can be really morbid sometimes."

"You are the one that asked. Anyways, I need to go and change shifts with Melissa," Lylianna said as she put on her boots and laced them up.

"How is the Princess doing?"

"She is fine," Lylianna said as she stood up, "part of her is annoyed with all the paper work but she tries her hardest to get everything done to keep the capital running well."

"That is good."

Lylianna grabbed her bag and looked to Aryia.

"Yeah, anyways make sure to feed the recruits in ten hours."

"Right. Make sure you keep the Princess safe until I return," Aryia said with a smile.

"Right."

Lylianna made her way out of the room leaving Aryia alone with her thoughts. With nothing to do Aryia opened the book again and read through it in hopes to at least understand the origin of magic. A few minutes had passed as Aryia managed to read through one‑third of the book. Unlike Lylianna, Aryia found it hard to read through an eight hundred page book filled with nothing but line after line of text.

Aryia decided to stretch for a bit and figured it was time to try and get back into her training regiment. _Okay, time to try and do a bit of light training_ , Aryia thought as she got into push‑up position. She started with doing one‑handed push‑ups as she counted to herself. After doing one‑hundred push‑ups in two minutes and fifteen seconds Aryia turned over on her back as she closed her eyes.

"Damn, that isn't good enough," Aryia said aloud.

"Two minutes and fifteen seconds isn't bad for someone with a bullet wound to the knee."

Aryia opened her eyes a bit surprised to see Melissa standing there in the doorway with a smile on her face.

"How long have you been standing there?" Aryia asked as got to her feet.

"Exactly two minutes and sixteen seconds."

"I still don't think it is good enough."

"You still have plenty of time to improve once your knee is fully healed."

"Yeah, that is true."

"Anyways, I am going to go torture one of the recruits, you want to watch?"

"I still have traumatic flashbacks of that time so no thank you. How is it you enjoy something so... sick?"

"Well, I am a sadist. Putting people in enormous amounts of pain just... turns me on to put it bluntly."

"What happened to you as a child to make you enjoy something so inhumane?"

"Who says something had to happen to me?"

"You mean you enjoy it for no other reason then just the pleasure of it?"

"Yuppers!"

Aryia was at a loss for words. With nothing more to say Aryia sat down on her bed and read through the book once more.

"I am going to get some food before I start working. You want anything Aryia?"

"No thanks."

Melissa left the room as Aryia continued to read. _She can be scary at times_ , Aryia thought. Aryia's mind started to wonder how Mari would deal with Melissa's torture. She knew Melissa would not kill her, she was to good to slip up like that. But even still, the thought was in the back of Aryia's mind. What if Mari didn't survive?

## Epilogue

Layla stared out to what appeared to be an endless sea along the horizon. The boat was headed for the Southern land mass of Delmesia, a kingdom that was not apart of the war in anyway. It was considered a neutral kingdom to many a refugee trying to flee the war.

Yukki looked over to Layla as she leaned against the railing.

"I am sorry Major."

Layla simply smiled as she turned to her.

"There is no need to be sorry. Everything is going as planned."

"I still don't like it," Neki interjected, "I say we should have looked for the Princess and killed her too."

Reki sat down on top of a large wooden crate as silent as the wind.

"In due time Neki. We crushed a major part of Sylveria and its Kingdom. Princess Amalthea will fall just as her father did. It is simply a matter of time."

The sound of the loud boat horn could be heard as Layla looked behind her. A large stone city came into view that shined like gold. Unlike the cities in the other kingdoms Delmesia's stones had a twilight golden texture to them making them stand out among the rest.

After a few minutes the boat docked at the port as passengers started to unload. Layla and her team walked off the boat and were almost awestruck by the true beauty of the city before them.

"Welcome to our home away from home girls, the City of Cenderian."

# Part Four  
The Beginning

## Prologue

In the beginning there were four goddesses. Inyas, the Fire Goddess. Hyria, the Water Goddess. Alyesna, the Wind Goddess and Yunaria, the Earth Goddess. The four of them waged war with each other for centuries, over what was anybodies guess. While the battle was long fought none of them could truly die due to them being immortal. After much time had passed it was clear to all of them that fighting with each other was nothing more then pointless.

The four of them looked around and saw the vast emptiness of an endless abyss before them. All of them looked to each other and wondered what they could do.

"Perhaps we could create instead of destroy," Alyesna spoke.

The goddesses looked to each other and nodded. Yunaria created a large spherical object made out of dirt. Within the dirt she formed mountains, rolling hills and valleys. Hyria formed water into the deep valleys and other lowlands. Once she was finished Alyesna formed a protective shield of air around the ball of dirt and water to create what would later be known as an atmosphere. Finally Inyas formed a large ball of fire far from the ball the other three had created giving life to the new creation called a planet.

"What should we call this ball of dirt, water and air?" Yunaria asked.

"Alvenfhiem," said Hyria.

The others looked to each other. It was clear they were all in agreement.

"And what of the ball of fire?" Alyesna asked.

"The sun," Inyas said with a smile.

Once the goddesses were happy with what they had created they rested for several days. Within those few days Inyas felt rather bored with nothing happening on their beautiful new planet.

"We should create something to populate our world."

"What do you propose Inyas?" Yunaria asked.

"Life. Living things that can see our creation."

After a few minutes of silence the goddesses decided to each create two living things in their own image. They all created two types of people known as humans, which would be called male and female; man and woman. The goddesses instilled each of their creations with their own magical powers which showed clearly by the color of their hair. The eight humans were the first magic‑users.

As the humans walked on the planet they were amazed by shear beauty of the world they were in. The goddesses were pleased with their creation and decided to rest. While they rested humans learned to create food, and other resources they required. Many years passed as the humans worshiped and worked. They praised the goddesses for creating them and everyone lived in peace and harmony for many more years to come.

However, as humans learned to reproduce the population of humans began to rise. Years passed until conflicting views between humans turned into a war. Fire magic‑users killed water magic‑users, water magic‑users killed wind magic‑users, and so forth until the goddesses finally awoke from their slumber. They found themselves filled with sorrow and pain. As humans continued to kill each other the goddesses decided to intervene.

The four goddesses reigned down from the sky and took on human forms like the other humans, however, it was clear they were beyond humans. Inyas was of fair skin and dressed in an elegant red robe. Her long crimson hair flowed in the wind as her angry cerise eyes glared at the fire magic‑users she had created. Hyria was of pale skin and dressed in a blue luxe robe. Her long blue hair tied into two twin‑tails while her large voluminous breast bounced gently. Alyesna was of tan skin and dressed in a green robe. Her long green hair was tied in a ponytail as her jade green eyes menacingly stared at her own creation. Yunaria was of dark skin and dressed in an citrus orange robe. Her medium length hair was rather spiky then the others while her vivacious half‑moon orange eyes stared at the humans in front of her that she had given life to.

"Enough!" shouted Inyas.

Every human stopped dead in their tracks. They found it impossible to move or even speak while in the presence of the goddesses.

"We have slept for many of millennial..." Hyria started.

"...and awake to a world of death and destruction..." Alyesna continued.

"...as we watched you all kill each other for no reason," Yunaria finished.

"As a show of our leniency we will give you one chance at redemption. If you end up repeating your past mistakes we shall not interfere again," Inyas said.

The four goddesses used their magic to make one final creation. Together they created two sets of humans. First was a male of fair skin and black hair. Second was a female of pale skin and black hair. Third was of tan skin and brown hair. Last was a female of dark skin and brown hair.

"This is our final creation. These humans hold no magic power and thus they cannot defend themselves against all of you," Hyria said.

"If you truly hold value to your own lives then all of you shall protect these humans that are different then you," Alyesna said.

All of the magic‑users looked to each other and realized that they needed to learn to get along. Once the goddesses were finished they ascended into the sky above, never to be seen again by the humans below. Peace lasted for many years between the magic‑users and non‑magic users as people worshiped the four goddesses for bringing about harmony once again to all the people. As time went on stories were passed down from children to children until the stories were finally written down in a grand holy scripture called _Yon ‑Megami Kyouten_.

However, as time went on and generations upon generations passed, there were many questions left unanswered; many questions that needed answers. There was one question on a few people's minds that would only be answered upon their time of death...

Were the stories of the goddesses even true?

## Chapter Twenty‑Two  
A Rose Lost in Time

"Death is not to be feared. We may die here today men but we shall strike fear into the heart of our enemies!"

— General Hyatame

The sounds of hooves clattered against a poor made cobblestone road. People were quite happy going about their lives in the City of Ezorn. While the sun shined brightly down on the city the market was a buzz with chatter and the talk of many things throughout the land.

Kayame held a fine woven basket she had made herself to better help with carrying food she planned to buy. As she went from stall to stall picking out the cheapest of food she overheard a few ladies talking about the state of Sylveria.

"I heard that next year taxes would increase by one whole percent."

"My word, how do they expect people to live if they keep raising the taxes?"

"If you ask me," another lady chimed in, "the Emperor needs to do a better job."

The women continued on with their conversation as Kayame bought the last of what she needed and headed home.

* * *

As Kayame entered the house she removed her shoes at the door, as was the tradition of their family. Her husband — Zonorito Kozyki — was busy sitting at the dinning room table, a newspaper in hand. Kayame placed the basket of food on the wooden table and make her way over to the sink. Within a few minutes she had prepared some tea for her husband and placed it on the table in front of him.

Without looking up from the paper he grabbed the cup and took a slip. She could tell he was reading something interesting which was usually a bad sign. After a few minutes of read through he put the paper on the table.

"It appears that relationships between Rhyine and Mejorin are not the best they could be. I wouldn't be surprised if there were riots."

"Is that so?" Kayame asked as she sat down next to her husband.

"Things are not going well for our kingdom."

"No surprise, seeing as how taxes are starting to rise. In fact, I over heard a few ladies talking about how it would go up one whole percent."

"That isn't to surprising," Zonorito said taking a sip of his tea.

"We could always move."

Zonorito looked over to his wife and gave her a perplexing stare.

"Do you really want to deal with all of that?"

"Yes. I believe it would be for the better."

"Well, if you want to go through with it then we can move."

"I think our little boy will be happy too," Kayame said as she rubbed her stomach.

"Oh you mean that thing you keep in your fat belly?" Zonorito smiled wryly.

"Just for that comment you can do all the work."

"Yes dear..."

* * *

The City of Priserra seemed no different to them as they ate their bowl of soup. They had managed to move to their new place which was rather nicer than the other house they were in and was slightly cheaper. Just like Ezorn, Priserra was as busy — if not busier — as the city they once called home. To them it felt as if nothing had changed.

While they sat there enjoying their soup there was a sudden knock at the door. As Zonorito answered the door he was not to surprised by the man standing at his door. Part of him knew this day would come. The man was rather tall and had an eye patch over his right eye, along with a scar that could be seen. He was dressed in a bland olive‑drab colored military uniform that held many stripes and pins. Without saying a word the man handed Zonorito a letter sealed with the crest of the Emperor.

He didn't have to open the envelope as he knew exactly what this meant but none the less he opened it, revealing a faded piece of parchment folded neatly into thirds. It was as he thought.

Zonorito looked to his wife as she looked back with sadness and pain. They both knew what was coming. Before he packed up and left he kissed her passionately until it was time for him to serve his kingdom once more.

* * *

Dark clouds flew overhead as no more then thirty thousand troops lined up to face the opposition. No one wanted to do this, but there was nothing to be done. Orders were orders.

Zonorito stood there with his single‑shot rifle. Everyone that stood in line like a large wall — shoulder to shoulder — knew that the person next to them could die in this war. Across from them was an army that was possibly nearing the hundred thousands. They showed no sign of fear as they stood in rank and file with their weapons at their sides.

The sound of rain pouring down was heard as soldiers continued to stand in the large open meadow of roses as hooves echoed in the distance. Riding upon a white gallant steed was General Hyatame. His military uniform was drenched from the rain but he continued to ride down the line of soldiers, his head held high.

"Death is not to be feared," his voice rang out.

His steed continued forward until it stopped in the middle of the troops.

"We may die here today men but we shall strike fear in the heart of our enemies!"

With a pull of the reigns he faced the massive army before him. Pulling out his sword he pointed it at the enemy.

"Charge!!!"

Without a shred of fear every soldier ran forward. Zonorito ran at the astronomical crowd of troops in the distance. As they closed the distance between them shots started to ring out. The charging soldiers quickly fell limp as Zonorito watched the person next to him drop without a sound. Zonorito continued running until he was almost four hundred meters away from his target. He aimed his rifle with haste, ready to pull the trigger. One soldier was locked in his sights.

The world around him suddenly went black.

## Chapter Twenty‑Three  
The Aeonian Cycle

"War does not change over time. No matter how we spin it war is always around us, it merely takes on new forms."

— Major Lyreh Nyaruk

The sergeant had a puzzled look on his face as he looked to the young boy standing there at attention. He was no older then his own son and had the chance to do anything other then join the military. Yet, here he was...

Klryizer Kozyki, age sixteen, ready to join the Sylverian Army and serve until his dying breath. The sergeant looked over to his commanding officer, unsure of what to do.

"Are you sure you want to join the military boy?" the man asked as he blew a puff of smoke from his mouth.

"Yes sir."

"Very well."

Within that moment Klryizer joined the military and began his training. Even though he was young he did remarkably well for someone who had no prior training. Unlike his peers he even managed to claw his way up to the rank of Master Sergeant by the age of eighteen.

* * *

Klryizer laid in his bed as he stared up at the ceiling. He wanted to do more then partake in scouting and recon missions. Training new privates also bored him to the point that he contemplated if suicide would be the best way to end it.

Before he could think about any other ways to end his life there was a knock at his door. Believing it was one of his friends Klryizer did not bother to get dressed and decided to stay in his black boxer‑briefs. However, when he opened the door he was surprised to see a woman with long crimson flowing hair and red gleaming eyes. Her black tank‑top clearly exposed her bountiful breast but showed no rank or name. She wore an olive‑drab pair of cargo pants and black combat boots.

"So, you're Master Sergeant Kozyki?" she asked as she removed the cigarette from her mouth.

_Who is this girl_ , Klryizer thought as he looked over the woman standing before him. It was impossible to know who this girl was due to her lack of a name‑tag. The only things that stood out to him were the fact on her left hand she only had on a black finger‑less glove and the skull tattoo wrapped in chains on her left shoulder. Even still, this was not much to go off of.

"My name is Major Lyreh Nyaruk."

Like a fast of lightning Klryizer stood at attention and saluted.

"At ease soldier. There is no need to salute me or any of that crap," she said with a nonchalant tone.

After inhaling another bit of her cigarette she blew a cloud of white smoke in his direction.

"May I come in?"

"Yes ma'am."

Lyreh entered the room as Klryizer wondered what this woman wanted with him.

"I will get straight to the point Sergeant Kozyki. I have been watching your progress for some time and I feel you would be a great member for my squad."

"What squad would that be ma'am?"

"I swear by the goddesses if you call me ma'am one more time I will pull your cock out so hard that you have a permanent erection."

Klryizer quickly went silent.

"You may have heard rumors of elite special forces groups that are apart of the military branches, yes?"

"I have. I take it you are from one of these branches then?"

"That is correct. I am apart of the branch known as the Death Stalkers. We are the special forces of the army branch."

"Well, that is certainly a badass name."

"Indeed. Now, I won't force you to join but give it—"

"I will join you."

Lyreh had a shocked expression upon her face.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. I have waited and felt nothing but boredom as nothing interesting happens day after day. I am tired of it."

"Well, you won't be bored anymore, I can promise you that."

* * *

After getting dressed Klryizer followed Lyreh down the city streets in the mid‑day. Klryizer wasn't sure where she was taking him but it was clear that the location was far from the academy. Lyreh stopped in front of a large wooden building that seemed like nothing more then a common inn.

"This looks like an inn."

"So it would seem," Lyreh replied as she headed for the front entrance.

Standing at the doorway Klryizer noticed a young girl with orange hair and pink eyes. She was dressed in a black strapless sweater, black pants and shoes to match. While Klryizer wondered if the girl ever slept due to the bags under her eyes, it was actually nothing more then eyeliner.

"Master Sergeant Klryizer, meet First Lieutenant Celeste Degullhert."

"It is a pleasure to meet you ma'am—"

Celeste shot an angry glare at Klryizer as if to say _call me that again and I will kill you_.

"Kid, you need to stop being so formal. Death Stalkers don't need to worry about rank unless rank is necessary," Lyreh said as she entered the inn.

Celeste entered afterwards followed by Klryizer. The inn looked just like any other decently kept up inn. Polished wooden dark oak floors, and pine oak wooden walls had a fresh scent to them. Lyreh made her way up to the counter where a young woman stood in a maid outfit. Her brown hair was tied into two pigtails and her gray eyes had a warm, calm expression to them.

"Feel free to head downstairs Lyreh," the girl said with a smile.

Lyreh motioned for Klryizer to follow as he seemed a bit confused as to what was going on. They headed to the back and down a set of stairs leading into an underground cave system. This took Klryizer by surprise.

"I had no idea this inn had such a cave system under it."

"Yeah, as Death Stalkers we work better when people can't find us."

The three of them continued on through the dimly lit cave until they came to a wooden door that seemed to be in great condition. Beyond the door was a large room that appeared to be with technology that appeared completely foreign to Klryizer. Near the back was a young girl who was aiming a rifle at a paper target. With each shot of the rifle her blue pigtails bounced from the force. Klryizer was surprised by the fact the girl could fire off five shots without having to stop to reload the weapon.

"Ellie, take a break for a second."

"All right Major," she said as she placed the weapon on the gun rack beside her.

Ellie skipped merrily over to the others as Klryizer wondered just what this room was.

"I am sure you have many questions," Lyreh said as Klryizer looked around the room.

"Yeah, just one or two."

"First things first, this cheerful little pixie is Captain Ellie Iysa, our medical expert and engineer."

"Nice to met ya!" Ellie said with a cute smile.

"Likewise, I am Master Sergeant Klryizer Kozyki."

"Now, I bet the biggest question on your mind is about this room correct?"

"Well, it would be nice to know just what it is. Some of this stuff looks rather... different, to say the least."

Klryizer began to wander around the room taking note of all the new technology he had yet to ever see.

"This room holds technology that is usually ten years ahead of the times. We always need to be ahead of the times. Don't worry, you will get to used to and understand the equipment here."

"I see."

"Also you will be staying at the inn here. Your stay will be free of course, just try not to destroy the place."

"Understood."

Lyreh showed Klryizer to his new room on the third floor of the inn. It was a common room with nothing more then a soft bed and wooden table in the corner.

"I will get someone to move your stuff here. For now, you should sleep. In five hours we will be training."

Without another word Lyreh left as Klryizer stood in the destitute room.

* * *

Twilight fell upon the City of Priserra as Klryizer awoke from his dream. He was a bit tired but knew he had to be ready for his first day of training as a Death Stalker. Before he could get dressed there was a knock at the door.

Lyreh stood at the door dressed in a black outfit that looked odd to him. _Just what kind of outfit is she wearing_ , he thought as he looked over her whole body. In her hands was the same uniform she was wearing.

"Here. Put this on."

Without another word Lyreh closed the door behind her. Klryizer laid out the uniform on his bed piece by piece. All of the pieces of the uniform were as black as the night sky. The only spec of color was a white skull on the left shoulder of the dress jacket. _Black shirt, black jacket, black cargo pants. These guys really love their black_ , Klryizer thought as he put on the uniform. Once he had the whole uniform on he made his way out the door.

"Not bad kid, you look scary."

"Thank you ma'am."

Lyreh sighed heavily.

"I thought I told you to stop calling me ma'am."

"S‑Sorry. What should I call you then?"

"You can just call me Major," she said as she pulled the hood of her jacket over her head.

The two of them headed down to the Death Stalker lair and down a long — almost never ending — tunnel until they came to a ladder that led up. How far up, Klryizer was uncertain. As the two of them climbed up the ladder that appeared to go on forever they came to a wooden trapdoor. Upon opening the trapdoor Klryizer was able to see the moonlight beam down onto the ruins around him.

Standing against the ruined wall of what used to be a house Celeste and Ellie looked as if they had been waiting for some time. They were both dressed in the same uniform as him and Lyreh. Both of them held in their hands a black rifle with a one hundred forty‑six millimeter pipe attached to the end of the barrel.

"Welcome to the Death Stalker's training grounds."

* * *

Klryizer looked up to the stars and thought about how far he had come. A whole year had passed and he had managed to go on many _black operations_ as they were called. _Lyreh was right, it is never boring as a Death Stalker_ , Klryizer thought. As Klryizer laid back in the soft meadow he was startled by Ellie looming over him. Ellie giggled as he quickly stood to his feet.

"The Major wants to see us. She said it was urgent."

With haste the two of them headed into the Death Stalker's base of operations where Lyreh and Celeste were waiting. In front of them was a blueprint of a building that seemed familiar to Klryizer.

"All right, looks like everyone is here. Lets begin," Lyreh said as she blew a puff of smoke.

Klryizer and Ellie gathered around the table and looked over the map in front of them.

"Terrorist have held up in a library here in Priserra. We believe they are holding several hostages, however, their motive is unknown."

"Do we know how many terrorist there are?" Celeste asked.

"From what the police could tell there could be as many as six."

"And the hostages?" Ellie added.

"We are unsure but our guess is three or four. There is one confirmed death however."

"Rules of Engagement?" Klryizer asked as he looked over the map, memorizing everything on it.

"Terrorist are to be killed on‑site."

Without another word the team geared up in their trademark BDU and readied their weapons. As they pulled up their hoods they headed through the cave until they came up to the inn. Unlike a normal soldier the Death Stalkers used the roof tops of houses to make their way to the large library.

The four of them stood on top of a nearby rooftop as they looked to the library a few meters out. Police surrounded the building on all sides, their single‑shot rifles aimed at the building. People gathered at the ends of street as other police officers tried to keep the crowd at bay.

"How do you suppose we enter the building Major?" Klryizer asked.

"We can enter through the roof hatch just there," Lyreh said pointing to the small building with a door on top of the roof.

"It looks like we will need to head through that tall building next to the library to gain access to the roof," Ellie said.

"Right, lets go then," Lyreh said as she headed down a flight of stairs.

* * *

Klryizer was the last to silently land on the roof of the library. The team quickly spread out as they held their weapons at the ready — aimed at the door ahead of them. With the sun beaming down it was obvious that the Death Stalkers were out of their element, still, this was nothing more then training to them.

Lyreh quickly gestured with a few hand signals for everyone to converge on the door. Moving with speed and haste they made their way to the sides of the door and waited for Lyreh's orders. Ellie placed her hand on the door handle and slowly tried to open it. After a few seconds passed she waved her hand. Klryizer and the others knew from the signal that the door was locked. Ellie — being an engineer — pulled out a device used to pick locks. Within a few seconds she had the door unlocked and opened. Rushing in with her weapon at the ready Lyreh made her way down the small stairwell as the others followed behind her. Everyone moved silently like a mouse down the stairs — their weapons at a low‑ready position — until they came to a small room with a door. Klryizer knew they were on the third floor now and recalled how the door opened up to a large room.

Lyreh looked to her team. Her left hand moved quickly, yet her team knew exactly what she was saying. _Spread out and clear the floor; move on to the next floor only when everyone is ready_. To an outsider these odd waves of the hand looked like nothing but to the Death Stalkers it was like a secret code or language they could speak in. Once she was finished Lyreh ordered everyone at the ready.

Three... two... one...

Within a fraction of a second Lyreh opened the door to the main room and rushed in, covering the front. Ellie stormed in from the right side as Celeste crossed over to the opposite side. All three of them covered their arcs of fire as Klryizer followed soon after providing covering fire if the team needed it. Lyreh signaled for everyone to move out and clear the area. Each of them stalked down the bookshelf aisles with their weapons at the ready. If any terrorist were here it would be to late for them to know what happened.

Once they had cleared all the aisles everyone moved down the second story stairwell, quickly but quietly. They repeated the same tactic as they had before once they got to the second floor. Klryizer stalked one of the aisles as he held his rifle at the ready. No target. At the end of aisle he made a sharp turn and headed down the one juxtaposed to it. One terrorist came into his field of view. Like a bolt of lightning he squeezed off one round into the head of the unsuspecting man. The gun made almost no sound as the bullet pieced through the man's skull and dropped him to the hard tiled floor. Without stopping Klryizer continued on, walking over the man's body as if nothing was there.

Two more bodies hit the ground with a subtle thud. _So, three terrorist on this floor_ , Klryizer thought as he continued to clear the rest of the aisles. _That means there should be three left_. Celeste stood at the stairwell leading down to the first floor, covering it in case anyone made their way up it. Once the floor was clear everyone converged on Celeste's location. Before the others could regroup Celeste noticed a shadow heading up the spiral stairs just below her. As the figure came into view she noticed it was a young woman. Even though she wore a mask over her face it was clear by her body that she was to slender to be a man. Before the girl could react Celeste fired off one round into the girl's head. Her body quickly fell limp onto the hard stairs, however, her ragged body started to tumble down the stairs creating a loud and obvious noise.

Lyreh ordered everyone to get down the stairs immediately. With extreme haste everyone rushed down the stairs just as the door to the first floor was being opened. Ellie fired off two bullets into the man's heart as the squad continued into the room. They aimed their weapons on the final terrorist who was smart enough to use one of the hostages as a human shield.

The first floor of the library was a large open space. There were no aisles and the only notable object was a wooden desk off to the side were the librarian would sit. Three hostages sat against the walls with their wrist and ankles bound with tape. Most of the girls appeared to be young, possibly in their early to mid‑twenties. What was odd to Klryizer was the fact that each of the girls didn't have any shoes on and their pants were pulled down to their ankles.

The final terrorist held his pistol against the young girl's head. Everyone trained their weapons on man, hoping for a clear shot. Even if they were Death Stalkers of an elite special forces they too had to follow the _Military Code of Laws_.

"It's over. Turn yourself over to the police and end this game," Lyreh demanded.

The man laughed as the young girl started to pee on herself due to the fear. Within a split second the man fired off a shot that hit Ellie. Klryizer had but a fraction of a second to react. One squeeze of the trigger forced the bullet on a path into the man's hand forcing him to not only release the hostage but also drop the gun. As the young girl fell out of the way Celeste and Lyreh fired off only one round each. Neither of the shots were heard as the man dropped to floor like a log.

"Klry, release the hostages."

"Roger."

Klryizer pulled out his dagger and freed each of the hostages as quickly as he could.

"T‑Thank you," said one of the girls.

"No problem. Get out of here, okay," Klryizer said as he sheathed his dagger.

Lyreh and Klryizer gathered around the body of their fallen friend and teammate as Celeste held her in her arms. No one said a word as she cried in Ellie's lifeless chest. Water magic could heal cuts and numb some pain but not even water magic would be able to bring back a person that took a bullet to the head. This was the first time Klryizer had watched a friend of his die in front of him.

* * *

As he laid their in his bed Klryizer wondered if he could have saved Ellie that day. It had been one month since he had lost his friend. The thoughts continued to eat away at him as he laid their in nothing but his boxers, drinking the strongest beer he could get his hands on. _There had to be something I could have done_ , he thought.

Before he could drink himself to death there was a knock at his door. He didn't have to open the door to know who it was but he did anyways.

"Klry, do you ever wear pants?"

"Do you ever stop smoking?"

"Fair enough. To get straight to the point, you did all you could so let it go. Ellie would not want you to do this to yourself."

"You're right Major... its just hard..."

"I hope you don't mean the thing between your legs."

Silence...

"I guess your not in the mood for jokes."

"No, now what do you want Major?"

"Come down to the cave."

"I would rather stay in bed."

"That wasn't a request," Lyreh said with glaring eyes.

"Yes ma'am."

Lyreh glared an evil glare but decided to let it go as she headed for the stairs. Klryizer proceeded to get dress and made his way down to the cave system under the inn. Upon entering the room where her first met Ellie he was surprised to see a young girl with her blue tied into pigtails like Ellie, however, her eyes were not like hers. The girl that stood before him had forest green eyes and dressed in a light blue military suit.

"Klry, allow me to introduce you to Captain Alysha Tokimiku. She was a medic for the Seamen Guard. Captain Tokimiku this is Second Lieutenant Klryizer Kozyki."

"Wait Major, you can't just promote me on a whim."

"I can, I did, so take it and shut up," Lyreh said with a smile.

Klryizer waved his hand as if to say _fine, fine_. Alysha simply smiled that the two of them with their banter.

"Anyways, starting today she will be the medic on our squad."

* * *

A few days had passed as Klryizer ate his meal alone. He was in his boxers as always eating a plain sandwich like most of his days. Before he could finish his second sandwich there was a knock at his door. _What does the Major want now_ , Klryizer thought as he got up from the wooden chair.

"What do you want now Maj—"

Before he could finish his sentence he stopped as he realized that the person at his door was not Lyreh.

"Oh, Alysha, what brings you by?"

Alysha had a shocked look on her face as she stared at him. Klryizer suddenly realized he was in his underwear in front of a girl that wasn't Lyreh.

"Sorry about that. I am just used to being... well, like this. I can put on some pants."

"No, it's fine. I was just taken by surprise," she said slightly blushing.

"Feel free to come in," he said opening the door.

"Thank you."

Alysha made her way inside as Klryizer closed the door behind her. She removed her shoes by the door and placed a bag she had been holding in her hands for some time on the wooden table.

"I came by to offer you some food," she said with a bewitching smile.

"That was nice of you, but I was just about to finish this sandwich and then go train out in the field a bit."

"Even though its our day off?"

"It is important to stay in shape."

"I understand. It is a shame that I have to let all this food I made go to waste."

"Wait, you made all of it?"

"Of course. Don't you make your own food?"

"Nope, I just buy whatever is cheap at the store and be done with it."

Alysha couldn't help but giggle a bit.

"You men would be hopeless without us women, huh," she said with a wink.

"What do you mean?"

"Nothing. Why don't you sit and eat. We have a lot of food to eat up."

"Right."

The two of them ate the food in silence for some time. Klryizer was beguiled by the food that Alysha had prepared that he could not help but stuff his face. Alysha seemed to enjoy the scene of him eating until his stomach was full. He soon headed over to his bed and laid on his back, unable to hardly move.

"That was too good."

"And I didn't even have to remove my clothes," Alysha giggled.

Klryizer could not help but laugh at the horrible joke as he held his stomach that looked as if it was about to pop. Alysha sat down beside him.

"I need to go and run for fifteen kilometers."

"As a doctor I might be able to help you."

"Do whatever you like but I need to be up and out there in thirty minutes."

Alysha gently placed her hand on his stomach and slowly began to rub it gently. Klryizer found himself closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep within a short span of five minutes. A few hours passed until it was nearing nightfall. Klryizer awoke from his sleep taking note that Alysha was still there.

"I guess that training will have to wait," Alysha said with a smile.

"I take it I slept longer then I had planned?"

"Just a bit. You also seemed to be under a lot of stress."

"What makes you say that?"

"Well, considering I could see your boner through your boxers and the stuff that came out. No pun intended there."

"That's embarrassing..."

"If it was someone else, yeah, probably, but I am a doctor so I have seen many things, trust me."

Klryizer stood up from the bed and stretched a bit. He knew he would have to make up for all his missed training.

"Meet me outside on the training grounds in twenty minutes," Alysha said with a smile as she left.

Klryizer grabbed his military dress uniform and headed for the showers to get clean. As the warm water fell onto his body he wondered about Alysha and what she meant by her comment. Was he really stressed over what had happened to Ellie? After a few minutes of soaking in the shower he dried himself off and proceeded to get dressed. Without any further delay Klryizer headed out to the training field. He noticed that the moon was up and it was nearing 2200 hours according to his watch. _I should have used that alarm feature on this thing to wake up on time_ , Klryizer thought as he walked down the street.

Alysha stood there out in the open meadow of the training field as she looked up to the night sky.

"I hope you didn't wait long," Klryizer said walking up to her.

"Not to long," Alysha said turning to Klryizer with a smile.

"All right well, lets start."

Alysha giggled like a school girl.

"What is it?"

"You just seem so serious about training. Its cute."

Klryizer scratched the back of his head, slightly embarrassed by the comment. Without another word the two of them began to do push‑ups and sit‑ups managing to do two hundred of each in less than three minutes. Klryizer showed off by doing his push‑ups with one hand switching to the other between one hundred sets.

Once the two of them were finished they both lined up, ready to run for twenty kilometers.

"Twenty kilometers here and back, winner has to buy drinks," Alysha says getting ready to run.

"All right. Three... two... one—"

Before Klryizer could say go Alysha ran ahead.

"Hey, that's cheating!"

"Hehe, I guess you have to catch me then."

The two of them ran for twenty kilometers and turned back the same direction they had came. _Hard to believe this girl can ran faster then me even though we are the same age_ , Klryizer thought as he continued to fall behind her. Alysha chest jiggled with each stride she took. It was clear to Klryizer that he would have to use his magic to cheat. Without another thought he quickly gathered his magic and used it to dash closer and closer to Alysha.

Alysha was close to the finish line from where their race had started as Klryizer slowly closed the gap between them. Before she crossed the finish line Alysha turned around which threw off Klryizer. So much so that he slammed into Alysha with a strong force. The two of them tumbled against the grass until they finally came to a stop. He was on top of her; she was underneath him.

"It looks like we both crossed the finish line," Alysha giggled.

"It would seem so. I wonder who buys the drinks."

She smiled as his face inched closer to hers.

"Maybe you could buy two drinks and I could stay in your room for a night."

"I think I would like that."

Klryizer's lips pressed against hers. He felt a spark of love between, as did she.

"Something big is poking my leg," Alysha said as she looked at what was poking her.

"That's just my penis."

She couldn't help but laugh at his direct comment.

"So it is. I don't do blow jobs on a first date."

"I didn't ask you to," Klryizer said as he kissed her again.

* * *

The sun beamed down on the coastal beach due North some kilometers out. Klryizer sat there in nothing more then a pair of camo‑patterned cargo shorts. Alysha sat beside him in a jaded green swimsuit that looked more like a dress, her boots and socks removed as she dug her toes into the sand.

It had been close to two month since they had started dating and both of them were quite happy with each others companionship.

"Hey babe, where do you see yourself in the future?" Alysha asked looking to Klryizer.

"I never think about the future all that much."

"Do you think we should get married one day?"

Klryizer smiled as he kissed her forehead.

"I would love to. We could have a kid, most likely a son."

Alysha smiled as she grabbed him by the wrist and pinned him down against the sand. She straddled his hips and kissed his lips while he returned the tender kiss with a gentle bite.

"I would love to have many kids but if we only had one, it would have to be a girl."

"Well, you are beautiful. I guess a daughter will be fine," Klryizer said with a smile.

"Babe... your poking me again."

"You started it."

"At least my clothes are covering it up. One day I am going to give you an injection to control those erections," she said with a wink.

"Or you could just touch it."

"You would like that, wouldn't you?"

"I would like for you to kiss me."

Without another word Alysha kissed his lips gently. After a few months had passed the two of them got married and shared one room at the inn together.

* * *

The new year sun greeted Klryizer as he laid there in his bed. Alysha laid there next to him in nothing but a pink pair of underwear. Klryizer looked over to the girl in his bed who has now his wife and pregnant with their daughter. She was given an honorable discharge from the military while Klryizer had been allowed a few months off with pay.

As Klryizer slowly played with Alysha's hair she opened her eyes to see her husband smiling at her. With a soft smile she laid her head on his chest as he continued to play with her hair.

"Do you have to leave tomorrow?"

"Yeah, you know how the military is."

She slowly ran her hand down his stomach as she smiled wryly.

"Where are you exploring?"

"Oh, just seeing what is downtown," she said with a wink.

Alysha slowly removed her bra revealing her voluptuous breast as she straddled his hips.

"I'll be right back," she said pulling the covers over his lower half.

After a few seconds she giggled in a cute giddy tone.

"Oh my, it looks like you are standing at attention for me."

"Well, you are half‑naked."

Suddenly, Klryizer could feel Alysha removing his boxers as her finger traced the most sensitive area on his body.

"You know, if the gun starts firing there will be splash damage."

"I don't mind a bit of friendly fire. Just be sure to finish the job."

"If you keep that up I will."

## Chapter Twenty‑Four  
The Tragedy at the Rhyine

"Two users of magic beyond the four elements will be the start of a new world... it will also be the end of my life."

— Adam Veltress

Another day passed as Klryizer stared at the photo on his dresser. He missed her more then he lead on but like a soldier he hid the pain and buried it deep inside. It had been eleven years since she had died after giving birth to their daughter. The only happiness he felt was when he would look at his daughter's smiling face. However, in reality he knew that the kingdom was on the verge of a civil war and it was only a matter of time before there would be a line dividing them between the East front and West front.

Klryizer was growing a bit older in his age. His hair had grown out to a medium length along with a five o' clock shadow that required him to shave at least twice a week. The black tee‑shirt that he wore showed many more wrinkles then it had before, mainly thanks to his wife's ability to be a good wife. She took care of him when he would forget to take care of himself. In a way, she was his goddess, always watching over him.

As he continued to stare at the picture in a quiescent state the sound of his daughter's voice soon jarred him from his thoughts.

"Daddy! Daddy! I learned to do magic," she said with a cheerful smile.

Aryia looked very much like her dad. Long forest green hair and emerald colored eyes were clear signs that she would be a wind magic‑user, if only in due time. She bared no trace of her mother's side, not in magic or in looks. It was possible — in time — she would forget her own mother without having a connection with her. Klryizer gently stroked his daughter's hair and smiled.

"That's great."

Klryizer continued to pack his bags for the black operation that was said to take place in a few hours. The Death Stalkers had been called in to quell a riot in the City of Rhyine although to him it was more like massacre. He didn't like the idea of killing his own people but when he looked at his daughter he knew it was for her safety. Without his daughter he would be nothing, and he was well aware of that.

Once he had packed everything he needed — including his Death Stalker BDU and weapons — he threw his backpack over his shoulder. Like a good father he picked up his daughter and planted a kiss on her forehead as he carried her downstairs.

"Remember Aryia be a good girl and be nice to Priscilla."

"Okay daddy."

After making his way downstairs and into the lobby he looked to Priscilla — who had the longest name in all of Sylveria.

"Sorry to ask you to look after my daughter like this again Priscilla."

"Its fine Klry. Marilyn loves playing with her," she said with a smile.

"I am glad she has a close friend that is her age," Klryizer said as he put his daughter down.

"Daddy when you go on your trip can I get a present if I am really really good?"

Klryizer hated the thought of lying to his daughter but there was no way around it. He was under orders not to speak of it to anyone but the people involved. With a smile he bent down to eye level with Aryia.

"Sure sweetie. You have to be good, promise?"

"Promise!"

Klryizer made his way out the door where a cargo truck was waiting to pick him up. Without any further delay he got on the back of the truck. The truck was rather long in length and had a large dull green cloth drawn over the back of the bed. This was to hide the Death Stalkers as they drove through the city. In the back of the truck was Major Lyreh and First Lieutenant Celeste.

Time had clearly not been nice to Lyreh as her forty‑seven year old body looked the worse for wear. Celeste was fairing a bit better as she was pushing into the late thirties. Klryizer sat across from Lyreh but did not say a word. No one did as the truck started up with a loud roar and headed for its destination. Everyone there knew why they were here but no one wanted to face it.

"Right, lets go over what our mission is. There are increasing riots in the City of Rhyine and we have been called in to stop them. We will be working with the army so check your targets and no friendly fire."

Silence...

"As you know... kill on‑site. Emperor's orders."

The words echoed throughout Klryizer's head. No one wanted to do this but what could they do? Refusing to obey an order from the Emperor was grounds for treason. With the sound of the cargo truck heading down a bumpy dirt road Lyreh looked to Klryizer and Celeste. She knew they didn't want to do this but would do their duty until their last breath.

"If there are no questions then gear up."

The three of them got changed into their Death Stalker BDUs and loaded their rifles. As the truck continued on twilight fell below the horizon, the perfect time for Death Stalkers. Klryizer readied himself mentally for what he had to do. Even Lyreh had to prepare herself.

"Right, lets get this over with," Lyreh said as the truck came to a halt.

All of them disembarked from the truck as they pulled up their hoods. With a simple hand signal Lyreh ordered them to move out and clear the city. As they entered the city a loud explosion was heard off in the distance, followed by another one. The army was testing a new piece of equipment they had acquired from the Death Stalkers. It was a new weapon that allowed grenades to be propelled into the sky and hit the enemy. It was called a mortar that Klryizer had named himself. Looking back, however, he questioned why he had named it that in the first place.

As the explosions continued followed by gunshots, people started to flee their homes in terror and fear. Klryizer swept an alleyway with his weapon at the ready; his finger resting lightly on the trigger. Suddenly, two people dashed in front of his line of sight. Without a second thought he squeezed the trigger twice, nailing both civilians in the head. They dropped to the ground like rocks. Klryizer didn't even stop to look at the two people he had killed. There was no time to drown himself in sorrow, that would come later.

Crossing over into another street Klryizer met up with Celeste. With a signal of her hand she told Klryizer to cover the right side of the street. He nodded as he held his rifle at the ready. The two of them stalked down the street as if they were one person. Anyone that came into their field of view dropped like a moth to a flame. As the two of them turned the corner into an alleyway Celeste trained her sights down the left half of it as Klryizer watched the right.

The two of them moved to the end of the alleyway with their weapons at the ready. As they came to the end of the alley Klryizer looked to the right while Celeste covered the left.

"Four targets, left side," Celeste called out.

Klryizer quickly turned one hundred eighty degrees on the ball of his foot, lining up next to Celeste as she fired off two shots at the adults that crossed into her fire arc. Like before Klryizer squeezed the trigger but found himself stopping before the bullet could fire. In front of him were two kids that had to be around his daughter's age. Klryizer had killed many people in his life, however, killing children was something he could not bring himself to do.

"The other two are kids..."

Klryizer began to lower his guard as Celeste watched him out the corner of her eye.

"Shoot everyone on sight—"

Before she could finish her sentence Celeste found herself encased in a coffin made of solid rock. Without a fraction of a second she was crushed alive as her body no longer drew breath.

"Celeste!"

Just like her friend and comrade Klryizer soon found himself in a coffin of dirt and rock. Suffocation was a painful way to die but he was proud that he could at least think of his daughter with his last breath of life.

Darkness soon overtook him.

## Chapter Twenty‑Five  
Daddy's Girl

"I miss him... but still..."

— Aryia Kozyki

One day had passed since the tragedy at the Rhyine. Lyreh had been the only one to survive. Part of her wish she had died with her team, yet, part of her was glad to be alive. Still, this didn't change what she had to do. The most painful part of being a soldier was living and being forced to tell the family of the deceased person that they were dead. This made it even harder for her as she not only had to deal with Celeste and her family but she had to tell an eleven‑year‑old girl that her father was dead.

Lyreh stopped in front of the inn where Aryia would be waiting happily for her father to return and give her a hug. Maybe tell her that he loved her...

The more she thought about it the more she hated herself for living. She knew that after this if she wasn't dead the astronomical consumption of beer sure would. As Lyreh entered the inn Priscilla stood at the counter with a smile on her face. After seeing the look on Lyreh's face her smile slowly faded.

"I... have some bad news..."

The room was quiet for a second.

"He's not coming back, is he?"

Lyreh didn't speak. What could she say? Before she could say anything else the sound of small bare feet running down the wooden staircase of the inn could be heard. Aryia and Mari ran down as fast as they could in their sleeping clothes which looked more like a white frilly dress. It was the smile on Aryia's face that made Lyreh wish she had died instead of Klryizer.

"Is daddy back?"

The question forced Lyreh to look away. If her heart was going to physically break that was the question that would do it. The room was as silent as a mouse.

"What happened to daddy?"

Before the girl could speak again Lyreh bent down to one knee and placed her hand on Aryia's head. This news would shatter her heart but she needed to know. Not knowing was one of the worse things someone could go through.

"I am sorry but your father didn't make it."

"What do you mean?"

"Aryia... he isn't coming back. He is dead."

Those words slowly burned themselves into Aryia's brain. Mari felt bad for her friend, even if she didn't fully understand the concept of death she did know what it was like to lose her father. Without another word Lyreh got up and made her way out the door. She knew she would need a lot of beer and cigarettes for the days to come.

Tears flowed from Aryia's eyes as Mari wrapped her arms around her, embracing her gently. She buried her face into her chest as her cried echoed throughout the empty inn.

* * *

One year had passed since Aryia lost her father. She continued to hone her wind magic to the best of her abilities outside the city by practicing on a lone tree in the woods. Day and night Aryia practiced, hoping her magic would be strong enough to destroy the person that took her father. Aryia held out her hand and tried to focus her magic on the tree. A small cone of wind shot out from Aryia's hand heading for the tree in front of her. The tree didn't budge even a millimeter.

"Why can't I cut this stupid tree down," Aryia said aloud.

Unbeknownst to her, a young girl heard her from the dirt road at which she was traveling. She had traveled a good distance from the City of Gernod and was heading due West from Priserra. The girl was nearing her late twenties and had traveled a lot by the deterioration on her clothes. Her long leather brown boots were stained with dirt while her brown shorts — that were far to short to be considered whole‑sum — showed signs of weakening at the seams. The forest green tunic she wore had small rips around her chest mostly due to the growth of her once flat anvil shaped chest. Now her chest was a bouncing bubble of pillows, soft yet firm. She wore a brown cloak with a hood that appeared to only stop around her stomach. Surprisingly, it was the only bit of clothing on her that was still in perfect condition. As she walked she used the wooden staff in her left hand as a walking stick.

The girl noticed Aryia from the road and watched as she tried to use her wind magic to attack the tree ahead of her. This reminded her of the first time she tried to learn her magic. Aryia continued to use her magic to attack the tree, however, every time she failed to cut it down or move it.

"You seem to be having trouble," the girl said as she placed her hand on Aryia's shoulder.

Aryia was slightly startled by the girl as she turned to face her.

"Yeah, I keep trying to cut down the tree but my magic isn't strong enough."

As the girl removed her hood Aryia was able to see the girl's face. She had medium length forest green hair with two black ribbons tied at the ends of two long strands of hair. Her jade green eyes looked at the little girl before her.

"Why do you wish to harm the tree with your magic?"

"I want to join the Sylverian Army and fight our enemies."

The girl bent down until her eyes were level with Aryia's.

"You wish to avenge someone, yes?"

Aryia nodded.

"Revenge can be a horrible path to walk down. If you plan to kill then you should be ready to die as well."

"Well, I..."

Aryia was unsure of what to say to that. In a way, the girl was right.

"Our wind magic was not given to us by the goddesses to harm but to protect. We aren't meant to kill."

The girl held out her hand at the tree. Like lightning striking the ground her magic cut through the tree like a blade cutting an apple. Within seconds the tree fell over onto the ground. Aryia stood there, amazed by what the girl did.

"Could you teach me to better use my magic like that?"

"I could but no. You lack the mind to be responsible for your own actions."

"What if I promise not to harm anyone with my magic?"

"Do you take me for a fool little one?"

"Please... I am begging you. I want my magic to get better."

Aryia fell to her knees, lowering her head as she begged. Tears began to form around her eyes. It was clear to the girl that Aryia was trying to hold them back. The girl sighed as she wondered if she was going to regret what she was about to say.

"Fine, however, if I teach you then there are conditions. First, you will not harm others. Second, you shall do everything I say without question. Third..."

The girl was cheerful as she spoke.

"Find me a cheap inn to stay at."

Aryia sprung up with a large smile on her face. She was overcome with joy.

"I know the perfect place."

* * *

Aryia stood there with a smile on her face as the girl looked surprised and shocked. The Sleepy Inn was the cheapest inn in the City of Priserra compared to the other inns. While the girl did tell Aryia to find a cheap inn she did not figure the inn would look the way it did.

"You know... when I said find me a cheap inn... I meant one that was... well, nicer then this..."

"Well, you said it had to be cheap because you are poor. This is the cheapest inn in the whole city."

The two of them entered into the building and were greeted by the soft and adorable smile of Priscilla who was busy cleaning up plates from the table. The girl was quite shocked by the inside of the place and by the fact the owner was dressed in a maid outfit.

"Welcome to the Sleepy Inn. The most hollow inn in all of Priserra."

_If that is their slogan then that is horrible_ , the girl thought. Aryia ran to Priserra as happy as she could be.

"Auntie Priscilla, this lady is going to teach me how to use my magic!"

Priscilla looked over to the woman, taking note of her worn out clothes.

"I see. I guess you better go upstairs with Mari and eat so you can have the strength to train," Priscilla said with a smile and wink.

"Right!"

Aryia ran up the wooden stairs with the happiest expression she could have on her face. She would finally learn how to use her magic. Stopping mid‑way at the stairs Aryia turned back to the girl.

"I will see you later then."

The girl simply smiled and then turned to Priserra.

"So, you plan to teach that girl about her magic?"

"Well, she kind of begged me," the girl said, scratching the back of her head.

"I had hoped to keep that girl out of trouble but she seems determined as ever to ignore my advice."

"She appeared to have someone on her mind."

Priscilla was quiet for a second.

"When she lost her father she believed she had to fight the Versyian Republic. She had done nothing but train outside the walls of the city everyday since then."

"Losing a parent can be hard."

"Losing both is harder..."

"Oh... I see. I apologize."

Priscilla shook her head as if to say _no reason to worry about it now_.

"Anyways, you are looking for a cheap room, right?"

"Yes. I don't plan to stay long. There is a place I am traveling to."

"I see. Well, a room for one night here is usually two hundred Yukaris."

"T‑Two hundred Yukaris?"

The girl pulled out her coin pouch only to note that she only had one hundred fifty Yukaris. Priscilla could tell by the girl's face that she didn't have the Yukaris to spare.

"Maybe since you're training Aryia I could knock off a few Yukaris. I am also pretty understaffed around the evening hour. I could always use an extra pair of hands. Perhaps, that would cover giving you free food and drink. That would bring your total to say... ten Yukaris for a week," Priscilla said with a wink.

"You are a saint," the girl said looking as if she was about to cry.

Without warning the girl hugged Priscilla and thanked her over and over again. Priscilla simply smiled and asked her to write her name down in a brown leather bound book with vellum pages. After the girl wrote down her name Priscilla looked at the book taking note of how hard it was to pronounce the woman's name.

"How do you pronounce your name Miss?"

"Zhan‑Ming."

## Chapter Twenty‑Six  
The Whispers of the Wind

"Wind is not for attacking like fire, healing like water or enduring like earth. It embodies the harmony of peace and calm tranquility. Train the mind to respect that which is life and the magic that flows within shall be bountiful."

— Zhan‑Ming

Aryia stood there in the open meadow as the sun beamed down. Zhan‑Ming sat down with her legs crossed, barefoot on the grass as a gentle breeze blew from the North. It was quite peaceful, calm, tranquil until Aryia spoke.

"So, what are you going to teach me first?"

Anticipation was clear in her voice. She wanted to begin learning as soon as possible.

"First, remove your shoes," Zhan‑Ming said closing her eyes.

She seemed slightly confused by her words.

"Why? Do you like feet or something?"

Zhan‑Ming quickly opened her eyes, her face as red as a cherry.

"What?! No, its for training. We start with mediation."

Zhan‑Ming closed her eyes again as Aryia removed her shoes. She sat down in front of her with her legs crossed and closed her eyes as well.

"Unlike the other elements, wind magic is linked to the soles of our feet."

"I still think you just wanted to see my feet," Aryia said with a grin.

"Do you want me to teach you how to use your magic or not?" she asked as she shot Aryia a half‑moon glare.

"Sorry, sorry."

Both of them closed their eyes once more and sat their as still as a tree.

"Now, relax your body and feel the magic rush through your feet and up your whole body."

Aryia sat their trying to relax and let the magic flow within her. Ten minutes had passed as she waited — nothing.

"Is it supposed to take this long?"

"You have to be patient."

Another ten minutes passed.

"Do you feel the energy flowing within?"

"I feel like I have to pee."

Zhan‑Ming opened her eyes. She had many pupils before, almost all of them were good or at least decently behaved, however, this girl was already starting to annoy her. She glared at Aryia.

"Then go pee behind those trees," she said pointing to some off in the distance.

"But what if someone sees?"

"We are outside of the city. I highly doubt anyone would be able to see."

Aryia stood up from her sitting lotus position and brushed off the grass on her hind legs.

"Okay, but no sniffing my shoes while I am away," Aryia said with a teasing smile.

"I already told you—"

Before Zhan‑Ming could finish her sentence Aryia ran off to the nearby forest to ameliorate her bladder.

* * *

A few days passed as Zhan‑Ming taught Aryia everything she knew. It was surprising to her that this little girl was learning everything at a rapid pace. She knew that one day Aryia would surpass her if she continued to train. Over the course of a few days Aryia's magic had gotten better. She was now able to conjure a strong wind from her hands and could even shoot wind from her feet. Zhan‑Ming looked over to Aryia as she continued to practice. _This girl is unique_ , Zhan‑Ming thought. _She might not listen well but she is innovative and thinks outside the box_.

"Seeing as how this is our last day training together how about you show me what you have learned," Zhan‑Ming said with a smile.

Aryia nodded as the two of them faced each other. She readied herself for combat as Zhan‑Ming stood there with her hands behind her back. She rushed forward like a bullet hoping to get the first blow on her teacher. Zhan‑Ming appeared unimpressed as she dodged Aryia's attack without any effort.

"Rushing in to attack your opponent blindly leads to tiring yourself out."

Aryia tried again, hoping this time yjr attack would connect. Zhan‑Ming ducked as Aryia's arm flew over Zhan‑Ming's head. Like a flash of lightning she grabbed Aryia's wrist and flipped her over her shoulder as if it was nothing. Aryia hit the soft grass with a thud as she looked up to her teacher.

"Try again."

## Chapter Twenty‑Seven  
Her First Time in the Army

"I have seen many recruits join only to drop out. Life in the military is not easy, thus is the life of a soldier."

— Sergeant Veldain Vain De'furlo

The Priserra Academy was one of the best known military schools in the capital for training students to join the Sylverian Army — or for any other branch of the military. Students that got into the academy were trained to fight in the army and although they were considered students, they could still be called on to fight in the war if they were drafted.

Aryia stood in front of the Recruitment Building, now sixteen years of age and ready to join the Sylverian Army. The building looked quite new despite its age. It had hardly appeared as if the red bricks had even aged ten years. Upon entering the building Aryia was impressed by just how impeccable the building was. There was no dirt to speak of, white walls as pure as snow; gold tile flooring free of even a speck of grime or crack. Even the military personnel that walked by had uniforms that were free of wrinkles and shoes that shined with a sparkle. Part of her started to feel embarrassed due to her lack of formal attire. Aryia had decided to wear a simple green shirt with a white hooded jacket over it. Her green pleated skirt showed plenty of wrinkles due to carelessly throwing them on the floor. While her black knee‑high socks managed to look neat and form fitting her gray‑toned sneakers had seen better days — in fact, the bottom of one had one‑fourth of its sole missing.

The true test was still to come. As Aryia walked up to one of the desk in the main lobby she was greeted by a rather shy but cute girl. She appeared to be in her early twenties. Her long black hair was a bit curly and tied in a ponytail while her dark brown eyes gave her a warm, inviting look.

"C‑Can I help you?" the girl said in a timid voice.

She was dressed in a white undershirt with a business suit over it that was a beige‑tan like color. Complete with a matching miniskirt, tan shear nylons, and dark black heels.

"I am here to join the Sylverian Army."

"O‑Okay, you will have to complete two years of study at the Priserra Academy before you can officially join the army, however, you may be called on to serve in dire times, is that okay?"

"Yes ma'am."

The girl at the desk blushed slightly from being called ma'am. She pulled out a form at had various boxes and lines on it.

"Fill out this form and take it to the recruitment room down the hall there. Number F6," the girl said as she handed the form to Aryia.

Aryia looked over the paper as she filled in everything that was needed. Once she was done she headed for the room that the girl had told her to go to. Seeing that the door was closed Aryia decided to knock once. She was met with the voice of a woman telling her to enter.

As she opened the door Aryia noticed the room was quite small then what she thought it would be. Near the back of the wall and sitting behind a wooden oak desk were two women dressed in cleanly pressed military uniforms. One looked quite old for her age — possibly nearing her fifties or so — while the other appeared to be in her mid‑twenties.

The older looking woman held a cigarette in her mouth as smoke flared up from the end of the tip. She stared intensely at Aryia as she made her her way over to the center of the room. Aryia handed her form to the older looking lady as she looked it over within a quick second before handing it to the younger lady beside her.

"Kozyki, Aryia. You're sixteen and you wish to join the Sylverian Army, correct," the younger woman asked after looking up from the paper in front of her.

"Yes ma'am. I want to hone my skills so I can serve my Kingdom."

"What is it you fight for?" the older woman chimed in.

"What do you mean?"

"You know exactly what I mean."

"I fight for the Kingdom of—"

"Don't feed me that lie Aryia. You fight for something more then the kingdom. It clearly shows in your eyes."

Aryia was silence, unsure of what to say.

"You fight to avenge your father, don't you?"

"How do you—"

"You don't remember me do you? You were so young when I last saw you."

It took Aryia a second to recall the girl that visited the inn when her father died but she soon remembered her name.

"Major Lyreh."

Lyreh smiled.

"Its Brigadier General now."

Before Aryia could say anything there was a knock at the door.

"Enter," Lyreh called out.

Standing in the doorway was a girl with long brown hair and gray eyes. She was dressed in a simple white collared tee‑shirt and blue skirt. Black knee‑high socks and brown leather‑skinned dress shoes made the girl look as if she was from a private academy in Luporus.

"Mari? What are you doing here?"

"Well, I can't just let my best friend join the army alone. You would be lost without me," she said with a smile.

"Marilyn Belzeir VI Fainalia de Celienya Von Reymilchstein Kozun, you are the daughter of Priscilla Cievil VI Fayemeria de Selmia Von Rhyial Kozun, right?" Lyreh asked as Mari handed over her paper.

"Yes ma'am," she said as she stood next to Aryia.

"Your father was..."

Lyreh looked over the form only to give a surprised look as to the name of her father.

"Why do all of you have such long names?"

"It is a tradition ma'am. According to my late grandmother the names used to be even longer."

"Right, well girls, the real question now is, are the two of you sure you want to join the military? It can be quite tough."

Both of them looked to Lyreh with determined eyes.

"I know I could die like my father did but even still, he fought for freedom. Now it is my turn to fight," Aryia said with passion in her tone of voice.

"I also know the road will be hard but if I can help with what I am good at then I will do the best that I can."

Lyreh simply sighed and smiled.

"Nothing I say will change your minds. I just have one order. No dying before my time is up, you got that privates?"

Aryia and Mari smiled. The two of them stood at attention and saluted Lyreh.

"Yes ma'am!" both of them said in unison.

* * *

The summer heat was hot enough to fry an egg. Aryia and Mari stood there in their BDUs with the other privates that were attending Priserra Academy. Aryia could feel the sweat building up in her socks and shoes as they all stood there in a line waiting for the sergeant to run them through their first day of training.

As they stood there a sergeant appeared at the time he was instructed to on the dot. He stood in front of the group of privates he was meant to whip into shape for their training.

"Troops, ATTENTION!"

Everyone snapped to attention at the man's loud booming voice.

"My name is Sergeant Veldain De'furlo! Today we will separate the weak from the strong!"

"More like Sergeant Loudmouth," Aryia whispered under her breath just loud enough for a few people to hear.

The sergeant quickly glared menacingly at where the snickering was coming from. With fear in their eyes the group that was snickering stopped like a rock thrown against a stone wall.

"Your training will not be easy. Some of you will break, others will fall!" he continued as he paced back and forth.

"Now, we start your training with fifty push‑ups."

* * *

Aryia laid on her small bed in the barrack as she felt the pain go from her feet to her arms. She realized that the training she went through on her own was nothing compared to the training she was going through now. After the pain had subsided a bit Aryia slowly tried to untie her boots but failed to reach them. She continued for a few more minutes until she was finally able to untie them and get them off.

"I fell like my feet are going to fall off Mari."

"You are not the only one Aryia."

Mari laid under the cover of her bed, her military uniform was thrown on the floor beside her. Aryia looked over to her as she looked as lifeless as a dead person.

"Are you naked under there?" Aryia asked, taking note that Mari's uniform was on the floor.

"Do you want me to be?"

Aryia blushed a bit, slightly embarrassed.

"Of course I am not naked Aryia. You have known me since childhood. I sleep in my underwear."

Aryia stared up at the ceiling as she started to remove her military uniform, stripping to her black tank‑top and panties.

* * *

A week had passed as Aryia laid back in her underwear on her bed. She stared up to the ceiling and sighed heavily. The physical training was becoming a bit easier for her but the academical learning was becoming a nightmare for her or rather, boring for her.

"I am so bored."

Mari was busy reading a book entitled _Mapography_.

"You are always bored Aryia."

"I just thought that if I joined the army I would practice useful things like... you know, fighting."

"Learning about different subjects is important too."

"How is math or history going to help me fight the enemy?"

"How is being ignorant of knowledge going to prepare you for battle?"

"Say what now?"

Mari sighed as she closed the book in her hands.

"You truly are hopeless without me Aryia."

## Epilogue

Aryia awoke from her deep slumber. She looked at her wristwatch taking note that she had woken up a bit early. _I guess I have gotten used to getting up early thanks to Lylianna_ , Aryia thought as she got out of bed. Aryia stared down at the white bandage on her knee. It was still healing but she had managed to start walking on it a little.

_I should feed the prisoners_ , she thought as she put on her Black Knight military uniform. After grabbing a bowl of rice from the kitchen she made her way down into the holding cell. The recruits were beyond paranoid due to the psychological distress Melissa had put them through. There bodies were riddled with scars and burn marks from head to toe. Without saying a word Aryia placed the bowl of rice down for them to eat.

As they gathered around the bowl each of them rationed and shared the food with each other evenly. It was clear to Aryia that they had learned a lot while being in a hold cell together.

Before Aryia could make her way out of the dungeon Lylianna entered, her expressionless face showing no signs of why she was there. Aryia was a bit surprised to see her.

"Major, why are you here?"

Lylianna did not answer as she stood in front of the cell the four recruits were in.

"Its been one month now and none of you have given up. Stand to your feet."

Each of the girl's tried to stand but lack of good food and water made them tired, hungry, and thirsty. Overall, it was enough just for them to be alive. Mari was the last to get to her feet as she clawed her nails into the stone wall trying to get up. Lylianna pulled out the cell key and unlocked the door.

"Follow me," she said as she motioned with her head for Aryia to follow her too.

All of them headed to the second floor of the Black Knight Headquarters to a door that had a symbol of a white horse and a bed on it. Aryia noticed that this door was right next to their own bedroom door. Opening the door revealed a bedroom that looked about the same as the other one in color and layout. There were five beds in the room, four of them had uniforms laid out on them with berets. Lylianna turned to the four recruits.

"Welcome to the Black Knights."

# Afterword

Hello everyone, I am Junkomi Eno. Nice to meet you. First off, I would like to say thank you for downloading this book. It truly means a lot. Much of my time has been spent writing this book until it became a decent enough light novel to read. Hopefully all that hard work paid off.

When I first started this light novel it was nothing more then a simple question in my head. What if I combined the world of _Avatar the Last Airbender_ and the story of _The Saga of Tanya the Evil_ together? With that simple question I created this world and characters until it turned into the light novel you just read.

There are so many people to thank that listing everyone would take far to long. But I am truly thankful that my friends helped me through this long journey of creating a light novel I can be proud of and share with the rest of the world.

After I finish the _Beyond the Borders_ series I hope to try my hand at creating a more dark fantasy setting with a more horror themed story. However, that will have to wait until I finished the rest of the volumes of _Beyond the Borders_. Well, I hope you will keep reading the volumes in the future and one day create your own story to share with the world. Until then keep on reading, writing and doing whatever it is you love, because maybe one day it will lead to something beautiful.

じゃね。

エノ順込

# About The Author

Born July 4, 1997, Junkomi Eno had a love of telling stories. She had always dreamed of writing a light novel and started on her first series, _Beyond the Borders_. She lives in Tokyo, Japan with her dog, Luna, and actively studies for a degree in engineering. She continues to write light novels filled with elements of magic and romance.

# Kuro Ookami Inkou

If you enjoyed this author then feel free to check out these other authors signed to Kuro Ookami Inkou.

Aria Kozuki

Kaori Misuka

Mireiku Haryumi

Miruku

Nyariko

Reimei

Ririko Okano

Yumia Moriyama

Kotori Kozuki

Narumi

Reira Yukimaru

# Endnotes

{} Bam~

{} Bang~

{} Crash~

{} Boom~

{} Shigori (思棋理) — a version of the Japanese chess game Shogi.

{} Bang~

{} Knock Knock~
