EPISODE 224: NEW GREATS

— GREAT EDRYAN, YEAR 7292. SEASON: NEW BEGINNING.

A new age is upon Edryan—neigh, the world. For it is Edryan that has activated Ardent of the End, and the Gods have responded in the formation of Pantheons. They shall cast their Weave upon the world, tightening their control over faith as they prepare to play their game.

Those of the Scholar's Abode and others like us in nations all across Genesis have kept quiet, recording History and preventing the ruination by Carno from scarring too deeply. When he came, we voluntarily set fire to our tomes, getting rid of all except the most precious—each chapter kept a volume… a sole volume of the true history of Genesis.

Alas, such efforts weren't enough to halt is corruption of the foundation. Time is fluxed, the Gods don't care enough to fix it—each believing their method is right and others are wrong. We of the Scholar's Abode shall continue to record, continue to watch, continue to wait. Even should this world faces destruction… then we shall merely record the events and fade into—History.

Dreams —will continue to carry our legacy, escape through spacetime, and avoid limbo. That is… should the Gods not fail us and at least one of their many plans succeed.

The Ardent of the End has arrived, aptly named by Aspect Rasheed before he perished. For as the Final Sun rises and the Final Moon sets, thus will this journey, this story, be put to an end. A tale of black and white—of man and woman—duality.

— Scholar of the Abode.

"Lawruthian can choose to make anyone a [Hero] through his skill called (Party)."

Silence pervaded the hall. The scions of the Six Great Houses and others sat in a loose circle contemplating the secret revealed by Amaya. The lighting was low, casting deep shadows throughout the room, but the light of the young men's and women's eyes couldn't be hidden, no matter the depth of the shadows.

…

[ HERO ].

…

That word meant something different when your parents were once one. Helios Romus inhaled. He held that breath, calming his strained nerves before releasing it. His mother, a hero turned demigoddess, had always been a sun in his life. A woman who sacrificed so much not just for Edryan but for her children. Even now, she searched for a way to fix the mistake she had cast upon the twins. Helios hadn't ever truly desired to be a [Hero]. His only goal was to be the sun that shone during the day, protecting his sister and clan.

That goal had to change. Helios gazed at his status sheet and level.

'Level 88,' he internally muttered. 'What a joke.'

'That is impressive. It's barely been three years,' Selene sent back.

He ignored her and their new ability. They hadn't needed words to communicate their thoughts prior, and now they could simply speak internally for even greater synergies.

It was a joke. He was a strong young genius who had surpassed his peers in levels and gone beyond. But, he wasn't no hero. His presence was barely felt on the battlefield. He allowed his sister to be the sun, choosing to be her moon and reflect her light.

…

No more.

…

Not because he didn't want to, but because he couldn't afford to. Scenes of Selene's death flashed through his eyes. Scenes of his mother's death flashed through his eyes. What sort of curse was this, where memories, scenes of your failures were delivered to you to watch and review—scarred into your mind so that you may never forget your mistakes.

"So what if he can create [Heroes] at will," Ade Oni scoffed. "If he wanted to, he would have long since offered the class to us. Among us, you and Madria are the only ones he's offered such," Ade Oni waved his hand, voice mocking. "…benefits."

…

[ HERO ].

…

His father was one—the greatest if asked. Ade Oni…? He felt forgotten. A scion of the Oni, the young master of the clan and next head… was forgotten. On the battlefield, his impact was minimal. Those who shined were Lawruthian's little squad that catered to his needs—defeating [Tempest Coyotes] and being hailed as the greater [Champions] of the Imperius Army. Tales of {Hope} and more are being sung throughout the country.

"_Imperius,_" Ade Oni spat. "We," he gestured to those whose light wasn't as bright. "Don't fit that mold."

A hero? Huh, he was beginning to hate that term. It represented everything he wasn't. It had everything he couldn't. "We still don't know where exactly Madria or Lawruthian is, for that matter. I don't believe that bullshit inheritance story. That dragon— monster —was something that toyed with us. It could have killed us all without moving a pinky toe."

Ade Oni… the idiot who fought against the [Chosen]. That's what they called him—never to his face, but he could see them mocking him through their eyes. Power… he needed power. He needed power if he was ever going to stand up and take what should be his.

Simra squirmed uncomfortably. Not even she knew or received an offer to become a [Hero]. She wondered if Lawruthian truly trusted her as a friend or felt that she wasn't worthy. ‎

"Ade, don't say that," Lorde frowned, noticing his woman's uncomfortable state. "Yes, Rasheed was strong. Yes, the story of the inheritance to us is only an excuse. But, do not belittle your achievements and the loss of those who died for them."

Ade Oni sneered. "Achievements? The only ones here with achievements are those willing to lick Lawruthian's boots. Who here outside of your little group," he gestured at them as the three closest to the [Chosen] sat near one another. "Is famed—is making a name for themselves?"

"Watch your tongue Ade Oni," Amaya shot back. "I chose to inform everyone as a way to petition him to expand the number of [Heroes]. We are strong. We have sacrificed much—or others have sacrificed themselves for us, but we are not enough if these are the battles we have to face."

…

[ HERO ].

…

"Ade is right," Viviana frowned.

Her father was a [Hero]—_the_ hero. The very one who sacrificed so much to feed the armies of a young Titiana and help her resistance stay supplied while providing a close hideout near the capital. The memory of him burning his book—burning his story, his life, his goals, his ambitions, his DREAMS—seared itself into her mind. She could not forget the memory of his withered state, sacrificed to bring back Margret, only for his sacrifice to be snatched moments later by the [Final Dragon].

…[ Hero ]?

"But so is Amaya. Lawruthian could have made us powerful [Heroes] since the first day. But… he chose to keep it to himself and those who," she gestured toward Amaya, Lorde, and Simra. "Lick his boots." ‎

Lorde Drumian stood. "Watch. Your. Words."

Ade Oni stood. "Or what, Lorde, will you and Simra shine { Hope } upon us—using its light to drown us? Barking like a hound for a master that doesn't even trust him."

Lorde moved, but Ade Oni was ready for him. The young men collided in a flash of icy cold wind and hot fire. Viviana frowned, vines quickly sprouting and restraining both as she cast a skill.

In truth, she didn't care for the [Hero] class. Her father was one, yes. But, such a class came with restrictions and untold pains that would follow her father for the rest of his life. Her mother died because her father was a [Hero] of Titiana's—poisoned and finally succumbed to it during her birth. Not even a [Hero] could save her. That's why she didn't care for it. All she felt like doing was returning home to the forest, cultivating plants, and living a peaceful life. But, she couldn't. This was an age of a finality. And, Viviana was damned sure her name would ring through it. Damned sure.

…

[ HERO ].

…

To Simra, who grew up hearing tales of the [Seven Heroes] and their adventures in saving Edryan, it meant someone who fought for the greater good no matter the cost.

But… that wasn't their story. That couldn't define them as heroes. "Lawruthian's choice to give those the chance to be a [Hero] is his alone. I'm certain he trusts General Ameri and General Alexandria, yet I've never heard of them becoming [Heroes]—I guess I'm trying to say I don't think him trusting us is his only requirement to become a [Hero]."

Lorde sat back next to her, arms folded, and his face slightly bruised. She smiled and patted him on the hand. She could have stopped him, but she chose not to, considering his close relationship with Ade. Simra figured it'd be fine. What friendship didn't have small spats from time to time? This was just another one in her opinion.

"Simra is right," Amaya said. "Trust is a big factor in Lawruthian choosing who to make a [Hero]. The class is like a powerful divine weapon—no one here is stupid enough to give it to anyone, even if they trust them," she paused, gathering her next words and thoughts. She recalled the conversation she held with Lawruthian before he offered her the opportunity to become a [Hero]. His apology and words touched her—it felt raw, real, and showed a side of Lawruthian she wasn't sure many saw.

Amaya didn't sit but stood, placing her hands on the table. She gazed at each and every member present, a determination in her heart like never before. Her magenta eyes were piercing, and her hair of the same color was strung up in two large puffs. Everyone had memories of the realities in which they lost, in which Rasheed, the [Final Dragon], killed them. But, everyone reacted differently after the outcome. Amaya was… disappointed. The moment her sister died… the moment Margret died, Amaya froze—unable to process anything else beyond it.

…[ Hero ]?

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She couldn't let that happen again.

"Lawruthian is not just the [Chosen of Madris]," Amaya began as she found her words. "He is Lawruthian Imperius Koltius Edryani—just like we are not the [Little Greats]. I am not just Amaya Aesira Musa , but the next head of House Musa. Our visions must expand to our house and territory, and how it fits—his vision expands to all of the Elrunian Continent—it must, because of his quest."

Some frowned at Amaya's words, others nodded. It didn't matter to the young woman as she continued. "He's only seventeen, as are most of us, yet the weight of things we must consider is like night and day—incomparable. I called you all here today not so we can argue," Amaya glared at Ade Oni. "…or fight," she turned her glare to Lorde. "…but for us to come together and reorganize who we are. Houses are no longer in charge, not in the same manner they once were. Our power will not be the same as our parents and a new age, a [Golden Age], is upon us. If we don't redefine who and what we are, we may fall into obscurity. Instead of arguing, we must establish who we are in the Monarchy Branch and take power before the foundation settles and becomes a solid structure."

…

[ HERO ].

…

Several nodded in agreement. However, Simra remained stationary. If there was one thing she wasn't quite understanding or used to yet, then it was being a member of the Monarchy Branch and a higher-tiered citizen.

"What do you suggest, then?" Ade Oni asked, his arms folded. He had calmed down. "We can't run any territory directly; the Overseer Branch does that. We are already military but not part of the Bellum and the Justiciary… well," he shrugged and let his words trail off.

"That's why we're all here. The Monarchy Branch's main purview is ensuring that those branches remain corruption-free and cohesive. The Central Imperius Authority is young and new and is a merger between the Queen's Lashes and a new intelligence agency. There is also Monarchy Police—a new specialized unit of guards and whatnot open and available for-"

Before Amaya could continue, a loud knock was heard at the hall's entrance. The group turned to look, a hint of surprise on their face as General Ameri entered the room next to Lily. They weren't alone, as others from all branches of the government followed.

Amaya frowned, as did several others. She had reserved this hall and hadn't planned on having any interruptions. That had been made known and clear to those in positions to know. General Ameri was one of them.

"My sincere apologies. I understand you are having a meeting to redefine yourselves," Ameri blatantly stated, showing that she'd been listening to them.

The frowns grew deeper, and arms grew folded as silence pervaded the hall. No one responded. Instead, they studied the figures here: Archbishop Femi of the Templum, Judge Cobra Cabal of the Justiciary, and a few close administrators of the [Prime Overseer]. Basically, a member of every branch was present. Whatever was going on was enough to get representatives of everyone here.

Amaya exchanged a glance with the twins, as did Ade and Lorde. Ade Oni shrugged. Although his cousin was present, she hadn't informed him of anything before this. This was just as new to him as it was for everyone else.

Simra felt a bit uncomfortable as the moment Archbishop Femi entered, his eyes hadn't left her person. She glanced at him and received a warm smile in return. The golden tooth of the Archbishop reflected in the hall's light—a [Priest of Wealth].

"I'll get right down to business," Ameri spoke, not bothering to take a seat like the rest of those who entered. "We want you to become His Highness's envoys of Operation SAFE to invite the nations of the Elrunian Continent to a grand summit. Of course, you will not be the only ones to go, as an extensive team will be put together. However, you will be in charge."

The words of General Ameri marinated throughout the hall. No sound was heard except the light breathing of the hall's occupants. None of the [Little Greats] nor Simra showed a reaction of any type. General Ameri continued to speak, not dissuaded by her audience's silence.

"You will represent Edryan for the first time on a grand world stage, in which we haven't truly participated in since the death of Princess Carina over two hundred years ago—a short and long time, but enough time for new generations to pass and rise."

"When do we leave," Helios interrupted as General Ameri took a breath. Selene turned to him in shock. This type of decision was something she usually made for the twins. Her mind, however, wasn't in the right state since they returned to Edrya. She opened her mouth to speak but was cut off by her brother.

"Weren't we looking for a way to redefine ourselves in this new world—in this Ardent of the End," Helios questioned as he looked around. "Here goes our chance. A grand adventure, all to ourselves."

"Oh, thiiiiis one has some spunk," Lily cast a lazy gaze in Helios's direction. "He is going to visit the gnooomes city-state with me."

Helios cast a glance in the darkly dressed spy's direction but didn't respond directly. Although his gaze was directed at General Ameri, his words were meant for them all. "Edryan is threading a new path, one in which Houses aren't the foremost leaders and decision makers in all matters. That doesn't mean we've become obsolete or useless. Like Amaya said, it is time for us to redefine who we are, and the only way to do that is to truly step away from His Highness encompassing circle while still being in proximity to develop ourselves. Where would you have us go, and who would join us?"

General Ameri nodded in respect to Helios's words. "You'll be aboard one of Lawruthian's latest ships, named E.Q.S. Sanctuary, and her escorts—an immense airship able to hold nearly a thousand individuals. It is a prototype that will help you traverse the continent within a year."

"Is this a show of force?" Viviana questioned, a frown apparent. She could immediately tell that multiple objectives needed to be completed outside of just diplomatic relations. "What other missions will be going on during this trip? Why are we representing it and not another member of the government or those of more renown?"

"Yes," Ameri nodded in confirmation. "It is a show of force, not to establish Edryan dominance, but to show that we aren't a force to simply ignore when invited under respectable pretenses. You'll be briefed on what else to expect once you agree to represent Edryan," Ameri stated. She looked directly at Viviana as she next spoke. "We chose you for two simple reasons—you are the current children of the seven known Edryan [Path Walkers]. No one would easily make a move against you even if they were a God. And," Ameri pause, her voice assertive. "You shouldn't doubt the strength of yourselves. It is hard to see the length of your shadow when standing directly next to the sun. Do not let Lawruthian's light completely shadow your talents—you are the most talented generation to rise, perhaps in the history of Edryan, a New generation of Greats—do not forget that."

The meeting continued late into the evening. Refreshments were served throughout it. Details of the trip were shared, but Simra wasn't partial to them, as Archbishop Femi approached her after the initial discussion. His gaze had been fixated on the young woman since the very onset of their entrance to the hall. Now, she would find out what his intentions were.

Simra felt calm. She was a bit surprised at her state of mind, but she had been tossed up, spun left, twisted right, and pulled in so many directions in the last few months that she finally understood why nobles needed so many servants and more. It was exhausting when you were needed everywhere and only one of you existed. If she could duplicate herself, Simra just might. Plus, there were also her own matters to consider.

"Good evening, Lady Enlar, it would be my honor should you give me a moment of your time," Femi Zubair greeted with a small bow.

Simra looked to the distracted Lorde and other members of the New Greats as they discussed things with the various members of the government branches. It was clear this was to be one of the country's first joint ventures under new leadership. Simra could tell that something great would be expounded upon if all parties could agree.

"Sure," Simra acquiesced. She wasn't worried about the meeting. She expected something like this to happen.

The pair moved a distance away in the hall, studying the detailed interior as they did. The hall's lighting was low, allowing long shadows to trail behind them. It was decorated with carvings of magi in flight, laughing freely as they gazed upon a starry sunrise. The pillars that held up the weight seemed to be hands grasping the forearms of another before they all came together into one giant hand that held up the ceiling's weight. Simra was reminded of her mother's abstract artwork that decorated their previous home.

Archbishop Femi Zubair halted once they were a few dozen meters away. Simra halted next to him, and for a brief moment, they continued to admire the artwork in the hall. The moment was broken as Femi's deep voice spoke.

"[Light of the End]—its history is deeply rooted in Edryan history and church heritage. They almost always appear at times of great turmoil and unrest. The previous known was Arkan Enlar, who died in service to Princess Carina. A…," Femi hesitated before shrugging and continuing his sentence. "…a [Light of the End] was supposed to have come during the events of the [Iron Blooded-Queen], but it is unknown whether they were affected by {Greed} or another Sin."

Simra stayed quiet. She was a bit confused, but kept her quiet as it was related to her ancestors. Even now, after the reinstatement of her clan, Simra found little of their history, traditions, and more. When the [Iron Blooded-Queen] purged the Enlar, Maar, and Ahuum, she'd been thorough in her quest.

Femi glanced at Simra and seemed to sense her confusion. He smiled, revealing his golden tooth as he waved a hand. "Just ramblings of an older man—I understand you may not know much of [Sins] or [Virtues]. They are an enigma, I daresay not even our Goddess fully comprehends them outside of their vast desire for faith—a thing that directly clashes with the Gods, hence their outlawed state in most nations. You are a direct link to the virtue {Hope}, one that shows the Goddess's understanding and control of the emotion. You are Simra Enlar, [Light of the End], and are considered the Cardinal of {Hope}."

Femi Zubair put his hands together in the traditional sign for the Goddess. It was a sign of worship and respect. He continued to speak, but Simra was already getting an idea of where this was going. "I am here to invite you to the church to reactivate your templar-knight order and reestablish your position in the Church of Madr—ar-hem, Church of Imperius."

Simra paused, that was not what she thought he'd say. She continued her silence for a few moments before responding. "That is…," she glanced toward the discussion. Femi followed her glance and quickly responded.

"It is impossible for you to leave Edryan at this time. We fear you'd be assassinated as you are too powerful an asset. [Light of the End] has no direct weaknesses other than you and your mind. Edryan's enemies may not let such an opportunity slide if we are to deliver you right to their doorstep. General Ameri—Edryan herself has no choice but to keep you within our borders for now."

Simra was taken aback by Femi's words. She glanced at Lorde, Amaya, and the others. The beginnings of a frown appeared as she spoke. "What about Lorde, Amaya, Helios—the members of the Six Great Houses? Why would you let them go as children of demigods and Prestiges?"

Archbishop Femi sighed. "My apologies for my words, but… they are not as important as one may think. Each is a genius of their own right and each hold a connection to our [Chosen] and the [Path Walkers], but they are not [Light of the End] able to affect an entire battlefield with their presence. Their importance stems from the fact that they are children of the [Path Walkers] and close companions of the [Chosen of Madris]. The only one of real concern is Amaya for her [Heroic] class."

Simra's frown grew deeper. "Are you saying they're expendable?" She took a step back. This was not what she expected at all. "My friends aren't expendable."

"Not expendable—never, but just as Lady Amaya stated. They are no Simra Enlar, [Light of the End]. Your value extends far past what you may think. You are second in faith only to a few—namely, the [Chosen of Madris]."

Simra stayed silent, taking the time to process the information shared by the Archbishop. She was the [Cardinal of Hope]—that gave her a lot of power in the church. That was clear to her from the onset of his words, but Simra still wasn't used to her power as a member of a Great House. There was no more nobility, at least in name, but the medallion Simra held gave her the authority of a seventh-tiered citizen, only two tiers away from the heights of Edryan authority and leadership. If she could afford it, she could establish a private army of up to forty thousand men.

After returning from the Mountain of Final Hope… after constantly reviewing the memories of her actions and those around her from three different times… she came to understand something. {Hope} wasn't enough if she didn't possess the power to protect those she cared for. It could bring them back, but… even that held a limit as just seeing them die drained her of the one thing that kept them alive. It was like a stark reminder of her failure, her inadequacy, and inability to protect anyone around her. What was a knight good for if their shield was too weak to save anyone other than themselves?

"Redefine…," Simra whispered, recalling Amaya's words. Her friend wanted this meeting to redefine who and what they were. It was her attempt at comprehending the events of the mountain and the changes she wanted. Amaya had to ensure nothing of the sort would ever happen again. Although slightly derailed by third parties, Simra was certain they'd still come out on top. They could leave Edryan lands, see the world, and return as new people. She couldn't do the same, but…

But… perhaps she could use a small tweak and redefinition of herself. "A Templar-Knight Order, huh…?"

"Yes, who answers to no one but you. You will also be allocated many personal as well as a grand church here in Edrya—a portion of its revenue is paid directly to you—a sum of five large Edri per year," Archbishop Femi offhandedly mentioned as he heard Simra's mutters. "There are already many who call for the reinstatement of the Cardinal of Hope's Templars and Paladins. You've even met one during the grand summit—Coro Ante, a descendant of a family previously under the church. He has been quietly waiting for you."

It took a moment for Simra to recall the name, and she hesitated as she did so. Coro Ante was one of the participants in the Challenger's Ring—he was the expected winner toward the end. He was able to fight both Zie Breaker and Khalid Janko together. Perhaps he may have been the winner had Simra not awoken as the [Light of the End].

Femi noticed her hesitation and continued to speak. "The young Ante isn't the only one—House Enlar had many templar knights and other factions underneath them before…," Femi waved his hand. "Visit the church with me and perhaps meet a few of them."

"No need," Simra waved her hand. "I'll do it."

…[ HERO ]?

Simra didn't need to be given the class by another. She could establish her own legends, have tales of inspiration told of her journey. You didn't need to be a [Hero] to be great, but… as one far removed from the plight of her friends, perhaps Simra was the only one who could see that.

"…a Templar-Knight Order, huh…," she repeated, a small smile gracing her features. She couldn't wait to tell her little brothers.

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