Divine Overlord - Chapter 6

Chapter 6






several kilometers outside the city of Astor, Melissa's team riding horses through a wide cobblestone imperial main road towards the Jetsun academy, they using 3 horses, as Arno didn't know how to ride a horse, so he rides together with Alfred.

Dina who at first was annoyed and irritated by Arno is now laughing all the way from the city gates after she heard Arno can't ride a horse.

"sigh.... Dina can't you stopped laughing, i mean.. i know it's funny but, you've been laughing since we depart from the city, it's weird you know". Melissa who is riding beside her voiced her complained.

"hahhah hiihihiii...i.... just.... can't Mel, it's way too funny....hihii, this guy can't even ride a horse...haoahahh unbelievable". Dina laughing hard while holding her stomach.

Arno just shrugged his shoulder and not paying attention to Dina, as he really can't ride a horse, this is the first time he's riding a horse after god knows for how long since he rides one.

and Alfred completely not paying any attention to Dina's antics, instead he focused on controlling the horse, while sometimes he looks like he want to ask something to Arno.

Arno also knew this but he didn't do anything about it, as he's waiting for Alfred to speaking by himself.

30 minutes have passed as they keep riding, they finally see a small town in the far distance and they heading straight towards it.

"this town name is School town, it is built after the academy was created, many students and officials from the academy came here for a stroll or business, some even here for working part-time...". Alfred explaining about the town to Arno.

"hehmm i see, i bet this town depends on the academy ha".

"that's right...well they don't have many specialties, most of the business here related to the academy...so they really depend on the academy a lot".

Melissa says to the team "alright we better skip this town and head straight to the academy".

all 3 horses then speeding up towards the academy complex located near the town.

they finally arrive at the academy main front gate, the academy complex is huge and spacious, it was surrounded by a beautiful blueish metallic fence, the main gate also has a grandeur appearance.

several guards who were guarding the gate move closer to the team, but then they see Melissa who they recognize.

one of the guards salute to Melissa and asked "ah my lady..did have a business in the academy ?".

"hmhm so... can you open the gate please ".

"yes, my lady....oey you lads hurry open the gate". the guards then quickly opening the gate.

Melissa then thanked the guards before entering the academy with the team.

"i'll be damned, that was lady Melissa Dreyfuss". the guards were in an uproar after Melissa enter.

"what really. holy shit she's really is a gorgeous woman huh".

"don't even thinking t.no.. don't even dream about that, she's way too high in the sky you know". one of the guards shaking his head after hearing his comrade.

"hey i know okay... just admiring that's all, by the way, who's the dark elf chicks ?? ".

"don't know, but i'm kinda familiar with the blonde kid though". the guard started racking his brain where did he ever see the blonde young man before.

"shit man, i didn't ask about him...eih forget it".

inside the academy, the team already getting off from their horses and walking towards a large building in the middle of the academy which supposed to be academy's main office.

Arno immerses himself in feeling the academy overall atmosphere, it was filled with a mixed aura of knowledge and professionalism.

'this academy is not bad....not bad at all'. Arno acknowledging this academy quality.

he also admiring the sight of large long-haired man statue in front of office building.

"that's the statue of this academy founder, Jetsun Dagnar, he's a Saint rank expert back when he was still alive". Alfred speaking to Arno.

"i've heard he was also your empire's Heavenly Protector isn't it...".

Alfred nod "yeah he is.. but there is no Heavenly Protector in Astoria after he died, until Visser Gallard." then he looking at the statue with admiring gaze.

Arno smile looking at Alfred, but he didn't say anything and just left following Melissa inside the office.

inside the main office building, the team moving closer to the reception desk, there are several academy officials and students gathering near it.

Melissa walking towards one of the female officials and asked "is master Diandra is in her office ?.. i'd like to meet her".

"ehmmm ...but who are you and did you have an appointment ?" the official asking Melissa identity politely.

"my name is Melissa Dreyfuss.... master Diandra said that i didn't have to make an appointment if i want to meet her... is she's inside ?".

when Melissa said her name, the reception area became silent, even the student gathering nearby also stopped chatting.

"ahh....aehmmm....i..a. i'm sorry my lady... i..m really sorry i didn't recognize you at all...". the official started to panic and anxious as she didn't recognize Melissa

"hey...hey...it's fine just forget it okay, anyway i'm here for master Diandra, is she in her office?"

"yes master Diandra is inside her office right now, she's already moved her office to the corner in 3rd floor... i can bring you to her room if you want my lady".

Melissa nod her head "alright sure let's go.. take us there". the team then following the official to master Diandra room.

the students start murmuring and chatting when they looking at Melissa and some even throwing attentions towards Alfred as they finally recognize him as the former students, while others also gazing at Dina as dark elves are kinda rare outside arga forest.

Arno also had his fair share of attention from the surrounding people as his appearance were conspicuous.

the team arrives outside a room in the 3rd floor while the official looking at the team and pointing at the room door "this is master Diandra offices, she's inside right now, so i will excuse myself". the official left.

and the team then entering the room after knocking at the door and received an answer from inside.

"ah it's you Melissa come in come in..and you too Dina,... How are you both ?". middle age woman with slightly wrinkles in her face smiling happily after she saw Melissa and Dina when they enter the room.

the middle age woman can be said beautiful, her hair is long and brown colored, although her face already has several wrinkles but still retained it's charming feeling, she's more like a mature woman instead of a middle age one.

Melissa then hugs the middle age woman "i'm fine master Diandra, it's really good to see you again..". this woman is exactly master Diandra. she's Melissa and Dina former teacher back in their academy's time.

"hello teach..heheh i thought you already forget about me..hehhe". Dina also hugs with master Diandra.

"heh how could i forget about this mischievous girl over here heheh.... you still tailing Melissa huh...".

while Diandra is teasing Dina, she suddenly saw blonde haired and tall young man entering her room.

"aren't you Alfred Byron, it has been almost a year isn't it since you graduated". Diandra asks Alfred who didn't expect this master here still remember him.

"yes master Diandra it's almost a year, i'm here together with lady Melissa, she's my superior now".

"ah i see so you're working under Melissa now.... and who is that gentlemen over there ?." Diandra asks about Arno who's standing near the room window.

Arno turns his head towards Diandra and smile.

'level 2 Grandmaster.... she's a warrior huh'. Arno also found Diandra strength the second he looked at her.

"the name is Arno mam, i'm also working with Melissa, it is a pleasure to meet you, and i apologize if we somehow disturbing your activities". Arno introducing himself to Diandra in a very courteous manner.

which stunned the three women, even Melissa who's usually not easily impressed by man, but now her face turned into red for little after seeing Arno's antics, while Dina also surprised and become dazed.

as for Diandra, she was stunned and at the same time thinking it was ridiculous for her to be affected by Arno's greetings, because she's an old woman and already have a husband.

it's no their fault they were affected, because Arno dashing appearance combined with the manners, it's a top killing move for these women.

but it didn't have any effect at all to Alfred, but he also approved Arno's manner as he thinks it is a correct way to do a greeting.

"oh my...ehehe so sir Arno right... pleased to meet you too, my name Diandra Greyson, i'm a dean here in this academy, and also i'm a former teacher to these kids hehe, and ....no no your not disturbing at all.." Diandra may already recover her mind but still speaking somewhat bashfully, while keep staring at Arno.

"i see.. then that's good, and thank you mam for receiving us now, as Melissa is here to ask for your help regarding our mission".

Arno speaking to her while also implying her to talk with Melissa first instead staring at his face.

Diandra who also understands that, and knowing she's been staring at Arno's face for too long, quickly turn her head towards Melissa while feeling embarrassed.

"hehe sorry Melissa heheh.. anyway... what kind of help did you want from me??" Diandra quickly changing the topic.

as Melissa also does not want to make her teacher more embarrassed, "you also already knew about the mission isn't it master,... that's why i'm here because there is a person i wanted to recruit into my team, i need your help for approving her transfer if she's agreed".

"ah so that's it, yes i already know from the old man heheh, fine... i will help you, but before that, are you sure Melissa ?? you're heading for the Gobi Deadlands you know...". Diandra is worried about Melissa.

"yes master 100% sure, there is no going back now, the mission is already launched anyway.".

"hehmmm very well but please keep yourself save okay... and all you three as well, so who's the one you want to recruit ??".

Melissa nodding at Alfred signaled him to tell about the person.

"master Diandra, the person we wanted, her name is Sasha Hansen she's my former instructor back then, do you know her?. Alfred gives his former instructor name to Diandra.

"oh that Sasha girl is the one you wanted to recruit ? of course i knew her, she's one of the best teachers in Warrior Program you know, if it's her then she will be a good addition for your team....".

Warrior Program is named for this academy group of cultivation instructors specialized in nurturing Warrior, while for Mage there is Magus Program.

and Sasha Hansen is a Warrior Program instructor which means that she is no ordinary teacher.

"then teach, where is she now ?? can we go to her immediately ??". Dina is the one who speaks now, she's little impatient.

"sure... she must be in the Warrior Training Facility now if according to the schedule, let's meet her then." Diandra beckoning the team to follow her outside.

the 5 of them exited from the main office and heading towards the eastern area where Warrior Training facility is located.

along the way many students and officials or teacher making greeting to both Melissa and Diandra as they were both extremely famous in the academy.

Arno blurts something "well well it looks like,.. Lady Dreyfuss is really famous huh".

while Dina who is walking beside him hearing that, she turns her head towards Arno and speaks "yeah... Melissa is always famous since she enters the academy, not just because of her family but also because she was extremely talented, truly a genius". Dina speaking with a bit of envy mixed in.

Arno when seeing this suddenly thought something.

"hmmh....it must be hard for you right.." Arno asked Dina.

"huh ?? hard ?? hard about what...??".

"well you know... being friends with a genius, people who see you both so close to each other some of them probably comparing you to her isn't it...what is your opinion on that ?..". Arno deliberated asked that question to bait Dina so that he can see her true character.

"huh it's ehmmmm well hehe mel and i... well i know she's more smarter than me, and...hehe more beautiful but she's a good person who treated me well, although it would be a lie if i said that i didn't envy her a little but... she's a dear friend to me..." Dina saying all that with a really bright smile.

"heh i see... you're a good friend aren't you...hehe...". Arno is satisfied with Dina reaction and keeps walking without saying anything else.

the 5 arrived inside the training facility which is very spacious and surrounded by a high wall, there is an open courtyard in the middle of the facility, filled with any kind of training device, weapons, and armor that was stacked neatly and orderly.

but the facility is now really empty from people because this is Sunday which also a vacation day for students and officials.

but now there are loud sounds of people chattering and shouting can be heard from inside.

"it looks like there is a commotion inside ". Dianda hurrying towards inside the facility followed by the team from behind.

there are already several people inside when they enter, 4 man and 1 woman, the men's is circling the woman near the courtyard corner.

"... why!!?? why didn't you give me a chance?? huh!!...all this time I've tried everything to get closer to you, even bought you many gifts...but..you!!" the man in front of the woman asking with loud and overbearing voice, while the woman keeps staring at him with frowning and annoyed expression.

"and how many time did i have to tell you...that i don't have any interest in you at all!!, and i've already return those gifts to you right....sigh...Velen just give up will you...because it's god damned irritating!!.." the woman is also shouting and cursing to the man as well.

"f*ck you b*tch!!...i've already patient but you've not appreciated me at all... ".

"you're the b*tch a**holes, i don't f*cking need your goddamn patient!!, all i need is from you is to get the f*ck out of my way!!!..."

"huh!! did you know who i am? huh!! my father is the city of Dunbar lord....hehe that's right... you're in big trouble now, but i'm a magnanimous person, so i will let it go but you have to come with me, how's that heheehhe". the man starts threatening the woman using his father's name who is a noble, as he also looking lecherously at her.

"the f*ck trash!!, are you trash threatening me ?? ahahah oh my god f*cking loser's like you want to threaten me hahaha, this is the joke of the century...hahahhah". the woman laughing hard after she heard the man.

"the hell b*tch, who the f*ck you're calling trash huh??".

"i'm calling you, trash!!... weren't you the type that only knows how to use family or father's name huh....i called those kinds of people trash.... and besides you're f*cking weakling., i'm only interested in someone who's stronger than me..." at the same time the woman also bursting out her power and pressuring the people in front of her.

the men who encircle her start retreating back towards their boss, their body is trembling and sweating a lot.

"y...ou...y..ou...". the man is speechless as the woman's word really hit his heart, as he also knows that he can only do things without consequences because he always use his father's name, and he was pressured by the woman strength.

"bos..boss just let her go please....she's so strong...we can't take her". even his underling already so scared and want to run away, but the man still doesn't want to let her easily, but before he can speak there is a voice interrupting him from behind.

"what are you doing!!??, this is the academy facility and you're not from the academy, also you making a lot of commotion here..". Diandra is so angry toward the men's as they're not from the academy but still making ruckus here.

"ah shit it's the dean....hurry come on.....and just wait you bitch". the man and his underling start to running away after seeing Diandra.

the women want to catch them but Diandra signaled her not to do that, the woman then approach Diandra, "dean, i can take care of them myself you know".

the team can see the woman appearance clearly now, she's a beautiful woman about the same age as Melissa and Dina, but she's tall, really taller than the averages woman, even her height almost rivaled Alfred,

she have semi-high ponytail styled dark brown hair, along with blue color eyes with milky white skins, and she's wearing blue light armor that really suits her tall height, overall she really looking cool and heroic.

"heh.. Sasha it's not an appropriate time for that, i'm here to introducing you to these people, they have something interesting and important for you". the woman that Diandra speaking to is exactly Sasha Hansen, Alfred former's teacher.

"oh...i see well..huh isn't that Alfred boy...hahah the hell are you doing here ?? you already graduated boy...", Sasha found her former student among the people in front of her.

"nice to meet you too instructor,... and please don't call me boy, i'm here along with my colleagues here to offering you a proposal", Alfred is helpless looking at Sasha rudeness.

"heh you always be a boy in my eyes, and also i know these 2 women, it's lady Melissa Dreyfuss and miss Dona isn't it...".

"yes miss Hansen you correct and also wrong, she is Dina, not Dona, so do you want to hear our proposal ?" it's Melissa time to speak.

"ah well hehe my bad, ...alright let's hear it"

Melissa narrating stories about mana disruption, the Gobi Deadlands, and the team, before inviting her to join the team.

"hhhm the Gobi Deadlands huh,.....this is hard, especially it's innermost region.....by the way who's the dashing man over there ?" Sasha suddenly asked about Arno who just standing around looking at the training facility.

"he's Arno, also the member we just recruited, so miss are you in??". Melissa introduce Arno to Sasha.

"heh just wait a minute okay.... the man is supposed to be a team member? damn... he doesn't have the strength at all why did you recruit him??". Sasha complained to Melissa because she found that Arno does not have any power coming out from his body.

because the mission target it's in the Gobi Deadlands, which definitely it's not a place for weaklings.

and she does not want to babysit a weakling.

"wait miss Hansen..." when Melissa wants to speak to defend Arno, she found that Sasha already approaching Arno.

even Alfred is really helpless looking at her, all he can do is facepalming.

"hey you!! purple eye.... did you really this team member?". Sasha calling Arno in mocking tone.

Arno looking at Sasha while holding his chin "yes i'm a team member, i know what you wanted to miss, you don't have to worry about my ability, we can just straight test it right". Arno implying that he challenging Sasha.

'the good old ways are more efficient'. Arno thought this is just like during his's time, if you're doubted and underestimated by someone, then just show your power to them.

"heh good i like it,....sure let's see your... ability then". and the 2 of them moving to the middle of the courtyard.

the others originally want to stop it but because of they also curious about Sasha and Arno abilities, they decide to just wait and watch.

Sasha grab a simple metal spear that usually used by the students during practice, she swings it for few time with gorgeous and trained movements, it's beautiful swing.

and when she turned around facing Arno, she found Arno only standing several meters ahead of her while just placed his hand on his back, without doing anything else.

"what are you doing standing there ?? hurry up and grabs some weapon". Sasha is impatient.

"i'm not using any weapons, just with my hands..you said that you want to test me isn't it,.....then strike me with all you got...you don't have to worry ...about safety miss". Arno baiting Sasha with a relaxing tone.

when Sasha heard that, she became extremely irritated, 'the hell, this guy looking down on me....heh i'll teach him then'.

other people also shocked when they heard Arno will not use any weapons, even the 3 people who know about Arno strength is also worried.

Diandra who is also watching ask "Melissa is your friend will be okay ?, Sasha is strong you know...".

"i think it's fine master, he can take care of himself". Melissa don't know for sure but she has the confidence in Arno.

"Booomm".

a violent power erupted from Sasha body that blasting the winds all over the courtyard, and flickering green aura begin enveloping her body.

this green aura is the testament of her fighting aura power.

'she's a level 6 Super Warrior huh' Arno also thinking back at Alfred's word when he explaining about fighting aura technique.

Alfred says that fighting aura use mana to project power from warrior body, the aura greatly enhance warrior speed and strength when it activated, increasing the warrior overall power, and also it's color change according to warrior cultivation rank.

Fighter rank is a red color, Super Warrior is green, Grandmaster is blue, while Saint rank is white colored.

'this technique had the potential but...the basic sigh... tragedy' Arno only sigh and shaking his head while thinking about the technique.

Sasha who is already prepared while her surrounding filled with extreme violent winds scattering all over the place, she sees Arno shake his head, "heh you said i don't have to hold back right...then this is it", she thought that Arno is regretting challenging her.

but she's already irritated and with her temperament, it will be hard for her to just let it go after someone looking down on her.

the other start even more worried, as Sasha powers are really violent and strong, even Melissa and Diandra who is a Grand Mage and a Grandmaster respectively starting to sweat.

Sasha then readying her spear, and taking a deep breath before begin rapidly moving closer towards Arno.

"goddamn, she's really serious". Alfred is anxious when he feels that his former instructor became serious, as he recognizes the skill she's about to use.

when she moved, the green aura around her body starts to transform into a faint image of an eagle.

there's at least 20 meters distance between them, but her speed is too fast, even Alfred and Dina can't see it with their eyes.

only a few milliseconds passed before she appears again directly in front of Arno, her faint green eagle aura image became more clearer and brighter as she thrust the spear in her hand and aiming for Arno's body.

Arno never flinches even for a second as he faced Sasha ultimate strike, he reached out his right hand and pointed his fingers meeting Sasha incoming attack.

"BOOOMMM".

an extremely loud explosion voice resound after Sasha spear making contact with Arno's fingers, while also blasting out ferocious winds from their position, the burst of ferocious winds then scattered throughout the courtyard and also creating clouds of thick dust shrouding both of them inside.

no one knows the outcome as they can't see what happens inside the clouds of dust.

they worried and curious about what was going on inside.

but not long as the clouds of dust finally start to disappear, then they able see more clearly at Sasha and Arno position.

what they witness is Arno still standing while his right hand grabbed Sasha spear at its spearhead, but there is no injury in his hands or body.

Sasha is frozen while still in her thrusting stance, she thought that Arno will dodge her strike, but instead he intercepted it with only his hands.

she couldn't believe it, in fact the other people also couldn't, as Diandra and Alfred knew what she uses it's one of her ultimate pride skill.

'....i..t .. ca...can't be.... he just stopped my Aquila Strike....how...is this possible!!', Sasha can't think straight anymore.

she was proud of her Aquila Strike skill, as she even confidence that this skill combines with her strength can heavily injure a level 3 Grandmaster expert.

but now this man in front of her actually stopped it with his hands without having any injury, she raises her head and looks straight at Arno's face, he has very relaxed expression while still standing with straight posture like a huge mountain, impenetrable.

Arno who still grabbing her spear tips suddenly open his mouth, "you're a spear user, instead of scattering your energi...i mean mana and aura all over the place,... why don't you just focused it at one point aligned with your spear attack direction, it will be more efficient and resulting more damage against your opponent". then Arno smiles and releases the spear from his hands.

"..." Sasha didn't reply as she still in the shocked state, but she began to change her stance back to standing while gawking at Arno's face

Arno who see Sasha condition still keep talking to her, "so with this test, i hope you're convinced with my ability". then Arno walk towards where the other people at.

Sasha looking at Arno's back and she also followed him to back to other people.

"i can't believe that you just...stopped Sasha strike with your hands". Melissa asking Arno while also astounded.

"...", Arno didn't reply to her but instead he just smiles.

other people also looking at Arno with disbelieving but they soon recovered, also they were now even more convinced at Arno strength.

"heh... Melissa your friend is unexpectedly a Grandmaster huh, good... he will greatly help for your team". Diandra praised Arno, while also think that Arno is a Grandmaster expert.

"yeah...." Melissa replied Diandra.

and Alfred gazes at Arno is intensified, he clenching hard his hand, and looks like he already decides on something.

actually, even if Arno didn't use his hand to defend against Sasha attack, it would be useless too, as his divine body would not be injured by a mere Earth rank warrior strike.

he only uses his hand to make up an appearance, and so it would not make him too conspicuous, still within other's common sense.

Sasha who already starts to calm down is approaching Melissa, "lady Melissa about your proposal earlier....i'm accepting it..i will join your team..". she agrees to join the team.

"very well miss Sasha... thank you and... welcome to the team". Melissa smile.

"hehe welcome to the team as well". Dina also welcoming Sasha.

"..." Arno just stays silent.

"well, that was unexpected...". Alfred suddenly speak.

"what ?? what is it unexpected to you boy??". Sasha turns her fierce gaze to Alfred.

"cough....you know, i thought you will not agree in joining the team".

Sasha glared at Alfred "bah..why?? do you think i'm afraid? i'm joining for the safety of the empire you fool.... besides..." Sasha stealing glance at Arno "...nevermind.." she didn't continue speaking.

"alright that's enough...your business here is settled right". Diandra who see Sasha and Alfred is bickering start to interrupting them.

"...." Alfred just shrugged his shoulder.

"that's right teach i guess...that's it, what's next Mel ?" Dina asking Melissa what will they do next.

"hmhm our business in here is concluded, miss Hansen can return back to preparing herself, while Dina will come with me, we still had to report to the higher up". Melissa telling their next move.

"okay i will go back and prepare, but where should we meet again?". Sasha asked.

"we will meet in our temporary HQ in the store called Fanctom's store in the city after the sun is set as 2 other members will also arrive at that time...do you know where is it ??".

"i think i know, don't worry, i will meet you there". Sasha nodding her head to Melissa.

"good... as for Alfred you can go back to the inn and also preparing...remember to go to the store after sunset". Melissa tells Alfred and Arno what they must do.

"yes lady...i will also gonna send a letter to that other person we want to recruit, where we will meet after we depart.".

Melissa nod toward Alfred words "good you do that..", and she turns her head towards Arno's direction "and... what will you do.. .Arno ?".

"i'm just gonna return to inn, i'm already prepared, don't worry.. i will go to the store when the time's come". Arno assures Melissa she doesn't have to worry about him.

"very well, let's not wasting any more time,...and master thank you for help today". Melissa thanked Diandra for help.

"hehehe it's fine...it's my duty to help you Melissa, and remember to be careful okay....and that includes all of you.....please come back alive..". Diandra hugs Melissa again while also telling the team to be careful.

"yes master and..please.. tell...the old man that he doesn't have to worry". Melissa sigh when asking a request to Diandra.

"hhehe it's fine i'm sure he understands..... besides you're not a child anymore...don't worry .. i will tell him". Diandra comfort Melissa.

"thank you master...we will leave now goodbye..". Melissa release Diandra and saying goodbye to her.

other's also saying goodbye to Diandra as they leave.

"teach thank's again...we will see you later". Dina hugs Diandra before leaving.

"master thank you for today, we will return alive." Alfred salutes to Diandra and leaving too.

Arno approach Diandra and smiling to her before speaking "mam i'd would like to thank you for you're great help today, and also i apologizes for me causing a ruckus in the facility earlier". Arno thanking Diandra with another gentlemanly manners.

Diandra stunned for a moment before opening her mouth "ye..yes..i..it's fine you don't have to say that do you...heh..ehe cough...". she speaking with stuttering and bashfully, even her cheeks start turning red.

she also thinks that this man is really dangerous to her.

"then i'll take my leave, goodbye mam". Arno saying goodbye to Diandra and nod his head to Sasha who always gawking at him since earlier.

Diandra who already recovering her mind sigh lightly before leaving the training facility with Sasha.

Arno finally walking straight to Alfred who already waiting at the front of the main office with the horse, as they would leave together, Melissa and Dina already left first.

the 2 then ride the horse together back to the city.

and certainly, they attracted much attention along the way, as the sight of 2 good looking men riding on top of the same horse together is indeed a very rare and weird sight.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

few hours after Alfred and Arno arrive back at the city, they separated as Alfred had something to do, while Arno returns to his room in the inn to meditate.

even when he already become a Divine Overlord and now strive for Divine Supreme rank, he never neglects to meditate, as comprehending the universe law required an extreme patience and diligence.

Arno sense that Alfred already return to the inn and heading for upstairs, but he's not going to his room, instead he standing in front of Arno's room, seems hesitated.

Knock

but..finally, after a moment, he started to knock on the door.

'he finally decides huh...'. Arno thinks that Alfred finally making up his mind.

knock

knock

"come in". Arno beckoning Alfred who's knocking the door to enter.

the door then open slightly and Alfred peeking inside the room "sir Arno...do you have a moment?, i'd have something to discuss with you".

"sure...just enter and sit on that chair". Arno pointed Alfred to sit on the chair near a small table inside his room.

"thank you sir.." Alfred then begins to enter the room and sit on the chair.

"so what business do you have with me?". Arno who sits on the bed start the conversation, he actually already know what Alfred wants.

"i...i....sigh...". Alfred began to hesitate again, it's hard for him to speak the words, as they barely just know each other, and he already wanted to ask something outrageous.

but he desperate and does not have any choice.

Arno seeing Alfred lowering his head and hesitating, decide to speak, "you...wanted me to teach you..isn't ?".

Alfred looking at Arno after hearing that, but he only stayed silent.

after a few moments, Alfred still silent, while Arno waits for his answer soundly as well.

not long Alfred began to speak,

"yes sir...i want to ask you to teach me". Alfred answering Arno while also fixedly set his gaze at Arno's face.

"why ?? why do you want me to teach you ?".

"i...i wanted to get stronger".

"why do you want to get stronger ?".

"there is something that i want, but it's impossible to have it without a certain status, and it's also impossible to get that certain status without enough strength". Alfred answering Arno with an unwavering gaze.

Arno nod and asking, "it's for a woman....isn't ??", he already knows since yesterday the reason why Alfred pursuing strength.

Alfred is shocked by Arno's word, his gaze at Arno became filled with confusion, as he doesn't know how the fact that Arno knew what he wanted.

Arno see Alfred expression "you don't have to look at me like that, you don't need to know how i knew about it...".

Arno crossing his hand in his chest and became serious, he spoke again.

"and why do you pick me to teach you then?? we only just knowing each other this morning right.... you never know me or talk to me before that....why placing your entire future to someone you just knew..?". Arno spoke with overbearing tone.

Alfred lowering his head after hearing Arno speaking, he also starts to think about what Arno just said.

that's right, why did he decide to ask Arno to teach him, why did he trust Arno that much.

maybe because he knows that Arno came from that place, maybe because he already see Arno power, there is soo much reasons.

but the more he thinks, the more he felt that Arno's word are correct, why placing his entire future to someone he barely knows.

after all relation between a teacher and disciple is lasting throughout their entire life.

take a look at Visser Gallard and Geralt Redia, Geralt already became Visser's disciple since he was young and even before Visser able to breakthrough to the Saint rank, their relation already lasted for almost 60 years.

and also between Melissa and the Headmaster Roger Greyson, Melissa is already like Roger's own daughter, that's why when Melissa decide she will go to the Gobi Deadlands, Roger greatly protest Melissa decision because he was worried something would happened to Melissa.

that's why teacher and disciple relation must not be treated carelessly, as it will affect the disciples future or even life, it requires an absolute trust between the two.

but Alfred then suddenly remembering all of his life moments from the day of his birth until now.

he was born as the only child of Regis Byron, a trivial Viscount who serves as a retainer of a Marquis, and his mother is just an ordinary noblewoman.

because his parent's good education and parenting, Alfred didn't grow up becoming an arrogant or obnoxious person even though his family is a noble family, instead he's a good kid with good honest manner.

but since childhood he never had a big ambition towards life, originally he just wanted to become an adult and someday inheriting his father title and small estates, while living a simple normal life, he also didn't have any particular interest in cultivating even though he was talented.

when he was 14 years old his parent send him to Jetsun Academy for advanced education, while there he simply just following school schedule without any problem, he never making any ruckus or commotion, just living his very average academy's life peacefully.

until he meets her, she's a young girl which is a bit older than him, her name is Lily, at first they only meet for a few time and it mostly inside the library but they begin to get closer each day and over time they even start to have feelings for each other.

but the girl is an extremely talented person and a genius, and she's able to graduate earlier than him, when she was about to leave the academy after graduation the girl told Alfred her true identity, which is shocked Alfred to death as her real name is Lyanna Astor and she is the only child of Wilhelm Astor the current Astoria Empire Kaiser.

Originally she attending the academy anonymously, but after knowing Alfred and fall in love with him, she didn't want to lie to Alfred and start telling him the truth, but Alfred did not blame her, because he's not stupid, he knows it will be a problem for the Crown Princess if people know her identity.

but when Lyanna leaves the academy Alfred know it will be hard for them to meet again, and also because of Lyanna status it will be impossible for him who is just a lower noble son to get close to her.

he promised Lyanna that there would be a day when they were together again, so after Lyanna leaves Alfred became a different person, he starts to diligently cultivate, mastering the martial skill, reading many books to increased his knowledge, he used his entire potential and painstakingly to get stronger.

he enters the academies tournament and become the champion, many people inside and outside the academy are calling him genius, but he didn't pay any attention about it, he keep focused at cultivating and able to breakthrough to become a Level 1 Super Warrior when he was only 18 years old, and became famous throughout the academy, but he did not care as his status is still far away from enough.

after the graduation, he received many invitations from foreign noble families, organization and even from Astoria imperial guard, to invite him to join the sides, but he refused them all, instead he choose to join the legion and deployed to the south, battling the demon beast and barbarians for few months until he returns back to the capital.

Alfred then shakes his head and gathering back his mind, and he looked straight at Arno, he didn't know why, but after he remembered everything that happens in his entire life, now he becomes even more convinced that asking Arno is the right decision.

he doesn't have any choice, he doesn't have someone to guide and taught him, even though there are much organization wants him to join them, but they wouldn't want to nurture him as what they only need is his strength after all.

that's why right now he already making up his mind to ask Arno to become his teacher, he wants to gamble everything he has.

but when Alfred wanted to speak.

"you don't have to tell me anything, I've already known from your expression.....sigh...". Arno who silent since earlier start to speak after he sees Alfred expression and sigh.

"but as for becoming my disciple, you're still unqualified". Arno rejected Alfred directly.

Arno didn't felt wrong in rejecting Alfred at all, because he's a peak Divine Overlord rank expert while Alfred is only a trivial Earth rank, their status is extremely far.

even in the past many famous experts with a cultivation of Martial Emperors and Ancestor even Divine Origins wanted to be The Dark Prison Overlord disciple, but nobody enters his eyes, not to mention Alfred who is only an initial Earth rank warrior.

if not for Alfred had a destiny connection with him, he will not care at all about Alfred.

when Alfred heard that, he was extremely disappointed but he somehow feels he already know that Arno will reject him because he's not adequate enough in Arno's eyes.

Arno smile before he continues speaking "but...i can guide you for now, as for the future who knows...".

Alfred is shocked and happy at the same time he heard it.

"yes sir....thank you .... thank you... i will not disappoint you" Alfred was elated that Arno will guide him, he think even just for a little it's fine, because Alfred already decides to trust Arno.

Alfred didn't know that he's about to be guided in cultivation by the most peerless being in the entire realm.

"alright first, because you wanted to get stronger, let's start with your cultivation technique, bring it to me, i wanted to see it".

"yes, i have the scroll back inside my room, i'll be right back sir". Alfred then dashes quickly to his room and return to Arno room with many fighting aura technique scroll.

"here sir there are several technique in these scrolls". Alfred give the scrolls to Arno.

Arno examined the scroll for a few minutes before asking, "which technique do you use ?".

Alfred pointed in one of the scrolls that already opened by Arno, "is this one sir, it's a standard cultivation scroll issue for a legionnaire to use, i choose it because of it more suited for an actual combat instead, the educational purpose that the academy had". Alfred explaining his choice of technique.

Arno then studied the scroll that Alfred choose to cultivated for another few minutes, sometimes Alfred can see Arno nodding and frowning and even laughed a little when he studied it.

but Alfred just keeps silent, he does not want disturbing Arno.

after Arno finished his studied, he looked at Alfred and smile while asking "tell me, Alfred, do you know anything about the basic in cultivation".

"of course sir... i knew the basic".

"then what is it?".

Alfred answered Arno by narrating about warrior cultivated their body so that they can use fighting aura and all of that mumbo-jumbo filled with errors and wrong.

Arno just shaking his head while smiling as he heard Alfred narrations, and after that, he started to explaining Alfred the correct ways of cultivation.

after several minutes of explanation, Alfred starts to pondering before he reacts "i see it need to simultaneously cultivate both body and mind isn't ?".

although Alfred still confused and did not convinced because it's outside his common sense, but he still want to trust Arno, so he keep listening him.

"hmm that's right, why don't you try it now". Arno tells Alfred to try something.

"what?? now ? is it fine to do that sir??".

"of course, it's just meditating that's all, the correct way to train your mind".

"very well,... what should i do now ?.." Alfred asks Arno how to do meditating.

"first sit on the floor while crossing your leg".

then Alfred starts to sit on the floor and crossed his legs.

Arno continued, "close your eyes, and just relax".

Alfred closes his eyes and starting to relaxed his body.

"and don't think of anything inside your mind, just let it empty and calm your mind". Arno spoke with a soft tone as he wants to help Alfred achieving the calm state.

but Alfred first tries in meditating is simply hard for him, as 10 minutes passed before he finally able to achieve the calm state.

when Arno saw that he nods 'hemm not bad 10 minutes in the first try..... but now whatever the enlightenment he gained it is up to him, i'm just guide him a little'. then he smiles while keeping watching Alfred.

30 minutes later, Alfred body suddenly bursting out mana and his eyes are open, Arno who is watching him know that he just had a breakthrough, that's right Alfred just breaking through to level 2 Super Warrior.

Alfred was flabbergasted as he only just meditating for awhile then he suddenly making a breakthrough, but he also felt that he understand something after meditating earlier, but he still confused that's why he's looking at Arno.

Arno who saw Alfred gazing at him looking confused start to smile "that's because you just had an enlightenment on the universe law when you meditating, that's why you had a breakthrough,....relax now, calm your mind again to stabilize your mana burst".

Alfred does not have time to feel happy as he heard Arno words and begin to calm his mind again, not long, he's able to stabilize his mana burst.

Arno then gives back the scroll that he already modified a bit to Alfred, "here.... try to study the scroll after that start to practice it". and tell Alfred to study and practice it.

"yes sir..." Alfred did not waste any more time, he started to study and practice the technique.

for another few hours he practices the technique with Arno guidances, he keeps circulating mana inside his body according to the modified technique along with a calm mind, finally burst of mana erupted from his body again, this time he achieved breakthrough again to level 3 Super Warrior.

Alfred feels extremely happy and elated, because normally it would take years for cultivators breaking through 1 level, but now he only practices for few hours but already making breaking through 2 level.

this modified technique is really crazy and mystical Alfred thought.

"here you again...don't keep gawking like that, quickly stabilize your mana burst eih....this kid". Arno facepalming looking at Alfred who stupefied.

"ah...yes.....sorry". Alfred quickly stabilizes his mana burst again start to calm down.

"okay rest now, you already making 2 level breakthrough, it's enough for now on".

"alright sir..." Alfred says that, but he actually still want to practice to making another breakthrough again.

"heh i know what your thinking, but i can tell you that being too hasty only brings downfall, so just keep it slow and steady". Arno teaches Alfred to not being hasty as it only brings bad effect in his body.

"yes, i will do as you said". Alfred will do anything Arno said now, he completely believes in Arno, and would follow his advice.

Alfred starts to sit on the chair, his body is drenched by sweats all over his body, even his breathing is hard as he really tired.

"good this is all i can do for you now, from now on keep practicing that technique but don't be hasty, as for now keep that technique to yourself, it would be bad if you show it to anyone else". Arno reminds Alfred not to show the technique to other people.

"yes, i know that many people will be targetting me if this technique is revealed, your modified technique is simply too mystical sir,...its...i'm speechless". Alfred praises Arno because his modified technique is marvelous.

actually Arno did not modify it too much, as he only changes several of its instruction regarding the basic body and mind cultivation inside the technique, but of course if all the Greysia realm known about it, then it would be a total uproar, because it's modification it's simply mystical.

it's a technique that has been modified by a peak Divine Overlord expert afterall.

"good... remember everything i said about cultivation today, because it would greatly help you in the future....anyway i think it's already the time for our appointment with Melissa isn't??" Arno advising Alfred while also telling that they still had an appointment, he saw in the window that the sun already set.

"ah yes....i almost forgot about it". Alfred is panic as he completely forgot about the time.

"just rest first for a while, we go to the store after you recovered, here drink water". Arno suggests Alfred to rest while giving him a cup of water.

Alfred received the water start drinking it while resting his body.

after another 30 minutes.

Alfred already recovered his energy, both of them start leaving the inn and heading towards the team temporary base at Fanctom's store, where Melissa and the other already waiting for them.

in the far future, Alfred will always remember this moment in the inn's room that changed his destiny completely, and he will never forget the man who guide him.