Chapter 16
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"Kaija and Kaia you're back from your lectures, good."
"Yes, aunty. But are you heading out now?"
"Yes, Kaia. I think certain things need to be discussed with your mother and father given the recent discovery between you three."
"... Yes, Aunt Ragna."
"Don't be so pessimistic Kaija, with this new information your father might have a change of heart."
"Doubtful." The girls answered in unison.
"Well, it's worth a try and I think you both would prefer this option. So I'll be gone for the next few days and during that time I would prefer that you both stay on the Academy grounds. If you choose to leave for the city below then do so only with an academy guard as an escort.
"Yes, Aunty," Kaia responded while Kaija nodded.
…..
Back at the Headmaster's office, Hittan had finally arrived.
"Headmaster Fahim may I come in? I need to talk to about my ancestry."
"I figured you would seek me out after that lesson. Come, sit. You want to know how you relate to the legend in the village, right?"
"Yes."
"Well, you've heard of the myth of our village from your grandfather. Where we are the last known descendants of the Dragon and Phoenix. But have you ever asked why the village has both the Dragon and Phoenix in one spot or one group?"
"A previous alliance treaty?"
"In a sense, yes. But the founder and the most powerful leader of the Godbeast was a White Diamond Dragon Phoenix. It was not until his appearance that we had a fighting chance against the Celestials and he led the charge to drive them off. He eventually settled down with the inheritor of the then Alexandrite Moon Goddess and started his little Village. The rest of us under his leadership joined him and settled down there with him. He had kept the fact that he was wounded in the battle hidden and it severely shortened his life span. But he assured us that he would be reincarnated when the time was right.
Since that time until now the village has seen 5 generations and your group would be the 6th. So it can be imagined that many have either forgotten or put aside his promised return. But I am not saying you are him but certainly you are meant to be his inheritor. Your grandfathers and the rest of the 3rd generation naturally remember his promise and have been waiting.
Very few of the second generation exist even now, but we are the keepers of knowledge in the Village. We are also the keepers of the legacies and we decide when a young God Seed is ready..."
"God Seed?"
"Yes, a young prospect for the next generation of Prime Godbeast inheritors. Such as yourself and Edan who seems to have the qualifications to inherit the Vermilion Bird true legacy. But your appearance also means the return of the Celestials, if we are to believe the Oracle."
"I understand, the threat is still there and I am key to its defeat. But before that, I need strength and right now I need enough strength to demand my wives!"
"Demand your wives? You've found more than one?"
"Yes, Kaija and Kaia of the Alicorn Empire. I'm not sure who her parents are but they seem to have plans for their future that they can't break themselves. It may seem strange but I can tell you we are fated to be with each other and no one will stop me!"
"Kaija and Kaia you say? The two Princesses of the Alicorn Empire? Truly this must be fate as you've fallen for Moon Goddess again."
"Moon Goddess? Princesses? They both are?"
"Yes, call it fate but they both have been selected to be bear the legacy of the Moon Goddess..."
'Is this all my doing or was it all fate from the moment I met them years ago?' Hittan could not help but wonder if his actions were guided or not.
"... Given that you've chosen them I need to take a trip back to the village and consult with the 2nd generation to hand over the legacy as soon as we can."
"I'm grateful Headmaster."
"Okay, I'll head back to the village in the morning but while I'm away please be cautious."
"I assure you I will."
...
The next morning the two groups were up early as per Hittan's instructions and were already en route to the Elements training ground with the rest of his Topaz Outer Core class. Upon arriving at the square 6 Portals were visible with one stationed at each corner and two in the centre. All led to areas where the mineral elements were the richest. These locations were said to be in pocket dimensions located both on and off the planet itself. The Outer Core students could only access the Fire portal as all practitioners ultimately practised the same Body Refinement Art, God Spark.
It was not to say they could not do otherwise but to live comfortably on Gilead one had to have a strong enough body to resist the presence of 3 suns. Once one has successfully attained the Diamond Rank Upper level then they will need to focus on the Elements or Dao to move up in Ranks.
It was after seeing the portals that Hittan noticed the queue of people heading towards each portal. Each line was lively with chatter from the groups of friends ready to train. Given that his group was scheduled at this time, they proceeded to walk up to the Guard that was stationed at the Fire portal.
"Stop!" Shouted the guard as Hittan approached the portal. Hittan looked at him curiously and confused as to why he would be stopped from entering the portal.
"... Why are you stopping me from entering with my students?"
"Don't you see the line?"
"Yes. Howev…"
"Then clearly as a newly appointed substitute teacher, you seem to have skipped the rules in your induction."
'This seems a bit off, he should have been informed of my class' appointment for today's use of the training grounds. Mmmh, whatever the reason his manners seems lacking.'
Hittan started to approach the guard casually while being reprimanded publicly. Once he stood before the guard, an upper-level Diamond warrior who recently ascended to the rank. Hittan only smiled before a BANG was heard and the guard was now on his knees.
"Did someone put you up to this? Why are you deliberately standing in my way? Were you told I do not suffer fools gladly? Speak."
"Arrgh, I… just control… the…"
BANG! A punch landed on the guard's jaw.
"I warn you again, I do not suffer fools so do not lie to me."
"... I, I... I was told... you were a... new... newly appointed substitute teacher…" He stopped to take a deep breath.
"And?"
"He simply said to teach you a lesson in manners and have you wait until he was finished."
"So who is he and I will assume he is still in the training ground?"
"Yes, but he's from the Aapo Clan."
"Okay, thank you for your assistance."
Walking back to his class and the rest of the onlookers in the line who had become silent since the guard started talking. Once he was back with the group he motioned for all of them to follow him into the portal.
WHOOSH!
As the group entered the realm of fire it seemed they entered a dying star! It was a world filled with a white light that emanated from a central region below their feet. They could tell they were in the outer region of a star core from the intense heat. Though Hittan could not help note the similarities between this star core and a God Spark Core.
In the next moment, a voice was heard so close to each person as if whoever spoke was in their head.
"Rank: Topaz. Temperature range: 1051 - 1200°C. Descend and be purified, young Challengers!"
"How do we leave this place in the end?" Samir looked towards Hittan and asked in a slightly nervous voice. A question that many wanted to be answered given their first time in such an environment. But before Hittan could reply the voice returned.
"If you wish to leave then simply say so and you will be placed by the portal. However, you may enter this realm only once a month and stay at max 5 days."
"Okay, it's time we meet the head of my welcoming party."
The group immediately started to discuss Hittan's temper and disregard for protocol.
"Sister, it would seem our would-be "husband" has a temper," Kaia whispered into Kaija ear. To which Kaija only stared intently at Hittan's back.
The group started to slowly descend by simply thinking of descending towards the core region. As all the students were Topaz they swiftly moved through the Topaz range.
1070°C
1100°C
1120°C
1150°C
1200°C - "Rank: Corundum. Temperature range: 1201 - 1350°C." Once again a voice was heard.
But once the threshold for the Corundum Rank was entered some of the members in the group started to show signs of unsteadiness. It was clear that their limits were approaching.
"Hold here for those that can't go any further. Sit and meditate in this state to push the limits of your body. If and when you feel you have adjusted then slowly descend until you've reached another limit. After 5 days we will meet up at the portal. For those who can, let's continue." Hittan looked calmly over the group as if the temperature thus far was simply that of High Sun.
As the group continued only 12 were able to descend deeper of the original 25. These naturally included team New Hope and the 5 from the Alicorn Empire.
1230°C - A member of the Alicorn group stopped and started meditating.
1250°C
1270°C
1300°C - Jager of the Alicorn group stopped to meditate.
1350°C - "Rank: Diamond. Temperature range: 1351 - 2500°C." The now familiar voice was once again heard.
1400°C
1450°C
1500°C - Ona and Valencia came to a stop and started meditating. Eagerly trying to infuse the fire essence into their bodies to temper their soul and change the structure of their molecules.
1550°C
1600°C - Samir and Sarah finally came to a stop and started meditating quickly. Fearing to be left too far behind Hittan's footsteps.
1650°C- Sang of Alicorn group stopped and to his shock, Kaia and Kaija seemed as if they could continue without much difficulty. He knew now the disparity between them was no mere hill. Though he was able to practice higher rank skills his body was not yet at that level of power.
1700°C - Falkner could no longer challenge the rising heat and started meditating.
1750°C
1800°C
1850°C
1900°C - "Hittan, I think I shall not accompany you any further. I can feel my body quickly approaching the Corundum Rank. Hahaha, soon we'll have a rematch!" Edan seemed almost deliriously happy to rank up. To which Hittan could only smile and continue moving deeper in search for his goal.
"Ladies, shall we continue?" Hittan started sinking further without the need of a reply as he knew they would follow.
2000°C
2050°C
2100°C
2200°C - As the girls finally came to a stop Hittan could see a figure approaching them.
"If it isn't the substitute teacher Hittan. Aren't you looking well," said in a slightly surprised tone by a shadowy figure. He was clearly a Middle Ranked Diamond student only a step behind the guard.
Hittan only looked at him for a brief moment before refocusing on the girls. This act had infuriated the Diamond ranked!
"Child! How dare you ignore me?! Do you know who I am?"
"Of course, I know you."
"Wha… what? You do?"
"Yes, I really do. You're the son of some senior Elder or Noble with enough clout and strength to pressure an Upper-Rank Diamond Guard. Based on your arrogant tone it seems you're accustomed to getting your way and from the merit of others no less. See how well I know you?" After Hittan finished speaking he was so distracted by the first earned smile he had seen from both Kaija and Kaia that he missed the furious expression plastered over the opposing student's face!
"Why you little subst…"
BANG!
BANG!!
BANG!!!
"How dare you interrupt a good family moment between me and my wives? Trial Guardian, please remove this challenger he seems to have lost consciousness."
WHOOSH, the student was removed.
"Hittan,…" Hittan looked at Kaija expecting to be reprimanded for his opportunistic statement a moment ago once he heard her voice. "Please do something about that temper of yours."
"Hehehe, I like it." Kaia countered her sister while laughing.
Poor Hittan, he did not know how to respond to the two conflicting statements and gave his most diplomatic answer.
"I'll do my best to listen to my wives."
"Humph!" they responded in unison while sitting to meditate leaving Hittan lost at their response.
'Was it the use of the word wives or the ambiguity of my response?'
"Ladies, I need to challenge my current limits so I must go deeper. But I will return in 5 days, wait for me!" Quickly descending he left his request unanswered.
"He's not boring isn't he, sister."
"No."
Since he no longer needed to mind his pace he made quick work to the lower levels...
2300°C
2400°C
2500°C - "Rank: Elemental (Dao Elemental). Temperature range: 2501 - 4000°C."
2600°C
2700°C
2800°C
2900°C
3000°C
3200°C
3300°C
3450°C
3500°C
3550°C
3650°C
3700°C
3750°C - Whoosh. Finally coming to a stop Hittan took note of the surroundings. The white light was nearly blinding and the heat raged like a mad storm as friction between air particles caused spontaneous sparks to fly. Hittan's body glowed red while his uniform strangely was unaffected. Clearly, it was designed to withstand the effects in these portals.
Slowly closing his eyes Hittan started to focus on absorbing the heat into his body. His limbs and head were the first to complete the process followed by his torso and then his Mineral Core. The aim is to have a body match the temperature of the surrounding by drawing in the heat or flame energy and have the body structure be adapted to it or changed by it.
Soon Hittan's temperature was at 2799°C then CRACK, 2800°C! He was now at the beginning Stages of the Corundum Rank. After only a day in the Flame Realm, he had reached Corundum. But he was not done yet! After two more days, he was finally at the Diamond Rank with a temperature of 3700°C!
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
"Kaija and Kaia you're back from your lectures, good."
"Yes, aunty. But are you heading out now?"
"Yes, Kaia. I think certain things need to be discussed with your mother and father given the recent discovery between you three."
"... Yes, Aunt Ragna."
"Don't be so pessimistic Kaija, with this new information your father might have a change of heart."
"Doubtful." The girls answered in unison.
"Well, it's worth a try and I think you both would prefer this option. So I'll be gone for the next few days and during that time I would prefer that you both stay on the Academy grounds. If you choose to leave for the city below then do so only with an academy guard as an escort.
"Yes, Aunty," Kaia responded while Kaija nodded.
…..
Back at the Headmaster's office, Hittan had finally arrived.
"Headmaster Fahim may I come in? I need to talk to about my ancestry."
"I figured you would seek me out after that lesson. Come, sit. You want to know how you relate to the legend in the village, right?"
"Yes."
"Well, you've heard of the myth of our village from your grandfather. Where we are the last known descendants of the Dragon and Phoenix. But have you ever asked why the village has both the Dragon and Phoenix in one spot or one group?"
"A previous alliance treaty?"
"In a sense, yes. But the founder and the most powerful leader of the Godbeast was a White Diamond Dragon Phoenix. It was not until his appearance that we had a fighting chance against the Celestials and he led the charge to drive them off. He eventually settled down with the inheritor of the then Alexandrite Moon Goddess and started his little Village. The rest of us under his leadership joined him and settled down there with him. He had kept the fact that he was wounded in the battle hidden and it severely shortened his life span. But he assured us that he would be reincarnated when the time was right.
Since that time until now the village has seen 5 generations and your group would be the 6th. So it can be imagined that many have either forgotten or put aside his promised return. But I am not saying you are him but certainly you are meant to be his inheritor. Your grandfathers and the rest of the 3rd generation naturally remember his promise and have been waiting.
Very few of the second generation exist even now, but we are the keepers of knowledge in the Village. We are also the keepers of the legacies and we decide when a young God Seed is ready..."
"God Seed?"
"Yes, a young prospect for the next generation of Prime Godbeast inheritors. Such as yourself and Edan who seems to have the qualifications to inherit the Vermilion Bird true legacy. But your appearance also means the return of the Celestials, if we are to believe the Oracle."
"I understand, the threat is still there and I am key to its defeat. But before that, I need strength and right now I need enough strength to demand my wives!"
"Demand your wives? You've found more than one?"
"Yes, Kaija and Kaia of the Alicorn Empire. I'm not sure who her parents are but they seem to have plans for their future that they can't break themselves. It may seem strange but I can tell you we are fated to be with each other and no one will stop me!"
"Kaija and Kaia you say? The two Princesses of the Alicorn Empire? Truly this must be fate as you've fallen for Moon Goddess again."
"Moon Goddess? Princesses? They both are?"
"Yes, call it fate but they both have been selected to be bear the legacy of the Moon Goddess..."
'Is this all my doing or was it all fate from the moment I met them years ago?' Hittan could not help but wonder if his actions were guided or not.
"... Given that you've chosen them I need to take a trip back to the village and consult with the 2nd generation to hand over the legacy as soon as we can."
"I'm grateful Headmaster."
"Okay, I'll head back to the village in the morning but while I'm away please be cautious."
"I assure you I will."
...
The next morning the two groups were up early as per Hittan's instructions and were already en route to the Elements training ground with the rest of his Topaz Outer Core class. Upon arriving at the square 6 Portals were visible with one stationed at each corner and two in the centre. All led to areas where the mineral elements were the richest. These locations were said to be in pocket dimensions located both on and off the planet itself. The Outer Core students could only access the Fire portal as all practitioners ultimately practised the same Body Refinement Art, God Spark.
It was not to say they could not do otherwise but to live comfortably on Gilead one had to have a strong enough body to resist the presence of 3 suns. Once one has successfully attained the Diamond Rank Upper level then they will need to focus on the Elements or Dao to move up in Ranks.
It was after seeing the portals that Hittan noticed the queue of people heading towards each portal. Each line was lively with chatter from the groups of friends ready to train. Given that his group was scheduled at this time, they proceeded to walk up to the Guard that was stationed at the Fire portal.
"Stop!" Shouted the guard as Hittan approached the portal. Hittan looked at him curiously and confused as to why he would be stopped from entering the portal.
"... Why are you stopping me from entering with my students?"
"Don't you see the line?"
"Yes. Howev…"
"Then clearly as a newly appointed substitute teacher, you seem to have skipped the rules in your induction."
'This seems a bit off, he should have been informed of my class' appointment for today's use of the training grounds. Mmmh, whatever the reason his manners seems lacking.'
Hittan started to approach the guard casually while being reprimanded publicly. Once he stood before the guard, an upper-level Diamond warrior who recently ascended to the rank. Hittan only smiled before a BANG was heard and the guard was now on his knees.
"Did someone put you up to this? Why are you deliberately standing in my way? Were you told I do not suffer fools gladly? Speak."
"Arrgh, I… just control… the…"
BANG! A punch landed on the guard's jaw.
"I warn you again, I do not suffer fools so do not lie to me."
"... I, I... I was told... you were a... new... newly appointed substitute teacher…" He stopped to take a deep breath.
"And?"
"He simply said to teach you a lesson in manners and have you wait until he was finished."
"So who is he and I will assume he is still in the training ground?"
"Yes, but he's from the Aapo Clan."
"Okay, thank you for your assistance."
Walking back to his class and the rest of the onlookers in the line who had become silent since the guard started talking. Once he was back with the group he motioned for all of them to follow him into the portal.
WHOOSH!
As the group entered the realm of fire it seemed they entered a dying star! It was a world filled with a white light that emanated from a central region below their feet. They could tell they were in the outer region of a star core from the intense heat. Though Hittan could not help note the similarities between this star core and a God Spark Core.
In the next moment, a voice was heard so close to each person as if whoever spoke was in their head.
"Rank: Topaz. Temperature range: 1051 - 1200°C. Descend and be purified, young Challengers!"
"How do we leave this place in the end?" Samir looked towards Hittan and asked in a slightly nervous voice. A question that many wanted to be answered given their first time in such an environment. But before Hittan could reply the voice returned.
"If you wish to leave then simply say so and you will be placed by the portal. However, you may enter this realm only once a month and stay at max 5 days."
"Okay, it's time we meet the head of my welcoming party."
The group immediately started to discuss Hittan's temper and disregard for protocol.
"Sister, it would seem our would-be "husband" has a temper," Kaia whispered into Kaija ear. To which Kaija only stared intently at Hittan's back.
The group started to slowly descend by simply thinking of descending towards the core region. As all the students were Topaz they swiftly moved through the Topaz range.
1070°C
1100°C
1120°C
1150°C
1200°C - "Rank: Corundum. Temperature range: 1201 - 1350°C." Once again a voice was heard.
But once the threshold for the Corundum Rank was entered some of the members in the group started to show signs of unsteadiness. It was clear that their limits were approaching.
"Hold here for those that can't go any further. Sit and meditate in this state to push the limits of your body. If and when you feel you have adjusted then slowly descend until you've reached another limit. After 5 days we will meet up at the portal. For those who can, let's continue." Hittan looked calmly over the group as if the temperature thus far was simply that of High Sun.
As the group continued only 12 were able to descend deeper of the original 25. These naturally included team New Hope and the 5 from the Alicorn Empire.
1230°C - A member of the Alicorn group stopped and started meditating.
1250°C
1270°C
1300°C - Jager of the Alicorn group stopped to meditate.
1350°C - "Rank: Diamond. Temperature range: 1351 - 2500°C." The now familiar voice was once again heard.
1400°C
1450°C
1500°C - Ona and Valencia came to a stop and started meditating. Eagerly trying to infuse the fire essence into their bodies to temper their soul and change the structure of their molecules.
1550°C
1600°C - Samir and Sarah finally came to a stop and started meditating quickly. Fearing to be left too far behind Hittan's footsteps.
1650°C- Sang of Alicorn group stopped and to his shock, Kaia and Kaija seemed as if they could continue without much difficulty. He knew now the disparity between them was no mere hill. Though he was able to practice higher rank skills his body was not yet at that level of power.
1700°C - Falkner could no longer challenge the rising heat and started meditating.
1750°C
1800°C
1850°C
1900°C - "Hittan, I think I shall not accompany you any further. I can feel my body quickly approaching the Corundum Rank. Hahaha, soon we'll have a rematch!" Edan seemed almost deliriously happy to rank up. To which Hittan could only smile and continue moving deeper in search for his goal.
"Ladies, shall we continue?" Hittan started sinking further without the need of a reply as he knew they would follow.
2000°C
2050°C
2100°C
2200°C - As the girls finally came to a stop Hittan could see a figure approaching them.
"If it isn't the substitute teacher Hittan. Aren't you looking well," said in a slightly surprised tone by a shadowy figure. He was clearly a Middle Ranked Diamond student only a step behind the guard.
Hittan only looked at him for a brief moment before refocusing on the girls. This act had infuriated the Diamond ranked!
"Child! How dare you ignore me?! Do you know who I am?"
"Of course, I know you."
"Wha… what? You do?"
"Yes, I really do. You're the son of some senior Elder or Noble with enough clout and strength to pressure an Upper-Rank Diamond Guard. Based on your arrogant tone it seems you're accustomed to getting your way and from the merit of others no less. See how well I know you?" After Hittan finished speaking he was so distracted by the first earned smile he had seen from both Kaija and Kaia that he missed the furious expression plastered over the opposing student's face!
"Why you little subst…"
BANG!
BANG!!
BANG!!!
"How dare you interrupt a good family moment between me and my wives? Trial Guardian, please remove this challenger he seems to have lost consciousness."
WHOOSH, the student was removed.
"Hittan,…" Hittan looked at Kaija expecting to be reprimanded for his opportunistic statement a moment ago once he heard her voice. "Please do something about that temper of yours."
"Hehehe, I like it." Kaia countered her sister while laughing.
Poor Hittan, he did not know how to respond to the two conflicting statements and gave his most diplomatic answer.
"I'll do my best to listen to my wives."
"Humph!" they responded in unison while sitting to meditate leaving Hittan lost at their response.
'Was it the use of the word wives or the ambiguity of my response?'
"Ladies, I need to challenge my current limits so I must go deeper. But I will return in 5 days, wait for me!" Quickly descending he left his request unanswered.
"He's not boring isn't he, sister."
"No."
Since he no longer needed to mind his pace he made quick work to the lower levels...
2300°C
2400°C
2500°C - "Rank: Elemental (Dao Elemental). Temperature range: 2501 - 4000°C."
2600°C
2700°C
2800°C
2900°C
3000°C
3200°C
3300°C
3450°C
3500°C
3550°C
3650°C
3700°C
3750°C - Whoosh. Finally coming to a stop Hittan took note of the surroundings. The white light was nearly blinding and the heat raged like a mad storm as friction between air particles caused spontaneous sparks to fly. Hittan's body glowed red while his uniform strangely was unaffected. Clearly, it was designed to withstand the effects in these portals.
Slowly closing his eyes Hittan started to focus on absorbing the heat into his body. His limbs and head were the first to complete the process followed by his torso and then his Mineral Core. The aim is to have a body match the temperature of the surrounding by drawing in the heat or flame energy and have the body structure be adapted to it or changed by it.
Soon Hittan's temperature was at 2799°C then CRACK, 2800°C! He was now at the beginning Stages of the Corundum Rank. After only a day in the Flame Realm, he had reached Corundum. But he was not done yet! After two more days, he was finally at the Diamond Rank with a temperature of 3700°C!
"Kaija and Kaia you're back from your lectures, good.""Yes, aunty. But are you heading out now?""Yes, Kaia. I think certain things need to be discussed with your mother and father given the recent discovery between you three.""... Yes, Aunt Ragna.""Don't be so pessimistic Kaija, with this new information your father might have a change of heart.""Doubtful." The girls answered in unison."Well, it's worth a try and I think you both would prefer this option. So I'll be gone for the next few days and during that time I would prefer that you both stay on the Academy grounds. If you choose to leave for the city below then do so only with an academy guard as an escort."Yes, Aunty," Kaia responded while Kaija nodded...Back at the Headmaster's office, Hittan had finally arrived."Headmaster Fahim may I come in? I need to talk to about my ancestry.""I figured you would seek me out after that lesson. Come, sit. You want to know how you relate to the legend in the village, right?""Yes.""Well, you've heard of the myth of our village from your grandfather. Where we are the last known descendants of the Dragon and Phoenix. But have you ever asked why the village has both the Dragon and Phoenix in one spot or one group?""A previous alliance treaty?""In a sense, yes. But the founder and the most powerful leader of the Godbeast was a White Diamond Dragon Phoenix. It was not until his appearance that we had a fighting chance against the Celestials and he led the charge to drive them off. He eventually settled down with the inheritor of the then Alexandrite Moon Goddess and started his little Village. The rest of us under his leadership joined him and settled down there with him. He had kept the fact that he was wounded in the battle hidden and it severely shortened his life span. But he assured us that he would be reincarnated when the time was right.Since that time until now the village has seen 5 generations and your group would be the 6th. So it can be imagined that many have either forgotten or put aside his promised return. But I am not saying you are him but certainly you are meant to be his inheritor. Your grandfathers and the rest of the 3rd generation naturally remember his promise and have been waiting.Very few of the second generation exist even now, but we are the keepers of knowledge in the Village. We are also the keepers of the legacies and we decide when a young God Seed is ready...""God Seed?""Yes, a young prospect for the next generation of Prime Godbeast inheritors. Such as yourself and Edan who seems to have the qualifications to inherit the Vermilion Bird true legacy. But your appearance also means the return of the Celestials, if we are to believe the Oracle.""I understand, the threat is still there and I am key to its defeat. But before that, I need strength and right now I need enough strength to demand my wives!""Demand your wives? You've found more than one?""Yes, Kaija and Kaia of the Alicorn Empire. I'm not sure who her parents are but they seem to have plans for their future that they can't break themselves. It may seem strange but I can tell you we are fated to be with each other and no one will stop me!""Kaija and Kaia you say? The two Princesses of the Alicorn Empire? Truly this must be fate as you've fallen for Moon Goddess again.""Moon Goddess? Princesses? They both are?""Yes, call it fate but they both have been selected to be bear the legacy of the Moon Goddess..."'Is this all my doing or was it all fate from the moment I met them years ago?' Hittan could not help but wonder if his actions were guided or not."... Given that you've chosen them I need to take a trip back to the village and consult with the 2nd generation to hand over the legacy as soon as we can.""I'm grateful Headmaster.""Okay, I'll head back to the village in the morning but while I'm away please be cautious.""I assure you I will."...The next morning the two groups were up early as per Hittan's instructions and were already en route to the Elements training ground with the rest of his Topaz Outer Core class. Upon arriving at the square 6 Portals were visible with one stationed at each corner and two in the centre. All led to areas where the mineral elements were the richest. These locations were said to be in pocket dimensions located both on and off the planet itself. The Outer Core students could only access the Fire portal as all practitioners ultimately practised the same Body Refinement Art, God Spark.It was not to say they could not do otherwise but to live comfortably on Gilead one had to have a strong enough body to resist the presence of 3 suns. Once one has successfully attained the Diamond Rank Upper level then they will need to focus on the Elements or Dao to move up in Ranks.It was after seeing the portals that Hittan noticed the queue of people heading towards each portal. Each line was lively with chatter from the groups of friends ready to train. Given that his group was scheduled at this time, they proceeded to walk up to the Guard that was stationed at the Fire portal."Stop!" Shouted the guard as Hittan approached the portal. Hittan looked at him curiously and confused as to why he would be stopped from entering the portal."... Why are you stopping me from entering with my students?""Don't you see the line?""Yes. Howev""Then clearly as a newly appointed substitute teacher, you seem to have skipped the rules in your induction."'This seems a bit off, he should have been informed of my class' appointment for today's use of the training grounds. Mmmh, whatever the reason his manners seems lacking.'Hittan started to approach the guard casually while being reprimanded publicly. Once he stood before the guard, an upper-level Diamond warrior who recently ascended to the rank. Hittan only smiled before a BANG was heard and the guard was now on his knees."Did someone put you up to this? Why are you deliberately standing in my way? Were you told I do not suffer fools gladly? Speak.""Arrgh, I just control the"BANG! A punch landed on the guard's jaw."I warn you again, I do not suffer fools so do not lie to me.""... I, I... I was told... you were a... new... newly appointed substitute teacher" He stopped to take a deep breath."And?""He simply said to teach you a lesson in manners and have you wait until he was finished.""So who is he and I will assume he is still in the training ground?""Yes, but he's from the Aapo Clan.""Okay, thank you for your assistance."Walking back to his class and the rest of the onlookers in the line who had become silent since the guard started talking. Once he was back with the group he motioned for all of them to follow him into the portal.WHOOSH!As the group entered the realm of fire it seemed they entered a dying star! It was a world filled with a white light that emanated from a central region below their feet. They could tell they were in the outer region of a star core from the intense heat. Though Hittan could not help note the similarities between this star core and a God Spark Core.In the next moment, a voice was heard so close to each person as if whoever spoke was in their head."Rank: Topaz. Temperature range: 1051 - 1200C. Descend and be purified, young Challengers!""How do we leave this place in the end?" Samir looked towards Hittan and asked in a slightly nervous voice. A question that many wanted to be answered given their first time in such an environment. But before Hittan could reply the voice returned."If you wish to leave then simply say so and you will be placed by the portal. However, you may enter this realm only once a month and stay at max 5 days.""Okay, it's time we meet the head of my welcoming party."The group immediately started to discuss Hittan's temper and disregard for protocol."Sister, it would seem our would-be "husband" has a temper," Kaia whispered into Kaija ear. To which Kaija only stared intently at Hittan's back.The group started to slowly descend by simply thinking of descending towards the core region. As all the students were Topaz they swiftly moved through the Topaz range.1070C1100C1120C1150C1200C - "Rank: Corundum. Temperature range: 1201 - 1350C." Once again a voice was heard.But once the threshold for the Corundum Rank was entered some of the members in the group started to show signs of unsteadiness. It was clear that their limits were approaching."Hold here for those that can't go any further. Sit and meditate in this state to push the limits of your body. If and when you feel you have adjusted then slowly descend until you've reached another limit. After 5 days we will meet up at the portal. For those who can, let's continue." Hittan looked calmly over the group as if the temperature thus far was simply that of High Sun.As the group continued only 12 were able to descend deeper of the original 25. These naturally included team New Hope and the 5 from the Alicorn Empire.1230C - A member of the Alicorn group stopped and started meditating.1250C1270C1300C - Jager of the Alicorn group stopped to meditate.1350C - "Rank: Diamond. Temperature range: 1351 - 2500C." The now familiar voice was once again heard.1400C1450C1500C - Ona and Valencia came to a stop and started meditating. Eagerly trying to infuse the fire essence into their bodies to temper their soul and change the structure of their molecules.1550C1600C - Samir and Sarah finally came to a stop and started meditating quickly. Fearing to be left too far behind Hittan's footsteps.1650C- Sang of Alicorn group stopped and to his shock, Kaia and Kaija seemed as if they could continue without much difficulty. He knew now the disparity between them was no mere hill. Though he was able to practice higher rank skills his body was not yet at that level of power.1700C - Falkner could no longer challenge the rising heat and started meditating.1750C1800C1850C1900C - "Hittan, I think I shall not accompany you any further. I can feel my body quickly approaching the Corundum Rank. Hahaha, soon we'll have a rematch!" Edan seemed almost deliriously happy to rank up. To which Hittan could only smile and continue moving deeper in search for his goal."Ladies, shall we continue?" Hittan started sinking further without the need of a reply as he knew they would follow.2000C2050C2100C2200C - As the girls finally came to a stop Hittan could see a figure approaching them."If it isn't the substitute teacher Hittan. Aren't you looking well," said in a slightly surprised tone by a shadowy figure. He was clearly a Middle Ranked Diamond student only a step behind the guard.Hittan only looked at him for a brief moment before refocusing on the girls. This act had infuriated the Diamond ranked!"Child! How dare you ignore me?! Do you know who I am?""Of course, I know you.""Wha what? You do?""Yes, I really do. You're the son of some senior Elder or Noble with enough clout and strength to pressure an Upper-Rank Diamond Guard. Based on your arrogant tone it seems you're accustomed to getting your way and from the merit of others no less. See how well I know you?" After Hittan finished speaking he was so distracted by the first earned smile he had seen from both Kaija and Kaia that he missed the furious expression plastered over the opposing student's face!"Why you little subst"BANG!BANG!!BANG!!!"How dare you interrupt a good family moment between me and my wives? Trial Guardian, please remove this challenger he seems to have lost consciousness."WHOOSH, the student was removed."Hittan," Hittan looked at Kaija expecting to be reprimanded for his opportunistic statement a moment ago once he heard her voice. "Please do something about that temper of yours.""Hehehe, I like it." Kaia countered her sister while laughing.Poor Hittan, he did not know how to respond to the two conflicting statements and gave his most diplomatic answer."I'll do my best to listen to my wives.""Humph!" they responded in unison while sitting to meditate leaving Hittan lost at their response.'Was it the use of the word wives or the ambiguity of my response?'"Ladies, I need to challenge my current limits so I must go deeper. But I will return in 5 days, wait for me!" Quickly descending he left his request unanswered."He's not boring isn't he, sister.""No."Since he no longer needed to mind his pace he made quick work to the lower levels...2300C2400C2500C - "Rank: Elemental Dao Elemental. Temperature range: 2501 - 4000C."2600C2700C2800C2900C3000C3200C3300C3450C3500C3550C3650C3700C3750C - Whoosh. Finally coming to a stop Hittan took note of the surroundings. The white light was nearly blinding and the heat raged like a mad storm as friction between air particles caused spontaneous sparks to fly. Hittan's body glowed red while his uniform strangely was unaffected. Clearly, it was designed to withstand the effects in these portals.Slowly closing his eyes Hittan started to focus on absorbing the heat into his body. His limbs and head were the first to complete the process followed by his torso and then his Mineral Core. The aim is to have a body match the temperature of the surrounding by drawing in the heat or flame energy and have the body structure be adapted to it or changed by it.Soon Hittan's temperature was at 2799C then CRACK, 2800C! He was now at the beginning Stages of the Corundum Rank. After only a day in the Flame Realm, he had reached Corundum. But he was not done yet! After two more days, he was finally at the Diamond Rank with a temperature of 3700C!
