Chapter 66: 66 - Elementary Magician, Gesse Nukadia
The afternoon sun shone brightly over the Iron Legion's courtyard. Surrounded by curious onlookers and warriors, Ghislaine and Eris stood before him, ready to cast their first spell. The wind blew softly as the attentive eyes of the spectators fixed upon them.
Ghislaine was already a well-known figure within the Legion, recognized not only for her strength as a Sword King but also for having saved Rygar at the Joylore Mansion. She had many admirers, though Rygar wasn't particularly fond of them.
Eris took a deep breath, concentrating. Her face was serious, her eyebrows furrowed in determined effort. She chanted:
"May the protection of the great fire be where you seek it. I invoke the bold heat of a torch here and now. Fireball!"
A small sphere of flickering flames appeared in the air before her. The shimmering fire reflected in the red-eyed girl's gaze, and she broke into a victorious smile. The silence lasted only a second before Rygar smiled and confidently declared:
"Congratulations, Eris! Now you can consider yourself a fire elemental mage!"
The girl's chest swelled with pride, and she cast a look of pure satisfaction at the spectators. Some murmured in surprise, while others simply smiled at her excitement.
Now it was Ghislaine's turn. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes for a moment, and then repeated the incantation with a firm and resolute voice. Just like Eris, a sphere of fire appeared before her, floating for a few moments before dissipating.
This time, the audience reacted immediately. Applause and cheers echoed throughout the courtyard, celebrating the formidable warrior's achievement.
Rygar, however, cast a piercing look at the men who were clapping and whistling. His gaze was like a blade cutting through their excitement, and the noise quickly died down. The spectators discreetly coughed and averted their eyes, regaining their composure. Then Rygar drew two wands from his cloak, holding them firmly.
"I heard from Peikak that it is customary to present students with their first wands when they cast their first elemental spell," he said, his voice echoing clearly throughout the courtyard. "It isn't a tradition I used to follow, but I've decided to adopt it this time. Congratulations to both of you."
Ghislaine knelt and bowed her head.
"I receive it with gratitude, Professor Rygar."
The formality surprised some of the onlookers, but for her, it was a gesture of respect. Rygar nodded as he handed her the wand.
"You still need to learn beginner healing and water spells, as they are very useful as well," he added, looking at both of them. "But from today onward, you can call yourselves mages."
Eris exchanged a glance with Ghislaine for a moment, then, hesitantly, imitated her posture and knelt as well, her face slightly flushed.
"I accept with gratitude..." she said, taking the wand with trembling hands.
Ghislaine expressed herself, holding her wand with a slight smile on her lips. Her golden eyes shone with a rare feeling of satisfaction as she murmured to herself:
"I am a mage now..."
That small moment of achievement changed something within her, even if subtly. For so many years, Ghislaine had relied solely on her sword to resolve everything, but now a new path had opened before her—a path she had never considered following because everyone around her had said she was incapable of such a thing.
Eris gripped her wand firmly, her eyes shining with determination. Looking at both of them, Rygar looked inward.
The future promises to be interesting.
---
The training field was silent, except for the sound of the wind slicing through the air. Rygar and Ghislaine were focused, their bodies almost a blur due to the incredible speed of their movements. The ground trembled slightly with each explosive step, and the sound of blades cutting through the air echoed back and forth. It was a spectacle of strength and precision, as if they were engaged in a deadly dance.
Eris, on the other hand, was far away, her presence distant as she chased Skoll and Geri through the forest. The black wolf and its pup performed during their training, with Rufus riding on Geri, merely as part of a series of exercises.
Suddenly, a voice interrupted the intense rhythm of the training.
"Boss, someone here said they know Miss Ghislaine." It was Peikak.
Rygar and Ghislaine immediately stopped. Their bodies, once a blur of rapid movement, slowed until they were motionless. Rygar's attention returned to the intruder, who was almost imperceptible in the distance.
As the man approached, Rygar could see that he had inherited a demonic lineage, with monkey-like features. Large ears and a mischievous expression made him hard to ignore. He wore a simple vest and thief's clothes, his disheveled appearance contrasting with the discipline of the Iron Legion.
Ghislaine stepped forward upon recognizing him.
"Geese," exclaimed Ghislaine, walking toward him. "It's been a while. How did you know I was here?"
Geese replied in a friendly manner. His relaxed posture showed no signs of danger or tension.
"Ah, Ghislaine, always so straightforward. I heard that the Red Wolf had joined the Iron Legion, so I decided to come see with my own eyes." He laughed as he glanced at Rygar. "And here we are."
Rygar stepped forward, his gaze penetrating and wary.
"I am Rygar Dedoldia," he introduced himself in a serious yet open tone.
Geese looked at him briefly, evaluating him before letting out a low laugh.
"Geese Nukadia," he said with a casual nod. "I'm looking for Paul and his family. You must know that all of Fitoa was transported. I've tried several places, but it seems no one knows where they are."
Always attentive to details, Rygar kept his eyes fixed on the newcomer, observing every expression and gesture. A feeling that something was not quite right took root in his mind, although his instincts did not signal any immediate danger. Even so, there was something that unsettled him.
"And how did you learn about the Legion?" Ghislaine asked.
Geese crossed his arms. "Hardly anyone in Milis doesn't know about them now."
"Well, in any case, that's one less person to search for. In fact, I've had some difficulties with that. I looked for our old group, but haven't found any clue about them yet. You're the first one who's come across them."
Rygar looked at Ghislaine, who seemed to be reflecting on Geese's words.
"I see..." Ghislaine murmured, before turning to Rygar. "They are the ones I mentioned from my old group, Paul and Zenith. I heard they also had a son."
Rygar nodded.
"I'm heading to the Central Continent now and, who knows, maybe I'll find something there."
Observing Geese's behavior and relaxed tone, Rygar pondered for a moment before replying.
Ghislaine spoke again, "We're heading to the Central Continent as well. You can come with us, if you want."
Geese raised his eyebrows in surprise.
"Really?" he suggested, as if the offer were a great surprise. "I could go, of course! I'm good at everything except fighting. Taking care of all matters outside of combat has always been my strong suit. If you need someone for espionage, information gathering, or just organizing things... that's me!"
Ghislaine looked at Rygar, who appeared to be evaluating his options.
She gave a slight nod, confirming the trust she had in Geese. "It's true—he can do everything except fight. He handled all the non-combat activities for our group. If you need help with other tasks, he'll be useful."
Rygar looked at Geese once more, and his instincts told him that he could be trusted. It wasn't a strong feeling, but it was enough for Rygar to make a decision.
"Alright. You can come with us, since you're a companion of Ghislaine." He said in a firm yet friendly tone. "But just to be clear, don't expect me to get along with anyone who shows a lazy attitude."
Geese let out a laugh and performed an exaggerated bow.
"Don't worry, Red Wolf, I'm far more useful than I appear." He winked with a mischievous smile.
Ghislaine appeared impassive, her confidence in Geese unwavering as she returned to her training.
Geese continued his carefree behavior, but his eyes were constantly analyzing the situation. Rygar sensed that there was something more behind the simple appearance and easy laugh. But for now, he chose to trust him, since Ghislaine had spoken highly of his skills, and Rygar felt no threat from him—only a strange sensation.
---
Atop the wall, Rygar remained steadfast. Beside him were Ghislaine, Eris, Eidar, Geese, Taes, Peikak, Weys, and Skoll.
Below, in perfect order, the army was arrayed in formation, each soldier emanating the strength and determination that only the union of multiple races could bring. Men, women, elves, dwarves, demons, and other creatures stood under a single banner.
"Iron Legion!" Rygar declared, his voice firm and clear, echoing through the fortress walls and resonating throughout the camp. "Today, when I look at all of you, I see more than just an army. I see a union of peoples, different in culture and origin, but united by fate."
He paused, then walked with determined steps, the eyes of the warriors following every word he spoke.
"Now, the Iron Legion is stronger than ever. Humans, beastmen, dwarves, and all the races here have united under one name, under one Legion. Many of you have gathered here today for many reasons: to protect your loved ones, to fight for the future of your race, for a chance to stand out in this world and let fire and steel rain down upon our enemies. The Iron Legion is the banner that carries the flame of change against the status quo in today's society, for those who hold power in their hands will almost always seek to eliminate us."
Rygar spoke again, now with greater intensity, his words filled with confidence:
"The prosperity and security of the Iron Legion are in your hands. I know that even in my absence, each of you will continue to fight with the same strength and courage as always. I am going to the Sword Sanctuary, and I promise you all one thing."
He paused, his eyes scanning the crowd, and a wild smile remained on his face.
"When I return, I will be the next Sword God!"
The crowd responded with applause and waves of determination. Every voice that joined in made the air vibrate with emotion; Tinaver was more excited than ever.
Rygar, with a confident smile, turned to Taes, Weys, and Peikak, who were close by, and spoke firmly:
"Listen up, Taes, Peikak, and Weys. I entrust the Iron Legion to you three in my absence. Taes, you will be the interim commander of this army while I'm away." He said in a deep voice.
Taes, though only 14 years old, already impressed everyone with his imposing height—about 1.80 m—and his leadership that transcended his age. He nodded respectfully with a silent determination:
"I won't let you down."
Weys, equally attentive, nodded firmly, his expression showing maturity and unwavering commitment.
Peikak, in his usual direct tone, looked at Rygar and, with an ironic smile, said:
"I hope I'm still alive when you get back."
As the solemnity spread throughout the camp, Rygar descended the wall, slowly approaching those gathered at his base. It was then, amid the crowd, that his eyes fixed on familiar faces: young Rufus, ever vigilant; the two wolves who would remain, whose humble followers sang a chant of loyalty; Garrinson, Joseph, and many others who, with nods and smiles, wished him good luck.
"Farewell," Rygar murmured.
The young commander felt the weight of responsibility, but also the joy of knowing he wasn't alone.
As he began his departure, Rygar took a deep breath, feeling the freshness of the morning mixed with the scent of earth and courage. Determined, he took the first steps toward the Sword Sanctuary, each step marking the beginning of an adventure that would shape the destiny of them all. Accompanying him in the carriage were Eris, Ghislaine, Eidar, Gesse, and Skoll, walking by his side.
The sun was high, and as he walked, he could hear excited shouts echoing in the distance.
Rygar Adoldia
Age: 11 years and 1 month
Titles: Flaming Beast, Red Wolf
Mana Reserves: God Level
Weapons: Tsukikage (of the 49 Blades of the Dragon King Kajakut), Night Hunter, Hidden Daggers
Magical Skills:
Fire Magic: Advanced
Earth Magic: King
Water Magic: Saint
Wind Magic: King
Healing Magic: Saint
Detoxification Magic: Saint
Barrier Magic: Advanced
Howling Magic: Conqueror's Haki
Combat Skills:
North God Style: Saint
Sword God Style: Saint
Water God Style: Advanced
Combat with Natural Weapons (claws, instincts, etc.): Saint
Battle Strength: High King-Level Warrior
Intellectual Skills:
Reading and writing in Beast-God, Demon-God and Human languages
Mathematics (University Level)
Practical Skills:
Excellent hunter, Good teacher, Very bad cook (It's almost inedible, but it can be eaten to avoid starving to death), Excellent Builder (Earth Magic), Good swimmer, between others.
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