Pulse of Chaos — Volume 1

A war of seventy-three days, very long for me, but short for my grandparents. I counted the days hoping not to go crazy, but madness is never lacking in those moments. Seven days after my return, in some unbelievable way I survived the decisive battle on the border mountain. It was almost a miracle.

Although it was not a big deal for me, I was very lucky, everyone seems to look at me with much more respect. No... They always looked at me with respect and some with fear. I realized that now they looked at me with idolatry, so I feel suffocated, it was not something I expected or wanted.

At the end of the war I will finally be able to have my own place, for my service I will be tax free for ten years and zero worries for some time. I got some achievements in battle, to be honest I didn't even give one hundred percent, only at the end, at one point I almost lost my life because of it. Despite that, it seems that I managed to attract attention. I remember giving my point of view in the meeting before the third operation, there were eleven official battles and hundreds of skirmishes, then for the sixth meeting before the battle, everyone seemed to wait for my opinion. According to the analysis of the warmasters, thanks to my efforts our advantages in negotiations increased significantly, giving us an unexpected, premature and long-awaited victory.

Just when I was wondering if I had stood out too much I was summoned to a secret place, in these situations I usually go as an escort. So I had to hide my identity on the way while escorting the minister of war. Next to me was the glorious minister of war. Probably the most mysterious person on the continent. It's hard to know what he thinks even when asked the simplest question. Looks like he was expecting something to happen along the way.

The war minister essentially seems distracted, but will remember every word and gesture made during a conversation. Her memory is terrifying and appearance refined, she is definitely reminiscent of the old nobility. When I was younger I hated him, I was quite envious since our ages aren't too different and he always seemed to carry an aura of the most blessed being in the world. Sure, I was immature and superficial.

When the five main armies were united, their good leadership was always talked about, strange rumors could also be heard, but nobody paid attention.

In the last battles I recognized his efforts, although he was not on the battlefield you could feel his support, in the end it doesn't matter how good the soldiers are, without leadership and preparation there is only annihilation. It is in all the planning and execution where the minister's abilities shine the most, even if he is a few words, he is an exemplary leader, I am sure that his efforts were great during the war.

War Minister Gabriel of the Lugo Central house. Now that I know what he does, I don't want to be in his place.

This guy was able to do better things with his abilities, yet he wastes it all on something as weak and unnecessary as war. In the end I was also trapped. Forced to maintain our hatred and resentment against faceless soldiers, puppets of the cruel reality that approaches with each awakening.

One day passed, the road was long and silent, I do not think I have exchanged more than four sentences with the minister, anyway, I am not one of those who start conversations, but I usually respond.

Arrival at the complex of the three rivers.

It is a very beautiful place but tourism is prohibited, getting to see it in person gives me a slight sense of achievement. Many people want to see it, I did not count myself among those people. Large statues stand amid beautiful gardens. The constructions are really impressive, they combine a feeling of antiquity and dignity that is not affected by the passage of time. The architecture of the buildings supported by multiple arches is truly amazing. The best master builders came together to create this work of art, overcoming challenges in their time, erecting a

work on this continent that today has not been surpassed. Each column and wall carries exquisite designs that are non-repeating. At the same time, there are too many beautiful things to see in this place. Today is certainly a special occasion.

We are greeted by a very familiar person, one of my many uncles. This is from my father. The surname of my paternal family is Fénix, I use the surname of my maternal family, this is decided according to the territory where the son is raised.

Minister, how was your trip? says my uncle with a sincere smile.

“As always. The minister replies.

My uncle's smile doesn't change.

Most of our family is in the military, if my mother were alive she would be too and my father, executed by the empire, was a master of war.

It's no coincidence that I am also in the military, the good thing is that there are many benefits during peacetime. That's the good thing for me.

I grew up with many cousins and rotated between several houses of my relatives, not because of my particular situation, it is the tradition of my family, the objective is that young people become stronger by learning in different environments and acquire the ability to adapt.

Although I have an older brother, when I turned six we were separated into different houses, so I hardly ever interacted with him. Even during the periods where we are supposed to be together we didn't see each other anymore.

In total there were five different houses during my youth, three with the surname Acacia, the other two with Oak, each house is part of a different army within the country depending on the city where they are. I am grateful for that system in my family, it was adjusted to my situation, perhaps the tradition started by one of my ancestors who considered that many in the family could be orphaned at any time.

I never went through my uncle's house, he is a paternal uncle, the tradition comes from the maternal family. In addition, he belongs to a rare religion. He's in my top ten of people he couldn't bear to spend more than five minutes with. My uncle turns his head to greet me, his smile changing slightly with me, just for an instant.

"Cirodante. says my uncle.

“Uncle Jonathan, to your health. I responded politely.

“For your health. Still don't know why you're here?

“Nope.

The minister turned to see me too, it seems he had to tell me, but he didn't. My uncle laughs at this situation. But his laugh doesn't look like laughter.

“Okay. It's better that way. The minister must be right. "says my uncle, resuming his appearance a little more serious. "Let's continue then."

We entered the complex and quickly arrived at the main building. The security is very high, it seems that a high position is here.

No, it's more than that, the nervousness reaches me and the minister notices it.

"It's something positive for you, keep that thought." says the minister with a tone of indifference. It's the longest sentence this guy has said to me so far.

We keep walking, and soon we reach a room. Just what I thought. The king is here. In a large room, at least a hundred people are here today. Three women sitting next to the king are very famous, their absolute and unquestionable beauty, each one with an attraction that makes them unique, the two closest to the king are his concubines and the other woman is princess Rebekah Sixth. It's not the first time I've seen Rebeca. She even gave me a sneer the first time I saw her. A few years ago just before undergoing treatment outside the castle. Something important assigned to my family. I was one of his guardians, even my blood was the only compatible one when he required a transfusion. I think they took more blood than necessary, but that's the way it is, serving the king is our family's duty.

I never spoke with Rebeca Sixth, her image is easy to remember, she is very tall and athletic, her braided jet black hair reaches almost to the ground, I don't know her voice, only that look, today's is particular, a touch of murderous intent it's leaking. That doesn't help my nervousness, but I'm not going to show weakness in front of a king. They are the teachings of my family.

Among those present were several warmasters, some unknown to me, others quite famous. Warmasters report to the Minister of War. Every city has at least one. I don't aspire to be one of them, I hate the idea of having to interact more with the minister.

"Welcome everyone.

The silence was broken, the king smiled as did my uncle. The person who spoke had an elegant and imposing voice, he was one of the king's managers.

"We welcome this day with faith! the manager yelled.

"Our life in your hands, our sword at your command!" The almost one hundred people only

shouted at the same time, only the king in silence.

"Today we welcome the Lagos monster, a hero among heroes, with his strategic contribution, with his ability to break the enemy front, the conquest of the Idri mine and his insatiable thirst for victory for our glorious twilight immortal kingdom! new sir! says the manager with a strong voice that conveys patriotic emotions.

"We received his life and his sword!" shout the nobles in the room, except the king.

The king was a little surprised. He seems to reflect briefly.

Wait... I'm here as the minister's escort. It is not like this? Who is the Lagos monster? Lakes in my motherland!

Why is everyone looking at me?

Something is not right, the king gets up and Sixth along with the manager follow him. The concubines and all the rest bow down with one knee. The step of the king is firm, it is not very fast and not slow either, this guy is tall, more than two meters, in an instant that seemed like an eternity he came directly to me then Sixth and the tall manager caught up with him. Up close the ill intent in Sixth's gaze feels stronger.

"Cirodante Acacia of the primordial house of Lagos... Get up." said the king.

It's the first time I don't hate hearing my full name. The primordial as part of my last name means that there are other families that stem from mine, and mine is the oldest. It's an awkward situation but the king took the trouble to mention my full name. But what is this situation?

I get up with my head bowed, as protocol dictates.

"Raise your gaze." said the king.

The situation is a problem for me. I hate being the center of attention. During battles I often took advantage of my stealth ability with my halberd to stab the hearts of enemy battalions.

"According to the royal decree, the title of lesser duke is added to his honorable name and he will receive the tectonic halberd." said the manager. "His land will be the new city of the kingdom, Midora city, he must also watch over the four nearby towns, develop his army and economy, for this he is assigned three managers from the capital academy, a war teacher and what will be his first wife Princess Rebekah Sixth of the Twilight Immortal Realm, her wedding rite with the sixth princess will be held in the capital under the blessing of Mars. one month from today.

Why? Why did this happen to me? It's Minister Gabriel's fault... Damn Gabriel. These must have been their rewards.

I'd rather decline bounties, but that's clearly something I can't do. An oath prevents me.

The tectonic halberd is fine, the halberd is the flagship weapon of my family, a weapon similar to a spear, the difference is in its tip that adds a kind of ax, this piece that mixes both the tip of a spear with the ax is known as moharra, its shape gives it a long reach, rapier capacity and forcefulness, the rod is normally made of special wood, the tectonic halberd is well known, they gave it that name for its ability to change the terrain with its impact power , although not everyone can hold it, it will be a while before I can do it, maybe my cousin Brenan or my cousin Kerli considered the strongest can master it, but... in the first place, I never heard in the mainland the title of minor duke, it doesn't sound real, as if by tradition I should be recognized only as a duke, but at the same time they want to differentiate me from real dukes. It's demeaning.

Second, Midora is ninety percent destroyed. I took care of that partly during the third battle, at that time I didn't find it funny, it was necessary, at least I try to convince myself of that. If there are forced civilians, how surviving soldiers of that war will surely know about me. He could be killed in the near future.

Now, the matter with Rebeca Sixth is the most complicated, of all the princesses she is the only one with a public history of extreme violence, there are rumors that this stupid war started because of her. Supposedly she declared the invasion and capture of the Idri mine to avoid an arranged marriage, they are rumors so I do not dwell on them, but if so, this must be a punishment for her, many people died in a war that could be avoided. So I wonder why me?

Is it the bill for leaving the conquered city in such a state? If it's true that Rebeca Sixth did all this just for an arranged marriage that she didn't agree with, forget about the rest, before I set foot in Midora City I'm going to be assassinated. Wait... I forgot two points, first, they consider me difficult to kill, second I have to give my answer, although it is only protocol, the sentence was passed.

"I Cirodante Acacia of the primordial house of Lagos, swore with my blood to go where my king aimed, to kill whom my king sentenced, I swear today until my last breath to abide by this will. The pact is complete.

I came back alone from the city of Ríos, the minister stayed, sure to avoid talking to me back. You are right to do so, I have many things I want to tell you, I even thought of killing him and passing it off as a suicide. Of course , depending on your answers, I am not irrational either.

Now I have to go with the main family, the representatives of the Acacia and Roble family branches meet in a week, and also the Lakes, Rivers, Seas divisions. I have other matters to attend to first, for example, getting my money back and returning the property I recently

acquired, as a minor duke I don't need a small house in another city.

Three days for the family reunion.

I only got back seventy percent of what I paid, I felt robbed, I forgot to say that I was a duke, or rather I didn't mean to say that I was a minor duke. The other days he drank all night, alone, I wondered what Fiora was doing, to whom he wanted to propose marriage, I barely thought about her.

Fiora was a sweet woman with little luck. She arrived a long time ago as a refugee from a far away country alone with her younger brother, without any coins in her pockets. I met her before going to war so I couldn't reach out my hand in his worst moments in this city. Thanks to her brother I was able to meet her, that guy is good with a sword, quite good, he promotes himself as a wonderful mercenary, his fencing is of a mythical level so he has a way to justify it, for me he is too eccentric, but a really good person , all thanks to his sister.

In our friendly matches I jokingly called him brother-in-law and he seemed to double the force of his blows. He's a funny and patient guy, thanks to Fiora.

I dreamed of Fiora many times after seeing her for the first time, many times we shared looks and smiles that were difficult to confuse, but the stupid war crossed our path, to think that she would wait for me is the wish of a deluded madman. Still... I should know about her, even though we're nothing.

I was walking down the street, it is the place where I stayed the longest. I wanted to return to this place and establish my life here… My thoughts were broken, there she was. Her appearance is delicate, she could be mistaken for a young noblewoman, but she knows what hard work is. Freckles on her cheeks and other parts of her body, her body is quite attractive and her hazel hair, although not very long, is quite feminine. She looked at me in surprise and turned to me. In addition to being surprised, she looked quite cheerful.

"Ciro. Fiora said in her tender voice, it's too tender.

That look, there it is as always. I have to know what that look is.

"For your health.

“Don't be so formal, not with me. Fiora mentions her beautiful smile.

Out of nowhere he hugged me, I didn't know which of our hearts beat stronger. My mind is blank.

"We need to talk. Do you have time?

Yes, I'm not going to work tonight.

The hug did not end. Fiora behaves like a child, despite being older than me.

When the hug ended he asked me for a moment. I didn't see his face, but he seemed to hide a tear. I'm sure he still hadn't told me he wasn't working tonight. That makes me smile. But my smile hurts, I have to think about what I'm going to say, his life is at risk if I don't choose my words well. Fiora works in a restaurant. She is a three-star chef. For me her food is the best, in my last meeting with the nobles I did not try something similar to Fiora's cooking.

We left the restaurant and walked around a bit.

"Where we go? Fiora asked with a smile.

"Wherever you want.

"In that case I want to sit over there." Fiora said as she pointed to a park bench in the distance.

"It's okay.

We sat without seeing each other, it was obvious that I wanted to kiss her. But it wasn't fair, at the same time I knew I would regret not doing it.

“I heard your stories. Fiore said.

"Stories? I asked interested

"Yes. Fiora said, her smile widening and she blushed when she saw her.

"Something interesting? I said curiously.

"They say you killed everyone who got in your way.

“That's exaggerated.

They say you saved a lot of people.

"I do not remember. I told him while trying to remember.

I thought, but I really don't remember, what I do remember was the death around me, how there were fewer and fewer of us and how our acquaintances disappeared in the crowd and returned mutilated and lifeless. I was also impulsive, it's a miracle I'm here alive. He wouldn't say things like that to Fiora.

"It must have been difficult."

"It's true. Tell me little Fiora, what do you think of war?

"It is necessary, little Ciro.

“It never is. "said. At the same time, I smiled hearing my name like that.

It's absolutely refreshing, especially after listening to it so seriously these days. I can't understand her. War as something necessary.

"I can't say that... Ciro.

"It's true, it's hard for you to express your real stance. You are a civilian from another kingdom.

"It's not only because of that, I wouldn't lie to you, you can be sure that it's my real position.

"Okay, I respect her.

"I'm sorry you don't want to talk about this.

"I can talk to you about anything. I told Fiora as I looked up at the sky with a rueful smile.

"And whatever it is you will speak with sweet words. Fiora said as she leaned her head on my shoulder.

“I'm not dreaming.

"Nope.

It was a moment to be silent, at least I decided to think with each neuron my next words.

"For me the war is not over, it's just halftime. I told Fiora.

"What's going on? "I wonder.

"They are going to install me permanently in the conquered city, as duke.

Surprised, Fiora clenched her fist, I don't know what she was thinking. He pulled back to look at me.

“I must rebuild the city and exercise military control in the border area.

"So when are you leaving?"

I couldn't answer, I let the silence confirm that question.

A tear, this time it was not hidden, if it is a tear of sadness I must be a witness.

"Is that city dangerous?"

"Yes.

"How much?

“It's dangerous for you.

"Tell me what that means."

This is painful. We both feel the same, I can confirm.

“It means the city is under my control, but there may be resistance.

"That's not excuse enough, it's not if you don't want me to go with you."

"It's not just that, in three weeks my arranged marriage to Rebeca Sixth will take place.

"The princess? she asked in surprise.

"Yes, for me the whole situation is nothing more than retaliation towards both of them.

"You. What do you feel for me?

I looked at his eyes again, his eyes were full of determination, I had seen that look in battle many times, it is the look of someone willing to sacrifice their ideals. For Fiora to have that look breaks my heart.

I convinced myself of something, right now, no turning back.

"I want to take you with me." I want to make you part of my family, I foolishly want to make you my wife.

Fiora thought for a moment, clearly surprised.

Just when I started to regret it.

"You're an ambitious man... It's okay." Fiora said clearly happily.

We did not continue talking, it was no longer necessary. That's how I decided. Everything was like a dream, I had this fantasy with her, it came true. It's true that I can complicate things like this, but my aunts always told me to follow my heart, but my uncles told me to always take care of the family.

Our first kiss. Later that day was our first time.

Time passed. Today was the day of the family reunion. This meeting is official, a letter was sent to the king's manager for his information, after this meeting I cannot have any more official meetings without the presence of one of my managers. Things are not going well in my family,

we lost many people in the war, many young people took the leadership of their branches due to an emergency, if it were not for my appointment as duke I would also be in that situation.

It was time to go to the family mansion.

The place is not ostentatious, from the external point of view it does not look luxurious at all, so it is easy to think that we do not belong to the nobles. Family members also do not exaggerate their behavior like other families. Another easy thing to notice is the small number of servants and no slaves, the few servants there are dedicated to helping the elderly grandparents. The family mansion is in the capital Rios, in this place the Acacia family settled hundreds of years ago. Our family is noble and has a lot of responsibility in the establishment of the Twilight Immortal realm. The family mansion is a place that combines comfort and adequate spaces to train members. There is plenty of room for when all the branches come together, just like now. I can't help but feel happy to be here with everyone. Little has changed. The youngest training with the older ones. The intensity of friendly fighting between cousins. So I continued until I reached the meeting place. It seems that everyone arrived much earlier than me. Although I arrive at the designated time on time.

Start the meeting.

Grandpa stood up and looked each of us in the eye before speaking.

"Acacia, Oak, Lakes, Rivers and Seas divisions. Our ancestors give us strength, in hard times they make us stronger.

We keep silent. This is how all family gatherings begin.

"My children, today is a day of happiness and also of sadness. Many fell in the war with honor, thanks to Cirodante, Brenan and Caleb our flame still stands, of the five armies two fell and we

lost Tristan and Loran to them.

Brenan is strong, I never beat him in friendly one-on-ones, nor did I come close to it, his punches hurt a lot and more than once he knocked me unconscious. Caleb is dangerous, I could beat him, but I always felt like he was going to kill me at any moment. Tristán was my blood brother, I didn't know he had died. Without realizing it the tears came uncontrollably, I don't understand why. Perhaps it was because I was the last of my closest family. Lastly, Loran, fifth in the family top, I didn't know him well, but I heard he was just as talented as Brenan, but much younger. What a way to start the meeting.

"Recent events make us recognize how blind we have been.'' says another grandfather. “That's why we'll combine the male and female family tops like in the past, so, like in the past, women will have to participate in the war camps as well.

Everyone was silent as if it was something they had been waiting for a long time. It is true that my mother was a soldier but she did not directly participate in the battlefield, she was part of the intelligence division, a very good spy, she was betrayed by a colleague and murdered in a cruel way. I have a small list of people that one day I am going to murder in a very cruel way, starting with that old partner, but I don't know where to start, it is a conflict with the peaceful life that I dreamed of.

The family reunion continues. The family branches are connected by the same ancestors, although quite distant in terms of blood relationship, today they continue to share ideals and are very close.

“The purpose of the meeting is to announce Cirodante's appointment as duke, as well as to convene those who wish to support him in their city. Grandpa continued. "You have to be kidding, old man. Caleb said with a clear tone of disgust. "Do you want to kill more members of the family?" Cirodante is number one. said another old man. “Don't forget that fact. Although it is a duke it is still the strongest card in Lagos. "Ha!" That is undetermined,” Kerli said, looking at me with defiance in her gaze.

The second house where I lived was with the Roble de Mares family, I learned a lot from Uncle

Apolo, father of Kerli, he gave me my first halberd as a child, the same one I have used until now, it is true that I liked Kerli when I was younger, but like the others he was afraid of his parents, so he kept a safe distance if they were present. Something important is that Uncle Apolo has many children, but only one daughter, and she is also the last with his last wife.

I only listened to them. Everything seems unreal to me. The trump card? When did they decide that? I didn't even know my brother had passed away, Caleb has more influence in the family than I do, and Brenan is stronger.

Now Kerli. Kerli is incredible, she is the only woman who can wield a heavy halberd with efficiency greater than one hundred percent, she is above many men. By unifying the family top, he is automatically second, his brute strength is far beyond me, but his resistance is less than mine, also he has no real combat experience, thanks to Uncle Apollo.

In a fight of attrition I have the advantage over her. We have a fight pending to confirm the ranks. If I lose I don't care, for me the top doesn't mean anything.

"Kerli, are you ready to fight Cirodante?" asked the older grandfather. "Yes. Kerli answered without hesitation.

I can see that this woman waited a long time for this moment.

Apparently my opinion doesn't matter, so we went to the family arena. Kerli took out her halberd from an elegant black case decorated with colorful flower designs. One of the servants brought me my halberd wrapped in a roll of dirty cloth, it may have some blood on it, I hadn't noticed. They cleaned my halberd in the eyes of everyone, a family member should not die from infection.

Some expressed some fear when seeing my halberd, many were used to it, this is the reality, among the accustomed was Kerli. Kerli is amazing.

I received my halberd and rested it on my shoulder effortlessly. Kerli took the fighting stance taught by the family. The referees were near us, they will not allow us to kill ourselves, but dismemberment is allowed. We cannot fight with wooden or dull weapons. Everything is ready.

The speed with which time begins to pass dilates a bit, I can feel it, both of them entering the zone. Although I have never beaten Brenan, I heard that Kerli had, before my first place position was not questioned. Somehow everyone agreed with my position, I wonder if it's still like that.

Once I asked an old man the reason for my first place. I found it really uncomfortable.

It can't measure me, was his reply. The difference between my cousins and me.

"You're going to fight seriously or you're going to die." You choose. Kerli said, trying to provoke.

We all know that we cannot kill ourselves.

"What are you talking about? I asked, puzzled.

Kerli looked at Brenan and made a quizzical smile.

Brenan was furious, not at Kerli. With me. He looked at me like I'd ripped him off. So I was able to understand a bit, Kerli was an insurmountable wall for the mighty Brenan. What was I to him? Someone who never beat him and was still treated like the best.

I sighed. Kerli didn't answer my question.

"It's okay. "I replied. "The two of them will fight," said the older grandfather. "The strength of these two sons makes me very happy. Take your oath and start the fight and teach your cousins by example...

We swear before Mars to fight with our hearts, we swear not to put out each other's fire. Kerli immediately jumped at me. My halberd was still on my shoulder. It was weird. My first friendly match after returning from the war.

Bored.

Kerli had already hurt me in three moves, she's pretty good, but I'm not scared or excited, my body still doesn't react the way I want one hundred percent.

It's ten moves, one chance to end this. I haven't used the halberd unlike Kerli, not until I'm sure of all my moves, but I'm taking a while. So I take another approach. Kerli couldn't block my fist. All the air left her lungs. My halberd inches from his neck marks the end of the fight.

We both limit our use of force, but I have more experience with death than Kerli. I'm curious how strong she could be if she goes through the same thing as me, but I don't want her to go through the same thing as me, I guess I care a lot.

Maya arrives at the arena, she is the eighth in the unified family top, everyone adores Maya, she gets along with everyone, she treats me like her own brother since I lived with her and her mother. He helps Kerli pull herself together and looks at me with a smile. They all seem surprised. I feel like a clown.

"Funny. says someone in the audience. Her voice was surprisingly beautiful.

Kerli turns towards that person as well, her battle intent triggered again. I'm lost. I hadn't noticed that person. He's looking right at me, does he know what I've been doing these past few days? How did it get here?

This was not on the meeting agenda. said that person. "Princess Rebeca Sixth, this is normal for our family. answered a grandmother next to him, it's Grandma Elsa.

Grandma Elsa is not like other grandmothers. Starting with the fact that she doesn't look any older than my aunts.

My mind understood, was the grandmother complicit in introducing her without my noticing? That shouldn't be possible. It's quite dangerous, I know more than anyone about the advantage of infiltrating like that, then he brazenly announced his presence.

He's telling me I'm in his hands. You have to know by now. If so, it is a problem, our relationship is political, but that does not mean that I must respect it publicly. After all, she was already reduced to a minor duchess consort.

They were all uncomfortable. Especially Kerry.

Only grandparents should know about my engagement to her. As the practice match ended, everyone started to head back. Grandma asked me to go with Sixth and her while the others finished arguing, mainly who would go with me.

That look, I'm starting to hate the way Sixth looks at me. I don't recall offending her... Although I was able to do so recently, her previous treatment is not justified.

"I think it's time for you two to start relating." Grandma Elsa said.

Grandma… must have known Sixth for a long time. The grandmothers of the Acacia Oak family are as strong as the grandfathers, I wouldn't be surprised if she is their actual guardian or

something similar.

"Cirodante. You know that the family meeting with you is very limited, we must report everything to the king's top managers, so you better not participate this time. another grandfather said. "I get it. I replied nonchalantly. "I do not care about that. I want to know what she's doing here. "You must speak, Cirodante, do not forget that Sixth is the princess. Grandma said in a reprimanding tone. "I'll leave you alone then." Grandma said as she left the room.

She... What is she planning?

Suddenly I felt it, it was too fast, it's the first time. Have I been slapped? It seems. I lowered my gaze for a moment and then met her eyes.

"Ungrateful. She said in her sweet voice.

What's up with that voice?

Ungrateful? Wait... why are his eyes cloudy? Why do you call me ungrateful? Where is his killing intent?

She... she's crazy, she's a lunatic!

I reflected a little, that slap, its acceleration speed was almost instantaneous, I could barely follow it with my eyes. If he had a dagger in his hand he could cut my neck like butter.

“Ciro, you're thinking a lot. It's my fault for thinking that I could push you away from her.

He didn't even bother to apologize, that slap was too natural.

"What do you mean by that? I asked without understanding. "Let's make a Deal. "A deal? "Yeah, don't take her with you to Midora City." Sixth said very seriously. "Do you know about her then?" “She's safe here for now. "Are you threatening her?" I let out my killing intent. Without noticing.

Sixth, I was surprised. He looked at me with pain in his eyes, but there was no hint of hate in his gaze. He was a completely different person.

His voice?

I'm under a spell, that must be why my reaction ability dropped to such a point that it was impossible to react to his slap. At least I want to believe that it was like that, her voice is very sweet. I calmed down a bit and she sighed.

No, it wasn't a spell, I just like his voice. Damn, I thought.

Sixth frowned.

"I'm not threatening you. Sixth said. “You have to be focused on the next conflict. Hundred percent. "What conflict?" I asked for. “When we get to Midora, it won't even be two months after starting the restoration before they start attacking us, so you're not allowed to be distracted. "Two months. If so, it's not worth going to Midora City just us. What's the point of this? "You know you're going. Sixth said in her somewhat seductive voice. "The first thing we must do is establish alliances that support them as an independent city. “Sixth, you really plan for me to betray the kingdom. "Yes and no. He answered forcefully.

For some reason I start laughing.

"Your family loves him too." Sixth said very seriously. "Tell me, that grandmother who accompanied you before, what is your relationship with Grandma Elsa? "She helps me, she's on our side." “Sixth, I can't kill you. Why do you provoke me? "I do not do it. “You're including me in your treason plan. You use Fiora's life as currency to trade. “I'm doing what I can with the little time available. Sixth replied.

"Okay, if you guarantee his life I'll help you with your madness." But I will not betray the king. "You will not do it. Sixth says. "I want to make things clear, you are not betraying the kingdom, remember that you swore allegiance to the king, your family does not owe allegiance to the kingdom, only to the king, when the patriarch or matriarch of your family recognizes the king the

members swear to said individual.

I think a little about what he says, he's right, it's something that the elders make clear to us before the oath. No kingdom, to the king, we are the only family that does it this way.

Sixth took in some air.

"The other thing is... Don't call me Sixth!" Sixth yelled.

His shout caught me off guard. No matter what you say, it sounds beautiful.

"What do you prefer? "Only Rebecca for now."

Can not be. Sixth, I blushed.

"For now? I asked, puzzled. "Yes, we won't see each other again until the wedding rite, so do what you want, but remember our deal." Sixth said with a smile. "Rebekah..." I said without thinking. "What's happening? Sixth asked. "No, nothing, I thought you wanted to say something, but I forgot. "It is no problem. Use this month to master the tectonic halberd. Sixth said with a smile.

I sighed hearing that. I feel very strange. Maybe I'm going crazy as Sixth. I don't know, lately I can't explain the things that happen to me.

"I'm leaving then." Remember the things I told you. "All clear. “Excuse my look last time. Sixth said.

I heard that and felt like he whispered something else but I couldn't understand.

Everything was very strange, in less than a month she will be my wife and we must go to Midora to rebuild the city. I must study a little, my forte is not economics, unfortunately it is war.

To meditate. It's something I learned from watching that freak Gabriel, the minister of war.

Apparently Kerli does too.

Kerli has well-defined muscles, but they're not as big as Brenan's, so I can't understand how she seems to be stronger than Brenan. Her figure is very feminine and imposing. His beautiful amber eyes as a child made me nervous.

The tectonic halberd arrived today, so I'm finally going to try it. One of the grandparents told me not to use it near the mansion, so in an empty lot they made me a small cabin for my training. Kerli wanted to see the halberd just like other cousins. My uncles seemed to be busy with other things. Kerli and I were the oldest, almost thirty years old. The youngest was only fifteen.

This weight, I can't even move this halberd, this is crazy.

Kerli was surprised that she couldn't do it and tried it herself. No problem, it seems that I am very weak. I don't understand how I could defeat her. Well it's a bit slow. But Sixth will think the same of me. Damn, I remembered her again. According to her I'm an ingrate.

Well, Kerli thought for a bit and told me seriously.

“You're holding your pulse. “My heart beats normally. That's impossible. I told him between laughs. "You are a monster. Kerli said. “Stay still for a moment.

Kerli walked up to me and put her hand on my chest. Up close her beauty is even more intimidating, a young version of our Aunt Artemis, beautiful and intimidating.

His touch felt very hot, hotter than usual.

"Amazing. Kerli says.

The others seemed surprised. I heard many times how they whispered the word monster.

“Cirodante, you only use your pulse when you're in berserker mode. "I already understand the grandparents, because they look at you with fear. "I don't understand you. “My heart beats a little faster. “Your heart pulse and energy pulse are connected, but they are different. I use it when fighting and now I use it to lift the tectonic halberd. But I can't hold it for more than a minute. " The cousin went to war without using the pulse at will, that's why the other families have come to pay their respects during the war.'' said Thomas, the youngest of all.

"You must talk to the older man, I will be here tomorrow to train with you, I want to learn to fight like you. Kerli said.

Everyone left.

Pulse...

The next day I decided to postpone everything related to my training. I tried in the morning to put more force, but I barely held the halberd for five seconds.

That thing seems to be cursed. Well the halberd that is said to shake the earth's tectonic plates can't be that easy to move.

I wonder who brought her here. It must be someone super strong or several people taking turns, it must have been exhausting.

Well, I don't think about that for now. I have to see Fiora on her break and talk about the deal I made with Sixth. I know when he takes his break so I can go do other things.

I went through the land that was my property for a short time. And I sighed. I didn't think everything would change like this. Then I went to the restaurant where Fiora works and ordered a cold coffee while she finished.

Fiora came out with a smile, she looks very beautiful dressed as a chef.

“A duke came to see me. Fiore said teasingly with her smile.

I could only laugh a little, she is special.

"I know you're worried. He told me as he took my hand. “She was here too.

I felt cold hearing that. With her I know that he refers to Sixth.

"I want you to listen to me for a bit. Fiora said as she held my hand tightly.

Yes, this causes me much more fear than a hammer coming to my head, many warriors in the

north used hammers and maces, in narrow places like the Idri mine they put me in a predicament. Luckily I knew how to use the sword with eighty percent effectiveness, the halberd is my thing, narrow places are my weakness against polished enemies. She noticed my fear. She squeezed my hand even tighter.

"I'll be with you, I just can't go to Midora for now." I know you will make it safe for me, I did not want to leave you alone, but she will be with you, she will take care of you. "Sixth? "Call her Rebecca." Fiora told me with a sincere smile. “I don't know what he's up to. “He just wants to protect you. She was honest with me. He is not a bad person. I knew when he told me about you. The way she sees you, she feels the same as me, the difference is that she won't weigh you down in your mission, she will help you. "The same as you? "I asked.

I was confused. It must be Sixth's voice messing with Fiora's mind.

"I'm curious, little Fiora. Does your brother know about us?" "He's not back yet, he should be here in a week, he's accompanying some merchants along the gray route." "Sounds like fun. "Don't worry, when he comes back I'll tell him about us. "Tell me little Fiora, what is ours?" "That I will be your wife of course.

It makes me happy.

"Your brother must stay with you while I'm gone." I received enough money to pay your fees. "You know he won't accept. "Then I challenge him to a duel, if I defeat him with the sword and not with my halberd he will have to follow me. By the way, the short sword you lent me came in handy in a pinch. Technically he saved my life. So I must thank you.

Fiora was speechless, she was very surprised by what I told her, but at the same time she looked very happy.

"I'll tell him about us and you'll thank him." Fiora said as she stood up, gave me a kiss, and waved goodbye.

Thereafter.

I returned to the family mansion. I have to talk to the older grandfather.

In the corridor leading to his office are the portraits of those who dominated their generations, even my portrait was among them. I feel a little embarrassed when I see it, it's a pity that my mother didn't get a portrait. I don't remember his face.

My mother...

I sighed and continued walking to the elder grandfather's office.

I have been trying to organize my thoughts for a long time. Maybe the old man will help me. Sometimes we forget that our grandparents were like us, running from one place to another, fighting, laughing and loving. I have to be more open with the older grandfather if I want his guidance.

I knocked on the old door, although the mansion is renovated from time to time, the eldest grandfather's office is only restored. Much of the original material is well preserved. I don't particularly like this place, I feel a strange pressure that I can't understand, even the passage of time feels strange here, it feels very slow. Grandpa seems to understand my thoughts.

"Do you want to talk outside Cirodante?" "Don't worry. "Then take a seat over there." "Thank you. "I replied. “I assume you're here because of what Kerli said. "Yes. "It took me a while to answer, I can't get used to this place. “Cirodante, your natural pulse isn't sealed or anything." said the grandfather while drinking some coffee. "The pulse in your body is not the same as your cousins, it is something wilder. It's called the pulse of chaos. You can only use it in berserker mode. "Why? "That's how it is, the energy he inherited doesn't stay in his body to power it, it shoots into his environment. "Is there a possibility of being able to use this energy like my cousins? From inside? "Yes, but you will lose a great advantage. Grandpa said quickly, as if he had expected this from the start.

"How can I improve then?" I asked. "Cirodante, take advantage of the type of pulse that heaven has given you. You must increase your control, by radiating the pulse of chaos, you will be able to weaken your enemies just by being close, use the tectonic halberd to improve your physical constitution without the need to keep the pulse inside the body, that is real strength. It will be quite painful. "I'll be ready." I replied. “Well, use the tectonic halberd. Grandpa said. “I can't even lift it for ten seconds.

My current strength cannot be enhanced and as I understand I will never be able to do it like my cousins. Many show strength above mine because they can power up their body, but that puts a big burden on them. I feel like I've played in another league the whole time. The pulse of chaos cannot be controlled at will, nor is it held in the body.

Something it seems to do is produce an area around me, the area disables the ability to buff the body of the nearby opponent. How much? What is the radius of influence around me? These are things I don't know. Senior grandpa says that I should strengthen my body without the pulse.

"For now use the massive weight of the tectonic halberd to improve your strength. You must get used to it. Your cousins can hold her using pulse, Kerli can do it for a minute, beat her before your wedding rite with Rebekah Sixth and you'll have the absolute advantage. Changing your old halberd is also an opportunity. "What else can I do? I must increase my combat ability before traveling to Midora City. “One of your uncles will be accompanying you so don't worry about that now. "Thank you Grandpa. "You don't need to be so nice. Tell me what else bothers you? “Sixth's plan. "I said. "That young woman?..." said the grandfather, smiling. "Tell me what you think, grandfather." I am willing to listen to your advice. "She has no ill intentions with you." From my point of view, she feels attached to you. "Why? "I asked. “For starters, he's much more capable than you. So he doesn't love you simply for your strength. Although he may see your potential as we do. But experience has taught us that in those cases the nobles tend to assassinate our own when they show potential. "Do you think that's why they send Midora to me?" "Now you know. Certain death awaits you. That is why we must nurture you until your departure.

My worries were true, I'm targeted by royalty, all the rewards except for the tectonic halberd are rubbish, even though I don't want to bottom rank Sixth like that.

"What is Sixth doing in all this?" I asked reflectively. “She minimizes the risks. "How? "He is forming an alliance with other countries. I don't know the details, but the city of Midora will have hidden support, it's great Idri mine and its strategic position is very attractive. "What about the king?" How long is this going to allow?

Grandpa paused and I could feel his sadness.

"The king... The king doesn't have much time to live, two years maximum." The secret war of succession has already begun. Something we decided was to leave the country when that happens, we initially aimed at the islands of Lior. said the grandfather with some sadness.

This place does not mean the same thing to everyone, we young people do not treasure it properly.

“From soldiers to mercenaries. I said ironically. "Certainly. Grandpa replied. "Though a hope arose with Midora. "If what Rebeca Sixth said is true, we'll have a chance. "I see.

This gives me a lot to think about.

“Cirodante, the young Fiora must be your concubine, not your wife. "I do not agree.

Grandpa sighed.

"You must first marry Rebeca Sixth. Avoid more problems. "I haven't thought about marriage with Sixth in a real way, I only see it as something obligatory. "Even so, you must keep your word, you swore to the king." "It's true, I'm not trying to avoid engagement with Sixth." I just want to give Fiora her spot. "It's okay. I hope you take my advice, let Rebecca be your first wife, after our partial move to Midora you can have your marriage with Fiora. I listen to Grandpa. "Now you must dedicate yourself only to training with the tectonic halberd." Prepare for

seclusion.

I firmly nodded Elder Grandpa and announced my departure. Before seclusion I must get things ready. I won't be able to see anyone until the date of the wedding rite. My reunion with Alex, Fiora's brother, will not be possible, so I left some letters, one for him and one for her.

It's time for seclusion. I wanted to train with Kerli, I haven't shared with her for a long time, but it was also postponed, the good thing is that she will be part of the first group that will accompany me to the city of Midora. Obviously Brenan and Caleb aren't going. Of the top ten are only Kerli, Leo and Maya.

Some walls were built around the hut, inside the walls I have a total area of two hundred square meters, an opening to receive food. I can't eat Fiora's delicacies, only highly nutritious substances and water.

Thus began my seclusion.

Training, meditation, food, training, bathroom and rest, thus a cycle where the perception of time was lost little by little.

After three days my arms felt busted. My back got the worst of it. This should be impossible. I'm going to die here, forget about Sixth or the rebellion in Midora, I'm going to die in this prison I entered voluntarily.