1 Chapter 1

The trees danced around violently along with the sharp whistles of the wind. Among the center of the forest were two groups facing each other, their eyes vicious and filled with a deadly killing intent.

"You should stop now with your ridiculous pretense, Lord Ray. Only those who are idiots can fully expect the world to be pure, without deceit and lies," Lord Sane spat, his audacious auburn hair showing off his strong personality,along with his ember eyes that were dark with malice. The soldiers adorning heavy armors of black with the small patterns of red and yellow behind him quietly prepared themselves in case a fight breaks out. All their faces were strict and vicious, an aura of being indomitable that was hard to miss.

"Are you that afraid to have a friendly clash, my dear friend? Only through a fair fight can we decide who will be able to conquer Land of Dawn," The supposed Lord Ray benevolently smiled, the mop of raven black hair following the soft whispers of wind and his dark purple eyes glowing with the wisdom of time. The uniformed soldiers behind him were much more casual compared to Lord Sane's Vance Faction, for they only wore white robes with linings of blue silver reflecting the sunlight that snaked its ways on top of the trees. Although the large spears that they held in their hands contrasted with their tranquil countenance.

"Now, Gusion my dear son. You know what to do, I trust you as the son of the leader of the Paxley Faction," Lord Ray quickly added, not giving any time for Sane to start spewing nonsense once again.

Once his name was called, Gusion took a long glance at his father before heaving a heavy sigh and nodding. His raven hair wildly framed his perfectly carved face, the bangs in front swept to one side to offer a clear vision ahead. Like his father, he had dark amethyst eyes but was filled with boredom and an occasional glint of sharpness.

"Tsk, you're always in a rush, Lord Ray. No matter, I will also call my representative now." While Lord Sane was quite against fighting with the Paxley Faction, such acts like this will be hard to avoid in the future and fighting against it will only be momentarily avoiding the inevitable. Both their factions were destined to fight against each other, for their beliefs can only impede one another. Thus, it was much better to face it earlier than later.

Lord Sane turned around his group of soldiers before sweeping his glance to all suitable fighters. None, however, caught his interest. With a momentary hesitance, he gazed towards the endless depth of trees and directed his look at a certain tree.

He heaved a sigh, showing his stubbornnessin calling her. He had no choice, however.

"…Lesley, please step out. I'd like for you to represent us this time."

Once her name was called, the entire forest turned eerily quiet. Lord Ray showed his astonishment along with everyone.

"Lord Sane! What is the meaning of this? While Lesley is already a part of your faction, she is still of blood born a Royal Battalion! This is absurdly unfair!" Lord Ray exclaimed;his hands clenched in anger.

Royal Battalions were a specialized army unit of the royal family where only the cream of the crop could survive their rigorous regiment. Only those who are deemed fit from young could enter such unique division of army and when they were ever employed to do quests, grand celebration would take place after they successfully return. There were even rumors of how one member of the Royal Battalion could fight off 10 armed and trained army soldiers.

"What are you saying, Lord Ray? There were no rules stating I can't employ a representative with past experience in the Royal Battalion. If you are capable, why don't you do the same?" With a smug smirk tugging on Lord Sane's lips, he gestured for the woman to enter the makeshift arena in the middle of the forest opening.

Silence ensued as the crunch of the leaves appeared near the spot of lush trees. Slowly, brown combat boots materialized and followed by the pair of legs in black tight pants. The royal blue twin tail coat flapped lightly as it followed the wearer's motion. Finally, the face appeared along with the unique magenta hair that was tied into a neat braid and ended on her waist.

Her stature was rigid and tense as she held a long rifle made out black silver and patterns beautifully carved on the sides. The handle was made out of expensive wood where both her hands were placed. The pair of fuchsin eyes were cold as they stared at both the faction at battle.

"You called for me, Lord Sane," Just like her eyes, Lesley's voice was detached and very cold. No intonations could be heard in her tone and every word was rolled out with the same emphasis.

"Yes… You would be our representative this time for the fight." Lord Sane's voice faltered for a little bit, his eyes evident with respect for the woman. Without a response, Lesley immediately stood in the center of the arena, where she stayed there like a statue.

With a grim look on Lord Ray's face, he turned towards Gusion and placed both his hands on his shoulders, "Gusion, son. You absolutely cannot lose this one, I have high confidence with your abilities. The pride and our future plan rely on this very battle. I hope you don't disappoint the Paxley Faction, son."

"Sure, I'll try what I can."

Gusion nodded his head, before entering the arena.