Chap 1: Why??

Sandeph, the human High Land, was a place of peace and tranquility. The kingdom was built around a lush green landscape, with towering forests of trees in an array of colors, and a pristine river that sparkled like crystal, its currents meandering through the very heart of the kingdom flowing. The heart of the kingdom was home to over a hundred thousand medieval buildings made of stone or wood, while the streets were a buzz with life and energy, with humans of all ages jostling about.

The kingdom was often filled with the sound of laughter and joy, as children happily played in the sun-dappled meadows and knights mingled with the common folk leisurely.

Amidst the throngs of people were those with horns or animalistic features; they were treated as outcasts and forced into cages, a cruel reminder of their differences.

There was wonder and magic that filled the cobblestone streets, the kingdom was fortified by towering walls that protected it from any outside threat.

Perched atop a craggy mountain, the imposing Crystal Palace loomed over the kingdom like a beacon of power and luxury. Its translucent walls glimmered in the sunlight, casting prismatic reflections across the land below. The palace, a sprawling complex of stone bricks and enchanting crystals, served as the opulent residence of the royal family. A towering golden gate guarded the entrance to the palace, a symbol of the royal family's immense wealth and prestige.

Sandeph was a kingdom that revered a certain princess with utmost admiration and adoration. Her name was Aurianna, the third child of the King born from his first wife. She had two older brothers, the eldest named Husae and the younger named Ralph, but it was Aurianna who stole the hearts of the people with her innocent beauty.

With long white twin pigtails that cascaded down her back, while her crystal blue eyes sparkled with a charm that could enchant even the most hardened of hearts. Her angelic smile was a ray of hope that shone through the bleakness of Sandeph. Despite her slender frame, her figure was still enchanting, and her skin was as fair as snow, made even more striking by the pink gown she wore often.

Aurianna was a princess born with a silver spoon in her mouth, granted everything her heart could desire from her birth. She was raised to believe that the world was her oyster, and that her father, the king, would give her anything she wished for.

Despite her privileged upbringing, Aurianna was not haughty nor spoiled. She could often be found strolling through the streets, engaging with commoners and listening to their plights. She was known for organizing charity events to provide much-needed aid and resources to those in need. Aurianna's pure heart and generosity earned her the love and respect of the people of Sandeph.

The adoration that the kingdom had for Aurianna was unparalleled, and they indulged her every whim. However, the reason for their favoritism ran deep. An ancient prophecy foretold that a princess born in the land of Sandeph would rise as the revered Saintess, a savior who would lead humanity in a crusade against the demons and vanquish them. Though no one knew for certain which of the princesses would be the chosen one, many believed that it would be Aurianna, given her popularity and kind nature.

And while many believed this prophecy, peace filled the land. However, that peace came crashing down when their High Land was attacked by a large number of demons. Demons were very similar to humans, the main difference being their coloring. Their skin appeared in various different colors and shared unique features such as horns, or extremely sharp teeth. And their most noticeable feature was their sclera being black and their slit pupils.

Though their appearance was a bit unsettling, it was their power that truly set them apart. A single demon was said to be as strong as five human warriors, making their assault upon the High Land all the more devastating. The humans fought back with all their might, but it seemed as though they were no match for the ruthless demons. The once serene streets were now stained with blood, and the sounds of battle echoed through the once-peaceful kingdom.

The tranquility that once graced the High Land of Sandeph was shattered in an instant. The violent invasion of the demons ravaged the kingdom, leaving behind a trail of destruction and death. The once bustling streets were now empty and haunted by the ghosts of the slain. The peaceful melody of laughter and joy was now replaced by the mournful sound of weeping and despair.

Despite the valiant efforts of over a hundred thousand knights, the demons proved to be a formidable enemy, taking the lives of many brave warriors. Yet, amidst the chaos and devastation, they were able to push back the demons and secure a fragile peace, albeit one stained with the blood of the fallen.

As the war between Sandeph and the demons raged on for years, the kingdom's hope dwindled with each passing day. But on Aurianna's twelfth birthday, the prophecy was finally fulfilled. She awakened her Saintess powers, bringing a glimmer of hope to the war-torn land. The kingdom rejoiced at the news, knowing that they finally had a powerful weapon against their demon foes.

With the Saintess on their side, the soldiers could now fight without fear of death, for the Saintess had the power to revive them if they fell in battle. And if they were injured, the Saintess could heal them and send them back into battle. The people of Sandeph believed that with the Saintess on their side, victory was assured.

Aurianna's newfound powers as the Saintess gave the kingdom a glimmer of hope in the midst of the ongoing war. Soldiers who were once consumed by fear and uncertainty now marched into battle with renewed vigor, knowing that the Saintess's ability to revive the fallen would ensure they would fight on.

Even the common people felt a sense of security with Aurianna leading the charge against the demonic threat.

As the war raged on, Aurianna grew more skilled with her powers, honing her abilities to heal the wounded and revive the dead.

Yet, even with her remarkable abilities, the war continued to take its toll on both sides, with each battle more brutal than the last.

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"Rejoice, for our Goddess Paige has chosen my daughter as the Saintess!" King Girsal, announced with fervor and triumph, standing before a congregation in the grand throne room of the palace. "Praise be to the almighty Goddess, and may her blessing fall upon Sandeph!" The gathered crowd, hushed and awed by the king's announcement, bowed their heads in reverence, their hearts filled with hope for a brighter future.

King, Girsal, sat regally on his throne, his hair a mix of gray and black, cascading down his broad shoulders. His face was sharp and angular, with a chiseled chin that spoke of his strength and determination. His eyes, the color of vibrant emeralds, shone with a fierce intensity.

His clothing was befitting of his status as the ruler of Sandeph, with a vest decorated with gleaming silver buttons that added a touch of elegance to his commanding presence. The throne on which he sat was equally grand, a symbol of his power and authority over the kingdom.

The throne room was a cavernous chamber of grandeur and majesty. Crystal columns lined the space on either side, shimmering in the flickering light of magical torches. Between each column stood statues of the Goddess Paige, their curvaceous forms radiating an otherworldly beauty that seemed to defy description.

The walls were adorned with intricate paintings of angels, their radiant forms depicted in a sublime dance of light and color. Paige herself was depicted in the center of the room above, the crystal ceiling, brushing her luscious pink hair while embracing her beloved creatures. The images seemed to come alive under the enchanted light, with the reflection of the room and its occupants mirroring back on the smooth marble floor.

The imposing marble throne loomed over the hall, its grandeur unmatched by any other structure in the kingdom. Positioned atop a balcony, it provided a commanding view of the throne room below. Two unassuming chairs flanked the throne, reserved for the King's family alone.

The intricately carved engravings on the throne's surface depicted tales of mythical creatures and ancient battles, etched with such skill that they seemed to come to life in the flickering light of the room. At the base of each ornate leg, a ruby snake coiled tightly, as if poised to strike.

The dark lilac pillows were luxurious, their softness belying the strength and power of the one who sat upon them. Golden borders added an extra touch of opulence to their already decadent appearance. But perhaps the most striking feature of the throne was the pair of crystal wings that jutted out from its back, a symbol of the divine power that resided within its occupant.

A glimmering sapphire carpet traversed the grand hall, bisecting it and stretching outwards like a river. Gleaming banners dangled from the walls, bearing the crest of the High Land, a fiery green emerald with swords stabbed inside.

As Aurianna rose from her seat, she gracefully lowered herself onto the ground before her father's feet, bowing her head in reverence.

"Look up, my child," The King's voice was firm yet gentle, and Aurianna lifted her head to look at him with apprehension.

"As the Saintess, you must perform your duties by helping the knights fight against the treacherous demons. Your power shall lead us to victory! I have faith in you, my daughter," King Girsal said with a warm smile, making Aurianna beam with joy.

Aurianna nodded solemnly, her expression grave. She understood the weight of her responsibility and the gravity of the situation. She knew that many lives depended on her actions, and failure was not an option.

"I shall not disappoint you, father," She pledged with fierce determination burning in her heart.

As she spoke, a group of people dressed in pink robes entered the hall, their solemn expressions matching the mood of the room. The Church had sent representatives to confirm Aurianna's selection as the Saintess, and their presence added to the solemnity of the moment.

Aurianna's heart raced with anticipation and fear, wondering if she would be found worthy of the title. She held her breath as the representatives approached, her eyes fixed on them with a mix of anticipation .

The church's arrival was met with a cold reception at Aurianna, their eyes were narrow with suspicion as they approached her. However, she remained calm and composed as they challenged her authenticity. Without hesitation, a priest took out a sharp dagger and cut his palm deeply, making blood gush out of the wound.

He then stepped forward, slightly hissing in pain as he presented his hand to Aurianna.

"Prove it," he said, his voice bold with no fear but skepticism. "Heal me."

Aurianna's eyes flashed with a fierce determination as she focused on the priest's wound. She raised her hand, a white aura emanating from her body as she channeled her power. The wound on the priest's hand slowly began to close and the bleeding stopped.

Aurianna's heart sank as she watched the priest's wound only partially heal. She had hoped that her newly awakened Saintess powers would be enough to completely heal him, but it seemed she still had much to learn.

The group of pink-robed priests murmured amongst themselves, their suspicion returning. Aurianna could feel their doubts like a cold wind blowing through the room, threatening to extinguish the flame of hope that had burned so brightly in her heart.

"Welcome, Head Priest Dielle," King Girsal greeted.

King Girsal's welcoming words went unnoticed by the Head Priest Dielle, who seemed determined to approach Aurianna. The crowd parted for him as he walked towards her, his pink cloak adorned with sinister red markings that accentuated his imposing stature. Aurianna looked up at him, and a chill ran down her spine. His face was hidden by a hood, casting an eerie shadow over his features.

Ignoring the king's presence, the Head Priest stopped in front of Aurianna and scrutinized her with piercing eyes. A hush fell over the crowd, and a sense of foreboding filled the air.

"I offer you the opportunity, child," the Head Priest's voice thundered, his towering presence casting a shadow over Aurianna. "Come with me if you seek to unlock the true potential of your powers. Only the teachings of the church can guide you to become a true Saintess. Remaining here in the palace will only hinder your growth."

Aurianna's heart pounded with fear and uncertainty as the Head Priest extended his hand to her. She glanced up at her furious father, whose eyes blazed with anger at the mere suggestion of the church taking his daughter away.

But the priest's offer was tempting. The church had centuries of knowledge and experience in training Saintesses. Aurianna knew that she had much to learn to fulfill her destiny and defend her kingdom against the demonic forces that threatened it.

Yet, her father's warning echoed in her mind. He had always been wary of the church, claiming that they were filled with deceitful and malevolent people. Aurianna trembled at the thought of being under their influence and control.

The decision weighed heavily on her. She had to choose between her family and her duty as the Saintess"I'm sorry, Head Priest, I love my family, and... I would prefer to stay with them," She answered with a sweet smile.

The King grinned smugly at her choice, while the Priest simply released a sigh of frustration.

"Alright. If that's what you have decided, then I cannot force you to come with me." The Priest cleared his throat, stepping closer to the Princess. He lowered his voice to murmer, "I just hope you don't regret your decision." the Head Priest stated, his voice heavy with resignation. "I shall take my leave now." With a bow, he turned to leave, his cloak trailing behind him like a dark cloud.

Aurianna's heart sank as she watched him go and the other priest go. She knew that she had disappointed him, and a sense of guilt began to gnaw at her. But she had made her choice, and she couldn't go back on it now.

As the Head Priest disappeared from view, the atmosphere in the hall became tense. The King's smug expression had vanished, replaced by a frown of disapproval. Aurianna could feel his disappointment in her, and it made her feel small and helpless.

She tried to ignore the stares and murmurs of the courtiers as they approached her, showering her with empty compliments. But the pain in her chest continued to grow, until it felt as if her heart was being squeezed in a vise.

As the last of the courtiers left, Aurianna was left alone with her thoughts. She knew that she had made the right choice for her family, but the nagging feeling of regret refused to leave her. She wondered what her life would have been like if she had chosen to follow the Head Priest.

For the first time in her life, Aurianna felt a sense of unease about her future. She knew that her path was set, but she couldn't shake the feeling that she was destined for something more. Something darker, and more dangerous.

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