CH 1 – Blessing of the Gods

A girl walked past the beautifully crafted, gilded iron gates. The wind caught in her long, silky white hair, gently blowing it behind her as she walked. Her fair skin was practically glowing under the bright sunlight. Her face was beautiful and exuded a sense of authority. Not just her face. The way she walked and carried herself. It was not hard for anyone who saw her to know that she was from a family of high nobility.

The girl looked up at the towering building in front of her, with her cold, blue eyes. The castle, which has been standing for centuries, was finally in front of her eyes. Once, this place was the home of a long-fallen and forgotten noble family. Now, it was the home of the country’s most prestigious academy.

She was waiting for this moment. All her life, she worked hard to get here. Although it was just the final challenge, before her true goal.

She took her eyes off the building and looked around the front yard. As expected, everything was done to perfection. The front garden, which greeted visitors, students, and faculty alike, was arranged in the most aesthetically pleasing way possible.

Some students of the academy were spending their time out here. They’ve all quickly noticed the girl. It was hard not to. She drew the attention wherever she went. Her beauty, her presence, even her power was admirable.

“Why are you standing there, Yelena? We need to get things sorted before the opening ceremony starts.” The voice came from another girl who walked up next to the white-haired one.

Yelena looked at the other girl. She was shorter, her brown hair was waved into one long braid that reached down to the middle of her back. She was pretty, but her beauty, like many others, was completely overshadowed by Yelena. Not that she minded it. She wasn’t the type to seek attention. She has always been a more reserved type.

“You are right, Thea! I got lost in my thoughts for a moment.” Yelena answered.

The two started walking towards the large wooden doors leading into the place. The guards, already aware of who the two were, bowed and opened the gates for the two girls.

They were both only just 18, but it was clear they both held power and authority, even in a place like this.

“You should stop daydreaming so much. I know this is a big step for you, but for once, you can’t be late. The Goddess won’t wait for anyone.” Thea pointed it out.

She was right. The opening ceremony she had to attend today was not just a formality. Each new student would have a chance to meet with Kytia, the Goddess of Protection. They would have the opportunity to get the Goddess's blessing. Of course, it was not guaranteed they would get it. Those who don’t would have no place in this academy and would be expelled immediately.

While the blessing on its own was powerful and granted great protection to those who had it, it was more than that. It was the first test that students had to overcome. The Goddess would decide who is worthy of it. This means those who wouldn’t receive it are usually hiding some dark intentions.

The two girls walked up the masterfully crafted white stone stairs, covered by red carpet, made by the best craftsmen on the continent. This academy looked more like a home of high nobility, or even the royal family, than an actual educational institution.

To Yelena and Thea, this wasn’t new. They both grew up under similar circumstances. For others, it was like they’d walked into an entirely different world. They’ve heard the loud gasp coming from below. Yelena looked over the railing to see a young girl, around her age.

It was not hard to see why. The girl down there with fiery red hair was not of noble birth. She was a commoner who achieved entry to this place by her own merit. Somebody like that was rare, but it happened. It was easy to see how much of a culture shock this must have been to her.

“Yelena! We don’t have time for this! You can check out the girls when we are done with everything.” Thea reminded Yelena again how important it is to be on time, although the way she phrased it was odd.

“I wasn’t checking anyone out!” Yelena protested against the accusation.

It was no secret, especially for her best friend, that Yelena was always more interested in the fairer sex. Hence, Thea’s comment from earlier.

The two continued walking and entered one of the offices. For a short while, they separated while they both handled the administrative tasks required to finalize their admission.

Once the process was complete, Yelena received the small card with her name, important information, and a magically imprinted photo of herself. This was to identify her as a student in this academy. Although it doesn’t hold much importance right now, it will be very crucial later in their studies.

When Yelena left the room, Thea was already waiting for her. The two continued their journey, this time to the dorms. Both of them got a tour around the building, so they already knew where they needed to go.

Their rooms were right next to each other. Yelena had a hard time deciding whether it was pure luck or something their parents had arranged for them. The second option wouldn’t be surprising. Both their family had great influence within the country, and the two girls practically grew up together.

It goes without saying that Thea was Yelena’s best friend. The only true one to be completely fair. Although both had “friends” within the nobility, none of whom they’d trusted and confided in more than each other.

“Don’t forget, we need to hurry! We don’t have time to waste. Just get ready as soon as possible! I’ll meet you outside here. If you are not done in 10 minutes, I’ll drag you out myself, even if you are completely naked still.” Yelena knew full well that Thea’s threat was real.

The other girl, while usually calm and patient, had a different side when it came to important things like this. She would be more than capable of breaking down the door and dragging Yelena out, even if she were naked.

“I know! There won’t be any issues, I promise.” Yelena tried to calm her friend down.

Thea didn’t quite believe her. Although Yelena looked like a responsible person from the outside, she could easily get lost in her own head. This has caused her to be late to important events more than once.

Both opened the door and stepped inside their own rooms at the same time. The interior was big. Almost as big as Yelena’s room back at her home. It was fitted with the best furniture money can buy. This was clearly a privilege only afforded to those of noble birth.

Those from less affluent backgrounds wouldn’t have this luxury. No, they wouldn’t even get their own rooms. Students who were commoners had to share a room among the four of them. Such was the inequality even here.

Yelena knew she didn’t have much time to properly inspect her new living quarters. After all, she had an important event to attend. She quickly checked and saw that all her belongings had already arrived. That was good. Now, for the only other thing she needed.

She didn’t have to search for long before she saw the school uniform hanging from the door of the large wooden wardrobe. She walked closer to inspect it. She pulled her fingers over the soft fabric of the white blouse. It was paired with a black skirt and white pantyhose. All which was crafted from the finest materials, made to look pretty and elegant.

The school clearly went above and beyond on many things. Such was the way here. It's not the best institution in the whole country for nothing. The donation they’ve received just from the kingdom itself has been enormous. On top of that, most noble families paid hefty tuition. It was easy to say where all that money comes from.

Yelena didn’t have time to daydream about all these things. She took her clothes off and changed into her new uniform. As expected, it fit well. Maybe a little too well. She quickly noticed how it heavily emphasized certain assets. Namely, her breasts.

While she wasn’t shy about it, in fact Yelena was always proud of her body; her concern lay somewhere else. Seeing others in the same kind of uniform, it will be difficult for her not to stare too much.

Yelena shook her head to try to get these thoughts out. Once she was finished dressing, she checked herself in the mirror. She paid close attention to her appearance. It was not out of vanity but rather an obligation. As the first daughter of the Hellag family, she had an image to uphold. She had to be presentable at all times. Even the smallest things could reflect badly on her family.

She looked satisfied and left the room. Just as expected, Thea was already waiting for her.

“Eleven.” She said it.

She referred to the minutes it took Yelena to get ready. Only one minute late, but the girl was sure, Thea was just about to burst open her door.

“Sorry! I got a bit distracted. Now, let's go!” She quickly apologized and walked past Thea.

She knew her friend might be a little irked about her being late, so she thought it was best to just hurry and hope she wouldn’t have to deal with it.

The two made their way to the chapel. It was fully dedicated to Kytia, the Goddess of Protection. Needless to say, just as everything in this school, this place was gorgeous and possibly expensive. On both sides of the chapel stood statues of the Goddess, and on the walls were all sorts of murals depicting her in different scenarios. Some of which Yelena could recognize from her studies.

At the end, there was a large stone altar. Behind it, covering almost the entire wall, was a stained glass window. The art on the window depicted one of the most iconic moments in the Goddess' history. The time when centuries ago, she banished the nameless evil god from Ehlan, the realm Yelena lived in.

The students formed organized lines as they stood in the chapel. The pews that would normally be here were removed before the event, so the new students could all fit inside.

Both Yelena and Thea joined a line and waited. The other students were still chatting with each other. Some were trying to get to know their new schoolmates, while others were talking with people they’d already known. It was not a big issue at the moment. The ceremony hasn’t started yet, and the professors overseeing the event had no reason to step in.

That changed soon when the headmaster walked in front of the altar. Every student fell silent and stood at attention. The man who walked in front of them had long, brown hair tied up in a ponytail. On his face, he had both a mustache and a goatee, carefully styled so neither part touched the other.

He looked young, at least much younger than Yelena thought he would be. At first glance, she thought the man could be in his late thirties, maybe early forties. Although he likely was a mage, which didn’t exactly make it easier to guess one’s age accurately.

He gazed upon the new students who are just starting their journey here. He smiled a little before he began.

“Welcome, everyone, to the Leffey Academy. I’m the headmaster of this institution, Alexander Rottick. You all should feel proud to be standing in this hall today. You have all earned the place to be here, but your journey has just begun. I won’t lie, it won’t be an easy one. Just as getting in took you a lot of effort, simply staying in for the next four years will be just as difficult, if not more.” His tone was serious, and he spoke with authority.

“The next two years, you will receive hard, physical education alongside training in martial arts. On top of that, you will also have the opportunity to study the mysteries of magic.” The school was well known for teaching both sides simultaneously. There was a good reason behind this.

“In your third year, your paths will separate. You will have three different routes ahead of you. Which one you will take will depend entirely on your achievements. If you are more talented in magic, you will receive a full education as a mage. If your combat prowess is your stronger suit, then you will be trained as a warrior. A few of you who might excel in both will have the honor to train as a magic knight.” He explained.

Everyone in this room knew these things already. The three main routes one could take. Becoming a mage who controls arcane powers and bends nature to their will, using mana. A warrior whose strength can knock down walls and fight hundreds alone, using their life force.

Then, there was a third option. The magic knight. One of the most sought-after roles. One who could master the powers of both sides. This was what Yelena was aiming for. The very thing she had been dreaming about her whole life.

“I trust all of you will work hard to achieve great things here. In these walls, background, upbringing, or even talent means very little. What matters most is how much effort you truly put in. I wish you luck on your journey ahead.” He finished his speech.

Behind the altar, there was a golden arch. On its surface, countless runes started to glow. The inside of the arch, which previously had nothing but empty air, now had a bright light coming from it.

“It looks like the Goddess is ready to receive you. When I say your name, please step up and walk through the gate.” He indicated towards the blinding light.

Everyone looked nervous. No wonder. They are about to meet a deity. Most people live their lives without ever even coming close to a speck of divinity. Yet, they are going to meet the Goddess face to face. It was an unspeakable privilege, but it was likely the scariest thing they’ve done in their entire lives.

The headmaster started reading out the names. Each student walked up and through the portal. Just in a few seconds, they walked back out. The time was working differently in the two realms. As far as others would know, they could have spent an hour on the other side. After each student finished, they were instructed to touch the orb that was on the altar. If the orb started to glow, it meant the student received the blessing. If not, they were escorted out.

“Yelena Hellag!” He read her name.

Yelena’s body stiffened for a moment. She was next. She stepped out of the line and walked towards the altar. She went around it and stood in front of the gateway. The light was blinding; she couldn’t even look at it. Yelena closed her eyes and stepped into the light. A moment later, she felt different.

The piercing light she could see, even with her eyes closed, disappeared. The air felt warm, compared to the chilly atmosphere of the chapel. There was a sweet scent, a pleasant scent, filling up the place she was in.

When she opened her eyes, she could see it. It was as if she were in a throne room. Every little detail of the room was exquisitely made. She had never even seen such beauty, not even in the royal palace.

Speaking of beauty, her eyes wandered over the figure sitting on the throne. It was her. The Goddess herself. She was mesmerizing. Her long, curly blonde hair fell over her shoulders. Her face and body, not even the best paintings, did her justice. Yelena was speechless.

“Kneel, my child!” The Goddess spoke.

Her words felt like they were penetrating through Yelena’s soul. Not in a bad way, more like a warm, pleasant touch.

“Yes, Goddess!” Yelena answered and got on one knee, she put her right arm across her chest and bowed her head.

“You hear to receive my blessing, is that correct?” She asked.

“Yes, Goddess!” Yelean kept her answer simple, but polite.

“Do you think you are worthy of it?” The Goddess asked.

This was a question Yelena thought about a lot. She knew this day would come, but she didn’t have a good answer for this. She didn’t have any evil intentions. All her life, she worked hard to become a magic knight. Not for fame or glory, not for wealth and power. She wanted to protect those who needed protection. Help the kingdom and the people living in it. Despite this, she was still mired by doubt. How can she, a simple mortal being, say out loud that she is worthy of the Goddess’ blessing?

“I hope I’m, Goddess!” She gave her reply.

The Goddess smiled. She could already tell. It was not hard; she had the ability to read mortal beings. She knew everything about her the moment she laid eyes on Yelena.

“You carry a great burden on you. You are a kind person who wants to protect. To do that, you have chosen one of the hardest paths to take. There are not many who are more worthy of my blessing than you.” The Goddess explained.

“Thank you, Goddess! It is a great honor!” Yelena answered, her head still bowing down.

“Hey, can I take a look at this one too?” There was another voice coming from further away.

It certainly wasn’t Goddess Kytia. Far as Yelena was aware, nobody else should be present here. Her curiosity got the best of her, and she looked up. There was a woman, or a girl. She looked younger than the Goddess and about Yelena's age. Although it was a foolish comparison. One couldn’t compare a deity to a mortal being in terms of age.

The girl had tanned skin. She was beautiful, just like the Goddess on the throne. Her raven hair reached down to her bottom. It was straight and silky. What really caught Yelena’s eye was her body. It was beyond this world. Quite literally. All her proportions were perfect, and she made sure to show them off.

The girl was wearing what could only be described as a bikini armor. There was no better way to put it. The bra part was made out of metal, cupping her large breasts. It was black with golden decorations. Oddly enough, it was not attached to anything, making one wonder how it even stays on.

The bottom part was not much better. The only thing that seemingly kept her modest was the loincloth hanging between her legs. It kept her legs and a large part of her butt uncovered. Yelena wasn’t sure if she was wearing anything under it, but she wasn’t about to try finding it out. Not in front of the Goddess.

“No, I don’t!” Came the answer to a question she never even asked.

“Lucia! Behave yourself! This is not the way a deity should handle herself, even one like you!” Goddess Kytia seemed upset about the visitor.

Lucia. That name rang a bell in Yelena’s head. She learned about her before. She was the Goddess’ younger sister. Although a lesser deity, unlike Kytia, but still a deity nonetheless.

Although she had a less-than-stellar reputation, even amongst mortals. This was due to her domain. She was the Goddess of sex and lust. Most of her followers were degenerates, perverts, and those who were following the life of endless debauchery.

“What are you planning to do? You have no reason to be here.” Goddess Kytia was not exactly happy about the interruption.

“As I said, I just wanted to take a look. This one looks interesting. Right up my alley.” Goddess Lucia answered.

“What is that supposed to mean?” The other Goddess narrowed her eyes at her sibling.

“You know! You already saw it, even if you are too prude to mention it. This one has a fire in her. Going at it two or three times a day? Wow, that takes some dedication. Not to mention what she reads.” Lucia was telling her older sister.

Yelena’s face went pale at first, then bright red. She couldn’t believe it. Those were all her deepest, darkest secrets. Nobody should know that. Except for Thea, who found out about it years ago.

In many ways, Yelean was the perfect daughter. She was studious and great at sword fighting. She was beautiful and knew how to get around in the upper society. There was just one big issue. A problem nobody other than Thea knew about.

Yelena has loved reading ever since she learned to read. She spent long hours in libraries reading. Everything from history to fun stories. That is how she found out about it.

One day, when she was sixteen, she accidentally stumbled upon a book. At first glance, it seemed it was a love story about two women. Yelena was already aware of her attraction to other women, so she was interested.

Well, it wasn’t exactly that. It was much more graphic. What the girl found was an erotic novel. One that brought her down a path. Since then, she has been looking for similar books and reading them whenever she can. It became her guilty pleasure, alongside the real pleasure of figuring out how to play with herself.

Over time, it became a real problem. She simply couldn’t handle her lust, and by now, she would masturbate at least twice a day. That was what Lucia was talking about.

“Don’t worry, dear, I understand! I think girls are better too!” Lucia leaned close to Yelena with a flirty smile on her lips.

Yelena looked up at the raven-haired Goddess. She felt ashamed.

“No… I don…” Lucia put her finger on Yelena’s lips.

“Ah, ah, ah! Are you really planning to lie here? In front of us? In our realm? Do you think that is wise?” Lucia seemed to be having fun.

“That is enough, Lucia!”  Goddess Kytia stood up from her seat. She looked furious. “I won’t tolerate you trying to humiliate this mortal girl!” She said.

“I’m not doing any of that. In fact, I think I’ll also give her my blessing.” She had a mischievous smile on her face.

“What are you? I won’t let that happen!” Kytia was walking down the steps and towards her younger sister.

“You are right! I have a better idea!” Lucia grinned and turned to Yelena. “I, Lucia, the Goddess of sex and lust, name you, Yelena Hellag, as my champion.” She stated.

Yelena suddenly felt something entering her body. She couldn’t tell what, but it felt powerful. Then she screamed. A burning pain in her left hand. On the back of her hand, a symbol appeared. It was intricate with countless runes and other shapes. None that Yelena could read or understand. It seared into her flesh. Once it was done, it disappeared as if it were never there.

“What have you done?” Goddess Kytia asked in complete disbelief.

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