Chapter 86. Father’s regret
Leo flinched at the name Ashtarya, a vivid flash from his dream, a woman standing in flames, over a scorched wasteland, his voice sharp. "Who’s this Goddess Ashtarya? And why’s the cult obsessed with ’releasing’ her or whatever?"
Duke Alric leaned back, sipping his tea. "She’s no goddess, despite what they claim. Ashtarya was a witch who lived centuries ago, she was unstoppable, called as destruction." He paused, his gaze distant. "Few know the story, and even that’s murky. She was so powerful, even Goddess Celestia couldn’t touch her." Leo’s eyes widened with mention of Celestia.
Alric noticed, his eyes sharpening, but he continued. "When the world was on the brink of annihilation, one man rose. He has a strange, radiant aura, uniting every race, elves, dwarves, beastmen, and humans against her. They called him the Ruler, the one destined to lead."
Leo leaned forward. "Did they win?"
Alric shook his head. "Not fully. He sealed her, but couldn’t destroy her. From that, the prophecy was born." His voice grew heavy. "When the seal weakens, another Ruler will rise, walking the same path, but this time to end her forever. The prophecy says this Ruler will be unmatched, destined to rule the world." He fixed Leo with a piercing stare. "That’s why I called you here, Leonhardt. Your enemies aren’t just the cult. The royal family will see you as a threat to their throne. They’ll stop at nothing to eliminate you."
Leo ran a hand through his hair, frustration simmering. "Why’s all this crap landing on me?" He frowned. "So the royals are coming for me now?"
Alric’s smile was faint but reassuring. "Don’t worry. I’ve handled it. Only your professors, the principal, Serion, and I know the truth."
Leo’s jaw tightened. "But the cult knows. And that black sheep in the academy is still out there."
Alric sighed, rubbing his temple. "Serion’s on it. Let him deal with that."