299

Formation of the Knights

Forseti had occasionally pondered establishing a knighthood but dismissed it due to perceived complexity.

Now, it seemed inevitable.

Fortunately, with improved Holy Light affinity, his infusion efficiency had skyrocketed. Even infusing Holy Light for three individuals wouldn't take more than 180 years, at most.

Moreover, Horse-faced Thor, certified by the holy deed as of noble character, likely didn't require Holy Light infusion to learn Holy Light spells. Recruiting him could save considerable time.

Thus, Forseti resolved to approach Beta Ray Bill and gauge his interest in joining the knighthood.

Before that, preparations were necessary.

Three re-purchasable items in the Sanctuary's piety store caught Forseti's attention: **Glyph: Book of Sanctity**, **Glyph: Book of Retribution**, and **Glyph: Book of Protection**, each priced at 100 piety.

Every paladin needed their own holy deed. These glyphs facilitated creation—termed "imitation holy deeds"—mirroring the Kings' holy deeds.

Imitations lacked the intricacies of the original, serving primarily to learn spells categorized under sanctity, retribution, and protection.

Creating an imitation holy deed was straightforward: any holy book combined with glyphs sufficed.

Returning to Asgard, Forseti randomly selected three books and infused them with Holy Light for sanctification.

The more potent the item, the more challenging the sanctification process. Yet, these books posed no significant challenge, thanks to his heightened infusion efficiency. Within two days, all three were consecrated.

Next, Forseti purchased one of each glyph from the store and applied them to the books.

In a surge of golden light, the ordinary books transformed into ancient tomes, resembling miniature Holy Covenants of the Kings—gold-bound and profound.

Forseti examined the imitation holy deeds.

Previously storybooks with mundane content, they now contained teachings on kindness and righteousness, stripped of all prior depictions and text.

Armed with these imitation holy deeds, Forseti departed for New Korbin.

New Korbin Star.

A flash from the Rainbow Bridge heralded Forseti's arrival on the Asgardians' welcoming platform.

"Respected Sun God," greeted the guards respectfully, hastening forward.

Forseti nodded, "Take me to see Bill."

"Yes, sir."

Accompanied by the guards, Forseti proceeded towards Beta Ray Bill's dwelling.

"Forseti, good to see you," Beta Ray Bill greeted with a smile.

Returning the gesture, Forseti's gaze fell upon the dents in Bill's armor, prompting concern, "What happened here?"

The horse-faced Thor's armor, originally the mighty Armor bestowed by Forseti, bore testament to its durability. Yet, the visible damage stirred Forseti's curiosity.

"Recently, a lab accident on New Korbin Star spawned a dangerous creature. Sustained minor injuries during the encounter," Beta Ray Bill explained.

After exchanging pleasantries, Forseti broached the purpose of his visit, "Bill, I've come to invite you to join my knighthood."

"Knighthood?" Beta Ray Bill appeared taken aback.

"Yes, I've established the Paladin Order called **Silver Hand**," Forseti affirmed.

The Silver Hand, synonymous with the esteemed paladin organization in World of Warcraft and origin of human paladins, required no further consideration.

"Silver Hand—excellent name," Beta Ray Bill nodded approvingly, clearly fond of the choice.

Forseti continued, "Would you consider joining the Silver Hand?"

Beta Ray Bill hesitated momentarily, then inquired, "Why establish this organization?"

"For preserving world peace, preventing its destruction, upholding justice, and spreading the teachings and beliefs of the Holy Light," Forseti replied, though he admitted the purpose hadn't been meticulously planned until now.

However, as a paladin organization, these mandates seemed inevitable—to propagate Holy Light teachings, safeguard peace and justice.

"Why join the Silver Hand?" Beta Ray Bill pressed.

"There are certain tenets to follow—basic guidelines like refraining from unjust killings... Members are also expected to comply with assignments. Currently, duties may involve training new recruits or engaging in battles against evil," Forseti explained calmly.

Beta Ray Bill listened attentively, then deliberated, "Forseti, I am Guardian of New Korbin and must fulfill my responsibilities here..."

Forseti interjected, "In the face of threats to New Korbin, the Knights will provide aid. Each Paladin's homeland falls under the Knights' protection."

Moved by the sentiment, Beta Ray Bill pondered briefly before consenting, "Very well, I've decided to join the Silver Hand."

Forseti smiled, offering a congratulatory high-five, "Excellent! The ranks of the Knights have doubled."

"What are my next steps?" Beta Ray Bill queried.

Forseti considered, "You'll choose between three Paladin types: Holy Knight, Retribution Knight, or Protection Knight. Which appeals to you?"

Beta Ray Bill paused, then asked, "What distinguishes these roles?"

Forseti elucidated, "Holy Knights primarily heal and support. Retribution and Protection Knights focus on combat, with Protection Knights specializing in shield usage."

Beta Ray Bill deliberated further without conclusion, seeking Forseti's advice, "Forseti, which role do you recommend for me?"