Life Gallery 28 - Demon and Divine

Scene: Fellow Exiled Kin

The aftermath of the battle leaves the museum in quiet disarray. Police and hunters gather around the building, organizing the scene as the four students are escorted out. Severin, Fenix, Shizuka, and Hugo exchange a few murmurs, shaken yet relieved, as they step into the cold evening air. Among the crowd stands a familiar figure from OverEdge—Sakae Gentoshi, a renowned hunter.

Sakae (small, understanding smile) "I'll introduce myself properly. I am Sakae Gentoshi. Like you… I am also exiled from that clan."

Hugo (taken aback, struggling to process) "You… you're also exiled?"

Sakae (sighing) "It's not hard to recognize us, you know. Our fate… it probably started the moment we were born." (glances over at Severin, Fenix, and Shizuka) "Can I borrow him for a moment?"

Fenix (grinning with a hint of mischief) "Of course, if your words can help enlighten our dear cyclops~"

Sakae leads Hugo away from the crowd and toward a quiet cafe nearby. As they walk, Hugo's mind spins with questions and a strange sense of kinship he's never felt before.

INT. CAFE NEAR GRAVES MUSEUM – DUSK

Hugo follows Sakae into a quiet, dimly lit cafe just down the street from the museum. It's a cozy, rustic spot with dark wood walls, vintage lamps casting a warm, amber glow, and small round tables scattered across a checkerboard floor. The air is filled with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries. Soft music plays in the background, creating a soothing contrast to the chaos and violence they've just left behind.

Despite the calming surroundings, Hugo's emotions are in turmoil. The revelation that another Gentoshi shares his exile—someone who understands his struggle—sends conflicting waves of relief, anger, and confusion roiling within him. Questions race through his mind, yet he's unsure if he truly wants the answers. Why are there others like him? What does it mean to be an "error" of his own family?

Sakae gestures for Hugo to sit across from her, her expression gentle but tinged with sadness. She smiles softly, sensing his inner turmoil.

Sakae (breaking the silence, almost as if sensing his thoughts) "Where were we? Ah, yes… when we were born." (pauses, looking at him) "Hugo, what do you think was different about you compared to your siblings… if you have any?"

Hugo (hesitantly) "Well… I… I have one eye, and they all…"

Sakae (shaking her head gently) "No, not biological or physical differences. Think about the first thing your parents did after you were born."

Hugo (thinking, then suddenly realizing, his eyes widening) "They gave us names…"

Sakae (nodding) "Exactly. But think carefully. Did they give you the same kind of name they gave your siblings?"

Hugo (pauses, his face clouding as he remembers) "My siblings… all my cousins too… they have middle names. But… I don't."

The realization hits him with a cold, sharp clarity. He feels almost hollow as he speaks, as if dredging up a truth he'd buried deep.

Sakae (sad smile, nodding) "Yes. The Gentoshi family has a thousand branches, a vast tree of bloodlines and connections. Each 'leaf' on this tree, each member, is unique. To distinguish ourselves, our family names are deliberately complex, elongated, often with additional middle names." (her voice grows somber) "But then… there are those of us who are left unnamed, unrecognized. They view us as insignificant, unworthy… as if we're somehow less."

Hugo feels a pang in his chest, resonating with her words. He struggles to understand the why—the reason his family treated him this way. He barely manages to ask, his voice low and confused.

Hugo "But… why?"

Sakae glances around the cafe, as if taking in the peaceful surroundings before delivering the painful truth. Her eyes soften, but there's a bitter edge to her smile.

Sakae "Because, Hugo… we're demons. Or bastards. Or both."

Hugo (taken aback, whispering) "Demons?"

Sakae (her gaze unwavering, voice steady but sad) "Yes. Fate chose us to be different. To them, we're errors—something to be hidden away, ignored." (she leans in slightly) "In their eyes, our existence disrupts their perfect lineage."

Hugo struggles to process this. "Demon"—the word is loaded with so much meaning, fear, and mystery. Before he can respond, Sakae's appearance begins to shift. Her pupils glow with a deep golden hue as her sclera turns pitch black. Two long, black horns emerge from her forehead, curling slightly before resting atop her head.

Hugo (staring, barely able to breathe) "Those… are real…"

Sakae (smiling sadly as she returns to her human form) "Yes. This is our truth, Hugo. We didn't choose to be born this way… but here we are, living as 'errors' of the world. Demons, anomalies, aberrations… whatever you want to call it."

She pauses, letting the words sink in. The transformation felt surreal, and yet, it resonated deeply with something within Hugo. He starts to question everything, remembering the bitter looks and veiled hostility from his family.

Hugo (quietly) "So… we're denounced just because we're different?"

Sakae "Yes. To them, we're symbols of imperfection. Errors in their carefully curated bloodline. But, in truth… all of us, demons or not, are products of the world around us." (she takes a deep breath) "And sometimes, Hugo, errors reveal truths people would rather ignore."

Hugo furrows his brow, feeling a growing anger but also a strange relief in knowing he's not alone.

Hugo "But what about Arachne—the demon who attacked us? She didn't seem… innocent."

Sakae (nodding) "True. There are different kinds of demons. The Seven Great Demons are the embodiment of humanity's greatest sins—errors that were born with the creation of society. Greed, pride, envy… these 'Sins' are the shadows cast by human flaws." (she glances out the window) "Arachne was a servant of one such Sin—Beelzebub, Lord of the Flies. Demons like her are reflections of humanity's collective sins, powerful and often malicious."

Hugo (murmuring as the weight of her words settles) "So… we're different. Like… reflections of their sins?"

Sakae "Exactly. But unlike those demons, Hugo, we're not bound to serve anyone's sins. We're natural anomalies—'errors' that don't belong to anyone's agenda." (she places a reassuring hand on his arm) "We're proof that the Gentoshi family isn't as perfect as they want to appear. And instead of facing that truth, they'd rather cast us out and pretend we don't exist."

Hugo's mind races, the weight of her words settling into his heart. He looks at Sakae, realizing she's been carrying this burden far longer than he has. For the first time, he feels a strange sense of belonging—something he's never truly felt in his family.

Sakae (smiling, a glimmer of pride in her eyes) "Do not worry, Hugo. Even if they cast us out, we can still carve our own path. The world doesn't define us… we define ourselves."

For the first time, Hugo allows himself a small smile. He feels a flicker of hope, an ember of strength ignited by Sakae's words.

Hugo (smiling back) "Thank you… Sakae."

They sit in silence for a moment, sharing the weight of their shared fate yet finding comfort in it. In that quiet cafe, Hugo feels something change within him—a resolve to face his path, not as a Gentoshi exile, but as his own person, free from the family's shadows.

Scene: Human Damnation

INT. HOTEL GRAVES – NIGHT

The hotel is quiet, cloaked in the stillness of night. Hugo lies awake, staring at the ceiling, his mind tangled in shadows and memories. Sakae's words echo in his head—"We did not choose to be demons… yet we are denounced by it."

He remembers his childhood, the warmth of his mother's voice as she read bedtime stories to him and his twin brother, Alexei. She would tell them stories of mythical creatures, of monsters and heroes. One story, in particular, stood out—the tale of a one-eyed demon, a creature marked by fate to bring misery to everyone it touched. Back then, Hugo thought it was just a story, a figment of fantasy. Demons weren't real; they couldn't be. But now, knowing that he himself was part demon, it all felt chillingly real. Was that story meant for him?

The thought stirs a cold knot of fear in his chest. Was he truly destined to be the bringer of misfortune, like the demon in his mother's tale?

As his mind spirals deeper into the weight of these questions, a menacing shadow looms behind him. Before he can react, a voice purrs from the darkness.

Fenix (whispering playfully) "Didn't you hear~? Bad kids are going to have their blood drunk by a vampire~"

Hugo (startled, bolting upright) "Ahh! Fenix!! What the heck are you doing?!"

Fenix (grinning, amused) "What's wrong? Having trouble sleeping?"

Hugo (settling down, but still visibly shaken) "Well… yeah, kind of." (hesitates) "Fenix… would you… would you still be my friend if I'm… you know…"

Fenix (smirking knowingly) "A demon?"

Hugo (surprised) "Yeah… wait, you knew the whole time?"

Fenix (shrugging nonchalantly) "Your family's been calling you a demon since day one. It wasn't exactly subtle."

Hugo (sighing) "I guess… but I always thought it was just insults. That demons were, well… myths."

Fenix (chuckling) "Cyclops, let me tell you something about my clan. You know we're vampires, right? Our role was to keep the balance, to keep humans from tipping the scales of nature. Drinking blood was our purpose, our natural role as predators. But when humans learned to fight back, they destroyed us instead. Now, we're condemned for it, even though they kill animals every day without a second thought."

Hugo (quietly) "That's… kind of hypocritical…"

Fenix "Exactly. That's the nature of humanity, little cyclops. They create these rules they call 'normality' and cast out anything that doesn't fit. Vampires, werebeasts, dwarves, elves… all of us, sharing the same world, yet they look down on us."

Hugo (dejected) "But I'm not like them. I'm a demon, an error… something that brings misery."

Fenix (smiling, but without mockery) "Yes, you are."

Hugo's face falls, a shadow of sadness settling over him.

Fenix (firmly, catching Hugo's gaze) "But remember what I told you? Anyone who doesn't obey their 'normality' is cast out. Demons are just another form of that rejection."

Hugo (puzzled) "Huh?"

Fenix (leaning closer, voice intense) "Demons are humanity's flaws given life. In their growth and progress, their darkness grew too—their sins, their griefs, their mistakes… all these flaws took shape as demons. That's what they are. And while some demons, like that Arachne we fought today, do want to bring ruin, you're not like that."

Hugo (stammering) "I… I don't want to hurt anyone…"

Fenix (nodding) "Exactly, cyclops. You're proof of humanity's mistakes, a living reminder of their flaws. But instead of facing that, they cast you out, just like they cast us all out. That's their fault, not yours."

For a moment, Hugo just stares at Fenix, the vampire's words settling over him like a strange comfort. The darkness that felt so cold moments ago now feels a little warmer, a little less lonely.

Hugo (softly, with a hint of hope) "So… I'm not… destined to bring misery?"

Fenix (patting his shoulder, grinning with a mischievous gleam) "Only if you start drinking blood. But until then, little cyclops, you're just one of us. Flawed, sure… but still part of this world."

As Hugo lets the words sink in, he feels a small weight lift from his chest. Maybe, just maybe, being an "error" didn't mean he was doomed to bring suffering. Perhaps, like Fenix and the others, he could find a place of his own—somewhere he belonged, flaws and all.

Scene: Teacher Arrival

EXT. HOTEL GRAVES – MORNING

The next morning, Professor Aster enters the museum in a hurry, his expression a mix of disbelief and astonishment. He spots Severin, Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix gathered together, looking none the worse for wear after their intense battle with the demoness Arachne.

Professor Aster (incredulous) "You… you four really managed to defeat a demon servant of Beelzebub?!"

Sakae stands nearby, nodding with a look of approval. She's clearly impressed with the students' performance, even sharing the security footage of the fight with Aster.

Sakae "Yes, Professor. They coordinated their attacks and adapted to each other's powers seamlessly. Their teamwork was exceptional—truly impressive for first years."

The professor watches a few seconds of the museum footage, his expression slowly shifting from shock to deep admiration. The video shows the students' intense, coordinated attacks, with each one covering for the other's vulnerabilities and seizing openings in the demon's defenses.

Professor Aster (thinking to himself) "These kids have incredible potential... They might very well have the makings of royals, if not for the second-year students being so overwhelmingly strong."

He turns back to the group, the admiration still shining in his eyes.

Professor Aster "Well, it looks like I owe you four some recognition. You've demonstrated skills strong enough to get through some of our lower-ranked dungeons." (grinning) "I'll be giving you all extra credit for this."

Fenix (crossing his arms, smirking) "Heh? Just extra credit? After taking down a demon servant? Shouldn't we at least get a pass on our mid-term?"

Professor Aster (laughing, shaking his head) "There's no free pass like that in my class, brat. You're all strong, yes, but handling a dungeon involves more than brute strength. There are resources to manage, supplies to ration—food, potions, the whole survival kit. It's not just about fighting."

The students exchange glances, slightly disappointed but still proud of the acknowledgment.

Professor Aster's face suddenly hardens as he spots Ryuto and his group skulking nearby. His voice takes on an edge of anger.

Professor Aster "And as for you lot…" (pointing sternly at Ryuto and his friends) "Picking up the Sorrowblade despite knowing its curse? That was downright reckless. You'll all be losing points. You need to learn respect for the artifacts we study, not to play with them like toys."

Ryuto and his friends flinch under the professor's glare, clearly regretting their impulsive decision. With that settled, Professor Aster claps his hands, calling the class to attention.

Professor Aster "Alright, everyone! We've still got more ground to cover. Get on the bus—we're headed to our next destination."

The students file onto the bus, the energy buzzing as they discuss the events from the museum. Severin, Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix exchange small smiles, feeling a sense of pride after being acknowledged by both the professor and Sakae. The taste of victory still lingers, but the knowledge that they're only at the beginning of their journey is exhilarating.

The bus rumbles to life, and with the scenery shifting outside, their adventure presses onward.

Scene: Sakae in the House

INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – LIVING ROOM – AFTERNOON

Kimhyun sits cross-legged on the floor, his wolf ears twitching with delight as Lysander leans over from behind, resting his chin on top of Kimhyun's head. Lysander's face nestles against the soft, furred wolf ears, a look of pure contentment on his face.

Lysander (sighing happily) "Ahh~ This feels so good… like feathers on my face."

Kimhyun (chuckling) "I'm glad, hehe."

They fall into a comfortable silence, enjoying the peaceful moment.

Kimhyun "Oh, right! I forgot to ask—yesterday, did you notice anything… you know… off about Yue?"

Lysander "Arrogant?"

Kimhyun "Yup!!"

Kimhyun's ears perk up and his tail starts to wag as he talks, the excitement clear in his voice. Lysander watches him fondly, thinking to himself.

Lysander (thinking) "How cute, you're like a big dog… a big, loyal boy."

Lysander (smiling) "Well, you see, Yue has always been… elite."

Kimhyun "Huh?"

Lysander (sitting up slightly) "Kimhyun, why did you want to team up with me in the first place? You're popular in your branch. You've got options."

Kimhyun (shrugging) "Well… I just think we'd make a great team."

Lysander "Why's that?"

Kimhyun (excited) "Because you're strong and smart! I mean, we teamed up twice, and we won both times. And those were against pro-hunters too!"

Kimhyun talks as his tail wags in happiness.

Lysander "True. But now, think about Yue. Do you think anyone in your branch could really match his power?"

Kimhyun "Uhh…"

Lysander leans back, a thoughtful look in his eyes.

Lysander "Yue chose us because we contribute in ways he can't. We, in the academic branch, can provide insights beyond just raw power. In terms of strength, Yue is dominant. He could do whatever his partner could… but faster, and probably better."

Kimhyun (ears drooping slightly) "Oh… I get it. But even so, shouldn't he try to… I don't know… work more closely with his branch?"

Lysander "He did try. But they failed him. Remember yesterday? He asked if they could give him any advice. Nothing. That's why he aligns with us."

Kimhyun looks surprised, absorbing the insight. Slowly, he breaks into a bright smile again, his tail wagging happily.

Kimhyun "Hey, can you… pet my stomach too? I… kinda miss that."

Lysander (chuckling, though slightly unsure) "Uhh… sure."

Lysander reaches over, scratching Kimhyun's stomach. Kimhyun sighs, closing his eyes in pure bliss.

Kimhyun (moaning slightly) "Ahh~ So good~"

There's a pause as they bask in the moment before Kimhyun opens his eyes, curiosity flashing in them.

Kimhyun "Oh, right! Do you have any ideas on how to handle Sakae?"

At the mention of Sakae, Lysander's face darkens. He stops scratching Kimhyun, his demeanor shifting from relaxed to cold and tense. Kimhyun's ears droop as he notices Lysander's change.

Lysander (voice low, his eyes hardening) "Oh, that bitch."

Kimhyun, taken aback, shifts to look at Lysander, startled by the sudden intensity. Lysander's face is shadowed, his expression icy.

Kimhyun (ears lowered, sounding nervous) "H-Hey… I…"

Lysander clenches his fists, his voice colder than Kimhyun's ever heard.

Lysander "Let's go through her powers. We need a plan."

Kimhyun nods, quietly attentive, still a bit shaken by Lysander's intensity but understanding the need to focus. The two settle in, ready to discuss strategies for their next encounter with the formidable Sakae.

Lysander opens his laptop, navigating to a file as Kimhyun watches silently from the floor. The screen displays a profile with a serious-looking photo of Sakae Gentoshi.

Lysander (reading from the screen) "Sakae Gentoshi… A pro hunter of OverEdge. She's the assistant to John Carter, one of their top superheroes. And an exiled member of my family, the Gentoshi clan."

Kimhyun's tail droops, and his wolf ears lower slightly, yet his expression stays focused as he asks carefully.

Kimhyun "I know this might be a sensitive topic, but… why does your clan exile so many people? There's Hugo, and now Sakae. They're both talented hunters with so much potential, and they're not… bad people, are they?"

Lysander's eyes narrow, a cold fury simmering as he turns to face Kimhyun. The intensity of his gaze makes Kimhyun's ears flatten completely, his voice faltering.

Kimhyun (stammering) "I… I'm sorry… I didn't mean to…"

Lysander (voice steady but firm) "Why are you apologizing?"

Kimhyun "Huh? I… well… I just…"

Lysander "You haven't done anything wrong. So why apologize?"

Kimhyun looks down, struggling to find the right words, unsure how to respond. Lysander watches him for a moment, then, seeing Kimhyun's discomfort, decides to steer the conversation back to the topic.

Lysander (sighing) "Anyway… let me put it this way. Those 'people', if you can even call them that, have caused our family more pain than you can imagine. You know about demons, right?"

Kimhyun "The… errors born from this world?"

Lysander "Exactly. Demons are like bugs in a computer—a glitch in an otherwise flawless system. They may have power, but it's a power meant to drag everything down, not lift anyone up."

Kimhyun's expression turns wary, sensing Lysander's growing resentment. He hesitates but asks, voice soft, almost fearful.

Kimhyun "Isn't that… a harsh assumption?"

Lysander's gaze sharpens, and Kimhyun's shoulders instinctively pull back, as though he's bracing for anger. But Lysander's tone remains icy and controlled.

Lysander "Oh, really? Then let me tell you something, Kimhyun. That bastard, Hugo—he killed my parents, well, our parents."

Kimhyun (stunned, whispering) "What…?"

Lysander "You see, demons… they are flaws given form. Their very existence dismantles the system they come from. They are born of the grey areas in law, the cracks in society. Even if a demon like Hugo doesn't mean to cause harm, they inevitably do. Fate demands it. My parents' deaths are proof enough. Hugo never intended for them to die, but they did—because of him."

Kimhyun glances down, ears flattened in sorrow.

Kimhyun "That's… really sad."

Lysander (tone hardening) "Trust me, casting them out is an act of mercy. We cannot allow those 'flaws' to destroy us from within. If we didn't exile them, the only other option would be to eliminate them."

The room falls into a heavy silence. Kimhyun looks away, struggling with the grim reality Lysander has laid bare. He opens his mouth as if to speak, but then closes it, unsure of what to say. The weight of Lysander's words lingers, leaving Kimhyun with a deep sense of unease, a glimpse into a darkness he's only beginning to understand.

Lysander straightens up, pulling up more information on his laptop. The screen fills with tactical notes and images of Sakae Gentoshi in action.

Lysander "Alright, let's review our examiner: Sakae Gentoshi. She's got an A-ranked ability—gravity manipulation, similar to her guild master, John Carter. But unlike John, who uses it to enhance himself, Sakae's style is more about pinning people down… like her own personal flaw."

Kimhyun (tilting his head, confused) "Her flaw?"

Lysander "Yeah, that's her thing—dragging everyone down with her. Back when she was younger, she discovered her powers by accident and ended up destroying one of our family's aerodynamics labs. She pinned our experimental planes to the ground, making them useless. That was when our clan realized what she was—a liability. So, she was exiled."

Kimhyun (a hint of sympathy) "Oh…"

Lysander "Dealing with her isn't too hard if you know her weaknesses. Her gravity control might be strong, but not strong enough to overpower you. If you close in for melee, she won't be able to use her gravity without pinning herself down as well."

Kimhyun nods, starting to feel a bit more confident as Lysander lays out his plan.

Lysander "In close range, I believe you've got the advantage over her. She wields a katana called Beniiro Ageha, an A-ranked weapon she found in a dungeon. But if you get within sword range, your speed will give you the upper hand. And don't forget—you'll have me supporting you from a distance."

Kimhyun "That sounds… almost too easy. But won't she have some kind of counter for us? I mean, examiners are usually picked to exploit their students' weaknesses, right?"

Lysander "Yes. She's got a trick up her sleeve—she can generate a strange energy from manipulating gravity around her sword. It's demonic power, like that Hell Blaze of Hugo's. She can use it to launch long-range attacks or boost her strikes in melee."

Kimhyun "Hmm… that does sound challenging. Especially if her sword style is so unpredictable."

Lysander "Exactly. Her sword technique isn't straightforward. It's derived from dance rather than traditional sword arts, which makes her movements harder to read for professional swordsmen."

Kimhyun "Hmm... that is some... strong counter to me." 

Lysander "Yes, but not for me. If you rush her before she can pin me down, we won. Plus, the battlefield is a large urban area. We'll have plenty of time to maneuver, hide, and strike at the right moment. Unless she tries to do an area-wide gravity increase, we'll be fine. And if she does that, it'll give away her position, making her an easy target for us." 

Kimhyun "Good point… that makes sense."

Lysander's eyes glint with a sense of coldness, his voice dropping lower.

Lysander (cold) "And don't worry—I also have a few tricks to deal with her... Let's just say, she should hope she'll be alive after this."

Kimhyun stares at Lysander, seeing both the intensity and the darkness in his eyes. Despite the grim topic, he feels a strange sense of excitement, knowing that they're forming a powerful plan together.

Scene: Path of the Holy Knights

INT. KNIGHTS OF ORLEANS GUILD – MAIN HALL – DAY

The first-year students arrive at the grand guild hall of the Knights of Orleans. They gaze in awe at the majestic interior, which feels like stepping into a royal French palace. Intricate designs and grand architecture fill the space, reminiscent of Versailles, with golden chandeliers illuminating the polished marble floors.

Hendrickson Vanderbilt, a tall, imposing figure in full silver armor, approaches. His armor gleams under the chandelier light, and his stance is noble yet welcoming. He greets the students with a formal bow.

Hendrickson "Welcome to the Knights of Orleans. I am Hendrickson Vanderbilt, the guild leader here. It's an honor to host the friends of my younger sister, Ludociel."

The students murmur excitedly, recognizing the connection. Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix step forward with appreciation.

Hugo "Thank you, Sir Hendrickson. Ludociel has been an inspiration to us—guiding us as our representative in the student council and helping us prepare for so many challenges."

Shizuka "Yes, she's not only a great leader but a true role model."

Hendrickson's expression softens with pride as he listens to them talk about his sister.

Hendrickson "She truly is remarkable. Outside of her role at the academy, she's known as the 'Maiden of Orleans' in our guild—a title reserved for those with extraordinary potential. It fills my heart with pride to hear how she's earned such respect, even among her peers."

He then gestures toward a row of dark cloaks with silver trim, each bearing the Knights of Orleans' crest—a radiant gold triskelion.

Hendrickson "Please, take one of these cloaks. The holy light within our halls can be harmful to those without a holy affinity, especially beings like demons, vampires, or dark elves. These cloaks will shield you."

The students put on the cloaks as they prepare to explore deeper into the guild. They step through the main hall into a breathtaking series of chambers, each reflecting the grand style of a royal French castle. The walls are adorned with portraits of historical knights and tapestries that recount the guild's history.

Hendrickson "Our guild was founded centuries ago, in the wake of the Hundred Years' War. You may know of Jeanne d'Arc, the Saintess of Orleans, who led her people with courage and faith, rallying France in its darkest days. Her bravery and conviction lifted a nation on the brink of ruin. She led not for power or fame, but out of a profound love for her people and her country. After her death, her younger brother, Pierre d'Arc, felt compelled to continue her mission. He vowed to uphold her memory by forming a new order—one that would protect the innocent and carry on her ideals of justice, faith, and resilience. Thus, the Knights of Orleans were born."

The students listen with awe as they walk through the hall, noticing statues and paintings of Jeanne d'Arc in battle, her armor glinting and her banner held high.

Hendrickson "To us, Jeanne is more than just a historical figure; she's a guiding light. Her spirit is woven into every fiber of our guild. Jeanne believed that one person, armed with unwavering faith and a pure heart, could change the course of history. We honor her not just by speaking her name, but by living her values. Her courage reminds us that knighthood is more than wielding a sword—it's a way of being. Every battle, every mission, every moment of self-sacrifice brings us closer to that ideal."

He pauses and gestures to a tapestry that shows Jeanne leading soldiers across a field, her expression one of determination and serenity.

Hendrickson "Knighthood, to us, isn't just about fighting. It's about standing up for what's right, even when no one else will. It's about dedicating yourself to a cause greater than yourself. The world may be filled with darkness, but each of us, like Jeanne, can be a beacon of light. We believe that when knights fight with honor and integrity, we create a ripple effect—a legacy that inspires others to act with kindness, bravery, and selflessness."

As they walk, Severin Ashford feels a surge of energy coursing through him. He touches his cloak, glancing at Hendrickson in wonder.

Severin "I feel… stronger here. Is it because of this place?"

Hendrickson (smiling) "Indeed. You have a natural affinity for the holy element. Does your ability have a connection to light?"

Severin "Yes, my power is Energy Beam."

Hendrickson "A fitting match. Those with holy affinity find their abilities amplified within these walls. If you ever consider a future among us, Severin, I believe you'd make a fine knight of Orleans."

The group continues through the guild's many chambers, each room reflecting royal French aesthetics—glittering chandeliers, polished marble floors, and grand paintings of noble knights from ages past. Finally, they arrive in an armory stocked with a variety of weapons: swords, shields, spears, bows, and armors, all meticulously arranged and polished.

They reach a room filled with medieval weaponry—swords, shields, and suits of armor that shimmer in the light. Each item is immaculately maintained, a testament to the guild's pride in its heritage.

Hendrickson "Pierre believed that knighthood had the power to transform society, to lift people up and protect them from despair. 'One for All and All for One' isn't just a slogan; it's a promise. We protect each other and those who cannot protect themselves. In battle, we stand as one force, undivided. Outside of battle, we strive to live with humility, respect, and compassion."

As he speaks, several students, including Grigor, look visibly moved. Grigor glances at his cloak, feeling a warmth from the holy energy that seems to resonate with the values Hendrickson describes.

Grigor "Being part of something so… noble. I can see why your members take such pride in this guild."

Hendrickson (smiling) "Indeed. We are bound not just by strength, but by purpose. Some of you may feel it too—the holy energy here amplifies the abilities of those aligned with light and virtue. This is the legacy of Jeanne d'Arc's spirit, alive within these walls. It doesn't simply make us stronger; it reminds us of why we fight."

The students look on in admiration, absorbing the sense of honor and nobility instilled in this guild. Meanwhile, Fenix and Hugo start to look pale and sluggish as the holy light in the guild seems to drain their energy. Shizuka notices and grows concerned.

Shizuka (whispering) "Hey, are you two alright?"

Fenix (wearily) "This place... It's draining my strength..."

Hugo (weakly) "Yeah… the cloak helps, but… it's still tough being here."

Shizuka glances at Hendrickson, who notices their fatigue and nods in understanding.

Hendrickson "Your resilience is admirable. The cloaks protect you, but only to a degree. Our guild's holy energy is intense, especially for those lacking holy affinity. Rest assured, though—your endurance here speaks to your strong spirits."

He leads the group onward, continuing the tour while supporting those among them who feel weaker, allowing the students to experience the powerful legacy and atmosphere of the Knights of Orleans.

Hendrickson pauses, turning to address the class, his gaze both warm and proud.

Hendrickson: "As knights, we follow the ancient knight's technique — a practice of combat where we rely on heavy armor and weaponry to channel our strength and protect those around us. This technique, while physically demanding, allows each knight to stand as an impenetrable force on the battlefield. Every swing, every strike is imbued with the holy light of our guild."

He gestures toward a grand display room that opens up before them. The students gasp as they step inside, taking in the sheer number and magnificence of the weapons. Each piece is showcased with care, glinting under soft lights that cast halos over the silver and gold surfaces. Many weapons are imbued with holy light, emanating a soft glow.

Hendrickson: "What you see here are relics retrieved from dungeons across the land. Some are C-ranked, others B, and a few rare pieces… A-ranked. Each weapon here bears an affinity for holy energy, amplifying the wielder's natural light-based powers."

He picks up a gleaming silver broadsword with an intricately designed hilt wrapped in radiant gold.

Hendrickson: "This is Lumière de Justice, a B-ranked weapon. It channels a holy aura with each strike, searing any darkness it touches. Its blade was forged with sacred silver, which heightens the holy affinity of its wielder."

A murmur of admiration and awe runs through the students. Hendrickson replaces the broadsword and moves to an elegant spear with intricate carvings on the shaft, the tip glowing faintly.

Hendrickson: "And this… is Lance Éclairante, an A-ranked holy spear. The engravings you see are spells designed to release bursts of holy energy on impact. In the hands of a skilled knight, it can pierce even the thickest armor, leaving a residual holy burn that purifies corrupted energies."

Severin's eyes widened with admiration as he reached forward, nearly touching the spear, before catching himself and pulling his hand back respectfully.

Elena: "These are… incredible."

Several students nod in agreement, clearly enchanted by the weapons on display. One of them raises a hand hesitantly.

Student: "Sir Hendrickson, what about Ludociel's weapon? Is it here as well?"

Hendrickson's expression softens, a quiet reverence in his gaze.

Hendrickson: "Ah, Angurvadal. No, her sword isn't here. Angurvadal is an S-ranked weapon, one that embodies the essence of pure light. Crafted from materials so rare that they may no longer exist in this world, it is a sword forged to be one of a kind. Angurvadal can only be wielded by someone with a heart of unwavering purity and bravery. It chooses its master just as much as its master chooses it."

The students gasp, whispering among themselves.

Arabelle (whispering to her friend): "A one-of-a-kind S-ranked sword… it's like something out of a legend."

Fenix (in awe): "As expected of her majesty, wielding a sword that can't be matched."

Hendrickson lets the students take in the moment, his face glowing with pride. He leads them onward, pointing out other relics, each with a story of its own. The students soak in the history and significance, the weight of each item's legacy resonating within them.

They come to a final room, smaller and less grand, yet clearly revered. Displayed on a stone pedestal at the room's center is a banner—one that appears ancient yet well-preserved. The design features a symbol of a radiant triskelion, representing Jeanne d'Arc's courage, compassion, and strength.

Hendrickson: "This banner was once carried by our founder, Pierre d'Arc, Jeanne's younger brother. It symbolizes the heart of our order and reminds us of the power of unwavering faith and courage. When the darkness seems insurmountable, it's this spirit that holds us together, as it held France together centuries ago."

The students fall silent, their expressions a mix of reverence and awe as they absorb the guild's values. Hendrickson smiles softly, sensing the impact of the tour.

Hendrickson: "We are bound by purpose, by a calling greater than ourselves. If any of you feel drawn to our cause, remember that we uphold honor, compassion, and strength. As knights, we do not seek glory. We seek to inspire others, to bring light into darkness."

Grigor clutches his cloak, feeling a swell of pride, while Severin's expression shines with newfound resolve. Even Fenix, who had struggled with the holy energy, stands a bit straighter, feeling the weight of Hendrickson's words.

Ryuto (respectfully): "Thank you, Sir Hendrickson. Your words… they make us understand why the Knights of Orleans are respected."

Hendrickson inclines his head, offering a warm smile.

Hendrickson: "May the spirit of the Saintess guide you. And remember… knighthood is a path, not a destination. Strive not just for strength, but for the courage to use it wisely."

As they leave the hall, the students carry with them a sense of purpose and honor, the legacy of the Knights of Orleans now a part of their journey.

Scene: Not Everyone Can be Holy

EXT. KNIGHTS OF ORLEANS GUILD – MAIN HALL – DAY

The students gather outside the Knights of Orleans guild, settling in a shaded courtyard where they can freely share their thoughts. Severin, Reina, and Alyssa, still energized from the experience, exchange enthusiastic glances.

Severin: "That was incredible! Sir Hendrickson seems to like me. My power has a natural affinity with the holy light here—it feels like my abilities have a place where they truly belong."

Alyssa: "Same here! My combat style—a shield and spear knight—feels like it was made for this guild. It's inspiring to think of myself standing alongside knights like that, protecting others with honor and strength."

Reina: "And I've always admired Ludociel. She's everything I want to be—strong, graceful, and unwavering. I'd love to train here one day, maybe even earn my own title like hers."

Their eyes light up as they imagine a future within the prestigious guild.

In a corner of the courtyard, Niko Tavaris, Arabelle Fairwater, and Kaelen Moretti sit together, casting longing glances toward the horizon as they discuss their thoughts on the Knights of Orleans.

Niko (sighing): "As impressive as this place is, I can't help but think we'd learn way more at OverEdge. I mean, it's the biggest guild out there! And it's led by the John Carter."

Arabelle (nodding eagerly): "Exactly! He's the public superhero. The things we'd get to see there—the gear, the strategy. This guild has history, but OverEdge has action."

Kaelen: "Yeah, no offense to the Knights, but OverEdge has that cutting-edge approach. Just imagine what we could learn there about real-world combat."

Niko: "Plus, their members are always tackling the hardest dungeons. It's not just about knighthood and honor but about pushing the limits. I bet we'd see all kinds of power techniques."

Arabelle (grinning): "Right? I wish they'd given us the option to visit both. John Carter and his team are practically legends—just being there would be inspiring."

As they speak, their eyes light up with excitement, dreaming about the adventures and skills they'd encounter at OverEdge. The Knights of Orleans may be awe-inspiring, but for Niko, Arabelle, and Kaelen, the thrill and innovation of OverEdge call them toward a different path.

Meanwhile, Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka linger just beyond the entrance, looking a bit worse for wear after enduring the intensity of the holy energy inside.

Fenix (exaggerated sigh): "Oh my gosh... Vampires should not go sunbathing in there. I feel like a cooked bat."

Hugo (rubbing his temples): "Yeah, now I'm more aware than ever that I'm a demon. That light wasn't just warm—it stung. A lot."

Shizuka (smiling, amused): "You boys look terrible."

Fenix (recovering slightly, chuckling): "What about you, Sea Witch? Not planning to swoon over your 'role model's' guild?"

Shizuka: "Nah, I'm a rogue class. That guild is impressive, but knights aren't my style. They're strong and honorable, sure, but the tactics? They lack subtlety. All that armor and heavy weapons… I prefer my mana control, precise and efficient."

Fenix: "Couldn't agree more. It's not for me either. I'd rather be quick and nimble than weighed down in all that holy armor. Besides, Hugo would probably fit in if it weren't for, you know, the demon part."

Hugo (exasperated, slumping): "Ugh… just glad to be out here."

They share a laugh, contrasting their views with those of their classmates who are more drawn to the knights' ideals. Despite the differences, the group feels a quiet understanding—each finding their path, even if it leads them away from the light.