Pengayom

The endless World War had shattered the global order. Governments collapsed, oppression ran rampant, and society lost its way. Without education or morality, the world descended into the "Era of Thugs" where strength became the only law.  

For decades, the "Throne" the title for the ruler of this broken world remained empty. Not because no one desired it, but because no one was worthy of claiming it.  

In a newly independent nation called "Aswa", an ordinary teenager began his first year of high school. He arrived in Jakarta, the gathering place of Indonesia's most powerful delinquents. Yet instead of enrolling in the strongest school, Aswa chose the "weakest" a place reserved for the lowest caste of thugs.  

What is his goal?  
What could he possibly seek in a world whereonly the strong survive?

THRONELESS

"Breaking news yet another massive student brawl has erupted, this time at South Meruya High School. Reports indicate nearly 550 students were involved. Police are currently investigating...

In light of the recent surge in youth violence, the government is considering implementing new meas-"

*CRASH!* The TV screen shattered.

A shadowy figure lay sprawled on the couch.

"That was pretty fun yesterday, right, Arca? By the way... why are you still following me? Just so you know, I don't have any money to pay you off...New Boss." Aswa walked toward class, Arca trailing behind him while second and third-years bowed respectfully in Arca's direction.

"Shut up... I'm following you because I keep my promises. A real man never goes back on his word."

[Meanwhile, in the Principal's Office]

"You've seen the news, haven't you?"

Barler Sikik, Principal of South Meruya High

"Because of them, our school's reputation is in the gutter. Make sure they regret ever stepping foot here."

"B-but sir, they're just student-"

"Do I look like I care? I can have you fired or thrown in jail! You'd better obey."

Celsi left the office, her expression blank as she marched toward Aswa and Arca's classroom.

"Hey, Ms. Celsi...?" Another teacher greeted her.

No response. Her face remained eerily empty.

Creak. The classroom door opened.

"Did you see that? She didn't even react when I called her."

"Eh, she's always like that. Probably scared stiff again."

"That wasn't fear in her eyes. It was something... terrifying."

Celsi approached the classroom, now just steps away.

*"I can have you fired—or thrown in jail. Your only choices are 'yes' or 'no.'"* (The principal's words echoed in her mind.)

She stopped at the door, posture rigid, eyes burning red.

Her hollow gaze locked onto Arca and Aswa. The air turned frigid. Students shuddered.

"What the hell is this pressure? I fought hundreds yesterday—why does one person feel more dangerous?!"

Celsi advanced slowly. The other students froze, as if hallucinating.

She stopped in front of Aswa's desk.

Arca's hand shot out, gripping her wrist. "The hell do you think you're doing?!"

Arca was launched through the wall, crashing onto the field outside.

Aswa barely had time to react. *"S-she's fast."

Aswa hurtled through the same hole, failing to block in time.

Celsi appeared mid-air above Aswa and slammed him into the ground. A crater split the earth beneath him. Blood dripped from his lips.

Arca and Aswa staggered to their feet, bodies trembling.

"What kind of speed was that?!" Arca's voice shook.

"Ahh... Why'd I get hit too?" Aswa chuckled weakly.

"She was after you from the start, idiot!"

"How should I know?! Ask her yourself—oh wait, here she comes!"

Arca dropped into a fighting stance. Aswa just watched.

But the moment his eyelids flickered

Celsi was already in front of them.

Aswa barely braced before the kick shattered his guard, sending both boys flying again.

"Ugh... Why me again? You're quick, lady but sorry, I'm super duper fast too-"

Celsi's foot buried itself in his face.