Tirnanog

High above the mortal world, the floating city of Ketergia glimmered under the sun's golden rays. The Grand Hall of Valor, an awe-inspiring structure with towering spires and gleaming walls, was alive with anticipation. Today marked the prestigious ceremony where knights who had unlocked their skills and ascended to Grade 3 would officially join the Royal Knights—the elite defenders of Ketergia.

Among the throngs of onlookers, Fort and Rooks stood at attention near the base of the grand stage.

"Can you believe it? New Royal Knights are being inducted today," Fort whispered, his eyes sparkling with awe.

"Yeah, yeah," Rooks replied, leaning on his spear casually. "Don't get too excited, kid. They're just a bunch of rookies taking their first step into the big leagues."

"But they're Grade 3 now," Fort insisted. "That's huge! And we'll get to see the 13 Noble Royal Knights in person!"

Rooks chuckled, brushing his purple hair back. "It's a big deal for them, sure. But you'll see—just because you're Grade 3 doesn't mean you're untouchable. Besides, the real stars are already here."

As the ceremonial trumpets blared, the massive golden doors of the hall swung open, revealing the 13 Noble Royal Knights in all their glory. Each knight exuded an aura of mastery and power, their presence commanding respect and admiration from all who watched.

At the forefront stood Descorda, Bastion's champion and the strongest of the Royal Knights. His long, flowing blonde hair shone in the light, and his white armor gleamed like the sun itself. He carried a massive double-edged sword with intricate carvings, his calm yet commanding presence embodying the pinnacle of knighthood. At his side was his sister, Hermona, clad in sleek blue armor. With a scabbard sword in hand, she radiated elegance and discipline, her piercing gaze reflecting unshakable confidence.

Cornvoc, their younger sibling, shared the same golden locks but with a lighter hue. Unlike Descorda's regal demeanor, Cornvoc bore a playful grin, his ornate sword and shield hinting at both cunning and adaptability in battle. Further down the line, Sparare, a radiant angel with majestic wings, stood with a glowing bow in hand, her golden armor shimmering with a divine light. Beside her was Grandeur, a towering dragon clad in metallic scales that served as armor, his enormous sword humming with immense power.

Rafluke, a rugged warrior clad in battle-worn armor, gripped a hefty axe, the scars across his body telling tales of countless battles. Near him stood Sajess, a steadfast knight wielding both a massive shield and hammer, his heavy armor clinking with every step. Lagrele, a mysterious angel with a haunting elegance, observed the proceedings in silence, his lavender-hued armor adding an air of mystique. Meanwhile, Kokabiel, an angel known for being the strongest mage with healing magic in Ketergia.

Among them was Flient, a human knight with dark hair and a single white strand running through his bangs. His crimson eyes gleamed beneath his black cloak, and his hand rested confidently on the hilt of his sword—a reminder that he was the one who had slain Gordon at the beginning of the story. Standing with quiet strength was Delibere, a man who wielded a mighty axe effortlessly. Not far from him, Blagar, known for his axe combat, exuded an unmatched ferocity. Lastly, Proklis, a younger knight in white-and-green armor, held his crossbow with sharp precision, his gaze unwavering and determined.

"Knights of Ketergia!" Bastion's voice echoed through the hall as he rose from his throne, his golden crown catching the light. "Today, we welcome a new generation of warriors who have unlocked their potential and ascended to the ranks of Grade 3. You have proven your worth through strength, wisdom, and courage. Now, you stand as equals among our defenders of the sky."

The hall erupted in applause as the newly inducted Grade 3 knights stepped forward, kneeling before Bastion and the 13 Noble Royal Knights. Each wore expressions of pride and determination.

Descorda stepped forward, his golden hair framing his regal face as he addressed the recruits. "Congratulations," he said, his voice steady and authoritative. "You have achieved what many only dream of. But remember, this is not the end. It is the beginning. Your journey as a Royal Knight will test your resolve and strength in ways you cannot yet imagine. Stand tall, fight valiantly, and always uphold the honor of Keter Sanctuary."

Hermona smiled softly as she added, "Together, we are stronger. The skies are our domain, and we will protect them with all our might."

As the crowd fell silent, the five newly inducted Grade 3 knights entered, their steps echoing across the hall.

Sarevsael, an angel renowned for his unparalleled speed, moved with an ethereal grace, his golden wings shimmering as he approached. Razionel followed, wielding twin swords with breathtaking agility, her fluid and unpredictable combat style setting her apart. Idwal, a master of the spear, carried himself with an air of precision and tactical brilliance. Ffernbael, a knight of unparalleled blade mastery, exuded a sense of artistry in his every motion. But the most distinguished among them was Alden. His presence commanded attention—known as the Grand Heavenly Sword, he had ascended the ranks with unmatched determination and skill. His shining blade, a symbol of his unwavering resolve, gleamed under the ceremonial lights.

Trumpets blared as Bastion, ruler of Ketergia, stepped forward. His voice carried through the hall, rich with authority. "Knights of Ketergia, behold the future of our great city! These five warriors have proven themselves worthy of the title of Royal Knight. With their strength, wisdom, and courage, they will stand as our shields and swords against any who threaten our skies."

The five knights knelt before Bastion as he raised his scepter. One by one, the 13 Noble Royal Knights stepped forward, offering words of guidance and encouragement.

Descorda approached Alden last, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "Alden, the title of Grand Heavenly Sword is not given lightly. It is a testament to your skill and your promise. But remember, with great power comes greater responsibility. Honor your title and make us proud."

In the crowd, Fort's eyes shone with admiration as he watched the ceremony unfold. "Did you see that, Rooks? Alden is incredible! Someday, we could be up there too!"

Rooks smirked, leaning casually against his spear. "Dream big, kid. But don't forget, the higher you climb, the harder the fall."

"I won't fall," Fort replied firmly. "I'll fight with everything I have."

"Good," Rooks said, his grin widening. "Because when you're standing up there, you'll have me to back you up—or remind you how far you've come."

As the ceremony concluded, Alden turned to his fellow inductees, his eyes reflecting the weight of his new title. "We are not here just to bear the title of Royal Knight. We are here to protect Keteria, to uphold the ideals of our people. Together, we will rise to meet any challenge."

The five knights clasped arms in solidarity, their bond forged in their shared journey and unwavering resolve.