Chapter IV: And there was light…
"This insidious press and heralds viciously assault the notion of the spirituality, brutally weakening the people's moral fortitude and severing their connection with the Divine Tradition. Its nefarious influence spreads nihilistic, antilife doctrines, destroying faith in their nations and kingdoms, and shattering their bonds to the land of their forefathers, severing the ties of love that were once an inspiration for battle and sacrifice in times long past. Its destructive power threatens to rend the very fabric of society, leaving only Chaos and despair in its wake."
—Lord Primarch Athanasius Aurus on his manifesto titled "For you, My Brethren".
=][=
30th Millenium
Three years after Athanasius was inducted into the Kagenou Household.
In the heart of a lush green field, surrounded by towering trees and rolling hills, a bald young man stood alone, clutching a polished wooden sword in his hands. With stoic determination and an unyielding intensity, he began his daily practice, the sound of the rustling leaves and chirping birds being the only companions to their solitary training.
He never once skipped practicing and honing his skill with the sword.
For strength is needed to fight the evils of the world.
Footwork, left, right, thrust, riposte, slash. All movements have a purpose. The sword style is not beautiful, for it is meant to simply kill.
The art of absolute brutality channeled into a single blade.
Fitting for a demigod created for the total extermination of the dark.
Once the bald boy started practicing at dawn, he would never stop until the sun rose in the sky.
God-forged Transhuman body. Never tiring. Unbreakable. Ethereal. Eternal.
'It's been three years since I was inducted into the manor…huh…' Athanasius spoke in his mind.
Then he continued his routine.
As the sun rose high in the sky, casting a warm glow upon the tranquil landscape, the child moved with fluid grace and expert precision, honing their skills with each sweeping arc and resolute thrust of their wooden sword. His larger than average frame shows no sign of exhaustion. Therefore, he pressed on. Sweating, but never tired.
Such body was the envy of every martial artist.
The surrounding countryside was alive with the sounds of nature, including the chirping of birds and the hum of insects, providing a constant symphony to accompany the bald boy's relentless practice. The sweet scent of wildflowers mingled with the fresh, earthy aroma of the fertile soil, creating a tapestry of scent that surrounded the young transhuman as he trained alone in the open field.
'The sun is rising soon. I better stop.' The bald boy soon stopped his routine.
Then his ears twitched.
Rustling of leaves. Footsteps. Five hundred meters away.
He heard familiar footsteps. He smiled and waited.
=][=
As the footsteps reached the area where the bald boy was practicing, the man spoke.
"I hope you have done your daily routine already?" The man stated with familiarity and amusement.
"Of course, I actually just finished Lord Kagenou—" Athanasius was soon cut off by the patriarch of Kagenou household, who raised his right hand, signaling for silence and correction.
"What did I tell you to call me?" Baron Kagenou raised his brows while asking the young man.
"…Sensei (Teacher)…" Athanasius soon replied, clearly grateful and a bit hesitant.
"There, that's better. Anyway, it's now time for your lessons." Lord Kagenou stated with amusement in his tone.
"Indeed?" Athanasius smiled while asking with absolute happiness and joy in his tone.
"Yes. Come to the Household Library." The Lord concluded.
"Yes indeed! Thank you, Teacher!" Athanasius happily replied.
After all, he loved reading a thousand times more than fighting.
For the Gene trait demands it.
=][=
Kagenou Household Library
The library was a grandiose space, filled with towering shelves that seemed to stretch to the very heavens, each one laden with a treasure trove of books, scrolls, and tomes. The air was thick with the scent of ancient leather bindings and yellowed pages, and the flickering candlelight cast shadows that danced along the walls, giving the room an eerie and mystical feel.
There were books on every subject imaginable, from the arcane to the mundane, from the art of battle to the intricacies of herbalism. Some of the books were large and imposing, filled with detailed diagrams and complex formulas, while others were small and delicate, with delicate calligraphy that spoke of an age long past.
In one corner of the library, there were shelves devoted entirely to the art of combat, with volumes on swordplay, archery, and hand-to-hand combat. The pages were filled with detailed descriptions of various techniques, as well as illustrations that depicted warriors engaged in fierce battles against terrifying beasts.
Elsewhere in the library, there were shelves that held books on basic sword arts and even magic arts. Although those books were reinforced with many security locks. Most likely for safety purposes.
In another corner of the library, there were shelves devoted to the natural world, with volumes on plants, animals, and geography. The pages were filled with intricate illustrations, detailing the various flora and fauna of the land, as well as detailed maps that charted the territories of kingdoms and empires.
Despite the vastness of the library, each volume was carefully organized and cataloged, allowing even the most novice reader to find what they sought. And whether one was seeking knowledge for scholarly pursuits or for preparing for battle, the library had something to offer for everyone who dared to enter its mystical halls.
For any warrior who has their blades as their lovers, this place is a nightmare.
But for Athanasius—
'If there is a paradise on Earth, this is it!' Athanasius thought with glee.
'No matter how many times I get back here, the appeal never disappears.'
'Two years ago, Lord Kagenou inducted me into his tutelage, and when I asked why, he replied—
"You have the capability to anchor this corrupted world to Divine Tradition." He replied' Athanasius recalled the event. At that time, he didn't get it, but he got the gist of it.
Athanasius walked to the furthest corner on the left side of the library. In there, there is a shelf that has a spacious space behind its back.
As he got there, his hand reached out behind the book shelf and pulled a small lever.
'Creak….'
A space behind the library opened. A secret door.
Athanasius proceeds to go inside.
=][=
The room was bathed in a warm, muted light, with flickering candles casting a soft, gentle glow that illuminated the space with an aura of peace and tranquility. The walls were adorned with a collection of religious symbols, each one imbued with a sense of profound meaning and significance. From simple, sun crosses to intricate, ornate carvings, each piece seemed to radiate a sense of comfort, strength, and courage to all who gazed upon them.
Despite the presence of these holy symbols, the room felt anything but ostentatious. Rather, it was a simple, unassuming space, designed for quiet reflection and contemplation. The furnishings were sparse, with a few comfortable chairs and a small table providing the only seating in the room. A modest, unadorned altar stood at the far end of the space, its surface adorned with a few carefully chosen objects that seemed to speak of an ancient, timeless wisdom.
As one entered the room, a sense of virtuousness permeated the air, as if the space itself was alive with a quiet, gentle power. Here, one could find solace and strength in the face of life's challenges, drawing upon the deep well of faith and courage that flowed through the space like a steady, unbroken current.
As the candles flickered and danced, casting patterns of light and shadow upon the walls, the room seemed to exhale a sense of timeless wisdom and grace, as if the very air was alive with the presence of a divine spirit. For those seeking comfort, strength, and courage in their lives, this room was a sanctuary, a haven of peace and tranquility that exuded a sense of virtuousness that was both profound and comforting.
And at one side, there is a long table. With many books.
Athanasius looked at the books once more.
"….'The Solar Virtues'…'The Concept of Divine Tradition'…." Athanasius said out loud but unlike before, he was already familiar with it.
And footsteps once again were heard across the illuminated space.
"Take a seat young Athanasius." Lord Kagenou spoke as he arrived at the place with cane in hand.
The "Scholar Scion" once again was back to his familiar place.
"Let's do a review of what you have learned this past two years." Lord Kagenou stated to the young boy.
Athanasius readied himself.
Transhuman mind functioning at high-levels.
"Let's start with the very root of our faith." Baron Kagenou looked at Athanasius with inspecting eyes, like the Ancient Sphinx of old.
Athanasius nodded.
Lock and Ready.
"What is the Divine Tradition?" Baron Kagenou initiated his first question.
Athanasius recalled his learnings.
"Divine Tradition revolves around the idea that there is an innate source of knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual guidance that has been passed down through the ages, originating from a divine or celestial origin. This source of divine tradition is considered to be the guiding principle of all spiritual and moral values and teachings, providing a framework for living a virtuous life. In many times, it formed religions and spiritual 'traditions' that saved many men." Athanasius finally answered.
"Courage, Honor, Dignity, Mercy, Compassion, Humility and all virtues are a manifestation of the Divine Tradition." He concluded his answer.
Lord Kagenou looked at him. He replied "Good. Next question."
"What are the characteristics of Divine Tradition?" Lord Kagenou asked the next question.
Athanasius answered, "the Divine Tradition is characterized by Solar, Golden Lights, which serves as a marker for the tradition's origin and authenticity. The Golden Lights signify the divine source of the teachings, as well as the purity and clarity of the spiritual insights that are contained within the tradition."
Lord Kagenou smiled. "Correct. Next Question…"
Athanasius once again readied himself.
Lord Kagenou asked his next question. "Where did the Solar Lights come from?"
Athanasius once again, with his brilliant mind, answered, "The collective of the Human Consciousness."
"Brilliant. Next question," Lord Kagenou continued.
"What is the human gestalt?" The man questioned once more.
"The human gestalt is the psychical collective consciousness of the Divine Tradition, a synthesis of the wisdom and experiences of all human beings who have ever lived. The human gestalt is embodied in a single all-powerful man, who is the living manifestation of Divine Tradition in the universe. He is the human collective unconscious made flesh. Through his leadership and guidance, the human gestalt unites humanity and directs it towards its highest destiny." Athanasius answered once more.
"Correct again. Next," Lord Kagenou is now smiling. Feeling a bit proud.
"Why was the Human Gestalt necessary, and why did the collective human consciousness take a fleshly form?" The baron asked the question.
Athanasius breathed deeply. He readied his answer.
"The human gestalt took a fleshly form as a means of manifesting itself in the physical world in order to protect humanity from the dark forces that assails it. As an embodiment of the collective consciousness, the gestalt represents the unity and interconnectedness of all humans, and serves as a symbol of the power and potential that can be achieved through collective action." Athanasius answered.
Lord Kagenou nodded, but expects more answer.
"By taking on a physical form, the gestalt becomes more accessible to human beings, allowing them to more easily understand and connect with this concept of collective consciousness. It provides a tangible representation of the ideals and values that the human gestalt embodies, and serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for those seeking to align themselves with this greater force." Athanasius continued.
Lord Kagenou is nodding in agreement. He turned his head slightly and said, "…And?" He expects a continuation.
"Additionally, by taking on a human form, the gestalt becomes a model for how individuals can live in accordance with the principles of collective consciousness. Through observing the behavior and actions of the gestalt, individuals can learn how to better embody these ideals in their own lives, and work towards achieving a more unified and harmonious society."
"Very nice. Next question." The bald man prepared another question.
"What is the importance of the Solar Lights or the Golden Light?" The lord presented a challenging question.
Athanasius concentrated and prepared his answer.
"The Human Gestalt, as the embodiment of the Divine Tradition, is a beacon of hope in a universe besieged by darkness and chaos. The Golden Light that emanates from him is a symbol of the Solar power that guides and protects humanity, and it is through the power of this Light that we are able to stand against the enemies of our people. It is through this Solar Light, that people can manipulate the empyrean and use it to beat the enemies. One such great example is how the Dark Knights use this Solar Light to imbue their attacks with magic."
Athanasius stopped for a moment and then continued, "The Human Gestalt is not only the physical manifestation of the Divine Tradition, but also the embodiment of the human collective consciousness. It is through the power of the Gestalt that we are able to channel the energies of the unknown realm and bend them to our will. This power is not without its risks, however, and the Gestalt is constantly at war with the forces of darkness and chaos that seek to corrupt and destroy us." Athanasius finally concluded his answer.
"Correct as usual. Now to the next question," the Lord of the household continued, as if it was a routine.
"How were the Solar Lights spread? How is it even possible to be used if the Empyrean was chaotic and unhinged?"
"The Human Gestalt, through his immense power, knowledge, and ability endowed to Him as the embodiment of Divine Tradition, traveled the stars and placed beacons on many worlds that will serve as a generator of Solar Lights which then can be used by the inhabiting humans in those worlds to protect themselves against the dark. These Solar Beacons accommodate the empyrean through sheer psych-arcane power, making it stable for the beings in that planet to use magic." Athanasius answered concisely.
"Such brilliance! Next question," The lord loudly declared.
"How can the Solar Lights be used to their highest potential?" asked the Lord.
"By cultivating and embodying the virtues of the Divine Tradition. Cultivating Discipline, Courage, Strength, Humility, Compassion, Zeal, and Loyalty will make the utilization of the Solar Lights easier." Athanasius answered.
"Correct again! But what is the opposite of the Solar Lights?" He asked with a grim tone.
"The opposite of the Solar Lights is the Ruinous Light. The ruinous light is powered by excesses of emotion. It is utilized through greed, envy, pride, lust, excessive wrath with no purpose, gluttony, and such. The Ruinous Light are produced by the dark entities of the empyrean. The utilization of this light guarantees eventual or immediate corruption."
"Good one. You are now getting to the last few questions." The lord praised the bald child.
Athanasius nodded with gratitude.
"Next question, what is the importance of faith? And why is it necessary to worship the Divine Tradition?"
Athanasius once again worked his Transhuman mind for an answer.
"Faith is the foundation of the relationship between mortals and the Divine Tradition. It is the belief in the higher power that gives meaning and purpose to life. Faith provides a sense of security and comfort in times of struggle and uncertainty. It is a guiding light that helps people navigate the complexities of life and make moral decisions." Athanasius answered.
"Worshiping the Divine Tradition is necessary because it strengthens the bond between mortals and the higher power. Through worship, people show their devotion, gratitude, and respect for the Divine Tradition. It is a way to acknowledge and honor the power that governs the universe and the mortal realm." He continued his explanation
"Furthermore, worshiping the Divine Tradition is a way to maintain balance and order in the universe. It is believed that without the proper respect and worship, chaos and destruction may reign. By showing reverence and performing rituals and ceremonies, people align themselves with the will of the Divine Tradition and contribute to the harmony of the universe." Athanasius concluded his answer.
"Indeed. There are now only few questions left." The lord is impressed by the sheer intellect of the golden child in front of him.
Athanasius smiled, readying himself.
"Who are the enemies of the Divine Tradition?" He asked another one of his questions.
"The enemies of the Gestalt are many and varied, but they all share one common trait: they seek to destroy the Golden Light and plunge humanity into eternal darkness. Some are the twisted creations of the warp, born of chaos and madness, while others are the mortal enemies of our people, seeking to tear us apart from within." Athanasius, showing his brilliance, once again answered.
"Bravo! And now to the final phase of this review," The baron smirked confidently, as if this question won't be answered.
"Recite the articles of our Faith." The lord finally asked his last question.
Athanasius closed his eyes and sighed.
Gene-forged and Empyrean crafted mind of a demigod worked at halfway through full capabilities.
Then, Athanasius started to answer.
"Article I: The Source of Divine Tradition. The Divine Tradition is not the creation of the gods, but the manifestation of the collective will of the human gestalt. It is the embodiment of the ideals, values, and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation, and it is through the Divine Tradition that we find meaning and purpose in our lives." Athanasius started.
"Article II: The Solar Principle. The Solar Principle is the foundation upon which the Divine Tradition is built. It represents the unyielding and unchanging nature of the divine, and it is through the Solar Principle that we are able to connect with the divine and receive its guidance and blessings." And so, he continued.
The Lord of the household was perplexed, 'How can a child like him recite such complexities?'
"Article III: The Golden Lights. The Golden Lights are the symbol of the Divine Tradition. They represent the radiance and purity of the divine, and they serve as a reminder to us all that we are part of something greater than ourselves. The Golden Lights are a beacon that guides us on our path, and it is through their illumination that we are able to find our way."
"Article IV: The All Powerful Man. The All-Powerful Man is the gestalt made flesh. He is the embodiment of the Divine Tradition, and it is through his guidance and leadership that we are able to achieve victory in battle and ascend to the highest levels of glory. The All-Powerful Man is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and warfare, and it is through his will that we are able to achieve our objectives." Athanasius recited the article of the Gestalt.
"Article V: The Militaristic Ethos. The Divine Tradition is inherently militaristic, for it is through warfare that we are able to fulfill our destiny and achieve our objectives. It is through the rigor of military discipline that we are able to cultivate the strength and courage necessary to overcome our enemies and triumph in battle. The warrior is the highest expression of the Divine Tradition, for he embodies the virtues of strength, courage, and honor."
For virtues need to be reinforced with strength. Fire and Steel.
Finally, Athanasius reached the last article. The culmination of all the articles.
The Solar Creed.
"Article VI: The Creed. 'I believe in the Divine Tradition, the embodiment of the ideals, values, and traditions of our forefathers. I believe in the Solar Principle, the unyielding and unchanging nature of the divine. I believe in the Golden Lights, the symbol of the radiance and purity of the divine. I believe in the All-Powerful Man, the gestalt made flesh and the ultimate authority in matters of faith and warfare. I believe in the Militaristic Ethos, the rigorous cultivation of strength, courage, and honor. I pledge my allegiance to the Divine Tradition and to the All-Powerful Man, and I vow to fight with all my strength and valor in defense of our sacred ideals.'"
And so, Athanasius finished his declaration.
The lord of the household was gobsmacked.
'How?' the only word that resounded in his mind.
"Did I do good?" Athanasius asked impishly while scratching his head.
'"Did I do good?" my ass! You did better than any of the acolytes!' The lord thought with astonishment.
"I-Indeed, you did good." The lord finally relented.
Hope blossomed in the heart of Athanasius.
"T-then, can I proclaim the Good Word?" asked Athanasius, with hope in his eyes.
Eyes that held purity and zeal.
"…You are not yet ready." Lord Kagenou spoke with a stoic expression.
"ah….that's disappointing." Indeed, Athanasius was disappointed. In fact, he is pouting.
"But that time will come. Do not rush. You are still young after all hehe." The old baron said to him as he placed his hands on his shoulders.
"But I want you to promise me one thing." The bald father proclaimed with absolute grimness and seriousness.
Athanasius' expression changed. The once jovial and childish pout was now replaced with seriousness and cold stoicism.
"I will fulfill anything you promise." The golden child declared with certainty of steel.
"Promise me…that you wouldn't doubt your path." The old man pleads to him.
For he doubted his path—
His eyes held immense pain and regret.
—And became a coward and less than a man in the process.
"For your sake teacher, I will promise to uphold the Solar Principle and not stray from the path." Athanasius stated with assurance on his voice.
"….Thank you." The old man finally replied.
The two men descended into an indomitable silence, an ethereal hush that hung heavily in the air like a thick mist. The only sound that permeated the stillness was the gentle rustle of pages as one of them rifled through the various books present in the table.
In this moment, they were nothing but humble seekers of truth, lost in the wonder of the written word, and the mysteries it held. The silence spoke volumes, conveying a sense of reverence and respect for the knowledge that surrounded them, and the profound impact it could have on the world beyond.
Both of them, content with the world.
Not minding the budding darkness beneath the starry skies.