The Holy Tree of Eden held the position of being the most sacred place in all of Sancta Vedelia. Its origins were shrouded in mystery, dating back to a time long before the memory of mortals. This ancient tree had stood as a testament to the beginning of life in the land, a silent observer of its evolution.

Within the sacred branches of the Holy Tree, the gods themselves had a presence, although they were restrained from direct intervention in the mortal realm. Six deities, drawn to the immense power and potential of the tree, were assigned to keep vigil over it. In order to safeguard their interests and maintain a connection with the realm, they gave birth to their own "descendants," creating a new generation that would inherit their divine lineage.

These demigods, born of divine heritage, formed the foundation of Sancta Vedelia. The blessings of the Holy Tree flowed through their veins, shaping their physiology and granting them extraordinary abilities. Over time, these demigods evolved into four distinct races: the High Humans, the Vampires, the Werewolves, and the Elves. Each race was marked by unique characteristics that set them apart.

High Humans were known for their rapid adaptability and innovative thinking. They were the third most powerful among the races, excelling in their quick understanding of new concepts and their utilization of advanced technology fueled by the Holy Tree's properties.

Vampires were gifted with longevity and regeneration, thriving by consuming blood to sustain their life force. Second in terms of power, their ability to heal swiftly and prolonged lifespans were qualities that set them apart.

Elves, descendants of the goddess of beauty, inherited her blessing and evolved into a race of unmatched allure. Despite being the most fragile of the four races, their ethereal beauty was complemented by an innate affinity for mana manipulation. Their connection to nature's mana was unparalleled, making them masters of this mystical energy.

Werewolves, hailing from the lineage of Fenrir, the embodiment of strength, were the strongest race. Their connection to their progenitor granted them incredible power, and their prowess in manipulating Prana, a potent energy, was unmatched.

Unfortunately, the four races rarely coexisted harmoniously. Their differences and inherent pride often led to conflicts over territory and the coveted Holy Tree. Eons of rivalry were marked by battles for dominance, as each race aimed to claim the tree's power for themselves.

However, the era of strife was about to reach its conclusion. The time had come for a pivotal event that would alter the course of history and bring the four races together in ways they could never have foreseen.

The Blood Moon War, 500 years ago..

Following a series of devastating wars, the leaders of each race came to a realization: rather than engaging in endless conflict, they could join forces to ensure the prosperity and survival of their homeland. This realization gave birth to Eden's Hand.

Eden's Hand was a colossal cylindrical structure that rose majestically from the earth, reaching towards the heavens just behind the Holy Tree of Eden. Located outside the territories of Humans, Elves, Werewolves, or Vampires, this impressive building was independent, serving as the headquarters for the most influential institution in Sancta Vedelia.

On this particular day, atop the cylindrical structure, a palm-shaped rooftop adorned a secure chamber. Within its walls, the Heads of the Great Houses frequently convened to discuss matters of their lands, the future, and any other issues that demanded their attention.

At the heart of this chamber was a round table surrounded by nine seats, each akin to a throne. No chair was more imposing than the other; there was no hierarchy within this circle. This equitable arrangement had persisted for five centuries.

Of the nine seats, only one remained vacant. The remaining chairs were occupied by the esteemed nobles of Sancta Vedelia.

"Where's Duncan?" A man with reddish-brown hair and a beard questioned, his face resting tiredly against his palm. He was Reiner Dolphis, the head of the illustrious Dolphis House.

In response to Reiner's inquiry, the attention of the seven others shifted towards the conspicuously unoccupied seat, before eventually settling on a figure. It was Claudia Tepes, the current Prophetess of the Holy Tree, seated gracefully.

lightsΝοvel As the weight of everyone's gaze settled upon her, Claudia let out a resigned sigh. "Duncan entrusted me to oversee his affairs. Therefore, I'll be speaking on behalf of the Tepes House."

A chuckle punctuated the room as a striking elf woman with green hair and brown eyes spoke up, teasing Claudia, "Can't even manage your own husband, Prophetess?"

The chuckle was infectious, and even Reiner Dolphis and another woman, radiating undeniable beauty, Lydia Alea Olphean, joined in stifled laughter. This jest came from Edea Elaryon, the Homeroom teacher of the First Year Gold Class.

Caught in the light-hearted atmosphere, Harvey Indi Zestella and James Raven exchanged exasperated glances, both inwardly sighing.

Claudia's expression revealed her displeasure, for even amidst this gathering of esteemed House Heads, there were those who acted like children. "My husband may be advanced in years, as you've pointed out, but he's a Demigod. His time is not always his own," she responded courteously yet emphasized the demigod part. "And Edea, it's not your place to lecture. Explain to us, how is it that you stand here instead of Queen Namys?"lightsnovel

"Isn't that obvious?" Edea scoffed, her tone oozing with self-assurance. "My dear sister-in-law is embroiled in affairs concerning Eryon Plaidor."

Eryon Plaidor, a dominion as vast as a kingdom, belonged to the Great Elaryon House. Despite being referred to as an island, Sancta Vedelia was sprawling enough to rival a continent, housing several territories akin to individual kingdoms. Namys Elaryon presided as the Queen of Eryon Plaidor, also carrying the mantle of the Head of the Elaryon House, and was Cylien Najel Elaryon's mother.

Eyes turned to Edea as she spoke, thoughts churning.

"You didn't answer her question, Edea," came a slightly irritated voice from another beautiful elf. This one had flowing blond hair that cascaded like liquid gold, and her eyes bore an enchanting shade of yellow-green. "Shouldn't it have been Rolaem who should have come in her stead as always?"

The query resonated with the collective musings of the gathering. Rolaem, Namys' older sibling, was often the one to attend when the Queen and Head of the Elaryon House couldn't. After all, past instances had seen him in this role.

"Come on, Tanya," Lydia interjected, addressing the woman with the captivating yellow-green gaze — Tanya Teraquin, Queen and Head of the Teraquin House. "We all know that Rolaem loses all backbone when it comes to his charming wife." A wry smile curved Lydia's lips as she cast a knowing look toward Edea.

Reiner Dolphis' restraint crumbled in response to this remark, his laughter filling the air.

The color deepened in Edea Elaryon's cheeks as she pounded the table. "I will end you, Alea!"

"Shall we focus on our purpose rather than indulge in futile banter?" The words sliced through the air, voiced by the youngest figure present. His bright yellow eyes bore an air of indifference.

This was Jepher Moonfang.

Despite his relatively young age — in his mid-twenties — Jepher helmed the Moonfang House, also bearing the title of Monarch within the Edenis Raphiel Monarch Alliance. He was joined by Namys Elaryon and Duncan Tepes as the three representative Monarchs from Sancta Vedelia on the global stage.

Jepher Moonfang wasn't just known for his political roles, however. He was also Rodolf Moonfang's elder brother, the Second Year student who also happened to be Roda Cinda Moonfang's uncle. Contrasting his younger sibling's untamed appearance, Jepher exuded an air of refinement with his sleek black hair slicked back.historical

"You should consider staying quiet when your elders are talking, brat," Reiner quipped, his laughter echoing through the room.

"Jepher is old enough to engage in conversation with anyone here, Reiner.." Harvey countered, a tinge of displeasure in his voice. "And his point is valid."

"Can we begin, please? I have my duties as a teacher," James interjected, his impatience apparent.

"Same goes for me," Lydia added, raising her hand. "Let's get on with it; I'm eager to see my adorable children — I mean, my beloved daughter."

"It was you who started laughing, Lydia!" Edea retorted, a touch of exasperation in her tone.

"Remarkably, the youngest one seems to exhibit the most maturity in this assembly," Claudia sighed, her gaze shifting to the unfolding scene. She tapped her finger on the table's surface, which promptly parted to unveil a transparent screen. Once tapped, the screen emitted a radiant glow, casting a projection above the table.

The projection materialized into the image of a striking woman, adorned with vibrant red hair and eyes the color of fresh leaves.

"To begin, let's address Stana Teraquin."