This event is also recorded in the annals of Dalaran.

The Eredar possess an extraordinary talent: their energy adaptability is remarkably strong. While not as absurdly versatile as the elves of Azeroth—who can evolve into different “lineages” based on the type of energy they absorb—considering that the elves have yet to come into existence at this point in time, the Eredar can modestly claim to be “top-tier in the galaxy” when it comes to energy affinity.

Although the primary spellcasters in Eredar civilization are arcane mages like the Enlightened Sathiel and Archimonde, this race, having received the blessing and symbiosis of the Celestial beings known as the Naaru—holy light entities descending from the heavens—thousands of years ago due to the sacred Atamah Crystal, also boasts a considerable number of priests among its spellcasters.

This innate affinity for energy allows them to embrace the Holy Light swiftly and effectively. Moreover, the Holy Light is not as demanding of talent as arcane magic; otherwise, someone like Dyck, whose energy affinity isn’t particularly high, wouldn’t have had the chance to become a guardian of the Holy Light.

Thus, when Dyck proposed the idea, Emira—who had long been at the bottom of the ranks at the Arcane Academy—didn’t hesitate to accept. Dyck witnessed firsthand the rapid process by which Emira was baptized and became a Holy Light priest.

There was no need to seek an official priest to officiate the ceremony because Dyck himself was a high-ranking guardian and a follower of the Holy Light doctrine. This made him equivalent to a senior priest and fully qualified to conduct the baptism.

Of course, guardians typically don’t perform this duty.

The reasoning was simple: if someone truly had a talent for theological debate, wouldn’t it be better to become a priest with higher social status? Guardians were those with some affinity for energy but not enough to excel in theological discourse. They were often better at “physical persuasion” than at debating with others.

Although Dyck’s original professional skills were sealed because he had “not chosen the Holy Light path,” this posed no major problem.

In the small courtyard, with a guardian’s sacred text in hand, Dyck solemnly followed the baptismal process he remembered. After asking a few questions, he accepted Emira into the fold of the Faith Walkers in the name of the Holy Light.

As his fingers, holding a rosary, dipped into water and touched Emira’s forehead, a gentle and mysterious “Holy Light Seal” formed above her empty brow amidst the gathering points of light.

It was the same form as the “Arcane Seal” on Archimonde’s forehead: small, adorable, radiating a soft glow like a suspended lantern. It signified that this Eredar maiden had embarked on a new path of spellcasting.

Blessed with the race-specific gift bestowed by the Naaru, radiant energy quickly flowed through her body, replacing the arcane magic and granting Emira the power of “healing.”

“How do you feel?”

Dyck closed the rather hefty guardian’s sacred text, took a step back, coughed a few times, and asked through the still-active “mental vision”:

“Did you hear the Holy Light’s guidance?”

“It’s vague, but I did, Lord Diakum.”

Emira felt uneasy, rubbing her small horns shyly. She said, “I don’t feel this when casting arcane spells, though I’ve discussed this with the priests at the academy. They said it’s normal. As my understanding of the Holy Light doctrine deepens, my ‘Holy Light Echo’ will become clearer. When I can clearly hear the Light’s instructions, that will be the moment I become a high-ranking priest.”

“Good. This proves your talent for spellcasting isn’t as bad as you think.”

Dyck comforted her, “Be confident, child. Being admitted to the Arcane Academy already proves your strength. Now, describe in detail how you first encountered the Holy Light.”

“Huh?”

Emira looked at the high-ranking guardian before her in confusion and whispered, “You’ve been with the Holy Light for so many years; don’t you understand this feeling? Oh, I’m being dull. You must want to examine the details of my contact with the Light to tailor a training method for me, right?”

“Yes, that’s a good idea. Please continue.”

Dyck nodded.

He certainly wouldn’t tell this “clever yet naive” Emira that he needed to deduce from her reactions how to reselect the “Holy Light doctrine” to reactivate his currently sealed professional skills.

This was very important.

Arguably, it was the most important matter at present.

The Holy Light Seal that should have adorned his forehead was now dim and showing signs of fracturing. He could still use the excuse of being severely injured and temporarily unable to sense the Holy Light, but once his body healed and he still couldn’t use Holy Light techniques, suspicions would surely arise.

He was a high-ranking guardian—the backbone of the Eredar’s military system. If he couldn’t even sense the Holy Light, not to mention Archimonde, even the famously merciful Velen would likely suspect something “dirty” about him.

If the legendary Assassin’s Court or the Tribunal investigated him, he would be completely exposed.

Especially at this sensitive moment, with the Enlightened preparing a coup and him acting as a spy, being suspected of demonic collusion would be disastrous.

At Dyck’s request, Emira described her feelings upon contacting the Holy Light in great detail and revealed that her chosen doctrine was “Salvation and Healing,” the most common among Eredar priests and said to be the closest interpretation to the essence of the Holy Light.

“Just by stating your choice, you can receive a response from the Holy Light?”

Dyck nodded approvingly but was inwardly pondering.

Hearing Emira describe it so simply made him want to try it alone sometime—to strike a cool pose, hold the guardian’s sacred text, call upon the Holy Light, and shout a dramatic declaration like ‘I will save Argus’s destiny.’ Would the Light answer?

Of course, such things had to be done discreetly—high-ranking guardians cared about their dignity.

After completing Emira’s baptism, he began instructing the “Five Young Warriors” in combat skills as their senior.

They were all rookies, talented but with no real combat experience. Though Dyck had only been here two days and hardly had practical experience himself, the memories embedded in this body were invaluable.

Though a typical example of nepotism, Diakum Zastins had fought dangerous beasts and otherworldly creatures roaming the petrified forests of Krokuun when he was a guardian. His combat experience was substantial.

Before meeting Archimonde, his status as a high-ranking guardian was earned through sheer skill and battle.

He couldn’t engage in real combat now without risking exposure, but guiding rookies was entirely within his capacity.

“Don’t fear injury! Warriors’ skills improve only through real combat. Emira, as a priest, can heal your wounds with the Holy Light, which will also enhance her healing abilities.”

Leaning on a spear as a cane, Dyck addressed the Five Young Warriors sternly.

“Though Maldran has not disclosed your mission details, you joined this operation the moment you arrived here! You may face fierce demon combat. For your safety, I must raise your combat skills as much as possible during this time.

If I weren’t unable to fight at the moment, I’d personally train you.

Now, pair up and start sparring!”

“Emira, stay ready to heal your comrades at all times. Apart from personal drills, you must train for team cooperation—this is vital in guardian training.

Next, I will assign your roles within the team. Listen carefully.”

Dyck assumed the posture of a strict instructor and addressed Sorvos, a rookie with sword and shield.

“Sorvos, as a defender and protector, you must always lead the charge in team combat, shielding your allies and creating openings for their attacks.

Farya, wielding a spear, partner with Sorvos as the team’s vanguard. Use your long weapon to attack enemies and clear the path for Sorvos’s charge.

Tramon, with your greatsword, serve as the main damage dealer! Utilize the safety created by Sorvos and Farya to slay enemies and cover Barath behind you. His heavy crossbow is the most destructive ranged weapon in your squad and the best tool for containing and harassing caster-type foes.

Finally, Emira, you do not fight directly but play the most critical role in the team.

You are the life support for the other four. Only with your continuous healing can this team function like a well-oiled machine, fighting on.

If you falter, the entire squad’s destruction under encirclement is only a matter of time. Therefore, the others must do their utmost to ensure Emira’s safety while fulfilling their duties.

Of course, when combat intensity is low, you may use the Holy Light to strike enemies. Especially against casters, many of a priest’s counter-spell skills come into play.”

Dyck spoke with authority, but breaking it down, wasn’t this just the classic “five-player dungeon party” strategy?

Still, the combat experience summarized by countless players through numerous battles was invaluable teaching—an optimal solution forged through death and trial. Besides, the guardian’s sacred text contained similar tactical arrangements, though not as clearly explained as Dyck’s.

Moreover, this classic trio of holy knights, ranged hunter, and holy priest was evidently a powerful combination. Unless faced with overwhelming enemies, these five would surely be capable of standing their ground.

Under Dyck’s watchful eye, the Five Young Warriors began their exercises promptly.

The Arcane Academy had specialized “training devices” for practical combat. These “solid holograms” charged with Arkenite crystals could simulate enemy types, providing a realistic strike experience. This was not mere technology but a fusion of arcane magic and engineering.

This fusion was a hallmark of Eredar civilization.

They were a magical civilization but also placed great emphasis on engineering.

The arcane guardian automatons patrolling the academy were prime examples—over five meters tall steel giants powered by Arkenite crystals. Once activated, their massive shield-like arms could strike down any intruders. Some specialized models could cast simple spells through inscribed arcane runes.

It was said that Velen, the current high lord, was not only exceptionally skilled in arcane magic—on par with the Enlightened Sathiel—but also proficient in repairing arcane automatons during his youth.

However, Eredar civilization had not yet reached the stage of exploring the stars.

Their greatest technological achievements so far were steel warships for the navy and atmospheric flight devices. The chief engineer, Master Ishka, led efforts to design spacecraft capable of entering starry seas, but progress remained limited.

Returning to the present, Dyck’s training was rigorous. Using the combat teaching instruments, he set a “unique dungeon” for the Five Young Warriors.

They had to face eighteen consecutive waves of demons of varying forms, including three demon bosses. Though no outrageously difficult “trash mob” skills were set, the challenge was still intense.

They were talented but rookies, essentially a level 20 party tackling a level 40 dungeon.

Honestly, it was a bit unfair.

On the first day, by nightfall, their best effort was surviving until the seventh wave of demons.

Yet, as highly valued rookies by Guardian Maldran, they reflected on lessons during their evening rest and performed much better on the second day.

Dyck, having tried seventeen different poses and shouted many dramatic declarations to the Holy Light without response, felt a twinge of disappointment. But seeing the Five Young Warriors pass the second boss trial with effort lifted his spirits.

“Even if I never receive a response from the Holy Light and can’t become a great battlefield lord, I can at least indulge in the thrill of commanding from the rear.”

Dyck consoled himself.

This was no mere fantasy. Drawing on his memories and understanding of renowned NPCs from history, he was confident that, given enough time, he could train a “heroic legion” for Argus.

This race’s millennia-long tragic history and resistance had produced many outstanding figures. Given the Eredar’s immortality, those future heroes were likely somewhere in the world of Argus right now, still learning the ropes.

“Keep pushing!”

Dyck encouraged the exhausted Five Young Warriors through the mental vision link.

“Adapt to the endurance required for prolonged combat, children.

The ancient Jedni training has given us great stamina, the merciful Naaru bless us with the Holy Light, and millennia of arcane evolution provide our tradition of energy manipulation.

Use your innate strength to ease Emira’s burden. These holographic projections are far weaker than real demons. If you can’t pass this training, how will you fulfill your duties when truly facing the demonic threat?”

“But there are no demons on Argus...”

Emira whispered bluntly.

“We haven’t even seen these evil and violent beings conjured by your training devices. Have you seen them?”

“I can only tell you—they exist! And at this very moment, they covet our world from the dark starry sea.”

Dyck’s reply silenced the warriors. As the next round began, he stood beside them, giving verbal guidance to the three guardian rookies on combat tactics.

Like a strict but competent instructor.

They were so focused that Dyck didn’t notice two uniquely shaped, gracefully moving flying rays landing outside the courtyard.

These magical flying rays were the Draenei’s third traditional mount after the light-clad Tabu sheep and heavily armored Thunder Elephants—one of the unique transports of the world of Argus.

As the weary Guardian Maldran and a disguised Eredar scholar entered the courtyard, they happened upon the Five Young Warriors fighting a simulated Doom Lord demon under Dyck’s guidance. Maldran wanted to alert Dyck but was stopped by the disguised figure beside him.

This individual watched with interest the novice but already coordinated teamwork, as well as the appearance of the raging simulated beast.

Finally, his gaze settled on Dyck, who leaned on his spear, issuing commands.

Silently, he connected his and Maldran’s minds to the maintained mental vision and heard Dyck’s scolding and coaching:

“The Ereduin Doomguard’s most threatening attack is their fel curse—Emira, be vigilant and dispel those insidious forces that cause your bodies to explode.

These demons fly and bombard the battlefield with fel barrages and apocalyptic fire. When they take flight, always dodge. You haven’t learned the advanced Holy Shield yet, so keep your movements agile.

Constantly seek cover!

If all else fails, let Vossos raise his shield.

In combat with them, speed is crucial. If the Doom Lord summons too many demon minions and you’re overwhelmed, retreat promptly.

Of course, if Emira’s and Barath’s delayed spell counters interrupt the demons’ casting perfectly, your pressure will be much less...”

As Dyck spoke, the simulated image was shattered by Tramon and Faryna’s assault.

When the arcane projection dissolved into motes of light, the exhausted Five Young Warriors cheered—it was their first success in this “dungeon” after two days of training.

However, Dyck was unsatisfied. Leaning on his spear, he scolded through the mental vision:

“If this were real combat, by the time Tramon landed that decisive blow, your squad would have lost at least three members! Sacrificing teammates for victory is a low-level tactic that should not be encouraged.

Still too weak—more training is needed!”

“Captain Diakum, you’re too harsh on them.”

The voice of Guardian Maldran came from behind. The older guardian looked at the five rookies with pride.

“They’ve done quite well. The opponents you designed are exaggerated. Even a squad of high-ranking guardians would struggle. This is far beyond what rookies should face.”

“But they can’t remain rookies forever, and demons won’t wait for us to train seasoned warriors before entering this world.”

Dyck turned to Maldran.

“We don’t have much time to prepare. And who is this?”

He noticed the mysterious figure beside the elder guardian, who boldly removed his scholar’s hood, revealing a stern, scarred face.

This one-horned Eredar introduced himself:

“My name is Targas, leader of the Assassin’s Court and the most trusted intelligence officer of Commander Kil’jaeden and High Lord Velen.”

“Hunter?”

Dyck was astonished. Targas seemed pleased that Dyck knew his “alias” in the “Dark Zone.” Maldran also spoke up:

“Not only Lord Targas but I, Captain Diakum, have returned as an envoy of General Elodus, Commander of the Capital District’s Defense. Commander Kil’jaeden and General Elodus value the information you provided and urgently seek more details and your recommendations for action.”

“My views and suggestions are simple.”

Dyck replied through the mental vision:

“If we can create the right scenario to bring Archimonde and Sathiel down together, we would eliminate two threats at once.”

“What a bold plan!”

Targas narrowed his eyes.

“Do you have a concrete plan? Setting aside Sathiel and the dangerous coup by the Awakeners’ cult, can you provide sufficient evidence that the highly respected Principal Archimonde has taken any actions harmful to Eredar civilization?

Mr. Diakum, I expect a serious answer, or the consequences of falsely accusing a high-ranking spellcaster leader will be severe.”

“Evidence?”

Dyck laughed, patting his still bandaged chest.

“I am the evidence!

And the action you want to see will be performed by me personally. I will shoulder the most dangerous and difficult part. As a discarded pawn, I will ignite their internal strife and cut out two dangerous elements for our civilization and people.

I firmly believe this is my duty!

And I am certain this is the Holy Light’s first test for me!”

Their combined words and mental exchanges stunned the Five Young Warriors standing nearby.

They had never imagined the mission they bore was so explosive, involving not only the Enlightened Sathiel, known to nearly all Eredar society, but also the highly esteemed Principal Archimonde.

Emira was particularly shaken.

Although she had harbored some dark thoughts during repeated failures and retentions, directly participating in the assassination of the academy’s principal was… thrilling beyond words.

P.S.:

Thanks to Brother Gervis for the guild leader’s reward. The extra chapters count toward the explosive updates since publication; just from rewards alone, there are 20 chapters now. I’m not sure if I can finish so many manuscripts during the New Year period, but I’ll give it my all!