The first step for Caesar was to teach his students the Netherian Runes, a relatively primal language of which there were forty-three letters, as well as the necessary amounts of other language seen in the secret archive. While this was done he drilled them in monster lore: starting with the long and mostly secret history of every monster, and then how to track them, how to destroy them, and so on. In this way, the five students gained an understanding of monsters beyond any they had thought possible. Caesar forced them to learn every strength and weakness of the enemy, and then every strength and weakness of themselves, and then every strength and weakness of each other. This went on for several weeks. They went on many hunts. While Hansel, Astrid and Gretel went out often to hone their combat skills, Sam and Victor lived at the library, studying the endless scripts until Caesar instructed them to leave.
One day Caesar summoned the group to the training grounds for an announcement. He stood on the sparring mats with Rodrick and Mr. Silver slightly to the side. “I’ve given you all a decent amount of knowledge for now, I think. It is time for your next trial.”
Everyone shuffled uncomfortably; the idea of having to go through another three months in the desert chasing ghosts was largely unappealing.
Caesar went on. “Just as it was before, your success or failure in this trial will be detrimental to whether or not you continue on the path of enlightenment. Listen carefully: you are all aware that a number of Greater Beasts roam the Southeast Pass; alpha monsters, Deathly Kings, whatever you wish to call them. Each is a monster that several hunters have attempted to slay but failed. They are large, unruly and unspeakably dangerous. Your task is this: you have three months to each slay one Greater Beast. I will assign people to assist you, but each of you must complete your hunt alone.”
“Where are these Greater Beasts?” asked Astrid.
Caesar smiled. “Well, I wouldn’t want to make things too easy for you, so you must find them of your own accord. Once again this will be remarkably dangerous. Anyone who wishes to resign is free to do so now…” No one said a word. “As I thought. You are all stupid, and yet your wisdom overshadows even mine, as does your bravery. Go now. I expect to return here in three months with five monstrous heads at my feet.”
Victor found himself packing for another great adventure, wondering whether or not to go north, or east, or south, or west. The next day he embraced Sam and Hansel. He was not willing to let his emotion show, but the sorrow was paramount, as he had not parted with them for over five years. “Where are you planning on going?” he asked them.
Hansel brushed his hair out of his eyes. “I used to hear tales of a Greater Fiend that lurked in the shadowy woods of Etheryn’s Gulley, so I guess I’ll be heading there.”
Sam thought for a moment. “I don’t really know where I plan on going. Guys, how am I supposed to slay a Greater Beast on my own?”
Victor smiled. “Well, you won’t be alone all the way, as I also have no idea of where I’m going. When you do find a beast just remember that you’re smarter than it, and I’m sure things will work out. Maybe, let’s just not talk about it for now.” His advice was more for himself than for her.
ns 172.70.178.7da2