Chapter 7: Tour of Apollo’s First Circle

As Virgo followed behind his new teacher, the thing about her that impressed him the most was her physique. It was not as simple as 'incredible muscle mass'. He could feel the divinity wrapped around her very muscle fibers; hell, even her breath had slight concentrations of it. Granted he still felt that his 'Big Sis' Athena was stronger, but still, this older lady was incredibly strong.

Her body was a testament to the years of training and divine power that coursed through her veins. Standing tall and imposing, she exuded an aura of strength and authority that could not be ignored. Her skin, scarred and bronzed, had the marks of countless battles and intense exposure to the heat of Apollo's Inferno. It was as if she had been forged in the flames themselves, her complexion reminiscent of volcanic rock.

Despite the inherent power she possessed, Instructor Charon carried herself with a calm and composed demeanor. Like a sheathed blade that longed for battle, yet remained poised and controlled, waiting for the perfect moment to unleash her full potential. Her calmness was a testament to her discipline and mastery over the flames that burned within her. Though the forceful taming of her wild flame was a somewhat sad sight to see. A raging fire forcefully subdued by the times of peace.

Instructor Charon was a living testament to the power and discipline of the Flame Dancers. Through their rigorous training and mastery over the divine flames, they had become formidable warriors, their bodies sculpted into vessels of raw power. In the presence of this formidable teacher, Virgo couldn't help but feel a mixture of admiration and anticipation for the lessons that lay ahead, knowing that under her guidance, he would grow much stronger.

…

During the tour, the base was shown to be divided into 4 levels, much like the ranks of the faction itself. The entry level, or as it's better known 'the fourth ring of Apollo's Inferno', is a flame that burns your physical body. Your sense of taste, touch, sight and even hearing are attacked by a viscous heat. One must not only be able to survive here, but also use the temperature to cultivate their connection to their divinity.

The young Prince's interest was piqued, "How does one cultivate their divinity by being in a overpowered sauna?"

This brought an amused expression on his teacher's face, "The power to cultivate in divinity comes from our rune tattoos. The tattoos are drawn with a special ink that allows us indirect connection, by means of the blood of Matriarch Helios, to the sun. The divinity is used to strengthen the bones, muscles, and organs of the body."

It is within this unforgiving ring that the Flame Dancers of Helios cultivate their connection to divinity; using the very flames that threaten to consume them as a source of power and enlightenment. This is how soldier-level Flame Dancers are born.

As Instructor Charon escorted him to the students' dorm, she explained, "From now on, until the time you are able to walk through the First Ring, you will be with the class of young trainees. In two years, you will be participating in the 'Dance of Ragnarök'; the ceremony in which you will officially become a true Flame Dancer. That is, if you are worthy, of course."

Completing the tour, Instructor Charon left the young Virgo with other students his age as he prepared for his first night away from home. Everyone was friendly and extremely welcoming, so he had no problems at all with fitting in, despite his original nervousness. Virgo eventually crossed paths with Roman and Remus, a pair of siblings who have also recently joined the Class of trainees.

Roman, with his graceful demeanor and attire that accentuates his natural beauty, stood with a narcissistic posture about himself. His shirt was made from a fine silk, sporting an intricate lace around his collar and cuffs. The pearls on his neck shone brightly against his skin, as it narrowly reflected the same color. His personality seems reserved, almost colder to those around him. A distinct opposite to his sister, Remus. Who on the other hand, wore a much simpler set of clothing. Donning a simple white shirt with black pants, she stands straight and tall. Much different to the relaxed and curved pose of her brother. Her body seems to be somewhat bulkier than his as well, though even Virgo can tell that both siblings are quite strong from the shape of their muscles.

For whatever reason, the three of them happen to get along almost immediately. Such connections are only possible from the naivete that is fostered by an innocent perspective of a child. Keeping nothing from each other, they slowly foster their friendship as they share their hopes, fears, and dreams. Eventually, the trio pass out as their excitement dies down. It was already quite late at night and the journey to reach the base was long for each of them. Although emotions were high, this is only the beginning of their stay at Apollo's Inferno. Each of them has no idea what the next day will have in store for them.

Afterall, Instructor Charon had only mentioned for them to head to the training compound first thing in the morning. It would seem that their first class will soon be taught. Together, they will face the trials ahead, united by their determination to push through the pain and emerge as formidable Flame Dancers, ready to dance amidst the flames and conquer the challenge that awaited them.