Echo Lord (Original) (CH 1)

A/N: This story is rated M for mature content not suitable for children. Greetings to all my Patreon supporters! I'm excited to share my lat

A/N: This story is rated M for mature content not suitable for children.

Greetings to all my Patreon supporters! I'm excited to share my latest original story with you. I hope you enjoy it, and there's a possibility I may expand it into a full story down the line.

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Chapter 1: World Of Echo

World Of Echo

A century ago, the world faced a grave threat from a formidable ancient entity known as the Void. Its destructive force caused widespread devastation, resulting in countless deaths. In response to this chaos, the seven warriors, empowered by their own sense of righteousness, united to confront the Void in a monumental battle that altered the very fabric of the world. Ultimately, they succeeded in imprisoning the entity, bringing an end to its rampage.

The world rejoiced at the triumph of the heroes, and the seven warriors earned the title of Echo Lords—an honor and duty that would be handed down through the ages. Although the void was contained, it continued to struggle against its confinement. To ensure it remained sealed, the seven Echo Lords performed a ritual to reinforce the barrier.

The world of Echo was divided into seven unique and treacherous territories: wind, fire, water, ice, shadow, lightning, and earth. Each Echo Lord was assigned a specific region to oversee, and in time, others flocked to them to gain knowledge. From these followers, a new Echo Lord would be selected to help keep the Void at bay.

Unfortunately, the presence of the Void continues to affect the world, and its followers, wielding their dark abilities, aim to disrupt the balance and free their master.

Present Time

Enter The Echo Lords: Intro Beginning

Land Of Shadows

The seven Echo Lords assembled at the location where the Void was sealed within the land of Shadows. Their stronghold was constructed atop the seal, allowing them to keep a vigilant eye on the greatest danger to the world.

The Land of Shadows was a desolate wasteland, as the void's effects lead to the demise of all living things, whether they are plants or animals. Only those possessing Aether and Echo are able to endure in this harsh environment.

Among all the villages, the Shadow village boasted the highest number of warriors. However, they relied on the other villages for their food supply.

The seven Echo Lords were gazing at one another during their decennial meeting, where they would discuss any updates regarding the followers of the Void and strengthen the seal on that entity.

They gathered at a circular table, with their symbols displayed in front of their seats. Each Echo-Lord was accompanied by two bodyguards, who remained silent and vigilant behind their respective Lords, ready to respond to any potential threat.

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Wind

A man clad in all black, with his face hidden except for his dull grey eyes, resembled a ninja or someone making a strong effort to appear as one. His presence created an unsettling atmosphere, making those nearby feel as if an unseen knife was pressed against their throats.

He is the echo Lord of the Land of Wind, glancing at his fellow Lords with a sigh. It was clear that he despised being present, yet out of a sense of obligation, he attended regardless.

The ninja-like man pondered how his master would react upon witnessing the transformation of the Echo Lords. He understood that his master would be disheartened by the drastic decline of the organization since its founding by the first lords. "Now it resembles a mere shadow of its former self," he mused.

As he surveyed the other Lords, all he could see were individuals driven by weakness, greed, ambition, and selfishness—people unworthy of the title of Echo Lord. They may have been the best their era had to offer, but in some instances, they had eliminated their rivals through dishonest tactics to claim the title. Now, they gathered around the table, holding a position they had not earned.

"This situation cannot continue," he reflected darkly. The upcoming generation of Echo Lords must not resemble the current ones, or the world would face disaster. "The new generation should embody not just strength, but also the spirit of true heroism—individuals who can ascend to become Echo Lords and be chosen by the people."

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Fire

The Echo Lord of fire resembled his fiery homeland, which was encircled by erupting volcanoes. Rather than ordinary hair, his locks were blazing flames, and his eyes glowed crimson, radiating the strength of his burning spirit.

The man sported a Hawaiian shirt paired with shorts that highlighted his toned physique, giving him a playboy appearance—except for his bright red hair.

"Can we wrap this up? This place is incredibly gloomy," the Echo Lord of the Land of Fire said with a broad grin.

The other Echo Lords glanced at the man with irritation; they were eager to wrap things up. However, they needed to address the news regarding the follower of the Void and reinforce the seal before they could depart.

The Echo Lord of the Land of Shadows shot the man a venomous glare, filled with disdain for his homeland. It was a wretched place, after all, being the location where the Void was contained. While the other Lords could escape to their idyllic residences, he and his people were left to contend with the lingering influence of the Void, which continued to corrupt and distort everything in the Land of Shadows, even in its sealed state.

"I can't fathom why you would choose to remain in this rundown place," remarked the Echo Lord of the Land of Fire while glancing at the Echo Lord of the Land of Shadows. "But I suppose it fits you well."

The Lord of the Land of Shadows clenched his jaw, and the other Echo Lords could clearly see his struggle to suppress the impulse to strike at his counterpart.

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Lightning

The subsequent Echo Lord was a man with striking blue eyes that radiated an electric glow. He wore monk-like attire and a flat straw hat, his expression serious. A powerful aura surrounded him.

"Even though I don't support the manner in which it was expressed, I have a lot on my plate, so the sooner we kick this off, the better. I'll begin with my report," declared The Echo Lord of the Land of Lightning. "I've noticed a rise in the number of Void followers over the past few years."

This captured everyone's interest, as their faces displayed a range of emotions—from enthusiasm for confronting their foes to deep thoughts on the potential consequences of the situation.

The Lord of the Land of Lightning remarked with a serious look, "I've observed that the corruption of the void is expanding at an alarming pace. The individuals affected by it possess a strength beyond what they should have."

Individuals who allow the overwhelming influence of the void to take control of their power will experience changes in their Aether and Echo. For instance, if someone possesses a rose fire Echo, it would amplify their abilities, transforming it into a dark and destructive force. Additionally, their Aether would undergo mutations, leading to changes in their physical appearance, such as their eyes turning black.

"Additionally, it seems that the followers of the Void have become increasingly structured, almost as if they are being led by someone," the monk-like figure remarked, reflecting on his past confrontations with the Void's minions. He recalled battling a trio who displayed impressive skills and teamwork. However, he was an Echo Lord for a reason and managed to eliminate two of them, capturing one to keep in his village to get some information from her, but she had proven to be stubborn.

“Have you observed anything unusual regarding the seal?” The Lord of the Land of Lightning inquired of The Echo-Lord of Shadows, his eyes filled with suspicion. Among all the Lords, the Shadow Lord was expected to be most affected by the emergence of the Void followers due to their proximity to the Void. However, from what he had witnessed, aside from the typical grim and dark ambiance of the Land of Shadows, there appeared to be no indication that the Void had launched an attack against them.

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Shadows

"I find your tone offensive, Lighting Lord," remarked the Echo Lord of the Land of Shadows, his expression one of displeasure. He was a tall figure with dark hair, and the shadows surrounding him appeared to shift independently. Dressed in a black suit and tie, his pale complexion gave him a vampiric appearance. "If you are going to accuse me of something, just come out and say it."

The Lord of Shadows glanced around and noticed the other Echo Lords watching him with suspicion. This was a familiar situation for him, as his village was situated near the Void and its corrupting effects. As the Echo Lord of the Land of Shadow, he was often regarded as a volatile creature, capable of unpredictable outbursts at any moment.

"You’re all a pack of hypocrites! You know damn well that the Void's influence stretches everywhere! Just look at you, you self-righteous Echo Lords shaking your heads like you’re above it all! Sure, we haven't been attacked head-on, but me and my apostles have run into those pathetic followers of the Void more times than I can count! And guess what? They weren’t from my village—they were from YOURS! So if anything, my town has shown some actual resistance to that Void corruption while you lot sit there in your ignorance!"

The man with a vampiric appearance shouted in frustration, expressing his weariness of being treated as an outcast. Despite him and his followers being the primary protectors against the possibility of the void breaking loose, he is constantly regarded with distrust.

A few of the other Echo Lords appeared to feel remorse, while others regarded the man with increased skepticism; they were convinced that it was impossible for anyone to withstand the void's corruption.

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Ice

"Everyone, let's take a moment to relax; we are all allies in this situation," the Echo Lord of The Land of Ice remarked, eliciting a scoff from many of the other Lords. She sighed, recognizing that they were not truly friends but rather the most powerful figures in their village, the only ones capable of keeping the Void contained. "Let's just focus on the task at hand and then part ways."

The female Echo Lord is an attractive woman with flowing black hair and striking blue eyes. Her skin is quite pale, likely a result of the chilly climate of her homeland. She is dressed in a kimono that features white and blue colors.

"Can we please stop blaming one another and focus on addressing the followers of the Void?" the woman said, her shoulders drooping. The Echo Lords surrounding her either shot angry looks at one another or chose to ignore each other altogether. "I was also targeted by some of the Void's followers, and they came from my own village."

This raised the interest of several Echo Lords, as it is not uncommon for individuals to strike from their own village when tainted by the void. However, it was alarming because the Ice region is typically the antithesis of the Shadow region, being the farthest from the void. Additionally, there are priests and priestesses present who are meant to cleanse the land of some void influences, yet it is evident that their efforts have not been sufficient.

"I believe the void is becoming more powerful and has discovered a method to amplify its control," the lovely woman remarked with a grave expression. "It is crucial that we reinforce the seal immediately, and we should consider assigning some villagers to watch over it to prevent any tampering."

Echo Lord Of The Land Of Water and Earth

The Echo Lord of the Land of Water is a woman with flowing pink hair and striking green eyes. She wears a fitted top and a short skirt, while the Echo Lord of Ice embodies a classic beauty, resembling a seductress found in a red-light district.

During the entire meeting, she stayed silent, merely smiling at everything being said. Some might perceive her as ditzy, but it's clear that one doesn't achieve the rank of Echo Lord solely through strength; there must be a degree of intelligence involved. However, she opted to remain uninvolved, observing the chaos with a glint of sadism in her gaze.

The Echo Lord of Earth was a towering figure with dark skin, dressed only in torn white pants and sandals. He observed the proceedings with a sense of indifference. As the oldest and wisest of the current Echo Lords, he commanded respect.

"Why does this continue to occur?" the Earth Echo Lord pondered. He was part of the earlier generation of Echo Lords, who also held a deep mistrust for the Echo Lord of the Land of Shadows, despite his dedication and integrity. "Some things remain constant."

Unbeknownst to Earth Echo Lord, a transformation was imminent, and the age-old struggle against their most formidable enemy was set to commence anew.

Enter The Shadow Lord: Intro End

BOOM BAM BOOM

Powerful blasts shook the Land of Shadows, causing the echo lords and their guards to spring into action. They hurriedly exited the room to discover the landscape engulfed in flames.

Amidst the turmoil, they discovered a collective of more than twenty intruders, all emanating the Void's corruption. The Echo Lords observed the group, noting that the individuals were concealing their identities with animal masks.

Fast Forward

Land Of Lightning

In a training area enveloped by trees, the sky loomed dark with flashes of lightning illuminating the scene, accompanied by the rumble of thunder. Yet, none of that was of concern as two figures fiercely battled, exchanging powerful blows in a relentless fight.

"Ugh, not again," a boy with dark hair and eyes, dressed in white pants and a blue shirt, exclaimed as he fell to the ground, a bruise on his cheek. He appeared to be around twelve years old. A girl with red hair looked down at him with a smirk, remarking, "I win again."

"Of course I did, you fool," the girl with red hair taunted, a smug expression on her face as she held her head high, attempting to appear superior. "You really struggle with Aether."

"It's not my fault that my rival is just a gorilla," the dark-haired boy mumbled quietly, but the red-haired girl caught his words and was not happy about it. A tick mark appeared on her forehead as her face flushed with anger.

"So you're referring to me as a gorilla, you idiot," the redhead replied coolly appearing calm, though her demeanor suggested otherwise. "I'll demonstrate what a gorilla is capable of, so brace yourself, you jerk."

"Hold on, Toka, I'm really sorry," the boy pleaded as he watched his friend cracking her knuckles and balling her fist while giving him a fierce look. "I didn't mean to upset you."

"It's too late for you to say sorry, you brat. Now, be a man and accept your punishment, Vince," Toka declared as she swiftly approached him, her fists glowing softly in blue, ready to strike without compassion.

Fast Forward

"You got what you deserved for insulting me, Vince," Toka declared as she marched off, her expression still fierce but with a hint of satisfaction from getting back at him. "Next time, I won't hold back and you might end up in the hospital."

Vince lay in a crater, groaning in agony from the beating he received from Toka. She had given it her all, but fortunately, she halted just as he was on the verge of exhausting his Aether. As long as he could reinforce his body, he could endure Toka's strikes, but if that ran out, he would be in serious danger.

"Why was I cursed with such feeble Aether?" Vince lamented, exasperated by his own limitations. He rose slowly, trying to minimize any additional discomfort, his thoughts consumed by his situation. Despite his efforts to train, his Aether remained weak, showing little to no improvement.

Aether is the fundamental life energy that exists in everything. Individuals who can tap into this force can enhance their physical abilities, such as strength, speed, and resilience. Moreover, those who have perfected their control over this energy can unleash it as powerful energy blasts.

Aether serves as the core source of energy for all combatants; possessing a larger quantity and greater control over it leads to increased strength. Vince struggled with this because he had a minimal supply of Aether, allowing him to enhance his abilities only briefly. In contrast, individuals like Toka, who have a vast reserve of Aether, can utilize it continuously for hours without interruption.

Vince sighed, feeling defeated. "No matter how hard I train, my Aether just isn't getting any stronger. Maybe I'm just meant to be a failure," he lamented. He understood that no matter how much he worked out, he would never reach the strength of a true Aether master. While building muscle should ideally enhance one's Aether, it seemed ineffective for him. "Perhaps I'm cursed," he mused, "that would explain why my Aether barely improves despite my intense training, while others who train far less see their Aether skyrocket."

Vince when over his beat down at Toka hands she had of course hold back he could tell that much, he could sense that she didn't enfuse her blows with as much Aether as she could have but enough to cause pain with every blow but not break bones, he had used his senses to dodge blows and those he could not he used his Aether to enhance his durability to take the hit.

Vince mumbled, nursing his swollen and bleeding lips, "Toka really didn’t need to hit me that hard." The last blow he received was a brutal punch to the face that left him in a crater, and if he hadn't fortified his head, neck, and torso, he could have been killed.

With a weary sigh, Vince muttered to himself, "I should start preparing for tomorrow," as he made his way home, limping slightly. He examined his body and noted that nothing was broken; just some cuts and bruises that stung painfully. "What's the point of all this training and muscle-building if my Aether isn't increasing as well?"

That was the problem; while his physique was athletic, it wasn’t exactly like that of a bodybuilder. His muscles offered little advantage when facing opponents with strong Aether, not to mention those who wield Echo.

"I really wish I could get stronger," Vince said with a sigh. He was at the bottom of his class and only managed to pass due to his persistence. "Perhaps I should consider using some technology to enhance my combat skills."

Although the majority of individuals rely on Aether and Echo to battle, those lacking these powers resort to technology for self-defense. Even though those possessing Aether and Echo often regard them with disdain, he has already faced similar treatment from them, leaving him with nothing to lose.

"I wish for something to change; it's just so dull here," Vince complained with a sigh, wincing as he aggravated his injuries. The world, as it currently stood, was peaceful, with only a few remnants of the Void's followers causing minor issues, but they were easily managed.

As Vince journeyed back to his home, he had no idea that his desire was on the verge of fulfillment. The news of the seven Echo Lords' downfall quickly circulated throughout his village and further afield, igniting panic and dread worldwide. The absence of the Lords raised fears that the void could be unleashed, leading to catastrophic consequences for the world. This crisis showed that new Echo Lords would need to rise to challenge the void and its minions. And so, the tale of heroes begins.

Chapter End

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A/N: This is an original tale I've created, and I hope you all find it enjoyable. I'm considering whether to turn it into a series or keep it as a standalone piece, depending on the feedback I receive. I'll be sharing it with all paid members first to gauge the response, so please like and comment. Thank you for your support! - SaintGreenz

Power Ranking System

This system is based on a fighter's mastery of both their Aether and their Echo.

Novice: The entry-level rank for those who are just beginning to cultivate their Aether. They have little to no control over their energy and have not yet awakened their Echo.

Adept: A fighter who has awakened their Echo and can use it in conjunction with their Aether. Their abilities are still unrefined, but they can perform basic combat techniques and simple Aether blasts.

Paragon: A highly skilled fighter who has mastered the balance between their Aether and their Echo. They can perform advanced techniques, like combining their Aether and Echo for more powerful attacks, and are a formidable force in battle.

Apostle: This is a rank reserved for the absolute elite. An Apostle is a Paragon who has achieved a deep, almost spiritual connection with their Echo, allowing them to unlock its full potential. They can perform their Aetherburst—the ultimate fusion of Aether and Echo—with incredible precision and power.

Echo-Lord: The highest rank of all. An Echo-Lord is an Apostle who has not only mastered their own power but also demonstrated the wisdom and political acumen to lead a nation. They are the strongest fighters in the world and are responsible for the well-being of their people and the maintenance of the Void's seal.