Alliance

Mask stood before Lady Aria. In the enchanting atmosphere of the hall, Lady Aria's posture caught Mask's attention. With her elegant dress and confident demeanor, it was clear that she carried the title of queen not merely as a designation but as a symbol of responsibility and power. Mask held his gaze on Lady Aria for a moment before beginning to speak:

"Lady Aria, the moment I set foot in your kingdom, I witnessed the beauty woven into its very essence. The harmony of your people must be a reflection of your leadership. However, you are well aware that I did not undertake this visit merely to express admiration."

Lady Aria smiled slightly. She found the young prince’s determination intriguing. She could sense Mask’s intelligence and leadership aura from his very first words. Without altering her stance, she replied in a calm yet authoritative tone:

"Prince Mask, you are right. Whenever one leader stands before another, it is not solely for the sake of pleasantries or beauty. I strive to maintain the peace of the Lake Kingdom, yet I know that the order of the world does not always favor peace. So tell me, if this meeting was important enough to bring you here, what is it that we must discuss?"

Mask was impressed by Lady Aria’s direct approach, though he concealed his reaction. "I am here for peace. And peace rests upon a strong alliance. However, as we both know, alliances are not built on good intentions alone. They require strength, trust, and resolve. That is why I ask you to formalize our cooperation. Under your leadership and my vision, our people can live in true security."

Lady Aria listened carefully, weighing Mask’s words. She tilted her head slightly and, with graceful poise, rose from her throne, stepping toward him. When she spoke, her voice was strong and unwavering:

"It is admirable for a young leader like yourself to champion peace, Prince Mask. My people are the greatest treasure of this land. I always put them first; their future is my highest priority. However, you must understand—if war comes to our doorstep, the Lake Kingdom will always protect itself. I cannot forsake my values. I need to hear clearly what your proposal will bring to my people."

Mask recognized the deep love for her people beneath Lady Aria’s serious demeanor. This woman was loyal not only to her kingdom but also to her principles. He responded with steady determination:

"I appreciate the sacrifices and courage you show for your people, Lady Aria. But the truth is, we can only minimize the threat of war by forming powerful alliances. This collaboration is not just about gain—it is about building trust. If the Lake Kingdom stands with us, my kingdom’s resources and strategic support will stand with you in return."

Lady Aria felt the resolve and diplomatic intelligence in Mask’s words. Despite his youth, his vision and confidence were clear. Nodding slightly, she spoke again:

"Prince Mask, I would like to continue this discussion further on behalf of our people. There is merit in your reasoning. However, remember that any alliance must be fair to both sides. I make my decisions solely based on what benefits my people. If you accept this, we can lay the foundation for an agreement."

Mask stepped forward and bowed slightly before replying:

"It is an honor to work with a leader who values fairness and the well-being of her people, Lady Aria. I am here to establish the foundation of our alliance firmly, ensuring the best outcome for both our kingdoms."

For a brief moment, Mask remained silent, reflecting on Lady Aria’s confidence and determination. The gentle melody of flowing water echoed through the hall, allowing him to take a deep breath before continuing, his voice carrying both caution and certainty:

"Lady Aria, allow me to explain another reason for seeking this alliance. This is not merely an initiative to strengthen peace. The Fire Realm and the Crystal Kingdom are planning an assassination against me. Faced with such treachery, we had to devise a countermeasure. I thought that in this situation, gaining an additional ally would be more of a gain than a loss. I must make the right decisions to protect my people, and that is what has brought me here."

Lady Aria listened intently to this revelation. She was struck by the conviction in Mask’s voice. This young leader was acting not only for his own people but also with strategic wisdom. She took a few steps forward, addressing Mask in a tone that was both authoritative and sincere:

"Prince Mask, I am aware of the decisions made during the council called by Silhou. Silhou chose to remain neutral at that meeting, which was a wise move. However, just as you have said, there were already signs that the Crystal Kingdom and the Fire Realm were plotting against you. In that council, Varyn and I were on the side of peace. We considered the lasting scars that unnecessary bloodshed would leave on our people. But after the council ended, it is no surprise that those two nations would resort to such treachery."

She paused, allowing the silence to linger for a moment. It was not a sign of weakness but rather an assertion of her authority. She then turned her gaze back to Mask, her voice firm yet heartfelt:

"Prince Mask, in light of this information, I see even greater value in our cooperation. This assassination attempt threatens not only you but all of us who seek peace and order. I will fight to protect my people if necessary—you must know this. However, I prefer to establish this alliance on the most peaceful foundations possible. War is a burden that falls heaviest upon the people."

Mask acknowledged the weight of Lady Aria’s words with a slight nod. He could see that she was not just a ruler but a protector of justice and stability. A sense of trust formed within him as he replied, his voice calm but resolute:

"Together, we will ensure that this alliance brings both peace and strength to our people, Lady Aria. And rest assured, the safety of our kingdoms will always be our priority. Knowing that we will not stand alone against these threats is an honor for me."

Lady Aria paused for a moment, considering the diplomatic grace and steadfastness in Mask’s words. The light in the hall reflected off the enchanted streams of water surrounding them, making the atmosphere even more captivating. She gracefully rose from her throne and approached Mask, her voice resonating with both elegance and authority:

"Prince Mask, I wish to seal this alliance not just with words but with a symbol. My family has carried a legacy of peace and power on these lands for centuries. This sword, forged from a fusion of uranium, iron, and magic, represents our strength and the will of our kingdom. As a mark of our alliance, I wish to present it to you."

Mask listened carefully, sensing the weight and significance of the gesture. This sword was not merely a weapon—it was a symbol of an entire people's history and heritage. Taking a step forward, he bowed slightly and spoke respectfully:

"Lady Aria, it would be an honor to accept this precious emblem. However, I would also like to reciprocate this alliance with a symbol of my own. This sword is a masterpiece of my kingdom’s latest technology, combined with magic."

At Mask’s signal, his guards opened a chest, revealing a radiant sword. It was an engineering marvel infused with magic, featuring a crystalline core that seamlessly integrated advanced craftsmanship with mystical power. Mask turned to Lady Aria and explained:

"This sword absorbs magical energy and amplifies it. Depending on the magic—whether water, fire, earth, or another element—it becomes faster, stronger, and more effective. I offer it to you as a symbol of our kingdom’s vision and the strength of this alliance."

Lady Aria examined the sword with deep appreciation, nodding with satisfaction.

Meanwhile, as Mask successfully secured the alliance, Marc and Mythos were on the verge of arriving in the Shadow Realm.

As Mythos and Marc approached the Shadow Realm, they walked side by side. Marc adjusted his cloak against the light breeze of the silent forest and turned to Mythos:

"This journey reminds me of my old days. I used to take long walks like this all the time. Now, even my feet are protesting."

Mythos chuckled, glancing at Marc. "I know those days are still in you somewhere. But you’re right—aging has its side effects. Even my knees don’t thank me anymore."

They continued their journey, the first signs of the Shadow Realm emerging in the distance…

Marc chuckled softly and shook his head. "You know, Mythos, after all these years together, we still somehow manage to keep a strange balance. Your calm demeanor seems to balance out my love for action."

Mythos responded with a playful smirk. "Of course, every wild one needs a sage by their side. Otherwise, things go off track too quickly. Having someone like you taught me that."

Marc burst into laughter, gently nudging Mythos. "Come on, come on, it's not that bad. But I admit, I sometimes go overboard. Luckily, you're there to rein me in."

As their journey continued, the first signs of the Shadow Realm began to emerge. Around them, a deeper silence settled in, and the landscape danced harmoniously with shadows and darkness. This time, however, Marc and Mythos seemed to be enjoying the atmosphere. Marc turned to Mythos and placed a hand on his shoulder. "You know, no matter what happens now, it's nice to be walking these lands again like in the old days. Maybe our struggles are bigger, but the bond between us is the same. Some things don't change."

As they approached the entrance to the Shadow Realm, the two walked in silence for a while longer. Only the sound of their footsteps and the faint breeze echoed in the air. This quiet gave them a moment to collect their thoughts and reflect on the task ahead. Yet this time, their thoughts held no complications or mysteries—only the simple joy of two old friends sharing a tranquil conversation about the journey life had brought them.

After a long walk in the Realm of Shadows, Marc slowly turned to Mythos. Behind them, the crimson sky stretched with the shadows of the black sun. As they approached the palace, Marc’s steps became lighter, and his voice took on a softer tone.

"Mythos, after traveling so far, it would be improper for me to leave you exhausted. I must invite you to the palace; we’ll have a meal and talk about the old days. Also, I will have a room prepared for you. Do not object," he said, as if he were not making an offer but stating a necessity.

Mythos nodded with a slight smile. "Stopping you by objecting is impossible anyway. I wouldn't turn down a friend’s invitation," he replied.

When they reached the palace, Marc’s voice echoed through the vast halls. "Servants! Prepare a room immediately for our guest. Mythos will be resting here for a while. Also, prepare the dining hall. And inform Silhou, he will be joining us for dinner."

Marc’s voice was, as always, authoritative and clear. As the servants quickly carried out his orders, Marc and Mythos proceeded to the palace’s guest hall.

Silhou entered the dining hall with slow steps. The crimson light reflected from the sky streamed through the hall’s windows, creating a peaceful glow inside. He took a seat at the table and gave his father, Marc, a short nod of acknowledgment. Marc responded with a slight tilt of his head. A silent yet profound connection filled the space between them.

As they sat at the table, Mythos observed Marc and Silhou. The silence between them was not one of tension or distance but held a deep meaning. Marc looked at the meal for a moment before speaking, a faint smile forming at the corner of his lips.

The maturity and confidence on Silhou’s face bore the marks of the years. But Mythos could see the deep love and pride in Marc’s eyes for his son.

Marc broke the silence.

"When I found you in that hideout years ago… I never imagined you would become a king like this," Marc said, his voice thoughtful yet filled with pride.

Silhou lifted his eyes to meet his father’s. "When I think about those days, the same thought always comes to mind," he began. "I had nothing. I belonged nowhere. I was a prisoner, chained amidst rebellion. But now, I am a king."

A glimmer appeared in Marc’s eyes as he listened to his son’s words. "Yes," he said slowly. "Back then, you had nothing, but I saw the soul of a warrior in you. The raiders tried to tear you from this world, but there was still a fire burning in your eyes. That was why I saved you that day."

Thirteen years ago, the natural light of the sky reflected over the hideout, casting a quiet dominance over the area. The raider hideout beyond the city was the true face of dark days. Inside, stolen technological devices and tangled wires filled the space; the metal walls, illuminated by neon lights, clearly indicated that this place operated outside the system.

As Marc and Mythos infiltrated the hideout, a faint groan echoed from deep within the structure. Marc quickened his steps and found a child kneeling in a corner. The child's hands were bound in chains, his face so covered in dirt that he was barely recognizable. Marc’s eyes locked onto the child’s gaze for a brief moment. In those eyes, beyond fear, there was defiance—as if the boy had never given up on the struggle to survive.

Marc signaled to Mythos to neutralize the raiders. Amidst the chaos, as the raiders fell one by one, Marc rushed to the child’s side. He unlocked the chains and gently asked, "What’s your name?"

The boy responded with a trembling voice, "Silhou."

Marc grasped the boy’s arm and helped him to his feet, offering a reassuring nod. "You are safe now, far from here. I won’t leave you in a place like this again. From now on, you’ll come with me."

That day, Marc did not just save a life—he gave that life meaning and a family. Silhou, once a mere victim under the raiders’ control, had taken his first steps toward a new future.

Silhou: "Father, enough about the past. We need to focus on a more pressing matter now."

Marc: "Go on. I know what you want to talk about, but I want to hear the details from you."

Silhou: "The plan to kill Mask has been formulated with the Fire Realm and the Crystal Kingdom. The embargoes imposed by Phantom and Mask on other nations have led us to this point. These embargoes are not just economic pressure but also a display of power. We cannot allow this to continue."

Marc: "The embargoes are a significant threat—I won’t deny that. But is eliminating Mask the only solution? This move could trigger even greater chaos."

Silhou: "Mask’s leadership is vastly different from Jorah’s. He is an idealistic commander. These traits can fuel a revolution, and as his ideals gain strength through Phantom’s support, the threat to other nations has only increased. I believe Mask’s death is the most effective step to disrupt this balance."

Marc: "Have you thought this plan through in detail? What happens after Mask’s death? This situation could make idealistic movements even more determined rather than stopping them."

Silhou: "The plan is fully prepared. We will establish a balance of power with the Fire Realm and the Crystal Kingdom. Once Mask and Lordhair stop protecting Jorah, and the entire structure collapses, we will also eliminate the economic pressure on these nations."

Marc: "Silhou, you must not act without considering the consequences of your decisions. Mask’s death will not only impact economic pressure but also our future strategic positions."

Silhou: "Father, I understand the weight of this decision. But sometimes, swift and decisive actions bring long-term security and strength. Mask has become the greatest obstacle to what I aim to achieve."

Marc: "Yes, that is true. But remember, decisions like this always carry risks. If you are going to take this step, you must be strong enough to bear those risks."

Silhou: "I am ready, Father. Mask’s elimination is a necessary step for the balance of power. And I am confident in my ability to handle its consequences."

Marc: "You’re overly concerned about someone who hasn’t even become a king yet. A single mistake could bring everything down like a domino effect, Gareth."

Silhou: "Understood. I will proceed with caution."

Mythos: "I know Jorah, and I believe this should be your last resort. The consequences could be dire for you, just as they once were for me."

Silhou: "If it will lead me to success, I am open to any suggestions. I expect to hear plenty of advice from both of you during this process."

As Marc, Silhou, and Mythos engaged in an intense discussion at the table, Jayce entered the room. His presence radiated a subtle authority and wisdom as he observed them for a brief moment. Then, in a calm yet firm voice, he spoke:

"If you’re finished with your meal, I need you in the laboratory. There are some important developments you need to see."

Marc glanced at Jayce for a moment before turning to Silhou and Mythos. With a slight nod, he concluded the conversation: "It seems our work is not yet done. Let’s go and see what Jayce has prepared for us."

The Lake Kingdom:

Lady Aria was walking alongside Mask in one of the grand halls of the palace when she began to speak. Her voice carried its usual elegance and determination:

"Prince Mask, today we have a tournament in the arena. This tradition is held among the most skilled fighters of my kingdom, a spectacle for our people. Would you like to watch it?"

Mask smiled faintly and bowed his head as he responded: "I would gladly accept this opportunity, Lady Aria. It would be an honor to witness your people's skill."

Lady Aria led Mask to the tournament grounds with a graceful gesture. The pair arrived just as the final match was about to begin.

The atmosphere in the arena was mesmerizing. Designed as a circular structure, the arena exuded grandeur, surrounded by gold-accented pillars. Spectators filled the elegantly decorated upper seating areas, enthusiastically cheering for the fighters. The sky was bright and clear, the pale light of the black sun blending into the red hues above. The arena floor shimmered faintly with a thin, magical layer of water, gliding seamlessly under the fighters’ footsteps without leaving a trace.

As the crowd roared with excitement, two fighters faced each other in the final match. The first contestant, a 25-year-old man, stood tall and confident. His name was Kael, known for his mastery of water manipulation and his seamless integration of the advanced technology weapon Excrown. His charisma and intelligence radiated from his stance, garnering cheers from the crowd.

Opposite him stood a 20-year-old young woman named Eris, adept at fire and water magic. Despite her slightly temperamental demeanor, she was undeniably smart and determined. She held her ground in the arena with unwavering resolve, earning admiration from onlookers.

The match commenced with Kael channeling his water magic into a protective energy shield, unleashing a series of powerful attacks through Excrown. Eris countered with impressive fire magic, creating an electrifying display of skill. The arena was transformed into a symphony of magic and technology.

Kael maintained his composure as he shaped water into a spear and amplified its force using Excrown. Eris blocked the attack with her flames, vaporizing the water and enveloping the arena in a misty veil. However, Kael used Excrown’s advanced sensory capabilities to navigate the mist, executing a swift and strategic maneuver that left Eris vulnerable.

Ultimately, Kael’s superior strategy and the support of Excrown secured his victory.

As the tournament concluded, Kael’s triumph was confirmed. The crowd erupted in applause and admiration, celebrating his achievement. Exhausted but proud, Kael bowed lightly to thank the spectators, his stance exuding confidence born of victory.

Lady Aria stepped forward amidst the applause. Her elegant and commanding presence captured everyone’s attention as she approached Kael, carrying Mask’s gifted sword—a unique weapon imbued with magical energy. Under the light of the arena, the sword shimmered, adding a mystical aura to the scene. Mask observed silently, noting the grace and authority in Aria’s movements.

Lady Aria’s voice rang out, each word imbued with strength and grace: "Kael, today you have shown not only your power but also your courage, intelligence, and determination. You are a true champion in the eyes of our people. As the victor of this tournament, I present you with this sword—a gift from Prince Mask to me, now awarded to you as your prize."

Kael knelt and bowed his head, his voice filled with respect and humility: "I am deeply honored by this gift, Your Majesty. I promise to wield this sword solely in defense of your people’s honor."

As the crowd cheered once more, Mask leaned back with a smile, enjoying the moment. Lady Aria turned to him, her smile soft yet meaningful: "It seems your gift has found a worthy warrior, one who will safeguard our kingdom's future."

Mask nodded in agreement, replying: "This sword can only reveal its true power in the hands of the right soul. Kael, I believe, is such a soul."

The diplomatic ceremony ended on a high note with the thrilling tournament, leaving a lingering sense of excitement and unity. But what awaited Jayce in the laboratory?