Union of Kingdoms - Nemension Island
Several days had passed. Cool sea breeze drifted in through the tall, open windows. In the middle of a calm blue ocean lay the magnificent island of Nemesion. This island served as neutral ground, a gathering place for rulers from all corners of the world, far removed from the conflicts of their own territories.
Inside the vast and grand main hall, the atmosphere was formal yet filled with hope. A massive round table crafted from golden wood and embedded jewels was the centerpiece. Around it sat the leaders representing the world's current powers.
👥 THE ATTENDEES
7 Great Kingdoms were present, representing the major forces:
1. Kingdom of Roses - Represented by King Erico Roses and Queen Eivana.
2. Kingdom of Abeille - Renowned for its beauty and arts.
3. Kingdom of Frillen - A land of advanced technology and architecture.
4. Kingdom of Victoria - Fertile lands rich in natural resources.
5. Kingdom of Kenlard - Mountainous region famous for mining.
6. Kingdom of Elinburge - The center of knowledge and magic.
7. Kingdom of Hachtolf - Military powerhouse and training ground for knights.
On the other side sat representatives from the 10 Small Kingdoms. Often overlooked or conquered in the past, they now sat with heads held high, demanding their rights and justice.
At the head of the table sat Rimery Barkley, leader of the Union of Kingdoms, acting as the mediator and peacekeeper.
Rimery Barkley's voice broke the silence. He stood holding his ceremonial staff.
Rimery Barkley:
"Distinguished guests, honored Kings, Queens, and Rulers. Today we gather not to wage war, not to conquer, but to heal our wounds and build a future."
He looked at every leader present one by one.
Rimery:
"The war against the Demon Mardom taught us a costly lesson: That divided we are weak, but united we are invincible. The blood spilled was human blood, regardless of whether they came from great kingdoms or small."
One representative from the smaller nations, a young ruler named Lord Disidess, stood up trembling yet firmly.
Lord Torak:
"We from the smaller lands... have often been looked down upon. Our lands seized, our people overtaxed, and our voices never heard. Yet when danger came... we too marched to the front lines."
He looked directly at King Erico and the other great rulers.
Lord Barrel:
"We want peace. We want to live safely. But we want to be recognized as brothers, not as subordinates."
Silence fell. King Erico Roses slowly stood up. All eyes turned to him, acknowledging his current power and influence.
King Erico Roses:
"What Lord Torak says... is a painful truth. For too long, we the great rulers have been arrogant and selfish."
Erico raised his right hand to the air.
King Erico:
"In the name of the Kingdom of Roses, and with the agreement of my colleagues..."
He turned toward the Kings of Abeille, Frillen, and the others. They all nodded in approval.
King Erico:
"We agree to sign the Treaty of Nemesion. Effective from today:
1. There shall be no more forced conquest of territories.
2. Every kingdom, large or small, shall have equal voice and rights within the Union Council.
3. Borders shall be clearly defined and respected by all.
4. And we shall assist one another in rebuilding what was destroyed."
Soft cheers filled the room, filled with emotion. The tension that once hung heavy had transformed into warmth and brotherhood.
One by one, the leaders stepped forward. Upon an ancient parchment shimmering with gold threads, they signed their names using sacred ink.
- The signature of King Erico.
- The signatures of the rulers of the 7 Great Kingdoms.
- The signatures of the representatives from the 10 Small Kingdoms.
The moment the final signature was written, the entire hall glowed with a soft light. A binding magic took effect, ensuring this treaty would not be easily broken by anyone.
King of Hachtolf:
"From this day forth... we are no longer enemies. We are one big family protecting this world."
King of Elinburge:
"Eternal peace for Nemesion! Eternal peace for the world!"
…
The marble corridors of the Union of Kingdoms were cold and silent, echoing only with the distant footsteps of patrolling guards. At the far end, illuminated by the glow of grand crystal lamps, two figures stood facing each other, the remnants of a serious conversation still hanging in the air.
King Erico Roses I, clad in a deep crimson robe embroidered with golden threads in the shape of roses, was patting the shoulder of King Hukeil Kenlard II. Hukeil, wearing polished silver armor that gleamed as if fresh from the battlefield, nodded slowly, listening intently to his friend's words.
Suddenly, heavy footsteps approached. Erico turned, and as his eyes caught sight of the tall figure draped in a dark blue robe bearing the emblem of a golden lion, a warm smile spread across his face.
"Ah, King Giorgio Elinburge..." Erico greeted, his voice deep yet full of respect. He bowed his head slightly, placing a hand over his chest in a royal salute. "We were just speaking of your arrival."
Hukeil Kenlard II immediately turned around. His stern face, marked with scars of war, softened into one of politeness. He bowed even deeper than Erico had.
"Greetings, Your Majesty Giorgio. I trust your journey from Elinburge was safe," Hukeil said, his tone flat but commanding.
Giorgio halted his steps, looking at his two friends with eyes that were sharp yet kind. "King Erico, King Hukeil. Apologies for my delay; border matters took longer than expected." He raised a hand, gesturing for them to continue walking.
The three kings proceeded side by side down the long corridor. Silence fell for a moment, broken only by the rustle of robes and the faint clink of royal regalia.
"The tri-nation treaty today... has been fully signed," Erico began, breaking the quiet as he stared straight ahead. "Trade and mutual defense are now legal. But you know as well as I do, Giorgio... there is a weight far heavier than this piece of paper."
Giorgio let out a long sigh. "You mean what happened in your territory, Erico?"
"Yes. The Battle of Wildness..." Erico clenched his hands behind his back. His voice dropped to a whisper, ensuring only the three of them could hear. "The Darken forces are no longer mere mercenaries or rebels. There is a dark power leading them. We all witnessed it."
Hukeil, walking on the left, immediately chimed in, his voice raspy and heavy. "The Kenlard army lost a third of its strength just holding them back. But the truly terrifying thing... wasn't their soldiers, Giorgio."
Hukeil turned, staring intensely at Giorgio. "That demon. Level 9. Mardom."
The mere mention of that name made the air around them feel instantly colder. Giorgio closed his eyes for a moment, recalling the reports he had received.
"Beings of that level should have been sealed away in another dimension," Giorgio said softly. "If Darken managed to summon her back... it means they possess a source of power we do not understand."
"And only the three of us know the details of how Mardom managed to escape after the war ended," Erico added, his face grim. "If the people knew a Level 9 Demon is still roaming this continent, panic would erupt. We cannot allow that."
"So this treaty..." Giorgio looked at his companions one by one.
"Is the only way for us to prepare," Hukeil cut in firmly. "Elinburge provides intelligence, Roses provides resources, and Kenlard stands ready with sword and shield. We cannot let the Battle of Wildness be the beginning of the destruction of all kingdoms."
They stopped right in front of the massive double doors leading to the main hall. The afternoon sun filtered through the high windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air.
Erico offered a thin smile, trying to ease the tension. "For now, let the world think this is merely about trade and borders. Let them rest easy... while the three of us bear the shadow of Mardom."
"Agreed," answered Giorgio and Hukeil in unison.
The three kings clasped their hands together in the center, gripping firmly beneath the emblems of their respective nations, uniting their resolve behind a peace treaty that hid the great secret of a demon lurking in the darkness.
…
A Crack in the Corner of a Small Town.
Someone stepped through the fissure. Inside was not a room—there were no walls, no floor, and no ceiling. There was only an endless void filled with swirling fragments of light and darkness, spinning aimlessly, as if space and time itself had been shattered into pieces. The scene was absurd, confusing, and dizzying to anyone capable of comprehending it.
In the center of this emptiness hung a pitiful figure.
Mardom. The demon who was supposed to be invincible now lay weak and helpless. One of her dark wings was torn apart, and her body, formed of pure dark energy, was leaking and fuming with purple smoke. Her face, partially destroyed, twisted in agony; her breathing was heavy, sounding like the scraping of rusted metal. The wounds on her body were not ordinary injuries—they seemed to be "eating away" at her very existence.
She had been thrown into this dimension to heal, but the pain would not fade.
"Tsk... Aghh..." Mardom groaned, her claws gripping empty air as if trying to hold onto something. "How could I... be defeated so badly..."
Suddenly, a brilliant white light ignited right before her. It was not blinding, but rather calming, yet radiating absolute authority.
Mardom slowly lifted her head. Her glowing red eyes widened in shock as she saw the figure standing before her. He wore a long, pristine white robe patterned with countless eyes. His face was covered by a blindfold, but his mere presence caused the entire void to freeze still.
It was Lord Of Eye.
Gathering her last strength, Mardom immediately dropped to her knees in mid-air. Her body trembled not only from her wounds but from deep-seated reverence and fear.
"Y-Your Absolute Majesty... Lord Of Eye..." Mardom whispered hoarsely. "Forgive me... F-Forgive me for what I have done..."
Lord Of Eye did not move, simply standing and looking down. The aura he emitted made Mardom's pain throb even sharper, as if her very being was being judged.
"What you have done..." Lord Of Eye's voice sounded soft yet echoed throughout the dimension, "should have ended hundreds of years ago, Mardom. Yet you are still trapped in this mortal game."
"That is not true, My Lord!" Mardom quickly interrupted, bowing her head even lower. "Everything was going perfectly! The Darken forces shattered their defenses! Roses was going to fall! But... but suddenly..."
Mardom stopped, her breathing hitching as she recalled the memory.
"I saw him. Something not recorded in any scenario. A Mysterious Knight. It was 'K'... or..." She swallowed hard. "...they called him... Lord Of Time."
A heavy silence filled the void the moment that name was spoken.
"He didn't fight with strength alone... he broke the rules. He rewound my efforts, he severed my fate..." Mardom gestured to her wounds. "These injuries... they are wounds caused by forced time manipulation. I could not oppose him, My Lord. His appearance was an unforeseen error."
Lord Of Eye remained silent. His gaze—though hidden by cloth—felt piercingly sharp, digging into Mardom's soul, judging every word of truth or lie that left her mouth.
"You think your failure was merely because of the appearance of 'K'?" Lord Of Eye asked softly.
Mardom fell silent.
"You are wrong, Mardom. You failed because you were too focused on violence and destruction. You forgot that when darkness spreads too quickly, the light will gather to strike back."
Lord Of Eye took a single step forward, causing Mardom to shrink even further.
"Look out there. Because of the chaos you caused at the Battle of Wildness... because you forced your presence into the world... those who once hated each other have now become united."
Lord Of Eye's voice turned colder, firmer.
"The Union Of Kingdoms."
Mardom looked up slightly, her eyes wide with horror.
"They are fixing everything you broke, Mardom. They are stitching closed the wounds you inflicted, and in doing so, their bonds have become stronger out of fear of you. You have created an enemy far greater than you could ever imagine."
"But My Lord... that..."
"Silence!" Lord Of Eye cut her off. "You failed to control the situation. Now, rest here. Heal your wounds. And prepare yourself... because if the Union Of Kingdoms succeeds in balancing this world... your existence, which should never have been, will become the first target they erase."
Mardom trembled in terror, her forehead pressing against the "floor" of nothingness.
"Understood... My Lord..."
The atmosphere in the void grew increasingly oppressive. The chaotic swirl of space and time seemed to freeze completely, awaiting the master's decision. Lord Of Eye stood tall, his white robe billowing as if caught in an invisible wind, radiating an authority that could not be questioned.
With a slow yet deliberate motion, Lord Of Eye snapped his fingers.
TRING!
Two black portals opened on his left and right. Emerging from the darkness were two figures radiating an aura that was grim yet elegant.
The first stepped forward, powerful and sinful—Michoel, The Fallen Angel. His wings, once pure white, were now pitch black with edges glowing like burning embers. His face was handsome yet cold, his golden eyes piercing sharply in every direction.
The second appeared with slow, silent steps—Azrael, The Broken Angel. His wings were incomplete, with bones protruding grotesquely. His skin was deathly pale, and his eyes were empty voids. He carried an aura of death that made the air feel freezing cold.
Both knelt simultaneously before Lord Of Eye.
"We are here, My Lord..." Michoel's voice was deep and commanding.
"Command us..." added Azrael in a raspy whisper.
Lord Of Eye looked at them one by one.
"Michoel," he called.
"I am present," Michoel answered swiftly.
"Go to the Continent of Disides. Visit the hidden nests of demons. Awaken those who slumber, gather the Dukes and Counts of the underworld. The time has come for them to collect on their promises."
Michoel nodded firmly. "As you wish, My Lord. I will make them tremble and ready themselves for war."
"And you, Azrael..."
Azrael slowly lifted his pale face.
"Travel to the Southwest Continent. Do not use force. Use words. Instigate the leaders there. Plant seeds of fear regarding the Union of Kingdoms. Make them feel threatened, make them seek protection from dark power. Divide their minds."
"Like wind carrying poison... it shall be done," Azrael answered softly, before his form began to dissolve into black smoke.
Michoel spread his massive wings wide. "I depart, My Lord. The Continent of Disides will shake!"
In an instant, the two fallen angels vanished, each carrying out their mission of destruction, leaving Mardom kneeling there, holding her breath.
Lord Of Eye slowly turned back to face Mardom. His gaze made the Level 9 demon feel as insignificant as an ant.
"Mardom..."
"Y-Yes, My Lord?" she answered trembling.
"You have failed, and you have acknowledged your mistakes. But your power is still useful. Do not let your wounds go to waste."
Lord Of Eye extended his hand toward Mardom's face.
"Give me one of your eyes."
Mardom froze in shock. "M-My eye... My Lord? This is the source of my vision..."
"And now it will become My eye in the right place," Lord Of Eye cut in coldly. "I shall plant it within the Kingdom of Zewilste. With it, I can see every movement in the northern border regions, even deep inside their palace. This is the price you must pay to remain alive and useful."
Mardom swallowed hard. She knew that refusal meant instant death. With trembling hands, she slowly raised her claw toward her left eye, which glowed with intense red light.
SKRIEEK!
A horrifying sound echoed as the eyeball was forcibly ripped from its socket. Thick black liquid gushed out. Mardom grimaced in agony, her head drooping weakly, yet she held the organ out shakily.
"Here... it is, My Lord..."
Lord Of Eye took it effortlessly. The eyeball floated in his palm, still blinking and radiating dark energy.
"Good. Now you are half-blind, but you can still see the truth. Rest and recover your strength. Do not move until I call for you again."
"Th... thank you... My Lord..." Mardom slumped down, suffering immense pain yet relieved that her life was spared.
Lord Of Eye stared deeply at the eye, then whispered,
"Zewilste... prepare yourselves. An eye from hell is now watching you."
...
Union of Kingdoms - Armory
The air inside the armory was cold and dusty. Thousands of swords, spears, bows, and suits of armor were neatly arranged on towering shelves that reached all the way to the ceiling. Sunlight filtered through narrow windows, creating beams of light that pierced through the floating dust particles.
In a dim corner of the room, a small figure was moving about restlessly.
Tudeos Emmet. The ten-year-old boy was dressed in semi-royal attire—a white silk shirt, a black vest, and long trousers—but he looked quite disheveled now, busy climbing over and rummaging through stacks of shields.
His eyes lit up as he spotted a long sword hanging alone on the wall. Its scabbard was made of dragonhide, adorned with simple yet sturdy silver decorations.
"This is it!" Tudeos whispered excitedly.
With great effort, he pulled it out. The sword was surprisingly heavy for his small hands, but he gripped it with both arms, trying to mimic the stance of the knights he often watched through the great hall windows.
Swish! Swish! Slash!
He swung the blade left and right, cutting through empty air. His face was set in a serious frown, copying the tough expression of King Hukeil.
"I am the protector of the Continent! Enemies... begone!" he shouted quietly, then struck a rigid yet heroic pose according to his imagination. "Tudeos Emmet, Knight of Disidess! No one can defeat me!"
He giggled to himself, feeling incredibly powerful. Unknowingly, he had wandered out of the storage area, hiding behind piles of crates to avoid being caught by the guards.
Meanwhile, near the envoy departure area, the atmosphere was busy yet orderly. Servants were loading luggage onto ornate carriages bearing the emblems of their small kingdom.
Mr. Luca Emmet, a handsome man with a well-kept beard and an air of authority, was checking scrolls of treaties. He looked satisfied, though slightly tired. Beside him stood his wife, Lady Emeral Osfel. She was elegant, wearing an emerald-green gown that symbolized her lineage as the sister of a ruler from a small territory.
"All documents are sealed, my love," Luca said, folding the paper carefully and placing it into a leather tube. "We have successfully represented the seven small nations of Disidess. Our position will only grow stronger from now on."
Emeral smiled softly, but her eyes kept scanning the surroundings anxiously.
"That is wonderful news, husband. But... where is Tudeos? I told him to wait by the carriages long ago. That child... he always disappears whenever he gets the chance."
Luca chuckled lightly, patting her shoulder. "Ah, let him be. He is just curious. The Union of Kingdoms is magnificent, it's only natural for a boy to want to explore. He's probably looking at the horses in the stables."
"But I didn't see him there earlier," Emeral said, wringing her hands together, growing uneasy. "I'm worried he wandered into a restricted area. He admires knights and weapons so much."
Suddenly, a servant ran up to them, his face pale.
"Sir! Madam! There is trouble!"
"What is it?" Luca asked sharply.
"The armory guards just reported... a training sword of intermediate grade is missing from its place. They are searching for the thief, but strangely... the footprints are tiny, like those of a child..."
The color drained from Luca and Emeral's faces. They looked at each other, and in their hearts, they already knew who was responsible.
"Tudeos..." Emeral hissed. "What did I tell you! He must have stolen it to play with!"
Luca let out a long sigh, rubbing his face with his hand. "Naughty boy... he doesn't realize that stealing within the Union of Kingdoms is a serious offense that could ruin our reputation!"
"Find him quickly!" Emeral ordered in panic. "Before the guards find him first! We must return the sword and apologize before this gets out of hand!"
They immediately sent servants to search, but far away, hidden in the shadows of the great buildings, Tudeos was still happily practicing his swings, completely unaware that he had just caused a huge problem for his family, who had only just established their name before the world.
DUG...DUG...DUG..DUG..DUG...DUG....
Tudeos ran panting, slipping into a narrow alleyway shrouded in the shadows of towering buildings. His heart raced—a mix of fear of being caught and pride in holding such a massive sword.
"Phew... safe..." he leaned against the cold stone wall, breathing heavily.
He set the sword down on the ground for a moment and wiped the sweat from his forehead. His bright eyes suddenly caught sight of a crack between the floor stones. Something was sparkling there, catching the rays of the afternoon sun.
Tudeos approached, crouched down, and picked it up.
It was a ring. The metal felt warm to the touch, a soft pink color like fresh rose petals. The carvings were delicate and strange, unlike any royal ornament he had ever seen. What fascinated him most was the large gem in the center; it looked alive, flowing like liquid blood.
"Wow... so beautiful..." Tudeos whispered in awe. His eyes seemed glued to it, unable to look away. His hand moved on its own, as if pulled by a magnet. Without thinking, he slipped the ring onto the ring finger of his left hand.
Click. It fit perfectly.
"Tudeos!!!"
The loud shout startled him so much that he almost dropped the stolen sword.
Before he could stand up, strong arms wrapped tightly around him. Emeral pulled her son into a hug, her face flushed with a mixture of anger and immense relief.
"What kind of child are you?! We looked everywhere! Do you have any idea how dangerous it is for you to get lost?!" Emeral scolded, shaking his shoulders gently. Her eyes were filled with tears. "And what is this?!"
She saw the large sword on the ground, then stared at Tudeos's hand clutching the stolen item.
"You stole it?! Tudeos Emmet! What did your father teach you about honor?!"
Tudeos trembled. His face turned red, his lips quivered, and tears welled up, ready to fall. He was terrified seeing his mother so angry.
Behind them, Luca appeared, breathing hard. He looked exhausted, sweat soaking his robe, and his hair was messy. He held his knees for a moment to catch his breath, then looked at his son with an expression of heavy disappointment.
"You... you made me run all over this complex, Tudeos..." Luca's voice was deep and sounded incredibly tired. "What are we going to do with you..."
Tudeos shook violently. Tears began to fall. He felt so guilty, so small, and so afraid.
"I... I'm sorry... Tudeos just wanted to play..." he sobbed softly, his hands clenched tightly in fear.
BZZZT!
Suddenly, his left hand felt burning hot.
A brilliant light burst out from between his fingers. It was a bright Pink light, soft yet blindingly intense. It exploded suddenly, causing Emeral and Luca to jump back in shock.
"What is that?!" Luca exclaimed, ready to shield his family.
In the center of the pink glow, the ring on Tudeos's finger shone intensely. And the most terrifying yet mesmerizing sight...
From within the pink gemstone, an eye slowly opened.
A pure white eye with a dark, sharp pupil. It moved around, observing everything—staring at Emeral, staring at Luca, then looking straight ahead as if seeing things invisible to ordinary humans.
The pink aura surged outward, making the air in the narrow alley feel heavy yet warm. Tudeos himself just stared at his hand with wide eyes, his crying stopped instantly, replaced by pure terror. He had no idea that the small object he found was not just jewelry, but something far more mysterious and powerful.The pink light grew even brighter, so blinding that Tudeos, Emeral, and Luca had to shield their faces with their hands. The white eye that had emerged from the ring slowly lifted its gaze toward the sky, as if looking at a presence far higher than themselves.
WHOOSH!
A soft yet powerful wave of energy exploded outward, and in that instant, Tudeos's consciousness was swept away along with the light. Darkness. Everything turned black.
Several hours later...
The rhythmic sound of hooves and the creaking of wooden wheels against the road woke Tudeos up. He blinked his eyes, still squinting against the afternoon sunlight streaming through the window of their luxurious carriage.
He was inside a plush cabin, upholstered in red velvet. Opposite him sat his father Luca and mother Emeral, talking quietly in tired tones.
"...it was truly unexpected. Fortunately, the Union authorities didn't pursue the matter further after we returned the sword and apologized," Luca grumbled, rubbing his temples. "But our reputation has taken a slight hit, Meri. Imagine, representatives of a kingdom disgraced by their own child's antics."
Emeral let out a long sigh, brushing her hair back. "I'm confused too, Tudeos is usually obedient. Maybe he became obsessed after watching the knights train so much. But luckily, when we found him, he had already fainted from exhaustion or shock... so we could just carry him away without any more fuss."
Luca turned toward his youngest son, who had just woken up, and a faint smile appeared on his stern face. "That boy... really is stubborn. Just like his mother."
"Hey!" Emeral playfully tapped her husband's arm, then looked at Tudeos with a mix of annoyance and affection. "Awake already, dear? You slept so soundly."
Tudeos only nodded weakly, still not fully awake.
His parents turned back to their conversation about travel routes and royal affairs, as if the strange incident with the pink light had been forgotten or dismissed as mere eye strain.
Tudeos frowned. He slowly raised his left hand, wiggling his fingers in front of his eyes.
Empty.
There was no pink ring. No sparkling gem. And certainly, no terrifying white eye. His fingers were clean, leaving only a faint red mark on the skin where the ring had been.
'Was... was it just a dream?' Tudeos wondered confusedly. 'But it felt so real... the heat, the light...'
He scratched his head, even though it didn't itch, still staring blankly at his hand, replaying the events in that narrow alley. He tried to remember, but his memory cut off exactly when the light exploded.
'Must be a dream. Yes, it must be because I was so tired from running and scared of being scolded by Dad,' he thought, trying to calm himself.
However, as he drifted off into thought, he felt a sharp gaze piercing through him.
Tudeos turned his head. In the other corner of the carriage sat Sophia Emmet, his older sister. She had her arms crossed over her chest, pouting, and narrowed her eyes at him with mock annoyance—a classic look of an older sibling who is upset.
"Hmph... finally awake, Prince Thief," Sophia teased in a sarcastic whisper, keeping her voice low so their parents wouldn't hear. "You sure slept comfortably, while I've been sitting here bored for hours waiting because of your little escapade!"
Tudeos lowered his head, a little intimidated by her glare.
"Do you realize that because you stole that sword and ran off, we almost weren't allowed to leave?! I had to sit here in this hot carriage waiting for 'Little Hero' to get caught!" Sophia huffed indignantly, turning her head away haughtily. "Next time you want to play hide and seek, don't drag the family name through the mud, you naughty boy!"
Tudeos could only puff out his cheeks, holding his empty hand, still wondering deep inside... was that ring real, or just the imagination of a child who played too much?
The peaceful atmosphere inside the carriage was suddenly shattered by shouts and the sound of running footsteps. The wheels screeched to a sudden halt—SCREECH!—sending everyone lurching forward.
"Ambush!! Protect the Master and Mistress!!" shouted one of the guards.
From the dense trees lining the road, dozens of figures emerged. They wore animal skins, their bodies covered in tattoos and war paint. They were the Forest Tribes, wielding crude axes, wooden spears, and eyes burning with wild greed.
"Take all their treasures! Kill anyone who resists!" roared their leader in a rough dialect.
Inside the carriage, Emeral hugged Sophia tightly, her face pale with fear. Luca stood up immediately, trying to shield his family despite holding only a small dagger. But before they could even step outside, a horrifying scene unfolded.
The dozen royal guards of Emmet had just raised their weapons to fight. Suddenly...
SWISH!
A flash of light streaked by, too fast for the naked eye to follow.
THUD! THUD! THUD!
One by one, the guards' heads rolled onto the ground, their bodies standing upright for a moment before collapsing lifelessly. Blood sprayed across the dirt road. They died instantly without even having time to cry out.
The tribesmen laughed triumphantly, seeing their enemies defeated so easily. They grew bolder, advancing toward the carriage.
"Ha ha ha! Too easy! Come out, all of you!!"
The carriage door flew open violently. A small figure jumped down bravely. It was Tudeos. His face was flushed with anger at seeing his guards slain. He pulled out the tiny dagger he had hidden at his waist, holding it with both trembling hands, but his eyes burned with determination.
"Don't touch my family!!" Tudeos shouted, his voice small but loud and clear. "I... I will fight all of you! Get out of here!!"
The bandits burst into laughter seeing the brave little boy.
"Wow, look, a little prince wants to be a hero! Catch him first, we'll make him a slave!"
The true knights of Roses, hidden in the surroundings, were ready to leap into action, but they waited for the signal.
Just as a massive axe was swung toward Tudeos...
BOOM!!
A small explosion erupted right in front of him. The ground shook. A tall, majestic figure landed gracefully, standing firmly to protect the boy. A deep crimson robe billowed in the wind, embroidered with golden threads shaped like roses.
It was King Erico Roses I.
Without even turning around, Erico raised his hand. A blazing red aura ignited from his palm.
DAR! DAR! DAR!
Three bursts of fire shot out instantly, striking the chests of the three leading tribesmen. They were blasted backward, engulfed in flames, and killed instantly.
"You... dare to disturb those traveling in peace..." Erico's voice was deep and cold, radiating the absolute authority of a king. "And you dare to harm a child..."
Erico turned slightly toward his forces emerging from hiding.
"Roses Army! Move out!"
"YES, KING ERICO!!"
Thousands of knights clad in red armor charged forward. Chaos erupted, but within minutes, the attackers were overwhelmed. Some were killed, while the rest fled frantically into the depths of the forest.
"Don't let a single one escape! Hunt them down!" Erico commanded firmly.
Silence returned. Only the crackling of fire and heavy breathing could be heard.
Erico slowly bent down, looking at the little boy in front of him. Tudeos was still holding his dagger with shaking hands, his mouth wide open, his eyes sparkling with awe.
Tudeos stared at the heroic man. He knew who he was. He had seen him in the great hall.
With innocence but absolute conviction, Tudeos took a deep breath and shouted:
"YOU... YOU ARE KING ERICO!!"
Erico smiled faintly, then knelt down to be at eye level with the child.
"That is right, little one. What is your name?"
Tudeos lifted his chin high, trying to look brave even though his eyes were still glistening with adrenaline.
"My name is Tudeos Emmet! And... and Thank You, Your Majesty!"
Tudeos then looked into Erico's eyes with utmost seriousness, his voice loud and clear:
"Tudeos promises! One day, I will become a knight as strong as King Erico! I will protect Father, Mother, Sister, and... I will also protect King Erico and the Kingdom of Roses! No bad guys will ever dare come again!"
Erico chuckled softly, his laughter warm and resonant. He gently patted Tudeos's head with his gloved hand.
"Excellent, Tudeos. Your spirit is wonderful. I will wait for that promise. Grow up to be a great man, okay?"
Inside the carriage, Luca and Emeral stepped out, trembling but filled with immense gratitude, witnessing the moment their son met face-to-face with one of the most powerful rulers on the continent.
The roadside had now transformed into a temporary encampment. Agile soldiers of Roses erected thick, deep-red tents. Healers were busy tending to the wounded, though casualties among the Emmet family's retinue were minimal thanks to King Erico's timely intervention.
Under the shade of a large, leafy tree, Luca Emmet stood with utmost respect before King Erico Roses I. Luca looked immensely relieved yet still shaken. He bowed deeply.
"I cannot thank you enough, Your Majesty King Erico..." Luca's voice trembled with sincerity. "If not for your timely arrival... today might have been the end of our bloodline. Our treasures and honor would surely have been seized by those villains."
Erico, who was wiping a short sword with a silk cloth, looked up and smiled casually. He waved his hand dismissively, as if the incident was merely a trivial matter.
"Rise, Sir Luca. There is no need for such formality here. We are all travelers, and seeing fellow rulers or representatives in danger... it is our duty to help."
Erico sheathed his sword, then gazed into the dense forest.
"Besides... I wasn't just passing by by chance," Erico admitted honestly. "My troops are on patrol and on a special hunt. We are tracking traces of something very important, something that might have just appeared or moved within this border region."
Luca frowned in curiosity, but he dared not ask further. "I see, Your Majesty? Then your presence here was truly a destiny that saved us. Thank you, once again."
"Enough, enough. Rest now. My men will guard this area until you are ready to continue your journey tomorrow morning," Erico said with a warm smile, trying to ease the tense atmosphere.
Behind a large tree trunk not far away, two small figures were peeking out shyly.
It was Tudeos and his sister, Sophia.
They hid behind thick roots, their heads popping up occasionally to look at their father and the heroic man who had just saved them.
"Sshh... be quiet, Tudeos! If we get caught, Father will be angry again!" Sophia whispered sharply, pinching her brother's arm lightly.
Tudeos ignored the pinch. His eyes were fixed firmly on King Erico. To him, this man was not just an ordinary person, but a hero who had descended from the heavens.
"Sis... look at him..." Tudeos whispered, his eyes sparkling. "King Erico is so cool... earlier he blasted those bad guys away just using his bare hands! Whoa..."
Tudeos waved his hands in the air, mimicking the magic movements Erico had performed.
"Hmph, showing off," Sophia teased, trying to sound indifferent, though a faint blush appeared on her cheeks seeing the King's handsomeness and authority. "But thinking about it... if he hadn't come, we might have been kidnapped by those savages. So... I guess he's pretty cool."
Tudeos grinned widely, clutching his chest where his heart was beating fast.
"When I grow up, I want to be just like him! Strong, brave, and respected by everyone! I promise!"
"Oh, keep dreaming. Now get inside the tent! You just fainted earlier, stop running around!" Sophia grabbed Tudeos by the collar, dragging him backward slowly to avoid being seen, while in the clearing, their father continued to chat warmly with their savior King.
The atmosphere grew calmer as they sat on a large tree stump used as a makeshift table. The soldiers stood guard at a distance, granting them privacy.
"So, Sir Luca..." Erico began, taking a drink from a waterskin, "What is your opinion regarding the Treaty of the Union of Kingdoms we just signed? For small kingdoms like yours, is this a burden... or a hope?"
Luca let out a long sigh, staring into the crackling campfire.
"To be honest, Your Majesty... At first, we were worried. We feared that great kingdoms like Elinburge, Kenlard, or Roses would slowly swallow us up. But seeing the situation now... especially after today's events and remembering the Battle of Wildness..."
Luca looked at Erico with a serious expression.
"...we realized that standing alone in this day and age is suicide. The world is growing chaotic, demons and villains are appearing everywhere. So this treaty... it is our only shield. We are ready to abide by common rules, as long as the safety of our people is guaranteed."
Erico smiled proudly, nodding in agreement. "That is a very mature way of thinking, Luca. That is why I respect the nobles from Disidess. You are not arrogant, and you know how to survive. The Union is not meant to rule over you, but to complement one another."
Their conversation flowed smoothly, discussing border strategies and trade. Suddenly, Luca remembered something strange. He reached into the deep pocket of his robe and pulled out a small object wrapped in clean silk cloth.
"By the way, Your Majesty... there was one strange incident today, right before you arrived."
Erico raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"
Luca unwrapped the package. Inside lay a pinkish ring. It looked ordinary now, completely devoid of any glow.
"This..." Luca twirled the ring between his fingers. "When my wife and I found Tudeos unconscious in that narrow alley... this thing was tightly wrapped around his finger. We tried to take it off, but it was impossible. It only came loose when he lost consciousness."
Erico leaned closer, narrowing his eyes to examine it. The aura it emitted was faint now, yet it felt strangely unsettling.
"Your son was wearing this? Where did he get it?" Erico asked, growing interested.
"I have no idea, Your Majesty. Tudeos says he found it on the ground. But the boy just woke up and thinks it was all just a dream," Luca said, handing the ring over. "Forgive my boldness... but since Your Majesty is an expert regarding artifacts and powers, could you please take a look? We have no idea what this is. Is it dangerous?"
Erico received it carefully. The moment his skin touched it, he felt a subtle vibration. He gripped it firmly, trying to sense the energy within.
Erico's expression turned serious. His brow furrowed.
"This metal... it is not ordinary. The color... pale pink like flower petals..." Erico closed his eyes for a moment, trying to recall legends he had read in the royal library.
"Funny..." he muttered softly. "I told my troops earlier that I was hunting for something... something emitting a strange Pink aura was reported to have appeared in this area."
Erico opened his eyes wide, staring intently at the ring.
"And yet... the thing I was looking for is in the hands of a child?"
Luca's eyes widened in shock. "So... so this object is truly important, Your Majesty?! What is it called?! Is it dangerous for Tudeos?!"
Erico did not answer immediately. He looked toward the tent where Tudeos was resting, then back at the ring.
"This thing... feels familiar. Like it belongs to one of the 'Higher Beings'..." he whispered, more to himself. "But rest assured, Luca. For now, it seems to be dormant or inactive. There is no immediate danger."
Erico handed the ring back to Luca.
"Keep it safe. Do not let anyone else see it, and do not let Tudeos wear it carelessly again. If this is truly what I think it is... your son might have accidentally found one of the greatest treasures on the continent."
The air around them suddenly felt heavy, as they realized that a massive secret was now resting in the hands of the small Emmet family.
The sun began to set, painting the sky in gradients of orange and purple. The camp was bustling with activity again, but this time it was not for battle—it was for departure.
King Erico Roses I had donned his robe once more, looking majestic and ready to leave. He turned toward several knights clad in black armor, bearing the emblem of a golden rose on their chests—they were the elite forces of Roses.
"Listen carefully," Erico commanded in a firm but low voice. "You three stay behind. Guard the Emmet family until they safely pass the forest border. Don't let even a mosquito get close, understood?"
"Yes, Your Majesty! We will defend them with our lives if necessary!" the three knights answered in unison, saluting respectfully.
"Good. The rest of you, follow me! We return to Roses!"
The soldiers began mounting their horses, the sound of hooves echoing in unison.
Inside the tent, Tudeos slowly opened his eyes. He rubbed them with his small hands, still feeling sleepy. But as he heard the commotion outside, his drowsiness vanished instantly.
He jumped up from the soft carpet where he lay and roughly pulled aside the tent curtain.
His eyes went wide. He saw rows of crimson knights standing at attention, and in their midst... the figure he admired most was preparing to mount his horse.
"KING ERICO!!!" Tudeos shouted.
Without thinking twice, the little boy ran as fast as he could, weaving past the surprised soldiers. He dashed forward, and just as Erico was about to place his foot in the stirrup, Tudeos grabbed the hem of the King's long robe.
TUG!
The robe was pulled taut, causing Erico to stagger slightly, nearly losing his balance.
"Huh?!" Erico turned his head downwards in surprise.
There was Tudeos, hugging the luxurious red fabric with both tiny arms, his face looking pleading and teary-eyed. He shook his head vigorously.
"Don't go... don't leave yet..." Tudeos whimpered, his voice hoarse but clear.
Seeing the child's innocent and adorable expression, Erico's shock turned into warm laughter. He let go of the horse's reins and knelt down again to eye level with the boy, gently patting his head.
"Hahaha, you little rascal... trying to hold back a King, are you?" Erico teased with a chuckle. "What must I do to make you let go of my robe, Sir Knight?"
Tudeos didn't let go; if anything, he held on even tighter.
"Tudeos... Tudeos didn't get to say thank you properly!" he said, his face serious yet sad. "And I didn't get to show you that I'm strong already! Please don't go yet..."
Erico smiled broadly, his heart warmed by the child's sincerity. He pointed toward the three elite knights he had ordered to stay behind.
"See those men? Those big brothers will stay here to protect you and your family. So you have nothing to fear."
Erico then pointed toward the sun, which was almost disappearing below the horizon.
"And I must go home. There is much work waiting for a King. But don't worry... we will definitely meet again. Someday, when you have become a truly great knight, just like you promised."
Erico extended his gloved index finger.
"Promise me. We will fight side by side one day."
Tudeos looked at the metal finger, then enthusiastically pressed his own small finger against it.
"I PROMISE!!" he shouted loudly. "Tudeos will study super hard! Until I can protect King Erico!"
"Excellent. Now let go, or my robe will tear off! Hahaha!"
Tudeos giggled and finally released his hug. He stood in the middle of the dirt road, waving his hands continuously, beaming with joy as he watched the massive army of the Kingdom of Roses depart, carrying his hero back to his palace.
…
Royal Palace of Zewilste
The atmosphere in the throne room was heavy and grim. Although the palace was magnificent, adorned with silver and blue ornaments, the air inside felt cold and damp. Upon the main throne sat King Gavriel Zewilste.
The man once known as one of the strongest kings now looked shrunken and frail. His face was pale, his silver hair dull and lifeless. His sharp eyes were now often closed tight, enduring immense pain. Visible on his arms and neck were grotesque black wounds, spreading like the roots of a dead tree—remnants of demonic energy left behind from the Battle of Wildness.
Gavriel coughed violently—Cough! Cough!—his body shaking. A trickle of blood escaped from the corner of his lips.
"Your Majesty!" exclaimed Commander Coler Tupan. The large man, clad in full armor, rushed forward to support his King. "Your wounds are worsening! That demon poison is eating away at your very being from the inside!"
Gavriel waved his hand weakly, struggling to catch his breath.
"Enough... do not worry so much, Coler. This is the price we paid for being 'shifted' forcibly by Mardom's power..." Gavriel looked at his trembling hand. "Once our lands were far apart, but now... Zewilste is separated from the Kingdom of Roses by only a single hill."
He looked at his commander with eyes that were sharp despite his weakness.
"Send an envoy immediately. Go to Roses. Request the aid of their royal healers. King Erico possesses the best healers on this continent. Tell him... King Gavriel begs to borrow a fraction of their healing power before I perish completely."
"Yes, Your Majesty! I shall depart at once!" Coler turned swiftly, ready to carry out the order.
However, before he had taken more than a few steps, the sound of small, graceful footsteps approached. A young female servant entered hurriedly but respectfully, her face showing confusion mixed with anticipation.
"Forgive the interruption, Your Majesty..."
"What is it now?" Coler asked sharply. "Can you not see the King is suffering?"
The servant bowed her head in fear, then spoke, "I-It is like this, Your Majesty... At the main gate, there is a visitor. He carries no letter of introduction, brings no army... he came alone."
"Who is he? A beggar? Or a spy?" Gavriel asked weakly.
"No, Your Majesty. He says... he is an envoy from 'The All-Seeing One'. And he claims... he can cure the black wounds. Not with ordinary medicine... but with power capable of severing the source of the disease forever."
These words made Coler's eyes widen in shock, and Gavriel, who had been slumping, suddenly lifted his head. The King's eyes flickered, a spark of hope igniting within them.
"What did you say? He can heal these wounds?" Gavriel asked, his voice slightly stronger.
"Yes, Your Majesty. The man said... 'Wounds inflicted by a Level 9 Demon can be closed by an Eye of a Higher Order.' He begs to be allowed entry."
Gavriel fell silent for a moment, thinking hard. The pain he endured was unbearable; he was willing to try anything.
"Coler..." he called out.
"I am here, My Lord."
"Cancel the trip to Roses for now. Let the man enter. I want to see... if he truly possesses a miracle cure, or if he is just a charlatan whose neck I shall sever."
"As you command, Your Majesty!"
The servant nodded quickly and ran back outside. Inside the room, tension reached its peak. Hope and suspicion mixed together, while the black veins on Gavriel's body throbbed painfully, as if already sensing the arrival of the mysterious guest.
The massive doors of the throne room swung wide open. The female servant walked backward respectfully, ushering the mysterious guest inside.
The figure who appeared was neither tall nor imposing. He wore a long, pristine white robe trimmed with shimmering gold thread. His face was handsome, marked by a smile so calm and soothing that it seemed as if no burden in the world could ever disturb him.
He walked slowly toward the throne, his steps light and completely silent.
"King Gavriel Zewilste..." he greeted, his voice soft yet clear enough to echo to every corner of the room. "At last, we meet."
Gavriel stared at him sharply, though his eyes were heavy with fatigue. "Who are you? And what business brings you to my palace without notice?"
The man bowed politely, placing a hand over his chest.
"Call me Zeco. And I... am one of the Chosen Ones."
Zeco lifted his face, his gaze intense yet charismatic.
"Your Majesty, I know your suffering. I know that your body no longer belongs entirely to you. The dark energy of the Demon Mardom has planted its roots deep within your blood. These wounds cannot be healed by ordinary potions, nor erased by standard healing magic. They will devour your life force until nothing remains but a walking corpse."
The words hit their mark, piercing the truth Gavriel had hidden for so long. The King trembled, his breathing becoming labored.
"You... how could you possibly know?"
"Because I come from a higher place, Your Majesty. I understand the origin of that power, and I know how to stop it," Zeco answered confidently. He then presented a long object he carried, wrapped meticulously in clean white silk cloth.
"I have brought the cure. Not a potion, not a spell... but a Replacement."
Zeco slowly unwrapped the covering.
Inside, there were no surgical blades or bottles of medicine. What lay revealed was a dark red eyeball, still looking fresh and alive, yet radiating an aura that was overwhelmingly powerful and stable. It was mounted on a strange base made of black crystal.
"This..." Gavriel whispered in awe.
"This is a New Eye, Your Majesty," Zeco explained. "You lost your right eye during the war, did you not? That very wound became the gateway for the poison. By implanting this eye... you will not only regain your sight, but it will act as a Seal, suppressing the toxin throughout your entire body. The wounds will dry up, the pain will vanish, and you shall live as a whole man once again."
Gavriel stared at the eye, his own eyes lighting up. Hope, long dead, suddenly burst into flame within his heart.
"Is it true... can it truly cure me completely?" Gavriel asked, his voice trembling with emotion.
"I promise you, Your Majesty. This eye will make you stronger than you ever were before," Zeco said with a captivating smile.
However, beside the throne, Commander Coler Tupan looked far from convinced. His hand gripped the hilt of his sword tightly, his brow furrowed deeply with suspicion. He stepped forward, placing himself firmly between the King and the stranger.
"Halt! Do not be reckless, Your Majesty!" Coler shouted loudly. "This is highly suspicious! Appearing out of nowhere, offering a grotesque object like a demon's eye?! What if this is a trap?! What if this thing kills you even faster?!"
Zeco looked at Coler, his smile never fading, showing not the slightest hint of offense.
"Loyal Commander... it is natural for you to worry. But ask your King himself. Would he rather wait to die slowly in agony, or dare to take this chance to rise again as a complete ruler?"
Zeco turned his gaze back to Gavriel.
"The choice is in your hands, King Gavriel."
Gavriel looked at the red eye, then at his own body where the black veins throbbed painfully. The agony made his decision instant and absolute.
"Coler... stand aside," Gavriel ordered softly but with unshakable authority.
"But Your Majesty?!"
"I can no longer endure this pain. If this is the way to be healed... then I accept it. Bring it here, Zeco. Attach this eye to me."
Coler huffed in frustration but could do nothing other than bow and retreat, remaining on high alert, ready to strike should anything go wrong.
Zeco approached the throne with graceful yet deliberate steps. He paid no mind to Commander Coler's suspicious glare. His eyes were fixed solely on King Gavriel, who now looked like a desperate man ready to try anything.
"Be at ease, Your Majesty... this will only feel slightly warm," Zeco whispered softly.
With swift and expert movements, Zeco lifted the dark red eyeball from its crystal base. He brought his hand closer to Gavriel's right eye socket, which was empty and covered by dried scar tissue.
TRING!
A strange sound echoed, like metal fusing together. Thick black liquid oozed out momentarily—not ordinary blood, but filthy energy being expelled from Gavriel's body. Gavriel grimaced in pain, his nails digging into the armrests until his knuckles turned white, but Zeco pressed firmly and twisted gently until... click... the eye settled perfectly in place.
"It is done..." Zeco murmured quietly.
Inside his mind, Zeco laughed triumphantly.
'Hahaha... how foolish. You walked right into the trap so easily, Gavriel. You think you are being healed? You have just planted the 'Eye' of the Supreme Ruler right into your own skull. From this second on, every breath you take, every thought you have... everything is laid bare before My Lord, Lord Of Eye. This plan went smoother than silk.'
Zeco hid his cunning smirk behind a calm expression and took a step back to admire his work.
Several seconds passed in suffocating silence.
Suddenly...
The red eye blinked. Once. Twice.
A crimson light radiated from Gavriel's eyelid. The dark energy that had been devouring his body seemed to be sucked into a single point, then crushed completely. The black veins crawling across his skin slowly dried up, shrank, and turned into mere black tattoos, no longer causing pain.
Strength surged back into his veins. His frail, hunched body straightened up.
THUD!
King Gavriel jumped down from the throne onto his own two feet! He no longer needed a cane. He moved his arms, feeling his muscles strong once more, and most miraculously... he could see! Not just see, but his vision had become incredibly sharp, allowing him to even perceive the flow of energy in the air!
Gavriel looked at his hands, then stared at Zeco. One eye was bright blue, the other a blazing glowing red. His face transformed into one of ferocity and boundless ambition.
"HAHAHAHAHAHA!!"
His laughter exploded loudly, echoing throughout the grand hall. It was no longer weak and raspy, but resonant, full of authority and madness.
"THIS ENERGY! THIS POWER! I FEEL IT AGAIN!" Gavriel shouted, clenching his fists toward the sky. "ALL WOUNDS ARE GONE! THE PAIN IS VANISHED! ZEWILSTE... THE KINGDOM OF ZEWILSTE SHALL ONCE AGAIN RULE THIS CONTINENT! OUR GLORY SHALL RISE AGAIN! JHAHAHAHAHA!!"
He spun around, laughing uncontrollably, feeling like the most powerful man alive.
In the corner of the room, Commander Coler Tupan stood frozen stiff. His mouth hung slightly open, but no sound came out.
He saw his King healed. He saw the immense power. But... the feeling in his chest grew only more terrifying.
Something was wrong. The gaze of that red eye... it was not human. There was a cold, empty, and horrifying glint within it.
'Your Majesty... what have you done?' Coler thought, trembling inwardly. 'You didn't just heal a wound... you opened the gates to something far more dangerous. That eye... it is watching us. I can feel it.'
Coler lowered his head, hiding his expression of dread.
'A storm... a great storm is truly coming to Zewilste. And this time... the storm is brewing right inside our own palace.'
...