In a dimly lit room filled with an array of intricate tools and ingredients, a man meticulously went about his work. His focus was unbreakable, his hands moving with a practiced grace as he mixed, measured, and combined various elements.
This man was the Paragon of the Alverian family in Sector-4, one of the tier-1 families in the human domian, Thorne Alverian. He possesses a fiery red hair which cascades over his forehead, framing his countenance in a wild and untamed manner. Partially obscuring his gaze, his hair seems to enhance the intensity of his sapphire eyes, which pierce through the veil of uncertainty with a sharp, discerning brilliance.
While the Ravensteins forge their legacy on the battlefield, the Alverians have sculpted their dominion through the arcane and enigmatic art of alchemy. Within their secretive enclaves and well-guarded laboratories, they manipulate the very essence of elements to craft potions of unimaginable power.
These elixirs, both wondrous and perilous, have become the lifeblood of the realm, a silent force that bolsters warriors, bestowing upon them advantages that could tip the scales of any conflict. As the Ravensteins marshal their strength for battle, the Alverians exert their influence in the markets, their grip on the alchemical trade firm and unyielding.
As Thorne worked diligently, his concentration unwavering, a woman entered the room. She observed him from a distance, a silent presence that refrained from disrupting his meticulous process. Four hours passed in an almost meditative silence, the woman’s patience evident as she patiently waited for his attention.
Finally, with the finishing touches of his potion complete, the man glanced up and noticed the woman standing there. His brows furrowed in mild surprise, and he cleared his throat before speaking, “What do you want?”
The woman’s voice was respectful and succinct as she reported, “The Ravensteins have declared war on the obsidian order.”
The man’s expression shifted “This is going to be troublesome,” he murmured, “Those madmen have the potential to cause a lot of destruction if left unchecked.”
His words hung in the air and woman nodded in understanding. The man then gestured for her to leave, his attention returning to his tools and potions. With a respectful bow, the woman turned and exited the room, leaving Thorne to his contemplations.
***
In a chamber bathed in the fiery glow of a freshly forged metal, a man sat in solemn contemplation. His raven-black hair framed his face, casting a stark contrast against his tanned complexion.
Muscles, firm and unyielding, coiled beneath his skin like steel cables, a testament to his strength and endurance. He was a figure of formidable presence, his very aura exuding an air of command. This man is the Paragon of the Emberforge family in Sector-2, one of the tier-1 of the human domian, Gavric Emberforge.
The Emberforge family are deeply rooted in craftsmanship and innovation. Their skilled artisans and crafters forge intricate and enchanting creations. With meticulous attention to detail, the Emberforge produces artifacts that are as beautiful as they are functional, from enchanted weaponry to intricate trinkets that weave magic into the fabric of daily life. They were one of the main reason for humanity’s technological advancements.
Before him, the centerpiece of his attention, rested a piece of metal that glowed with an otherworldly intensity. If one could take a closer look, they would notice that this metal was Daramite Coreneum, a metal that is 10M times harder than diamond.
His eyes fixated upon the metal as if seeking to unravel its mysteries. There was a depth to his stare, a search for understanding that went beyond the physical realm.
A presence entered the chamber, bowing respectfully to the man who sat before the awe-inspiring metal. As the newcomer relayed a message, the man’s gaze reluctantly shifted from the metal to settle upon the messenger. An aura of authority enveloped him, and a chilling silence hung in the air, a testament to the power he wielded and the weight of his attention.
The message delivered, the man excused the messenger with a barely perceptible nod. His expression remained unchanged, a mask of quiet contemplation that betrayed no emotion. Once more, his focus returned to the burning metal, his thoughts a labyrinth of possibilities and plans that only he could fathom.
Across the sprawling expanse of the human domain, whispers of uncertainty and concern swept through the distinguished families like a chilling wind. The news of the Ravenstein family’s declaration of war against the Obsidian Order reverberated through family halls, opulent chambers, and secluded estates alike, leaving an indelible mark of trepidation in its wake.
***
In the garden, Atticus approached his mother, Anastasia, and grandmother, Freya, who were enjoying a moment of tranquility amidst the vibrant blooms. He greeted them warmly, a sense of urgency in his voice.
“Good morning, Mum. Grandma,” he said, his tone filled with determination.
Anastasia looked up from her tea, a fond smile softening her features. “Darling, what brings you here?” she asked, curious about his sudden appearance.
Freya regarded him with raised eyebrows, noting his departure from his usual solitude.
Taking a seat beside them, Atticus took a deep breath before speaking. “Mum, I can’t wait any longer. Please, let me start learning how to fight now.”
He had come to a realization after the recent loss of Ariel – strength couldn’t wait, not in a world as uncertain as theirs.
Anastasia met his gaze, her eyes reflecting understanding and determination. “Alright, Atticus. I agree,” she said, her voice firm yet gentle.
Atticus blinked in astonishment, hardly daring to believe her agreement. “You… you do?”
Anastasia nodded, her resolve unwavering. “Yes. I’ve realized that in this world, anyone can be vulnerable, no matter how much protection surrounds them. It’s your own strength that truly matters.”
She reached out, her hand encompassing his. “Promise me, though, that you’ll be careful. Take it step by step.”
Elated beyond measure, Atticus leaned in to kiss his mother and grandmother on the cheeks before leaving the garden, he couldn’t wait to start training!
As he departed, Anastasia turned to Freya, the weight of their shared grief palpable in the air. “How are you holding up, Freya?” she asked softly.
Freya’s gaze softened, her voice trembling with the echoes of past sorrows. “Losing a child… it’s a pain no parent should ever have to endure.”
A somber understanding passed between them, and then suddenly Freya’s demeanor shifted. An aura of undeniable strength emanated from her, a testament to her status as a Grandmaster. “The obsidian order will be eradicated from this world, no matter what it takes,” she said, fiercely determined.
