It all started in a remote kingdom called the Elysian Realm, where the story unfolded. Rumors about the new regency regulations floated through the air, making the inhabitants feel both worried and uneasy.
As a wise old man said, "Have you heard about the Elysian Realm's new laws?"
"Oh my goodness, what have they done to us now?" the farmer said with a nervous grimace.
It seems that half of our income should be paid to the realm in the form of income tax. Worst thing ever, right?" the senile politician bemoaned.
Putting food on the table is a hardship for us commoners, by the stars! "This could put us out of business," the distraught farmer cried out.
A commotion ensued among the customers when the entrance of the inn swung open forcefully.
"No sweat, dude! "Your dad won't be able to pay for the door," the angry bartender reprimanded.
A towering person, shrouded in darkness and with long hair that obscured most of their face, stepped inside the bar.
With an air of authority, the mysterious guy asked for a drink of ale.
Think you're being sneaky by coming pounding on my door despite my repeated warnings? In a harsh manner, the bartender accused the patron of being a sorcerer.
The apparition answered, "Does my appearance scream sorcery to you, ignorant man?"
A moment of lightheartedness between the farmer and the elder broke the tension in the air, and they both laughed.
Hey, why are people laughing? Be careful not to put the bartender to the test; if you do, he threatened to kick you out.
"That weathered cloak and that air of suspicion make you appear like a sorcerer," the bartender said.
Near the bar's door, the figure detected a bunch of mountain robbers and gave them no mind. Readers were led by this mysterious entity, who went by the name of Ariadne Evernight.
A gang of mountain bandits brandishing swords and slingshots rushed in as the door swung open.
Do not move! One of the robbers shouted at the customers, "Empty your pockets and leave your wealth on the table, or face our wrath!" in an attempt to panic them.
As the farmer humbly put his few profits on the table, a sense of dread washed over everyone.
"Just two rufels? What gives?" The unattractive bandit, who had noticeable nose and facial scars, laughed at the idea that it wouldn't even cover a nice lunch and drink.
"Please, I have donated all I own. The poor farmer hammered out a heartfelt appeal for compassion.
"Commander, how about we get rid of him and sell his body parts in the underground market?" the evil bandit said.
In his anguish over his sick kid and his starving wife, the farmer considered running away, but he was too terrified to act. Submitting to what seemed to be an impending doom, he readied himself.
"Charles and Isabel, I apologize. The farmer said under his breath, "I will protect you in the hereafter," as he braced himself for the deadly blow.
Surprisingly, the attackers passed out and fell to the floor. The robbers were terrified and rendered helpless by the eerie charm emanating from Ariadne's left eye, a brilliant shade of red.
Stuttering with dread, the bartender said, "Was it you, sorcerer?" among the shock.
The audience watched in wonder as Ariadne disappeared in the blink of an eye.
He was a sorcerer, the bartender said.
The Elysian Vault, which Ariadne hoped to reach, was guarded by the guardians of the realm. It contained priceless artifacts that may open a doorway to another world, one where one might live in perpetual bliss and seclusion. In pursuit of the Vault protected by heavenly beings, their path took them through foreboding woodlands and up into the celestial highlands. In order to obtain the ancient ability to influence limitless futures—a power crucial to their quest—Ariadne planned to enter the parallel world of Artoria and challenge the great lord of all dragons to a mental fight.