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Chapter 57 - Arlathania, the blessed city!

In Nannu's grand coronation ceremony, the newly crowned King Relon addressed the crowd of citizens and international dignitaries. With a firm voice and determined look, he shared his vision for the kingdom's future, a decision influenced by the tragic events involving his brother Morfrey. Relon proclaimed the transformation of the Nannu Empire into the Nannu Kingdom, marking a new chapter of governance more humble and connected to the people. His speech was a tribute to the resilience and bravery of citizens who fought courageously against oppressive forces.

During his speech, Relon made a point to honor those who stood by his side in the hardest battles. Lilla, Suzannah, Alister, Arthan and Kal were invited to join him, receiving the recognition and gratitude of the kingdom for their heroic efforts. The crowd applauded effusively, celebrating not only the new king but also the heroes who helped shape Nannu's destiny.

Among those present, Felix Saladon, leader of the great duchy of Saladon, watched attentively. Noting a resemblance between Kal and the ancient monarchs of Tenai, a seed of restlessness sprouted in his heart. Convinced the royal lineage of Tenai had become extinct, Kal's presence awakened old suspicions and fears in Saladon. Determined to act on his suspicions, he instructed his advisor to investigate Kal's origins, preparing to take drastic measures if his suspicions were confirmed.

Therefore, Relon's coronation became an event of celebration and conspiracy. While Nannu united under the leadership of a king promising a new era of peace and prosperity, shadows of the past and political intrigues threatened the newly found stability. Kal's destiny, now intertwined with the secrets and ambitions of powerful men, promised to be a central point in the disputes ahead, shaping the future of Nannu and beyond.

After Relon's inspiring speech, celebration took over the kingdom, with people enjoying the party with abundant food and drink. Relon, taking advantage of the international leaders' presence, sought support for Nannu's reconstruction. Among the conversations, Elanor expressed doubts about Volkaron's support due to her mother, Regent Alexandria's, animosity against the Aquarion. Cardinal Menoras of Karastea promised to send mission aid, and the elder of the free peoples of Tenai promised to send robust workers. Saladon, despite mentioning difficulties in his own duchy, committed to send trusted men to assist in reconstruction, doing all this with an air of superiority towards everyone there.

During the festivities marking a new chapter for Nannu, Saladon approached the group of heroes with a cordial smile, extending congratulations for their notable victory. "So you are Nannu's saviors," he said, shaking each of their hands, his gaze lingering a bit longer on Kal with a veiled curiosity. When inquiring about Kal's origin, Saladon seemed to seek something deeper than a simple answer. Kal, mentioning his upbringing in the village of Suri, provided no insight Saladon perhaps hoped for, revealing his ignorance about his true origins.

The conversation continued in a casual manner, but Saladon remained attentive, disguising his intentions while probing for information that could satisfy his curiosity and darker plans. The party continued with the infectious joy of music and dance. Kal was dragged by Inala for a moment of relaxation on the dance floor, a much-welcomed break in the night's tension.

While dancing, Kohaku watched from afar, her desire to share a similar moment with Kal evident in her anxious expression. Katara, Clara and Lilla, though more contained in their feelings of jealousy, couldn't help but feel a pang of envy seeing Kal and Inala's closeness. The night unfolded in a celebration full of laughter, dances and a communal sense of triumph and relief. Nannu, for one night, forgot the pains of the past and embraced hope for a prosperous future, united by the strength and courage of its heroes and the indomitable spirit of its people.

After the departure of foreign leaders, the celebration in Nannu continued vibrantly, but Relon and his companions enjoyed the party to the end. When night ended, all retired to their tents, but Kal, restless, remained awake, contemplating an uncertain future and possibility of new threats. These thoughts led him to consider a solitary departure to avoid dragging Nannu into future conflicts.

During the night, Kal was surprised by Kohaku's presence in his tent, causing a scare that attracted Katara's attention, who was searching for the missing girl. The situation caused a small commotion, with Katara reprimanding Kohaku and taking her back to her own tent.

Shortly after, Kal again felt movement under his sheet. Preparing to confront Kohaku once more, he discovered, to his surprise, that it was Inala, his little sister, seeking comfort by his side. Embracing her tenderly, the two found peace in shared sleep.

The calm of morning was broken by Lilla's screams, who, misunderstanding the situation, accused Kal of improper behavior. Kal, confused, tried to clarify that it was Inala who was with him, but looking, he realized that at some point Kohaku had returned, creating a scenario that led to Lilla's hilarious accusations.

This morning misunderstanding added a moment of lightness and humor to the post-war celebrations, reminding all in Nannu of the importance of family, friendship and bonds formed in adversity. While Kal tried to explain the confusion, the episode served as a reminder that despite the shadows of the past, Nannu's future was full of hope, unity and unexpected moments of joy.

As Saladon rode back to his kingdom, he received crucial information from his advisor about Kal. It was revealed that Kal, originally from a village called Suri, was the adopted son of a commoner, contrasting with his siblings Sin and Inala for their striking differences. Intrigued, Saladon searched ancient records and discovered about Queen Illia's pregnancy, whose son supposedly died during a great rebellion. The possibility of Kal being the lost heir to the Tenai throne led him to consider extreme measures to hide this truth, including hiring assassins.

Meanwhile, in Karastea, Cardinal Menoras discussed with King Folhan 'The Old' the vulnerable situation Nannu found itself in after the war, as well as the instability in Volkaron under Alexandria's regency. The conversations revealed a tense geopolitical scenario, with several nations closely watching developments in Nannu and considering their own strategic positions.

The complexity of international relations and political maneuvers in the shadow of Relon's coronation suggested that despite the celebration of victory and internal unity, Nannu was still far from finding lasting peace. The presence of figures like Saladon, with their hidden intentions, and discussions between the leaders of Karastea and Volkaron pointed to future challenges that Relon and his allies would have to face to ensure Nannu's security and stability on the international stage.

Kal and his companions, composed of Katara, Gwen, Lua, and siblings Inala and Sin, embarked on a meaningful journey to Elaria, land of the Elves, seeking counsel from Ellanon, the high elf king. The journey became a fraternal adventure, allowing young adventurers of spirit Sin and Inala to discover the wonders and history of one of the world's oldest and most magical nations. Kal's decision to take his siblings symbolized a gesture of unity and teaching, enriching the journey with the value of family and shared learning.

In parallel, in Nannu's kingdom, a council meeting took place under the leadership of the newly crowned King Relon. The room echoed with discussion about recent events of the coronation and the intriguing presence of neighboring nation leaders. Suzannah, as the official advisor, along with Alister, responsible for diplomatic affairs, Shun, the financial mind, Terona, the war strategist, and Arthan, the new general, debated the possibility of veiled threats against their kingdom.

"Very suspicious to see all those faces around here, it seems like all the neighboring nation leaders decided to show up at your coronation, my king," says Alister in his sarcastic way. "The problem is not the leaders, but rather Felix Saladon. Over the years, he was invited by Emperor Mordret to the festivals, but he was the only one who never showed up, even Vermilion came once or twice during times of peace," says Shun. Relon also noticing that it was too strange for everyone to be present at his coronation asked Suzannah. "Indeed, I also noticed that everyone, especially Saladon, asked many questions, and at some point during the festivities I noticed that his advisor was absent for a long time. What should I do?" Suzannah, still quite pensive about what Primordius had said that day, had her mind far away and without thinking too much, she answered, "Why don't we put spies on their tail, we're sure everyone is plotting something, we just need to know what it is so we can prepare ourselves!" Arthan, taking the floor, says, "At this moment, our battles must be preventative, because we still don't have the structure to withstand another war against anyone!" Relon agreed with this and asked Alister to find a mercenary and spy for this purpose.

During his return journey, Saladon sinks into his contemplations and shadowy plans. His advisor's discoveries about Kal stir the underworld of his intentions, leading him to seek more information in the archives of the ancient kingdom of Tenai. The revelation that Kal could be the lost heir of that kingdom prompts Saladon to consider extreme measures to protect his own interests, revealing the complexity of the power dynamics at play.

Meanwhile, Kal's journey to Elaria is marked by a grim discovery about the land they left behind. The vision of the capital, Alnuum, now a symbol of decline, awakens deep reflections in Kal and his companions about the fragility of peace and the permanence of scars from war. The conversation with Lua, offering an elven perspective on the corruption of nature, enlightens Kal's path with the understanding that Nannu's restoration will require more than human efforts.

At dawn, after a night of shared revelations and confidences, the company prepares to return to the road to Elaria. Although burdened with concerns about his identity and what it could bring of ill to his friends and family, Kal is guided by hope and determination to find solutions that can bring a new dawn for all. This new chapter in the life of Kal and his companions promises to be a time of growth, discovery and, above all, the quest for a miracle capable of healing the wounds of a kingdom.

After a long journey, Kal, accompanied by his siblings and friends, finally reaches the great elven gateway of Elaria. Lua's presence, recognized as princess, ensures their immediate entry, a gesture that underlines the importance of this mission. Inside the gates, elven priests receive them, performing purification rituals, a tradition that highlights Elaria's sacredness, protecting it against any vestige of darkness the visitors may bring.

The city revealed before them is of breathtaking beauty, a perfect union of architecture and nature where magic seems to permeate every stone and leaf. Inala and Sin, amazed, see their childhood dreams take shape before their eyes, every detail of the city evoking stories of fairies and ancient magic. However, the journey was not yet over; Lua reminds them of the need for haste, directing them to the port, for the true capital, Arlathania, still awaited them.

Gwen, confused by the detour, questions Lua about the change of plans, revealing a common misconception among non-elves: although impressive, the border city is not the capital. Lua clarifies, with a smile, that Arlathania was still to come, and that a boat would take them there. The revelation only adds to the group's anticipation, eager to discover more wonders in the heart of Elaria.

As they make their way to the port, all remain captivated by the symphony of colors, sounds and aromas that define Elaria. The elves' coexistence with their environment, a living testimony to the harmony between being and nature, serves as a powerful reminder of what is at stake β€” and what could be lost if the shadows threatening the world were to prevail. This moment, although brief, strengthens Kal and his companions' determination, preparing them for the challenges and revelations that await them in Arlathania.

As the group approached the port of Arlathania, the harmonious interaction of the elves with their natural environment unfolded before them. The journey was punctuated by observation of elven life, an existence so integrated with nature that it made the elves seem like true children of Mother Earth. Worshipers of the gods Selerian and Terran, they personified the preservation and celebration of natural life in all its forms.

The journey, until then marked by discoveries and fascination, took a worrying turn when Inala began to feel ill. What initially seemed like just seasickness from the boat ride turned out to be something more serious when she fainted, with blue marks appearing on her skin. Lua acted quickly, preparing a place for Inala to rest and urging the ferryman to pick up the pace towards the capital.

Kal, overwhelmed with concern, feared his sister had been poisoned before leaving Alnuum. Accompanied by Sin, who did not leave Inala's side, holding her hand in a gesture of comfort and support, Kal grew increasingly anxious about her health.

The group's anxiety was momentarily forgotten when the imposing silhouette of Arlathania began to take shape on the horizon. "It won't be long now," said Lua, trying to reassure Kal with the promise they were almost arriving. The vision of the city, a testament to elven grandeur, brought a mixture of admiration and urgency, for they knew the journey would not end until they discovered what afflicted Inala.

This abrupt transition from fascination to worry shaped the rest of their journey to Elaria. While the beauty of the elven kingdom filled their eyes, the urgency and fear for Inala's well-being weighed on their hearts. With each step towards the city, the hope of finding a cure for Inala intensified, putting Kal and his companions in a race against time to seek answers in Arlathania's elven heart.

Arriving at Arlathania's port, the urgency of Inala's condition is recognized by the elves, who promptly take her to receive care. Amarie, known for her bravery in battle alongside the high king, immediately perceives the singularity of Inala's condition and insists on treating her without delay.

Lua expresses her concern to Amarie, highlighting Inala's importance as a sister to an esteemed friend. Amarie, using her knowledge of ancestral elven magics, discovers the immense dormant mana within Inala, identifying the cause of her discomfort.

Meanwhile, the elven court requests Kal's presence, but he refuses to leave without news of Inala's condition. Lua intercedes, asking her father for understanding so that Kal can remain at his sister's side until her condition improves.

Amarie manages to stabilize Inala, using a rune stone to absorb the excess mana. This act relieves Inala's symptoms, allowing her to rest. The intensity of mana contained in the stone surprises them all, evidencing the young girl's latent power.

Concern over future occurrences leads Amarie to instruct Kal on using the rune stone to control Inala's mana. She demonstrates through a magic act how to drain excess energy from the stone, a practical lesson that Kal engraves in his memory to protect his sister in the future.

Kal watched over Inala all night, his worry only eased by the peaceful sleep she finally found under Amarie's care. In this intimate, quiet moment, Amarie approached Kal to discuss Inala's unique condition. She revealed to Kal the surprising discovery of mana supernaturally powerful within Inala, something that challenged even the wisest elven understanding.

During their conversation, Amarie questioned Kal about any magical training Inala may have received, intrigued by the power's origin. Confused, Kal reaffirmed that Inala had never undergone any training, just a normal child in his eyes. Amarie then explained the importance of mana use and training for mages, indicating that Inala would need a master to teach her to control such power.

Kal, immersed in his concern, refused to leave Inala's side even when summoned by the high king. His determination to protect his sister reinforced the urgent need to find answers and solutions for the sudden awakening of such powers. With the help of a rune stone, Amarie managed to stabilize Inala's condition, a process that left all present both relieved and in awe of the density of mana revealed. This moment marked a turning point, illuminating the need for a path for Inala to learn to deal with her mana.

While Sin observed the conversation hidden, a whirlwind of emotions consumed him. Feeling like the only "normal" one in a family of extraordinary individuals, he reflected on his own importance and role. The memory of Kal's request to protect the family ignited in Sin a flame of determination to overcome his insecurities and find his own way to contribute to his family's legacy.

While Lua strived to explain Inala's situation to the high king, her father Ellanon revealed he was awaiting another significant visitor, postponing Kal's meeting. Intrigued, Lua inquired about the visitor's identity, considering the rarity of such occurrences since her childhood. Ellanon, suggesting imminent changes in the world, instructed Lua to show Arlathania to Kal and his friends, taking advantage of the waiting time.

Finding Gwen waiting, Lua shared the news, deciding to quickly return to the houses of healing to inform Kal of the postponement. On the way, they witnessed the arrival of a woman of undeniable presence, escorted by guards in shining armor. The ethereal appearance of this woman, standing out even among elves, captured everyone's attention, culminating in the moment she entered the throne room, where even Ellanon, the high king, knelt in reverence.

This scene leaves Kal and his companions in a reflective pause, pondering the connections and mysteries still to be uncovered in Elaria as they await their own audience with the high king, and contemplating the role Inala, with her unprecedented magical energy, may play in the future.

The following morning, Kal woke up to the arrival of Lua and Gwen. Together with Katara and Sin, they finally looked upon the great elven city before them, contemplating it with great wonder and admiration. Lua simply said:

"Welcome to Arlathania, The Blessed City, capital of Elaria and the greatest elven city in the world!"