Upon stepping through the portal, Oda sensed an enchanting shift in the air, a manifestation of magic. The humble, aged cabin he found himself in stood as a testament to the timeless essence of this mystical realm. Crafted from sturdy wood and devoid of windows, it radiated a resilient charm, its dimensions spanning a mere couple of meters in width and length.
Setting aside the cabin's rustic details, Oda swung the creaking door open, eager to behold the wonders that awaited beyond its threshold. As the wooden door parted from the inside, a gust of magical wind enveloped him, revealing a world of pristine beauty. The vibrant forest, painted in hues of green and adorned with mystifyingly colorful flowers and fruits, unfolded before him. Giant trees stood as sentinels, casting shadows over the landscape.
Amidst the natural symphony, a voice, gentle yet commanding, resonated through the air. "Welcome to our Nexus!" uttered a feminine voice in an unknown language.
Turning towards the sound, Oda beheld a figure—a humanoid presence no taller than a toddler. However, appearances deceived, as this ethereal being boasted space-blue hair and an otherworldly beauty. Her eyes held the wisdom of the universe, and an aura of warmth and mystery surrounded her.
Oddly, Oda comprehended the language, a gift absorbed from the ancient tome. A prolonged silence ensued between the mysterious being and Oda until he finally broke it with a cautious greeting. "Hi, I'm Oda. Who are you?" he inquired, a blend of nervousness and excitement coloring his words.
Apologizing for her oversight, the figure revealed herself, "My name is Elara. I am the ancient Enchantress of the Lostlands, the very land beneath your feet," she declared with joy.
Oda nodded in understanding.
Elara elucidated her purpose, expressing a profound commitment to guide and assist Oda in this new realm. Her anticipation for this moment was palpable. "You've been waiting your whole life for me?" Oda sought confirmation.
"Yes," Elara affirmed, her eyes holding an ageless spark.
Perplexed by the revelation, Oda probed further, "Is there a specific reason I was chosen? Am I meant to fulfill some grand destiny, like defeating an Ancient Demon King or something?"
Elara's response carried an unexpected freedom. "I don't have any demands from you, Oda. I'm simply here to guide you. What you choose to do is entirely up to you."
As thoughts raced through Oda's mind, contemplating the significance of Elara's presence, he sought clarification. "Am I really free to do whatever I want in this world?"
A resolute "Yes" echoed from Elara.
Curiosity unabated, Oda delved deeper, "Will you assist me in my endeavors?"
Elara extended her support, "Consider me an ally, a friend. I am here to help and teach you. However, as I've lived through countless years, I lack a physical form. Our communication is possible only through the existence of ancient magic."
As the realization settled in, Oda sought to understand Elara's essence. "So, you're like a wandering soul?"
Elara nuanced her identity, "Not exactly. Think of me as a ghost, visible and communicative only to you."
Accepting this unique connection, Oda embarked on his journey of understanding. "Let's begin. Can you tell me about this world, Nexus?"
Elara, with the wisdom of ages, painted a vivid tapestry of Nexus—a realm with diverse races such as elves, dwarves, humans, demons, each kingdom with its complexities. As Oda absorbed the intricate details, he became acutely aware of the intricate web of kingdoms and their interwoven destinies in this enchanting land.
"In the realm of Nexus, a world where technological prowess lags far behind your Earth, various races coexist amidst a delicate tapestry of alliances and conflicts. The continent hosts seven kingdoms, with humans dominating four, and other races claiming the rest."
"The realm we currently inhabit, known as the Lostlands to the denizens of this magical world, is a land brimming with enigmatic resources and inhabited by formidable magical creatures. Our safety within this mystical expanse is ensured by my presence as the enchantress. I hold the ability to command the creatures residing in the Lostlands, a power that you, Oda, share through your mastery of ancient magic. Moreover, the Lostlands extend across a vast territory that dominates a significant portion of this continent. However, other kingdoms refrain from occupying it, as the presence of mighty and untamed creatures within renders it unconquerable."
"Ardania, the foremost human kingdom, reigns supreme with a population of 3,200,000. Its vast cities bustle with trade and house skilled knights, their influence extending 1400 kilometers to the north of our current location."
"Sablea, once prosperous human kingdom, now grapples with corruption and social unrest. Its ruling elites prioritize personal welfare, plunging the 600,000 citizens into poverty. Located 900 kilometers to the east, the kingdom struggles under the weight of political intrigue."
"Seafall, a bustling coastal human kingdom, thrives on trade and commerce, forming a military alliance with Ardania. Yet, beneath its economic prosperity lies a stark wealth divide orchestrated by the ruling merchant council. The kingdom's closest city lies 1200 kilometers northeast."
"Ravenstone, the fourth human kingdom, teeters on the brink of disappearance. Internal strife and external threats have eroded its once-powerful status, leaving 350,000 inhabitants in the throes of decline. The closest city is 700 kilometers west of our present location."
"Silverwood, the elven sanctuary, and the fifth kingdom harbors 150,000 occupants in its forest realm. Renowned for skilled mages and archers, the elves' love for nature defines their kingdom. Located 650 kilometers south, Silverwood stands as a testament to elven pride."
"Stoneholm, nestled in mountainous terrain, the sixth kingdom, houses the Dwarves—masters of craftsmanship and mining. With a population of 80,000, their trade in minerals and finely crafted goods echoes through the mountains. The closest city lies 500 kilometers southeast."
"Netherrend, the demon kingdom, the seventh kingdom, defies common perception. Inhabited by demons with humanoid features and darker skin, the 50,000-strong populace seeks knowledge, magic, and harmonious existence. However, their reputation as 'evil', although they are not, fuels ongoing wars, particularly with humans. The closest city is 500 kilometers southwest from the Lost Lands."
"Oh, and for your understanding, ancient magic is exclusive to beings of our caliber. The common inhabitants of this world wield ordinary magic, which utilizes the same mana but follows different spellcasting techniques. Unlike them, we don't need intricate incantations or elaborate wand gestures for our spells."
Nodding thoughtfully, Oda absorbed the details of the continent's geography and territorial layout.
"Is there anything else worth noting? Can you accompany me through the portal? Can beings from both my world and yours traverse it?" Oda inquired.
"Yes, they can, with your permission. Much like how you can perceive me, I can make myself visible to others. You possess the same capability with the portals," Elara responded.
With this clarification, Oda expressed his understanding. Glancing at the darkening sky, he realized it was getting late, prompting him to contemplate his plans for the future. He bid farewell to Elara and returned home, preparing for the challenges that lay ahead.