The land of martial arts and harmony, Celestial Harmony, was a realm of beauty and tranquility. According to ancient records, after the Celestial War, sages from the different celestial orders descended upon this land to create a sanctuary where people could live in peace. Over time, it evolved into one of the most prosperous lands in the Eight Celestial Worlds. Thus, Celestial Harmony was born.
"Man, reading books is truly bothersome to me," Nahile muttered as he closed the ancient tome in front of him. His dark hair, shimmering under the lantern light, contrasted with the shadows of the library.
Nahile, seated comfortably in a lavish room within the grand palace of Huajing, the capital of the Realm of Waterfall, was surrounded by his companions. There was Luna, the dragon with silver hair who was as fierce as she was beautiful; Kaela, the witch whose magic was as mysterious as her past; and his childhood friend, who now served as an advisor and confidante.
He flicked through the pages of a history book that detailed the origins of Celestial Harmony, its establishment, and its current status as a beacon of peace and prosperity. Yet, amidst the seemingly benign narrative, Nahile's thoughts wandered to a different concern.
"What's so fascinating about this prophecy anyway?" he asked, his voice tinged with a mix of boredom and disdain.
Luna, seated beside him, shot him a curious glance. "The prophecy speaks of the Chosen One, Nahile. It's said that this individual will bring about great change, possibly even reshape the future of our world."
"Hmm," Nahile grunted, his eyes narrowing. "Sounds like more of the same old legend to me. But, if it helps secure my place at the top, I'll play along."
Kaela, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "The Chosen One is believed to be someone who defies all odds. If the prophecy is true, then it could have significant implications for us."
Nahile's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Well, if I'm the one to fulfill this prophecy, then so be it. I've already proven my worth."
As the conversation continued, Nahile reflected on his rise to power. The system he had acquired was more than a mere tool—it had been his ticket to greatness. The quests, the power-ups, the accolades—it all fed into his carefully crafted persona of a prodigy.
His rise had been swift, and his achievements remarkable. Yet, he remembered how the system had given him direction, how each quest had pushed him further, and how the power he wielded now was a product of that relentless pursuit. He had worked hard to build his reputation, and though he was surrounded by loyal companions, the truth of his journey was far more complex than what met the eye.
In a rare moment of introspection, Nahile thought of Alan. It had been five months since Alan's disappearance. The destruction in Celestial Verlim had been catastrophic, and Nahile had initially feared the worst. However, upon closer investigation, he found no trace of Alan's body, which led him to believe Alan might still be alive. This belief was more about maintaining his own image than genuine concern for Alan's well-being.
As Nahile turned his attention back to the present, he noticed a mysterious figure entering the room. The figure, cloaked and shadowed, had a presence that demanded attention.
"Who's there?" Nahile asked, his curiosity piqued.
The figure stepped forward, revealing a face partially hidden by a hood. "I've come with information about the prophecy," the figure said, their voice smooth and enigmatic. "Information that may change everything."
"First of all, who are you? Don't you fear I might call the guard?"
"You can if you want, but can you risk losing valuable information about the prophecy?"
The room fell silent as the figure continued, their words shrouded in secrecy. "The Chosen One is not who you believe it to be. There are truths hidden within the prophecy, truths that could alter the course of your destiny."
Nahile's eyes narrowed. "What are you suggesting?"
"I can help you become the Chosen One if you do what I tell you to do."
The figure's gaze was piercing. "There is another, someone you have yet to consider. The real Chosen One's identity is cloaked in mystery, and the true path to their discovery is fraught with danger."
As Nahile absorbed the revelation, his mind raced with the implications. If the prophecy was indeed flawed or misleading, it could affect not only his position but also the entire course of his plans. And in any case, he had nothing to lose. He had his system to back him up if anything went wrong.
"Heh, fine. Tell me what you've got. But remember, if you give me fake information, the consequences will be dire!"
The cloaked person grinned mischievously. "As you wish, your lordship."