Jasim and Raisa walk out from the meeting room after discussing about the meeting with Jamal sir...Raisa: So... We are going on a mission together...
Jasim: Yes, we are! And it's going to be thrilling and exciting!
Raisa: But... We still don't have any idea as to where we're going to go for our mission?
Jasim: Yeah true, it will be far away from Anatolia, but am sure wherever we go, we will gain more experience, and allies as well... Hopefully...
Raisa: I hope so too... By the way, I feel tensed... And nervous... (stutters)
Jasim: Let's take a stroll through the gardens, that should help you relax...
Raisa: I guess sitting amidst the orchids will help...
Jasim: Alright then
As Jasim and Raisa sit down amidst the orchids, their good memories flash by them, and Raisa lays her head on Jasim's shoulders...(Past – 5 Years Ago)Just as things went smoothly for Saeed regarding his proposal, he discusses with Jasim about love and relationships.
Saeed: Love is such a euphoric feeling, right? I mean it makes me feel better and happier than ever... By the way Jasim, you haven't told me about your love story yet...Jasim: It is indeed a euphoric feeling... Love changes a person, for better or for worse. And as far as my love story is concerned... It is a long story...
Saeed: Oh wow! Now that's a story worth listening to! Let's sit on the logs beside the garden and enjoy the view!
Jasim and Saeed proceed to sit down, and Jasim starts narrating his story to Saeed.(Past – 6 Years Ago)Jasim and Saeed triumphantly return to the Destaani headquarters after their first mission, which was a smashing success. At the same time, an all-women debut team also succeeds in their "first-ever" squad mission. The headquarters is filled with joy and laughter, along with bright lights, funky and upbeat music, and chill weather. Jasim and Saeed enjoy the evening, and they sit down to consume a glass of fresh orange juice. After finishing their drink, Saeed heads out to fresh up. Jasim is all alone in his table. He sets his sight on the lead commander of the all-female debut team, and for good reason... She is tall, fair-skinned and beautiful, with a catchy name as well: Raisa. He is so amazed by her, that he gets up from his place and starts following her... Raisa notices it, and she walks towards the buffet section, as there are a lot of people present there. As Jasim sits down on his table after he filled his plate, he sees Raisa sit beside him...
Jasim: Well, uhm... Hi! I wasn't expecting you to sit right beside me...Raisa: Yeah right! Anyways, what is your name? What is your rank in the Destaani? And when did you join in here?
Jasim: My name's Jasim, and I've joined in very recently... Currently, am a junior commander. What about you though? What is your name? And rank??
Raisa: I am Raisa, and I've joined the Destaani recently, about 3 months ago I guess... Due to my recent success, I've been promoted to Junior Commander. By the way, why did you follow me till here?
Jasim: Raisa huh? A beautiful name indeed... Even I tasted success with my first mission thankfully... And yeah, I followed you because well... I wanted to know more about you...
Raisa: Aww... Thanks for the compliment! Well since you want to know more about me, how about we fill our plates once again? We can eat together and get to know more about each other as well...
Jasim: Sounds like a plan to me...
Jasim and Raisa enjoy their meal, and they talk about their life, past and the like... After their discussion, they head towards the coast.Raisa: Ahh the breeze! It is so chill! And the weather is lovely too!Jasim: Indeed... Now's a good time to head towards the coast...
As they walk further, they spot a bunch of plants bearing fragrant and exquisite flowers...Raisa: Look at this marigold! It's just as beautiful as the sunset!Jasim: Not as beautiful as you for sure...
Raisa: Wait what?
Jasim: Yeah, and am in love with you! In fact, am madly in love with you!
Raisa: Woah hold up! (chuckles) For real?
Jasim: YEAH! (with enthusiasm)
Raisa: Damn! I mean... Am in love with you too! I didn't know if you liked me or not, that's why I didn't really talk about it... (nervous)
Jasim: It's alright! At least I took the first shot...
Raisa: (chuckles) Yeah true!
After moments of staring at each other lovingly, Raisa gives in and hugs Jasim tightly. Things go great between them for 2 months until...Raisa: Hey Jasim! (with a worried face)Jasim: Hey! What's the matter? You look sad and dull...
Raisa: Well, it could be good or bad news depending on the way you see it...
Jasim: Hmm... Go ahead, tell me about it...
Raisa: So uhm... I'll be going on an undercover mission in Rhineland, and I'll be there for around 4 months...
Jasim: Am glad that you got the mission! You'll definitely give your best and gift us success with this mission...
Raisa: Thanks, but 4 months...
Jasim: It's alright, stay strong, and always remember me in your prayers. Don't overthink about anything, just go ahead with your mission, and return safely...
Raisa: Thank you so much! You stay safe too! I'll try my best to return as soon as possible...
Raisa and Jasim exchange hugs, and she proceeds to head out for the mission...(Past – 5 Years Ago)Saeed: Oh, so that's how your dinner went! I thought you would be bored without me, but you turned that eventful dinner into an opportunity to find your true love. By the way, it's been 4 months since she went for that Rhineland mission. Did she return?
Jasim: Well, even though she said, "4 months", I knew that was only in the best-case scenario. When I recently asked about it, they said that the mission is progressing smoothly, and she's at the final stages of the mission. She'll return in a month or two safely... Hopefully...
Saeed: (pats Jasim's shoulder) Rest assured... She will come back...
(Present Day)After a good two hours or so, Raisa wakes up...
Raisa: Wow, did I just oversleep?!Jasim: Nah, you took a good nap. After all, these missions really did tire you out a lot...
Raisa: You're right. But at least, this time it's a mission where we're going together and completing it.
Jasim: By the way, do you have any idea on where we're going for this mission?
Raisa: Yeah, well, we're heading to the Kingdom of Arrendale...
Jasim: Arrendale?? The kingdom within the Far North?
Raisa: Yes, THAT Arrendale. And our aim is to find allies, since Jamal sir anticipates a nasty war that can change the dynamics of Anatolia, our region.
Jasim: Sounds fair, any idea on who could be our allies there?
Raisa: We weren't able to get any data on that, so it's up to us to find that out...
Jasim: That's tough, but doable... Let's prepare ourselves for the mission...
(Meanwhile in Eastern China)Simon has prepared his army, which consists of 10000 war tacticians and 20000 soldiers. He has also equipped his soldiers with fancy new technologies like smart suits, invisible shields, recoil reducers, and the like. Just as Simon gets ready to set out to Anatolia, a mysterious man, dressed in a purplish-black cloak with distinct markings, appears in front of him. The man introduces himself as Vortex, and claims to "harness the energy of the universe to control space and time".
Simon: These are just MYTHICAL LIES! How can one claim to control something as complex as "space and time"?!Vortex: (with a deep and bassy voice) WITNESS MY ALMIGHTY POWER!
Vortex proceeds to change the evening sky into a morning sky, and also changes the autumn-esque landscape into a blooming spring landscape (with a lot of "believable" trickery involved of course, but why would he care?) Simon stands in awe as he manipulates the environment...Simon: This... Is Impossibly REAL!Vortex: YES! And I can do MORE! Also, you have no idea about my influence in this world... I am the reason many villains and anti-heroes exist. I decide EVERYTHING about any war, and above all, I am THE REASON as to why harmony and balance exists on this planet!
Simon: Alright sir, what should I do now?
Vortex: Go to Anatolia and avenge your brother. BUT recruit more men for this battle while you do so...
Simon: I have about 30 thousand soldiers at my disposal, who are well equipped and fully armed. Aren't they a bit too much for this mission?
Vortex: 30 thousand? (chuckles) You will be easily defeated by the Destaanis. They keep about a hundred thousand men as a reserve force, imagine how much more soldiers they can assemble if they sense danger...
Simon: Alright, the BEST I can do is to gather about 50 thousand soldiers, with the extra 20 thousand being my elder brother's soldiers...
Vortex: Even that won't be enough...
Simon: Then what can we do sir?
Vortex: How about... Bringing back Aaron into the game?
Simon: Aaron? Jasim... Killed him? How's it possible?!
Vortex: I MAKE THE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE!
Aaron Liu enters the spot, and stands beside Vortex...Aaron: Yes Simon, it was possible thanks to the Vortex...Simon: Brother! Ahh am so glad to see you again!
Aaron: I have a revenge to take, and it'll be a tough one...
Simon: But we only have 50 thousand...
Aaron: Did you inform everyone else in the region about my death?
Simon: Not yet, but I was about to...
Aaron: Cancel all the preparations you did regarding my death announcement, I'll gather up some allies from the region, and gain some extra soldiers...
Vortex: How many more soldiers can you gather?
Aaron: At best, about a hundred and fifty thousand, and in the worst-case scenario, about 45 thousand soldiers...
Vortex: That alone is enough to tip the scales in our favour... Besides, I have my men as well in the Destaani reserve forces... But either way, we should make sure that the numbers advantage is in our side... Victory will be ours!
Simon and Aaron: INDEED! VICTORY IS OURS!
Aaron and Simon gather about 75 thousand men from the alliance talks, which convinces Vortex that they will surely win, and opens a portal to Anatolia, where all the soldiers walk through it. Simon and Aaron enter the portal, and then Vortex enters lastly, who closes the portal...(Meanwhile at the Destaani Headquarters)The Arrendale mission commences within 2 days, Jasim and Raisa meet everyone before leaving for the mission. Coincidentally, an old commander of the Destaani returns from a long-standing mission that was given to him about 5 years ago. His name is Faiz Ihsan and was one of the members who played a significant role during the founding of the Destaani clan. He also happens to meet Jasim and Raisa while he is on his way to the attendance room.
Faiz: Jasim! Raisa! How have you both been?!Jasim: Faiz sir? It's been a long time! I am doing good sir!
Raisa: Sir am doing great! How about you sir?
Faiz: I've been alright, and am alright now... I've heard about the incidents that happened while I was away, and they are saddening indeed...
Raisa: Yeah... Indeed...
Faiz: Alright, I have to head to the attendance room... I'll be on my way... With your permission...
Jasim: Sure sir!
Jasim and Raisa proceed to meet Saeed and Akira...Saeed: Brother, you are going to a mission without me?! How come?!Jasim: Calm down brother, I'd like you to also join in the mission, but in the current scheme of things, it's actually better if you stayed here... I'll complete my mission peacefully, knowing that my brave and smart comrade brother will protect the Destaani from any unexpected dangers...
Saeed: Hmm... Alright, but do you think the Destaani is under any threat right now? Like we've eliminated Aaron, who was a real pain... So, what else awaits us?
Jasim: Aaron, while yes, he was annoying, was far from the last enemy we would be encountering. There is very good reason to believe his dim-wit younger brother Simon Liu would come here to take revenge of his elder brother... And besides, it'd seem like a good opportunity for our enemies to attack the headquarters while myself and Raisa are away...
Akira: Well said Jasim, and in view of this threat, let me bring in more of my soldiers, so that we can better protect this place...
Jasim: That's a good thought, we'll definitely need more soldiers now more than ever. As the Destaani clan's name and fame grows, so does its enemies...
Saeed: (sighs) Alright then brother, have a safe trip to Arrendale, and stay safe while you're there...
Jasim: Thank you so much brother!
Akira: May your mission go smoothly, Raisa. All the best!
Raisa: Thanks Akira! The headquarters is entrusted to you and Saeed!
Akira: We'll do our best and protect the trust!
Two days later, Jasim and Raisa fly to Arrendale via a supersonic jet, while Saeed and Akira increase the number of soldiers patrolling the headquarters...(Meanwhile at Simon's War Camp)Vortex: Simon! Get your soldiers ready! Now is a great time to attack the Destaani Headquarters!
Simon: Alright sir, but with what information have you decided that now is a good time to attack?
Vortex: Jasim and Raisa flew to Arrendale, and Jamal is not around. The Destaani HQ is more vulnerable now!
Simon: Makes sense sir... SOLDIERS! GET READY! WE'RE ATTACKING THE DESTAANI HEADQUARTERS BY EVENING!!
Vortex: Evening? Why not right now?
Simon: It's much more thrilling to attack in the dark after all...
Vortex: I see, alright then, listen up to the plan... Some of my soldiers will be sneaking in, and then attacking the HQ. Meanwhile you will support our attack from the outside. Sounds like a plan.
Simon: Yes sir, indeed!
Vortex: Good, let us proceed with the preparations then...
A handful of Vortex's men are assigned with sneaking into the Destaani Headquarters... By around 3:30 in the afternoon, they reach the headquarters in the guise of merchants. A group of about 4 men are leading the cart, with the rest of them hiding stealthily amongst the carriages. The leader of the merchant caravan introduces himself as Ahmet.Guard 1: Hold your caravan right there! Who are you?! What is the reason for your arrival in the Destaani Headquarters?!Ahmet: We're merchants, from the faraway lands of Damascus. Actually, Commander Jasim tasked us with bringing naphtha and Greek Fire for defensive purposes...
Guard 2: But how can I verify your claims?! Commander Jasim is also not around...
Ahmet: No need to worry, I have a document that verifies my visit to the headquarters...
The guards scrutinise the document, and they let Ahmet, and his men enter the headquarters...Merchant 1: (whispers) Vortex is indeed much more powerful than we can imagine... He even managed to replicate Jasim's lightning blue coloured seal on an authentic trader's document. Could he have some sort of alibi in the Destaani?!Ahmet: He is powerful indeed, but we should make sure he remains a mystery. And do not let your curiosity wander around, because it'll lead to your death in the end...
Merchant 1: (shivers) Understood sir...
They park their caravan in the merchant's parking area and unloading the weapons. The hidden men also move towards the places designated for them during the attack. Meanwhile Ahmet and his 3 men move towards the inventory, along with the naphtha and Greek fire barrels. Meanwhile a Destaani soldier walks towards Ahmet...Soldier: Who are you? And what are you doing here?Ahmet: We're merchants, and Commander Jasim assigned us with bringing naphtha and Greek fire to the headquarters for defensive purposes... Well, here's the document stating our visit...
The soldier scrutinises the document, and hands it back to Ahmet.Soldier: Very well then, you can enter the inventory...Ahmet and his men proceed to move towards the inventory... They place the Greek fire and the flying flame barrels on each corner of the inventory, and they also place the barrels beside inflammable substances like petrol drums and gunpowder chests. "Our work in the inventory is done, let's move on to other areas and place the remaining barrels" says Ahmet...Ahmet and his men place the remaining barrels around critical places of the Destaani Headquarters. They place the last barrel atop the headquarter entrance by around 5:30 in the evening... "We've placed all barrels, and we have around half an hour to go before the attack starts. Let's go and acquire some Destaani soldier uniforms..." says Ahmet...The time is 5:40 PM, Ahmet and his men, now dressed up as Destaani soldiers, wait near the entrance to allow Simon and his men inside. After around 10 minutes, they open the gate and let Simon's men pass through. A soldier spots Simon's men entering the headquarters, and rushes to the control room to inform Saeed. Another soldier, who witnesses the breach from a different spot, goes towards Ahmet...Soldier: You merchant! So, you are the traitor huh?! I will not allow those men to enter! Come on, let us fight!Ahmet: (laughs) I accept the fight! If you win, I'll send my soldiers back...
He shoots the soldier to death as he charged forth to attack Ahmet...
Ahmet: Look at him... Extremely smart indeed! (chuckles)
Meanwhile, the other soldier reaches the control room and talks to Saeed about his findings...Soldier: Sir! I have witnessed Simon and his men entering our headquarters.Saeed: What? No way?! Who has let them in?! SOLDIERS! INFORM EVERYONE! OUR HEADQUARTERS HAVE BEEN BREACHED!!
Soldier: It was Ahmet, that merchant who entered with a trade warrant signed by Commander Jasim...
Saeed: Jasim? Signing a trade warrant? I don't think he signed it... Either way, Simon has a harsh welcome waiting ahead for him. I'll make him pay for this dastardly move...
Saeed opens his phone and calls Akira...Saeed: Akira! My love! The headquarters has been breached!Akira: WHAT?! Alright, I'll mobilise my soldiers... What's the plan? Where do we meet?
Saeed: My plan is to take him down by surprise. And let's meet up at the square within 10 minutes...
Akira: Alright, let's stop them...
Simon and his men walk towards the towards the central square, only to be stopped by Saeed's men... Both sides clash, but Simon's men overpower Saeed's men. Simon and his men proceed to move towards the headquarter building... Meanwhile Ahmet and his men walk towards the harbour, and they start burning down the boats, barrels, and almost everything that was in there... However, Akira and her soldiers arrive on time to stop the mess that was happening at the harbour. The fires have been put out, but Ahmet escapes from the scene. As Simon walks towards the headquarter building, and sees no one around, his overconfidence kicks in, and he daringly walks towards the building. However, to his surprise, Saeed and his men were actually hiding behind the bushes. They fire a barrage of arrows, which leads to Simon losing his numbers advantage. At present, both sides are evenly matched... Simon orders his men to attack, while Saeed chooses to stay in defensive position. The biggest surprise comes in the form of Faiz Ihsan's backup, which single-handedly turns the scales of the battle towards the Destaanis... Seeing the loss of his soldiers, Simon chooses to retreat and fall back from the battle... They leave the headquarters with heavy losses...Saeed: Faiz sir! Thank goodness! You've arrived just in time... I can't thank you enough sir!Faiz: Always welcome my brave boy! Your dedication and bravery for saving the headquarters is very much appreciated... And as for myself, I just did my duty, and saved the Destaani from trouble...
Saeed: Yes sir, from a big trouble indeed!
Simon retreats to his war camp, and starts screaming in disappointment... He just can't keep his cool after he lost a good chance to decimate the Destaani Headquarters.Simon: AARGH! That headquarters could've been DESTROYED to pieces! That damned commander Faiz Ihsan! I'll make sure I impale him and skin him myself!Vortex: Calm down Simon...
Simon: HOW CAN I CALM DOWN?! VICTORY SLIPPED AWAY FROM MY HANDS WHILE I WAS TIGHTLY HOLDING IT!Vortex: Faiz Ihsan... Is my ally!
Simon: (surprised face) Wait what? If he was your ally, why didn't he destroy the headquarters while he had the chance?
Vortex: People like you... Are only focused on gaining victories and avoiding losses. But think bigger! Just think about the damage we've inflicted on them! Had we stayed any longer, the Destaani will follow their code red protocol, and we would be in danger. Besides, let the Destaani bask in their victory... We will hit them again, when they least expect it!
Simon: Oh... I didn't realise these many things can wrong... I apologise for my furious and rebellious behaviour sir...
Vortex: It would be much better if you could show the same type of behaviour to your enemies...
Simon: Alright sir!
As Saeed, Akira, and the Destaani HQ members slowly recover from the heavy damage incurred due to Simon's attacks, Jasim and Raisa try their best to find allies in Arrendale...Jasim: We've been wandering around Arrendale from sunrise to sunset, but to no avail! The region is scant, and we haven't found a single ally till now...Raisa: In that case, let's follow my final, last-option plan. I'd rather not do this but...
Jasim: What is it?
Raisa: Going to the Royal House of Arrendale, basically the Grand Arrendale Palace
Jasim: (laughs) Seriously?! You're going to go to the Royal Family of Arrendale and ask them to be our allies with us?! That is one solid plan indeed!
Raisa: Yeah, I know, I've got some issues with our family, but if I convince them enough, it'll work...
Jasim: Convincing them is a tough task, but if you can pull it off, it'll help our clan quite a lot... All the best then.
And so, they proceed to reach the Grand Arrendale Palace... As they travel to their destination via a snowmobile, Raisa reminisces of her time in Arrendale, and also her eventful departure from the area...(Past – 8 Years Ago)Raisa is a part of the Royal Family of Arrendale, Princess of Arrendale to be exact. Arrendale is a kingdom situated in the North Pole Region, with current-day Greenland as its capital city, and current-day Alaska as its economical trade capital. This kingdom was believed to be mythical and extinct after the Vikings conquered Greenland during the year 550AD. However, a few members from the House of Fjords (the house of the members of the Arrendale royal family) escaped the Viking assault and settled in modern-day Switzerland, where they stayed until the 17th century. They were specialists in seafaring technology, and the Arrendale Kingdom had one of the strongest navies during their prime time, their army was also equally as good. After their refuge in Switzerland, the surviving members of the House of Fjords gathered all their strength and advanced towards their former territories, and conquered much of what was their kingdom during their heyday.
Despite Raisa being the princess of Arrendale, her disappointment towards the royal family members stemmed from the fact that they were becoming more like the Vikings, who were known not only for their holistic takeovers, but also their merciless attitude, torturing and oppressing the innocent folk throughout their existence.She was the people's favourite, as she was quite different from the other members in her family. Known for her kind and caring behaviour, she always strived to provide the best for her people. She has also donated to the poor and needy without any hesitation...During the annual celebration of the House of Fjords, Raisa steps up to the pedestal and says: "After carefully analysing and observing this kingdom, I have decided to renounce my rights within the kingdom, and hence, I will not be Princess of Arrendale anymore!" The entire audience, and the royal family members are shocked with her decision...King: Raisa! This is a bold claim! If you said that in anger, then you can rectify it and...Raisa: I have made my decision, and I will leave this kingdom soon...
Raisa then leaves the Kingdom of Arrendale with her belongings. The public is saddened by her departure. As she traverses through the snow-clad lands, Arrendale soldiers face her, in a bid to eliminate Raisa. But with her fighting skills, she defeats all groups of assassins that were sent to kill her... She eventually reaches the Destaani encampment, set in the Polar Region, and seeks asylum...Raisa: I know about the Destaani's merciful and just behaviour; hence I request to take shelter within your premises.Jamal: Very well then, Princess of Arrendale...
Raisa: Actually, am not the princess of Arrendale anymore. I have renounced all my rights within the kingdom.
Jamal: Well, that makes it easier for us to protect you, since you will be considered as a normal citizen of Arrendale, Raisa
Raisa: I'd like to serve the Destaani, sir...
Jamal: That's great... We'll fly you to Anatolia, and you'll be informed about your mission there...
Raisa: Thank you very much sir!
(Present Day)After about 45 minutes of travelling on the snowmobile, they reach the Grand Arrendale Palace. They both head towards the main gate. However, two gate guards block their way...
Guard 1: You are not allowed inside Ma'am...Raisa: For what reason?
Guard 2: Ever since you renounced your rights within the kingdom, you have been denied access to the Arrendale Kingdom and its territories...
Raisa: So, I cannot enter, even as a civilian? Or even as a visitor?!
Guards: Unfortunately, that is not possible ma'am...
Jasim: Raisa, leave it, let's go...
Guard 1: You can enter sir... As a tourist...
Raisa: NO THANKS! He's with me... (pulls Jasim and takes him away)
Jasim and Raisa walk away from the gate...Raisa: Who do they think they are?! Just because I renounced my rights, does not mean I should be denied entry into my own birthplace!Jasim: Calm down Raisa... We'll think of a way in...
(Meanwhile at the Grand Arrendale Palace)The gate guards rush to meet the king, to inform him about Raisa's sudden arrival... He gets shocked after hearing that Raisa arrived and set foot on Arrendale after so many years...
King: HOW DARE SHE?! After renouncing her rights, she claimed that she would never set foot on Arrendale... What made her change her mind? You think I will allow your entry into Arrendale?! I am King Grignard the Seventh! And I will never embrace the one that turned her back on her homeland! SOLDIERS! TAKE DEFENSE POSITIONS!Commander: Your Majesty, why are we preparing as if a siege is about to happen?
King: Raisa's arrival is like declaring a war! I won't let her mess with my kingdom!
Commander: Understood sir!
King: Tell my son to be at my presence... NOW!
Commander: As you command, sir!
Within about 10 minutes, his son, the Crown Prince Arkham the Third, comes at King Grignard's presence...Grignard: My son! Your younger sister has come back! You know how much of a danger she poses...Arkham: Yes, I do father... I'll do the needful...
Arkham heads to the armoury and gathers his men...Arkham: If I know my sister well, she will most definitely use one of the secret entrances... I order all my soldiers to block the secret entrances... ALL OF THEM! NOW!!
Soldiers: YES SIR!
(Meanwhile...)Jasim and Raisa settle in an igloo...
Jasim: You sure that they'll offer an alliance? Because well, if they were this much hostile towards you, then they'll definitely get furious when they hear "Destaani" ...Raisa: It doesn't matter... Besides am also entering the city mainly to visit my late mother's grave, and to visit my people...
Jasim: Alright then... But why did you pull me away from there when they gave me entry as a tourist? I mean I could've helped you sneak from the inside...
Raisa: That'd be a suicide mission... My father isn't a merciful person. He'll make sure he skins you to death, not before gathering some info about me from you...
Jasim: Damn! Alright, we're sneaking in, right?
Raisa: It would've been easier, if my elder brother didn't exist. He knows A LOT about me, and he must've blocked the secret passages by now... Sneaking in will be difficult...
Jasim: (chuckles) When have things been easier for us?
Raisa: You're right, there has to be a way...
Jasim: Well, what about getting help from the public that used to admire you and respect you so much?
Raisa: The public... YES! JASIM! You're a genius! (kisses Jasim on the cheek) Thank goodness!
Jasim: Haha! What's the plan then?
Raisa: So, there is a secret entrance that only I know about, and it opens into the commercial trade-zone space. We can use that entrance and that area to our advantage...
Jasim: All is well and good, but we'll have to arm ourselves with weapons, as much as possible...
Raisa: Yeah! You have a point!
The duo gets ready to sneak into the Arrendale Palace, and they head towards the Eastern side of the city. After a few minutes of searching, they find the secret trapdoor that leads towards the Trade Zone.Raisa: We've found the secret entrance! Let's now sneak in and get things done!And so, they enter the city via the trapdoor, while wearing civilian outfits. After about 20 minutes walking via unexplored pathways, they finally reach the Trade Zone. While no one spots Raisa at first, an influential and wealthy trader, named Olof Stagard notices her...Olof: Welcome back Princess Raisa!Raisa: Thank you, Mr Olof! Now I need you to help me meet King Grignard right now... Can you, do it?
Olof: No problem at all Princess! I'll take care of it! You can stay in my shop while I prepare your meeting with the King...
Raisa: Thank you so much! I will never forget this favour...
Olof: Always welcome Princess...
Olof gets his caravan ready. He plans to sneak the Princess into the castle via the caravans... In the meantime, Raisa and Jasim head towards his shop.Raisa: It's just depressing to see how much the Kingdom has changed. The politics, economics and even the capital city of Alaska! I just hope my father will agree to ally with us...Jasim: Not me sounding less optimistic but, what should we do if our plan fails?
Raisa I'll have to arrange some commanders and soldiers that will help us with our escape...
Olof enters the shop roughly two hours later...Olof: The caravan is ready Princess!Raisa: Alright then, let's move!
Jasim: Let's hope everything goes as per plan...
Raisa: Even if it doesn't, we'll be cautious, don't worry...
Olof drives the caravans into the palace, and they eventually reach within a short time... The caravan is parked slightly away from the palace entrance.Olof: (whispers) Princess, you can enter the palace! I'll distract King Grignard for a short while...Raisa: This favour of yours will never be forgotten...
Raisa and Jasim sneaks into the palace. They move towards the courtroom via the secret passage, whose entrance is present beneath the medieval knight's armour present on display near the stairways... After entering the courtroom, they hide behind the throne... In the meantime, Olof converses with the King outside the palace...Grignard: Olof! My luckiest and most profitable trader! How is the trading situation? Any help is required from my side?Olof: My trade's all well and good... Caravans and goods are coming in from various parts of the world. Currently, Chinese trading partners are really useful for us, as they provide cheap goods with acceptable quality. If anything, I'd suggest a trade agreement with the Chinese, as it'll be beneficial for our kingdom...
Grignard: Hmm... You have a point! Locally made goods are rising in demand, and there isn't enough supply as well. The prices of many items are shooting up, and we need to fix it as soon as possible. I'll consider your opinion about the trading agreement and discuss about it with my council. Thank you, Olof! For your service towards the kingdom!
Olof: Always welcome, your Majesty!
Just as King Grignard was about to start another discussion, his son enters the palace...Arkham: I've held EVERY secret passage, yet there is no trace of her... What should we do father?Grignard: Don't return without finding your sister...
Olof: Your Majesty, if you allow me, I'd also like to leave...
Grignard: Sure, but what's that caravan about?
Olof: Oh yes! I almost forgot, it's my gift for you, your Majesty. This is the least I can do to show my gratitude towards the Kingdom...
Grignard: Soldiers, check the caravan!
After a frantic search, the soldiers return...Soldier: There is nothing suspicious Your Majesty, only exotic goods and weapons are on board...Grignard: Am so sorry Olof, after all the incidents, I've just had to make sure if everything was safe. By the way, what are those exotic goods and weapons that my soldiers found out?
Olof: It's alright, your Majesty! I've gifted you spices from India, steel from Türkiye, Lithium from the Americas, rubber from Indonesia, jade from China, AUG A4 assault rifles from Austria, UMP45 submachine guns from Germany, and authentic samurai swords from Japan...
Grignard: Thank you very much Olof! By the way, you said, China produces "cheap goods", but you have gifted me jade from the region... What's the reason?
Olof: On the contrary, jade produced by China is of the highest quality, your Majesty... China are the sole producers of original quality jade.
Grignard: Oh alright, I'll head back to the Palace. Once again, thank you very much for your precious gifts and your opinion on the trade agreement!
Olof: Always welcome, your Majesty!
King Grignard walks toward the courtroom, where Jasim and Raisa are already waiting behind the throne... The King sits on his throne and starts checking and signing official documents. Just as he finishes signing the first document, Raisa appears in front of King Grignard. Jasim knocks out the two gatekeepers and holds the courtroom door...Grignard: So, my dear daughter, you have finally stepped into Arrendale after 8 years! Tell me... What do you want?Raisa: I just have one request from you... And that is to sign an alliance with the Destaanis, will you be able to do it?
Grignard: NEVER! And since you've annoyed me enough, you won't be able to escape from here...
Raisa: You will pay heavily for this...
Grignard: (on Walkie Talkie) Raisa and another male fugitive are in Arrendale. Increase the number of soldiers near the gates and tell Arkham to be on the move to search for Raisa!
Raisa opens the trapdoor behind the King's throne. Enraged, King Grignard unsheathes his sword and gets ready to swing it on Raisa, but Jasim runs hurriedly and hits Grignard's neck. The sword falls from his hand, rendering him unconscious...Raisa: Is he DEAD?!Jasim: No, he's unconscious, he'll be alright... Hurry, we have to escape!
Jasim and Raisa enter the trapdoor, and reach the medieval statue... From there, they exit the palace, and find that the castle gate remained defenceless...Jasim: Either this could be some trap, or it could be due to the fact that the soldiers are scattered around the city. Either way, we're proceeding with caution. Load your pistol and keep it ready...The duo proceeds toward the palace gate, and they open it... They see soldiers moving around frantically. Jasim spots a narrow passageway...Jasim: Raisa, look to your left! There is a narrow passageway that we could use... Any idea as to where does it lead?Raisa: That is actually a decommissioned sewage line. We can use it to escape from the city...
Jasim: Alright then, we're using that passage. Remember, no heroic acts, just a stealthy escape. Alright?
Raisa: Got it...
They wait for about two minutes, and the soldiers move Eastwards, away from the palace gate... After the soldiers have left, Jasim and Raisa enter the narrow passageway. They walk for about 25 minutes, and they eventually reach the end of the passageway. Just as they step out, dozens of masked soldiers surround Jasim and Raisa... Arkham appears in from them...Arkham: (laughs nefariously) RAISA! Did you think you could escape from me?! I know that you'd use this secret entrance to get out from the city! Now you both are done for! SOLDIERS! ATTACK!To Arkham's surprise, a barrage of arrows strikes his men, killing most of them on the spot... Arkham turns around to see who lead the attack...Arkham: Ahh! It's the Tiger of the Seas! Form a defensive circle around the hostages!The Tiger of the Seas, along with two dozen of his men charge forward, and attack the remaining assassins. A fight ensures, and Arkham's men are defeated.Arkham: Imran Reis! You have no idea about what you're going to face if you kill me here!Imran: (chuckles) I know very well about what I am going to face. It'll be a disgrace if I let you leave from here alive... You're a cruel prince, one who enjoys grief, and death of the innocent people...
Arkham: Yeah yeah! Let's fight one on one then! The winner gets my sister and that damned fugitive...
Imran: Alright, let's duel! Three rounds... The one who either dies first or is injured the most wins...
Arkham: Sounds like a good deal to me... Soldiers, surround Jasim and Raisa!
As per duelling rules, each contestant has to move 10 steps from a common point. Imran takes out his M9 Beretta, while Arkham takes out his 45ACP Desert Eagle. Jasim steps out for referee purposes, and stands at a common point. He signals the contestants to fire. For Round 1, Imran gets shot on the thigh, while Arkham gets shot on the abdomen. For Round 2, each contestant moves 2 steps forward, and they fire once again. This time, Arkham is damaged even more severely, with him receiving a shot on the chest, while Imran gets shot on his left shoulder. For the final round, each contestant moves 3 steps forward... And this time, Arkham gets shot in the forehead, rendering him dead, while his bullet whizzes by Imran's right shoulder...The assassins get ready to swing their swords at Jasim and Raisa, but Sana takes out her Beryl M762 assault rifle and fires at the assassins...Sana: We've got over this trouble, and my duty here has been fulfilled... Let us get back to Anatolia...Jasim: Yeah, but Imran Reis is heavily injured. We'll treat him first, then head out to Anatolia...
Sana: Alright, both of you will be our guest until then...
Imran Reis, Sana, Jasim and Raisa get into their vehicles, and head to the Frozen Caves situated further North from the Arrendale Palace...(Back at the Destaani HQ in Anatolia)After a painful month, recovering from the surprise attacks and the damage inflicted by it, the headquarters is restored back to its former glory. Saeed has taken many precautionary measures, like installing MG7 Machine Guns (170 round, 4.2 second reload time) on the watchtowers, and installing floor-traps within the headquarters. He then proceeds to send a message to Jasim, informing him about the attacks dealt by Simon, and about Vortex's existence...
(Meanwhile at Vortex's Secret Headquarters)Simon: A month has passed sir... Aren't we going to do anything?
Vortex: Let's wait for the result of my move, then we will decide accordingly...
Simon: What move sir?
Vortex: Jasim and Raisa went to Arrendale, and if things go as per plan, they should be dead there...
Vortex's digital pager beeps, and it has a message that reads: Targets are alive, Prince Arkham is killed in a duel. Vortex throws the pager to the wall, and screams in agony... He them cools down quickly and sits on his throne...Simon: What's the matter sir?Vortex: Am heading to Arrendale... Jasim and Raisa aren't dead, and Prince Arkham was killed in a duel... Simon, I'll need about twenty of your best men for this mission, get them ready within an hour...
Simon: As you command, sir!
Simon leaves, and Vortex gets up and picks the pager that was thrown. He then dusts it off, and puts it in his pocket... After about an hour, Simon gets about 20 of his men ready for the Arrendale expedition, Vortex takes about 50 of his own men, and they get ready to set off...Vortex: Simon, you and Aaron are staying here... Take care of this place until I return... And, if the Destaanis dare attack us again, teach them a good lesson... Accompany us till the harbour, then start weakening the Destaanis...Simon: As you command sir!
Vortex and Simon head to the airspace, where Vortex and his 70 men fly to Arrandale by a jumbo-jet. Meanwhile, a spy sent out by Saeed observes everything, and sends back both textual and video evidence to Saeed. After doing so, he returns back to the Destaani HQ. Simon leads the rest of his men to their secret base, to prepare for an ambush at the Destaani Headquarters... The spy returns to Saeed with valuable information.Saeed: What did you learn?Spy: They're planning to lay an ambush at us, and they plan to take us down by surprise.
Saeed: SOLDIERS, TAKE PRECAUTIONS! What else?
Spy: Vortex is on his way to Arrendale, and he's travelling by a jumbo-jet along with 70 men...
Saeed: So, that's about a 16-hour journey... Jasim must take precautions then... And I'll finish off Simon's chapter, just like how Jasim ended Aaron once and for all...
Saeed proceeds to update Jasim on the current situation, and gets himself ready for hunting down Simon...(Meanwhile at Arrendale)Imran Reis has gotten better, and Jasim receives a lot of messages from Anatolia... Saeed informs Jasim about Vortex's existence and arrival, and also about his hunt for Simon. After seeing the messages, Jasim walks to Imran Reis.
Jasim: Imran Reis, I want to ask you something...Imran: Sure, what is it?
Jasim: Do you know anything about Vortex? He's a mysterious villain, a threat to us it seems...
Imran: Yes, he is a threat indeed... He claims himself to be the villain of villains, and is responsible for my defeat in the Balkan Sea...
Jasim: Actually, tell me more about yourself as well...
Imran: I am Imran Reis, a descendant of Hayreddin Hizir Reis... I was born a sailor, and I am a skilled navy captain. Oh, and Sana is my niece... My elder brother's daughter... She is a skilled seafarer as well... It seems like you know Sana, how did you both meet though?
Jasim: Yeah well, she worked at the Destaani, and we were good friends too...
Sana walks in and joins the conversation...Sana: Yes indeed, we are good friends uncle...Imran: That's nice, my niece... Well, I better head out to get some fresh air...
Sana: I guess it's better if myself and Jasim accompany you as well...
Imran: Sure thing!
Jasim, Sana and Imran Reis walk around the Frozen CavesJasim: Imran Reis, Vortex is on his way to Arrendale, and he'll be here within around 4 hours...Imran: Oh, my goodness! We should set out to Anatolia then! How many men is he bringing along with him?
Jasim: About 70 men in total...
Imran: Facing him right now would be a suicide mission, let's face him back in Anatolia... We'll have much better luck facing him there...
Sana: Alright, but how will we get to Anatolia, uncle?
Imran: By ship, but it'll take us three days...
Jasim: My instinct tells me to face him, but you have a point Imran Reis... Let us prepare the ships then...
Imran: (speaking on phone) SOLDIERS! Prepare 2 ships NOW!! Done, we'll depart within three hours...
Jasim: Alright then...
Imran Reis, Sana and Jasim return to the Frozen Caves. Imran goes to the shipyard, while Jasim strolls around. Raisa comes to Jasim...Jasim: Raisa, how are you doing?Raisa: Am alright, where have you been though?
Jasim: I went to meet Imran Reis, and I went on a walk with him...
Raisa: Huh, what's the matter?
Jasim: Well, I wanted to know more about him, and I also gave him some news from Anatolia...
Raisa: What news? And why are they preparing their ships?
Jasim: Vortex is on his way to Arrendale, and they are preparing the ships for this reason...
Raisa: We are going to retreat instead of fighting back?
Jasim: That's what I thought too... But fighting Vortex here would be too risky...
Raisa: I get it... We have a better chance against him in Anatolia. By the way, what did you learn about Imran Reis?
Jasim: Imran Reis is a descendant of Hayreddin Hizir Reis, and Sana is his niece.
Raisa: You mean the legendary Ottoman Naval Commander Hayreddin Hizir Reis?
Jasim: Yes, that Hizir Reis...
Raisa: We've got ourselves a formidable ally! Our efforts did not go in vain!
Jasim: Yes, a formidable ally while we're facing a mysterious and dangerous foe.
Raisa: By the way, you know Sana even before this incident, right?
Jasim: Yeah...
Raisa: I've heard you both were best friends, and that she proposed to you...
Jasim: Yes, but I rejected her proposal... Don't you worry about me developing feelings and whatnot...
Raisa: (sighs) That's what I was worried about...
Jasim: I'll have to talk to her though, since she is one of the Destaani Head Commanders...
Raisa: Yeah, that's understandable... When are we leaving for Anatolia?
Jasim: Within 2 hours, if there are no hiccups...
Raisa: Alright then, I should get ready...
Jasim: Sure
Jasim opens up his phone and messages Saeed...Jasim: Am on my way to Anatolia... We're leaving within 2 hours...Saeed: That's better then, we'll hunt down Simon together... Besides, facing Vortex here in Anatolia would be easier for you people...
Jasim: Indeed! That's exactly why am returning to Anatolia. Besides, my work here in Arrendale is over, so yeah, I'll text you once I set off from here...
Saeed: Sure thing! I got to go, talk to you later!
Jasim closes his phone, and keeps it in his pocket...
After about 2 hours, the ships are ready. Imran Reis, Jasim, Sana, and Raisa board the ship and set sail for Anatolia... They reach Anatolia 3 days later... Imran Reis docks the ship on to the harbour, and all of them get down from the ship.Jasim: Ahh, we're finally back to Anatolia...Raisa: Yes indeed! So, what do we do now?
Jasim: Saeed should be here anytime...
Saeed: Hey! Hope y'all had a great time in Arrendale!
Raisa: It was thrilling indeed... King Grignard announced that I am not his daughter anymore so there's that. Not that I mind anyway so yeah!
Jasim: Don't worry though, you've got a great set of people who are like family to you here...
Raisa: Yes indeed, am so grateful for coming here!
Jasim: So, Saeed, what's the situation here?
Saeed: Simon's attacks are still fresh, but he has also gained more men... He bought about 200 of his men that he stationed in East Asia to this region... The fight will surely be tougher...
Jasim: I am planning an undercover mission, where me, you, Raisa, Sana, Akira, Imran Reis, and a few soldiers infiltrate Simon's encampment...
Saeed: That'll be a challenging mission indeed...
Jasim: When have things been easy for us? (chuckles) Alright, we're heading to the headquarters...
(Meanwhile at Simon's War Encampment)About 200 men from Eastern China arrive at the encampment, and Simon prepares to bring in even more men... He calls all of his closest comrades to a meeting to discuss about bringing in more soldiers...
Simon: Fellow comrades! We need to improve our defences! And for that, we need to bring in our warfare technologies from China along with even more soldiers! We will prevail in this region for sure!As Simon keeps discussing about his plans for dominating the region, a fellow comrade of Simon, is actually a Destaani undercover agent! He is transmitting the entire conversation to Jasim, who is now aware of all the steps he takes, and all the plans he makes, and Jasim plans his move accordingly...(At the Destaani Headquarters)Jasim and the others arrive at the headquarters, and to their surprise, they find Jamal sir waiting for them...
Jasim: Jamal sir! Welcome back!Jamal: Thanks, my boy! Tell me about everything that happened here during my absence...
Jasim: Uh well... In short, we went to Arrendale, angered the King, found Imran Reis and his naval crew. Simon attacked while we were away, and... Vortex is attacking us at all possible opportunities.
Jamal: Did you say... Vortex?!
Jasim: Yeah?
Jamal: That mysterious person is a real nuisance indeed! Had I known that he was here, I wouldn't have left the headquarters!
Jasim: Is he an extremely serious threat to us?
Jamal: Yes indeed! If left unchecked, he will become a serious threat to the whole world!! Alright, where is he now?
Jasim: He took a plane and flew to Arrendale two days ago... Simon is all alone here...
Jamal: You were saying you have a plan to eliminate Simon, what is it?
Jasim: I've got information that he's planning to bring in more men, along with some of his warfare technology from China. If we manage to sneak in, and place the explosives all around his encampment, then we can easily eliminate him...
Jamal: That's a solid plan! After all, we need to get rid of Simon, because if my past experience is any indication, we'll face an enemy who's even more brutal than Simon...
Jasim: Alright sir, I'll prepare my soldiers to sneak in... We'll be ready within a day...
Jamal: Alright then, stay safe...
The preparations to sneak into Simon's encampment are ready the next day... Jasim goes to Jamal sir to discuss their plans, while Raisa makes sure nothing is missing and does a final check. After about an hour, at 7 in the morning, Jasim is ready to depart...Jamal: All the best Jasim! If we succeed, we're getting rid of a bothersome trouble to our clan... And, if anything goes wrong, I'll send in reinforcements...Jasim: Alright sir... We're leaving now! Come on!
(At the Harbour)Simon's ships from Eastern China arrive at the shore, and just like the informant relayed, a group of 20 elite men get off from the ship, and set off to Simon's encampment using 2 armoured minivans... Midway during their trip, the bombs that Jasim placed under the road beforehand, explodes, toppling the vans upside down... With much difficulty, the elite men exit the vans. Just before they could understand what was going on, Imran Reis and his men surround them...
Jasim: Ha! Look over here! It's Simon Liu's elite group of men! We should give them a warm welcome, so that they'll realise that these lands aren't anything like Eastern China!Elite 1: How did you know about us?! It was supposed to be a secret! Simon Liu...
Jasim: Argh! Cut it! It's clear that these are the last days for you... And how glad it is, that you're going to die in these beautiful lands!
Elite 2: Being sarcastic does not help, Jasim! One Shogun elite is equal to a hundred men!
Jasim: Yeah, we'll see about it! (chuckles)
Sana takes out her bow and fires a whistling arrow to the sky. Dozens of soldiers surround the group of elite men... "Overconfidence... Can bring down a person and destroy him to pieces... As I said earlier, all of you are blessed to meet with death in our beautiful and fertile lands..." says Jasim, who orders the soldiers to fire... The soldiers take their double-barrel shotguns and shoot down the 20 elite men...Jasim: 20 of them came here... Alright, let's turn the toppled van over! And Imran Reis, I need twenty of your best men... And you and Sana take the rest and go to the headquarters...Imran: Fine, but why do you want me to the headquarters?
Jasim: I'd feel less tensed if you and Jamal sir are at the headquarters...
Imran: Oh, alright then... I'll select the best ones and give them to your command, but they only know how to speak Nordic...
Jasim: That's alright, I'll be introducing them as mute yet skilful soldiers to Simon...
Imran: They're skilful indeed... All the best Jasim!
Jasim: Thank you Imran Reis!
Imran Reis leaves 20 of his men to Jasim, and heads to the headquarters with Sana and the rest of his men. Jasim, Saeed, and the 20 men paint their faces with Eastern Chinese markings and get into the vans. Raisa and Akira hide in the vans as well... After about 20 minutes of driving, they reach the Destaani's armoury. From there, they load up weapons, explosives, and everything else required for the mission. Jasim and his team reaches Simon's war encampment.Guard: Who are you? What's your purpose of visit?!Jasim: (shows ID) We are the Jingying (elite) group of soldiers coming all the way from Eastern China! And that van behind me also has a group of Jingying soldiers!
Guard: Alright sir, what is your name? I need it for the records...
Jasim: Just note it as Jingying, it is more than enough...
Guard: Noted, you can enter sir...
The vans enter the encampment, and are parked in the basement parking, Raisa and Akira hide within the parking for the time-being, while Jasim, Saeed and the 20 men move out from the parking to meet Simon, who is waiting at the quarters...Simon: Ahh! The Jingying soldiers! Welcome!Jasim: Thanks, and you must be... Simon Liu?
Simon: Yes indeed! And may I know your good name?
Jasim: Feng Xi, and these are the men that were trained under my guidance. They're mute sadly, but they are extremely skilful...
Simon: Skill is important after all... Being mute, they won't defy our orders, so there is that...
Jasim: Yes indeed... So, what's your plan? What will we do to Jasim?
Simon: That Jasim brat, he has given me a tough time here... But I surely do have a plan for him... I plan on luring him towards the waterfalls, and he'll have a tough time escaping from my trap... What do you say Feng Xi?
Jasim: It is a solid plan indeed... What are the latest developments in this region?
Simon: Nothing much, these lands are more like Eastern China. This region is pretty static... Mr. Feng Xi... Or should I say? Ja... Sim?!
Jasim is shocked, and what's even worse, is that Aaron Liu is alive! And he stands beside his brother Simon Liu...Jasim: Aaron Liu?! How is it possible?!Aaron: Anything is possible in this crazy world! (laughs)
Simon: Did you just think we would be sitting like ducks while you were getting ready to invade our encampment?!
Aaron: Oh, and thank you so much for the explosives you've bought into here! We're going to blow this place up, along with you people! (laughs nefariously)
Aaron's men bring Akira and Raisa from the basement parking, and they place them along with Jasim, Saeed and the 20 men... They place the explosives around them in a circle, and they chain them all up. They build a steel-wire barbed fence around them... Simon takes out his bow, moves back, and fires a flaming arrow, and the explosive barrels explode. As a result, the entire encampment is burned down...The Liu brothers walk away, with a feeling of accomplishment. A few minutes after their departure; Jasim, Raisa, Saeed, and Akira cough out the dust and try to gather their strength and stand up, but they fall to the ground...