In a realm where myth and reality intertwine, Nyūeden beckons with its vast expanse of opportunity and adventure. Once the cradle of humanity, now extinct for centuries, this land is home to legendary creatures and magical beings, weaving tales of wonder and mystery.
At the heart of Nyūeden lies the Main Continent of Mari Kai, a beacon of grandeur and enigma that calls out to bold explorers with promises of untold wonders. Amidst this mystical reign, the enchanting city of Libertas stands as a vibrant hub of adventure.
Perched on a hill overlooking the city is Noble Heights, where the elite reside. It is here that a knightly leporine beastwoman finds herself pursued by a band of elven personal guards. Her petite frame belies her strength and skill, and her attire blends practicality with elegance, designed for maximum agility in combat. She wears fitted leather armor dyed in amber and brown, intricately decorated with patterns of leaves and vines in homage to her woodland home.
Strapped to her back is a slender, gleaming sword with a hilt encrusted with small gemstones, while a sturdy belt cinches her waist, adorned with various pouches and a sheathed dagger. This rabbitfolk, Valerie Pequeña, is a striking sight. Her fur transitions from a deep, velvety black along her back to snowy white on her belly. Her large, expressive emerald-green eyes are always alert, taking in her surroundings with keen perception. Despite her youthful appearance, her face bears the marks of many exploits, including a small scar above her left eyebrow—a testament to her adventurous spirit.
"Come on! You guys, it wasn't that serious!" Valerie's voice echoed through the alleyways and public streets as she darted away from the guards.
They were hot on her trail, their pursuit relentless. The guards, their faces set in grim determination, were not about to let their quarry slip away. The chase wound through The Merchant's Bazaar, a bustling marketplace teeming with vendors from all corners of the realms. The air brimmed with the scents of spices and the melodies of wandering bards. Haggling and bartering abruptly ceased as Valerie and her pursuers dashed by, adding an extra layer of excitement to the scene.
As they neared the outskirts of Libertas, the Adventurers' District, a haven for those seeking thrills and fortune, came into view. Home to the renowned Adventurers Guild, where brave souls gathered to share tales of exploits and seek new adventures, it was a fitting backdrop for Valerie's daring escape. Adventurers laughed and cheered her on, amused by her antics and certain she had earned this chase.
Valerie assessed her surroundings, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. She spun around, leaped into the air, and delivered a knee to the first guard chasing her. They halted as a toothy smile appeared on her face.
"Alright, you're on my turf now. I get to defend myself without repercussions." Valerie cracked her knuckles, ready for action.
The guards closed in, brandishing their billy clubs. With a mesmerizing display of agility, she dodged their strikes effortlessly, her movements a graceful dance of evasion and precision. Her emerald eyes glinted with mischief and determination as she countered with swift, precise strikes. Her sword moved like a blur, always finding its mark without spilling blood, as she skillfully sheathed it between moves. Though skilled, the elven guards were no match for her agility and cunning, their coordinated efforts faltering against her relentless energy. The marketplace buzzed with excitement, onlookers captivated by the unfolding drama.
One guard swung at Valerie, only to be intercepted by a stout dwarf with a braided beard. He delivered a powerful punch to the guard's gut, then swiftly put him in a front facelock and slammed him into the ground. "By the Gods, Val, this is why I told ye to end things with Darla," the dwarf roared, diving into the fight with enthusiasm.
Roark Walbrker was a dwarven man exuding strength and authority. His braided auburn beard cascaded down to his chest, adorned with intricate metal clasps. His keen, lively eyes held a glint of mischief and a wealth of untold stories. He wore sturdy, well-worn armor etched with clan symbols and a heavy fur-lined cloak draped over his broad shoulders. Despite his rough exterior, Roark's hearty laughter echoed through the chaos, revealing his joy in the fight and marking him as both a fierce warrior and a loyal friend.
With Roark by her side, Valerie's confidence surged. Together, they moved in perfect harmony, a testament to their years of friendship and countless battles. The elven guards, realizing they were outmatched, began to retreat, their resolve faltering against such formidable opposition. The crowd roared with approval, their cheers echoing through the bustling streets of Libertas as the unlikely duo stood triumphant, the thrill of victory coursing through their veins.
"Now, young lady," Roark said, panting as he wiped the sweat from his brow, "you're going to explain to my darling Elara why I had to leave her alone in the Guild's Tavern."
"Oh, come on, Roark. We had fun. Isn't that what matters?" Valerie said with a playful smile.
Roark grabbed Valerie by the back of her armor, pulling her toward the Guild Hall. The ground level was alive with activity: adventurers conversing, forming groups, and handlers at the front desk approving jobs. The air buzzed with the excitement of new quests and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers.
As Roark and Valerie descended to the lower level, they entered the enchanting tavern where adventurers enjoyed refreshing drinks and hearty meals. Despite the inn's age and the wear evident in its furnishings, it exuded a comforting sense of home and refuge.
The tavern's interior glowed with a comforting golden light, lanterns hanging from wooden beams casting a warm glow over the polished oak tables and inviting chairs. The scent of hearty stews, freshly baked bread, and the tang of ale filled the air, creating an irresistible invitation for weary adventurers.
In the corner of the tavern, a tall elf woman with flowing red hair and amber eyes smiled warmly as they approached. She wore a practical yet elegant adventurer's outfit, her presence exuding confidence and strength.
"Apologies, my love," Roark said as he kissed her. "But here is the troublemaker. Go ahead, lass. Regale us with the tale."
As Valerie settled at the table, the warmth of her friends' presence enveloped her. The tavern buzzed with laughter and conversation, the air rich with the scents of sizzling roast, bubbling stew, and freshly poured ale.
Elara, Roark's wife, took a seat beside him, her graceful presence adding a touch of elegance to the lively group. "Please, Val, tell me how you ended up picking a fight with the Harness family?" she asked, her voice soft yet carrying a hint of curiosity.
Valerie reclined in her chair, a mischievous glint in her eye. "After reporting our successful quest, I decided to surprise Lady Darla. Apparently, in my absence, she developed a liking for Sir Logan Graves and decided to end our partnership."
"If she dumped you, why were you running from Harness's guards all the way here?" Roark asked, suspicion evident as he narrowed his eyes.
"I wanted one last 'moment' in her room before I left," Valerie confessed, her friends leaning in, engrossed. "As I was dressing, her father and Sir Graves barged in. They caught me. And, well, you saw how that turned out." Roark's eyes widened in disbelief, and Elara's hand flew to her mouth to stifle a giggle.
Roark chuckled, shaking his head. "I warned you, Val, you were playing with fire."
Valerie shrugged, her eyes twinkling. "Maybe, but isn't that what makes it all worthwhile?"
Elara laughed softly, her eyes filled with amusement. "You really do have a knack for finding trouble, Val. But I suppose that's what keeps things lively around here."
Valerie raised her mug of ale in a toast, her smile infectious. "To thrilling adventures and loyal friends!"
The group raised their mugs, clinking them together. The golden glow of the lanterns bathed them in warmth, and the sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air. In that brief moment, they could forget the perils of their adventures, finding solace and joy in each other's company.
As the night wore on, tales of past quests and plans flowed freely, each story more captivating than the last. The soft sound of a bard's lute provided a melodic undercurrent to the lively chatter, creating an enchanting backdrop to their evening.
Elara's laughter, Roark's hearty chuckles, and Valerie's playful banter filled the space. Each note is a part of the symphony of their fellowship. As they drank and laughed, the tavern door swung open, and two striking women entered.
Valerie waved enthusiastically. "Anna! Stella! Over here! We've got seats waiting for you!"
Anna Alienor, a female kitsune, was truly captivating. Her fox-like features, including large, pointed ears and a bushy tail, were both striking and unique. Her fur, a blend of brown, orange, and white, gave her a natural elegance.
Anna's long black hooded robe was a striking sight. The high collar and fitted waist highlighted her figure, while the wide sleeves added an air of mystery. Side slits revealed glimpses of her upper thighs and hips, enhancing the captivating allure of her outfit.
Beneath the robe, Anna wore form-fitting garments that emphasized her agility and grace. The bodysuit allowed freedom of movement, a practical yet alluring choice. Thigh-high stockings, matching the robe's black color scheme, completed her ensemble.
Despite her mysterious look, Anna's demeanor was warm and gentle as she approached. "Hey, everyone. Elara! It's been a while. How have you been?"
Elara smiled warmly. "I've been fine, my darling." Her eyes twinkled with amusement as she pulled Stella close. "And how have you been, my starry muse?"
Stella Sarangerel smiled as Elara embraced her. She was not an ordinary elf—she was a lunar elf, blessed by Lunarus, the God of wisdom, the moon, and darkness. Lunarus' divine favor granted her unique traits, making her unforgettable wherever she went.
Stella's medium height, paired with an almost ghostly pale complexion, stood out against her smooth, short white hair streaked with raven-black highlights. Her eyes, rare for an elf, had black scleras and moon-like pupils that glowed with a starry sparkle, conveying wisdom and melancholy beyond her years.
As Anna and Stella joined the group, the tavern seemed to grow even more vibrant, the circle of friends drawing closer. The golden glow from the lanterns bathed them in warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere. The aroma of hearty stews, freshly baked bread, and ale filled the air, adding a homely yet exhilarating touch to their gathering.
"So, what did Barb say about the job? Please tell me we're not getting suspended," Anna said, concern evident as her ears twitched.
"We're not getting suspended, you worry wart," Valerie replied, her eyes sparkling. "Barb said we'll get an update soon on our guild cards."
"I knew we shouldn't have shot those barrels. Now we'll probably lose our guild memberships," Anna fretted.
"Come on, Anna. We'll be fine. They'll probably dock our pay to cover the damages," Roark said, patting his friend on the back with a chuckle. "Elara! Stop being so clingy to our moonlight. You know how you get when you've been drinking."
Elara reluctantly let go of Stella with a playful pout. "Alright, alright. But she's just so lovely!" she exclaimed, her amber eyes twinkling mischievously.
Stella laughed softly, her ethereal presence adding an otherworldly charm to the group as she moved her hands gracefully, forming gestures and handshapes in sign language. Stella signed, "It's alright, Elara. I don't mind." Anna translated, and Elara continued to hold Stella close despite Roark's words.
"Alright, but when she gets too affectionate, don't come looking for me to bail you out," Roark said, taking a swig of his ale.
The group settled back into their seats, camaraderie evident in their relaxed expressions. Valerie leaned back, her grin playful. "We always manage to get ourselves into these situations, don't we?" she mused.
Roark nodded, a broad smile spreading across his face. "Yes, but that's what makes life interesting. Besides, we always find a way to come out on top."
Elara smiled warmly at Valerie. "Valerie, I hope you haven't been relying too much on your charms to get what you want."
Valerie smiled mischievously. "No... I've been using Anna's," she said, her tone teasing.
Anna's eyes widened in mock horror. "Wait?! Is that why the town's mayor wanted that 'private clerical visit?!'" she asked disbelief in her voice.
Valerie laughed. "Yeah! I told him if he raised the pay, you visit him for a 'special meeting.'"
Anna blushed as everyone at the table laughed. "I slapped him so hard," she admitted, her face flushed as she hid it in her hands. Stella patted her back, offering silent sympathy.
Roark leaned over, wrapping an arm around Elara's shoulders. "And what about you, my fierce hawk? Any new tales from your adventures lately?"
Elara nodded, her expression turning serious. "I've been working on a mission to uncover an ancient artifact in the southern ruins. The journey has been arduous, and we faced more obstacles than expected, but I think we're finally getting close."
Stella perked up with interest as Anna translated for her: "An ancient artifact? That sounds exciting. Maybe we could join sometime," she signed, her eagerness evident in her eyes.
Elara's smile returned. "I love that, my moonstone. But Roark and I prefer to keep our work and personal lives separate."
As the night wore on, tales of past quests and plans flowed freely, each story more captivating than the last. The soft notes of a bard's lute provided a gentle melody to the lively chatter, creating an enchanting backdrop to their evening.
Elara's laughter, Roark's hearty chuckles, and Valerie's playful banter filled the space, each a note in the symphony of their fellowship. As they drank and laughed, the tavern door swung open, revealing a familiar face—Barb, the guild handler, a stout dwarf woman with a no-nonsense attitude.
"Well, well, look who we have here," Barb said, her voice carrying over the din of the tavern. "Word has it you lot have been stirring up quite the commotion."
Valerie stood up, her grin widening. "Barb! We were talking about you. Come, join us!"
Barb shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "No thanks, Val. I just wanted to let you know you're not suspended. In fact, your lot has been bumped up to Silver Rank! Since it was your tenth completed Iron Ranked Quest, it was only fair to rank your group up. But, you'll see a deduction in your next pay... try not to blow anything else up next time, alright?"
Valerie'seyes widened with excitement, her face lighting up as she raised her tankard high. "To Silver Rank! To The Delvers!"
The group joined in the cheer, their mugs clinking together in celebration. The lantern's golden glow cast a comforting light over the scene, and the sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere.
As the sun rose over Libertas, Elara, with Roark by her side, headed towards the Mage's Quarter. This district, a haven for spellcasters, brimmed with mystical academies, alchemical laboratories, and enchantment shops showcasing rare and powerful artifacts. Here, dazzling displays of magic could be seen as apprentices and masters practiced their craft openly in the streets.
As they passed through the district, residents greeted Elara warmly. Some of the younger mages called her "professor," their voices filled with admiration. Roark, meanwhile, received wary glances from a few of the locals—a mix of distrust and jealousy—as they eyed his imposing presence.
"Elara? Love, remind me again why we're heading to the university instead of the other's place?" Roark asked, his unease growing under the watchful eyes of the onlookers.
Elara placed a comforting hand on Roark's beard, her fingers gently stroking the braids as she smiled warmly at him. "Because, my dearest stonewall, I have a colleague who really needs a capable team. Mine is tied up, and yours just got promoted. I promise it won't take long. Just hear him out for me, alright? Then we can head to the Delver's Den. Besides, I can't have you missing out on all the fun."
"Fine," Roark sighed, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. "But if Stella burns the house down again, she'll be sleeping in an inn, and I'll make sure she knows it comes with no breakfast."
The sight of the Grand Arcanum University greeted them. This impressive building embodied the fusion of once-human modern architecture with Nyuuden's fantastical elements, seamlessly fitting into the vibrant city of Libertas. The university-like structure loomed over the surrounding area with its towering spires, made of sleek, polished stone interwoven with strands of glowing crystal that pulsed with an ethereal light.
Massive arched windows, adorned with intricate stained-glass depictions of mythical creatures and legendary events, lined the facade, giving it an air of ancient mystery. The building seemed to radiate both the innovation of the modern age and the timeless magic of the old, drawing in all who sought knowledge and adventure.
The main entrance featured a pair of grand double doors, each carved from dark, enchanted wood, etched with symbols that glowed faintly in response to magical energy. Ivy, with leaves shimmering in a spectrum of colors, climbed the walls, adding a natural touch that contrasted beautifully with the clean lines of the modern design. Above the entrance, a massive clock, its hands made of brass and crystal, ticked away, marking the passage of time in this remarkable place where knowledge and magic intertwined seamlessly.
Roark couldn't help but stare in awe, his eyes widening at the intricate details. Elara glanced at him, a soft smile playing on her lips as she watched his reaction. "Magnificent, isn't it?" she whispered, her voice filled with pride and affection.
Roark let out a low whistle of appreciation. "It looks like a place where even the walls have stories to tell," he said, his voice filled with awe and curiosity.
Elara smiled, her hand resting on his arm, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Wait until you see the inside, my love. It's even more magical than you could ever dream."
Inside the university, the atmosphere was alive with the hum of arcane energy. Mages of all kinds walked the halls, their robes flowing as they moved with purpose. Apprentices carried stacks of spellbooks, assistants hurried to deliver messages, and high-level wielders of magic held quiet, intense discussions as they passed by.
Glowing runes adorned the walls, faintly shimmering as if in response to the magic around them, and the air was filled with the scent of old parchment, herbs, and the occasional whiff of a brewing potion. The interior seemed to pulse with an energy that hinted at both knowledge and power, a place where the very walls held secrets waiting to be unraveled.
As they approached the office doors of Elara's colleague, the air seemed to thrum with a deeper sense of anticipation. The corridor was lined with shelves filled with ancient tomes and artifacts, each seemingly whispering untold stories of forgotten times, and the soft glow of enchanted sconces bathed the hallway in a warm, inviting light. The scent of aged parchment and faint traces of alchemical potions lingered in the air, heightening the sense of mystery. Elara knocked on the door. As she watched, the lights of the runes on the door flickered, informing her to come in.
Elara and Roark walked in. They were greeted by Elara's colleague, a halfling whose presence exuded confidence and intelligence. Despite his small stature, he carried an air of authority that commanded attention. His curly brown hair framed a friendly face highlighted by sharp blue eyes that sparkled with curiosity and wisdom.
Dressed in a deep blue robe adorned with silver runes, he carried himself with an air of grace and purpose. Though slightly worn from his travels, the robe still shimmered under the warm glow of the room, reflecting the arcane power he wielded and hinting at the countless magical journeys he had undertaken.
Around his waist was a leather belt adorned with pouches and small, intricate tools essential for his magical practices. As they entered, the staff suddenly appeared in the corner of the room, standing upright as if it had been waiting for them. The appearance of the staff seemed almost deliberate, as though it responded to their presence. This staff, along with the spellbook he always kept close at hand, marked him unmistakably as a wizard of considerable skill.
With a polite nod, the halfling turned to Roark and introduced himself, "Dr. Lenard Fafnir Blackfoot, professor, researcher, and liaison at Grand Arcanum University. A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Walbrker. Professor Rivrsung has told me much about you."
"Has she now?" Roark asked with a playful grin, looking at Elara as he took a seat. "Hopefully, only the wonderful things."
"The best, dearest," Elara said, her eyes twinkling warmly at Roark, her hand giving him a gentle squeeze.
"Agreed. She spoke highly of your skills. But I digress," Dr. Blackfoot said as he sat in his chair and pulled out his notes. "I need your Delvers for a job."
"That much is clear, Doc. Just tell me the details and the rate."
"Please, call me Dr. Blackfoot or Professor," Dr. Blackfoot replied before continuing, "I've been working with a liaison from Rosvinia for several years. A few weeks ago, I lost contact with her. I sent an assistant to find out what the issue might be, but I haven't heard back from them either. I need your group to help me investigate the situation."
"Think I get ya, Doc. You want us to head over, investigate, and report back, right?"
"Again, it's Dr. Blackfoot or..." He hesitated, his voice trailing off slightly before continuing, "Not exactly. I want your group to escort me to investigate what is happening. This mission is of great importance. My partner, Duchess Marlene Carmine, and I have been developing a system to produce more Aethrilen Crystals, which are crucial for powering Mari Kai's Arcanic Electricity System. In return, the university and I planned to share some of Mari Kai's advancements with the people of Rosvinia."
"Do you need the Delvers to find out if the Duchess's disappearance might be foul play?" Elara interjected.
"Honestly, I'm hoping she didn't betray me and sell our research to the highest bidder. Or worse—"
"She was killed by someone wanting a piece of the action," Roark said.
Dr. Blackfoot looked down, a sign of fear crossing his halfling face. Roark glanced at Elara, processing everything that had been said. The old dwarf then turned his attention back to Dr. Blackfoot.
"What's the rate for this job?"
"Pardon?" Dr. Blackfoot asked, his voice reflecting a mix of hesitation and uncertainty.
"The rate, Doc. You gave us the details, but you haven't mentioned what we'll be getting for helping you."
"Yes, forgive me. I must have forgotten to mention it. For your services, I am willing to offer your crew fifteen thousand gold. Additionally, any gains you earn during our travels will be yours to keep."
"Alright then, Doc. When do we head out?"
"Um... the end of the week. So, do you accept?""
"Ye. The pay sounds good, and I haven't been to Rosvinia yet. Sounds like fun."
"Dearest, are you sure? Shouldn't you discuss this with the others first?"
"I would... if it wasn't my turn for 'Job Searching.' Besides, Val didn't discuss the last job with us, so we'll see how she likes it."
Elara pinched her nose, sighing. "I swear, you two are the pettiest people I ever met."
"Um, I guess that concludes our meeting then, Mr. Walbrker. Professor Rivrsung, it's always a pleasure. Thank you for the recommendation."
After shaking Dr. Blackfoot's hand, Elara and Roark headed to the Adventurer's District and made their way to the Delvers' Den. Roark walked with a confident stride while Elara leaned into him slightly, her arm brushing against his. She smiled up at him, and he responded by placing a gentle hand on her back.
"You know, love, it's nice to just walk with you like this," Elara said, her voice soft.
Roark glanced at her, a warmth in his eyes. "Yeah, I suppose it is. Especially without all the explosions and running," he replied, a teasing tone in his voice.
Elara laughed, giving his arm a light squeeze. "Don't worry. There will be plenty of excitement soon enough."
As the two walked through the Adventurer's District, they reached the Delvers' Den, the base of operations for Roark's group, The Delvers. Elara smiled, her eyes catching on their familiar house. "Look at that, Roark. We're finally home. Remember the times we stayed there after a long journey?" she said, her voice soft with nostalgia.
Within this section stood a house with a modern, eclectic design that retained distinct architectural elements from a bygone era. The facade featured a mix of horizontal siding and vertical wood cladding, creating a rustic yet contemporary appearance. A cylindrical section of the building, accented with vertical wood, added a unique focal point that contrasted with the rest of the structure.
Roark nodded, his eyes lingering on the house. "Ye, I remember, love. Seems like a lifetime ago. But it was a good place—warm beds and even warmer company. Now, it belongs to the other Delvers. Their home." He gave her a gentle squeeze, and they continued walking, a shared warmth between them.
Large, black-framed windows allowed plenty of natural light to flood in, while the front porch featured simple, dark metal railings that contributed to a minimalist yet inviting look. The varied rooflines combined traditional gable shapes with a unique curved section, adding character to the structure. The combination of textures—horizontal siding, wood, and stone foundation—along with the varied shapes created a balanced blend of historical charm and natural elements, making the house stand out as a cherished home for the other in the residential neighborhood. A sign by the front entrance proudly displayed the name "Delvers' Den," and a rustic mailbox with the same inscription stood beside the path leading to the front door.
Elara and Roark stood for a moment, taking in the sight before them. Elara sighed, a smile on her face. "It's good to be back," she said softly. With one last glance, they made their way inside, ready to share their news and reunite with their companions.
As they stepped inside, the pungent smell of smog and spoiled food hit their senses, making them wrinkle their noses. The acrid odor clung to the air, mixed with a burnt aroma—evidence of Stella's latest cooking experiment gone awry. Roark turned his head towards the kitchen and saw Val and Anna with forced smiles on their faces as they tried to enjoy the breakfast their friend had prepared. The scene was almost comical: Val's eyes watered slightly as she forced another bite while Anna slyly nudged her food to the side of her plate. Stella, blissfully unaware, stood nearby, her smile radiant with pride.
Val noticed Roark and spoke up. "Roark! Hey there, come join us for breakfast," she called, her forced smile widening. "You didn't show up to whip something up like you usually do."
Roark, a bit tempted to flee, revealed himself and Elara to the others. "Yeah, sorry about that, lasses," he said, "Elara and I were in a meeting. We've got a job."
"Grab a plate and give us the details," Anna interjected.
Roark and Elara locked eyes with Stella, who had a sparkle of pride and happiness in her eyes. It pained Elara somewhat to say, "I'm sorry, moonstone, but we ate during our meeting, so we're kinda full."
"Sorry, lass," Roark added, trying to soften the blow.
Stella nodded in understanding and signed her question while Anna translated: "So what's the job about?"
"It's an escort and investigation mission," Roark replied.
"Where?" Anna asked.
"Rosvinia."
"When are we heading out?"
"End of the week."
Val's eyes narrowed. "Wait! Didn't you give me grief for not discussing our last mission with you?"
"Well, this job takes us to a new locale, and the pay is better than the last one," Roark said with a smirk. "Besides, it'll be more exciting than just hunting bandits!"
The house filled with the sound of Roark and Val's spirited dispute, their voices rising and falling in playful banter. The others laughed heartily, enjoying the familiar chaos of their friends' antics. As the day wore on, the warmth of camaraderie filled the Delvers' Den, their bonds growing stronger with each shared moment of laughter, teasing, and joy. It was in these simple, carefree moments that they found solace, reminding each of them why they chose this life of adventure and loyalty. With the sun streaming through the large windows and the lingering scent of Stella's well-meaning cooking experiment still in the air, the Delvers' Den felt truly like home.
As the warmth of camaraderie enveloped the Delvers' Den, deep in the heart of Mari Kai, a distant roar echoed—a powerful engine coming to life.