"In every journey into the unknown, the most important lesson lies: to know yourself before discovering the world'
Astira Kingdom is a realm where the harshness of rocks harmonizes with the beauty of flowers, creating a unique balance between natural beauty and geographical strength. The kingdom lies between towering mountain ranges of precious stones, where fields of diverse and beautiful flowers grow amidst the cracks in the harsh rocks, giving the land a contrasting appearance of power and softness at the same time
In a dimly lit hall adorned with massive stone pillars carved with ancient engravings, the priest stands with a strange expression of anxiety and fear. His hand trembles slightly as he holds a large black seed between his fingers. The seed emits a strange glow, and his eyes study it carefully with caution.
Then, without warning, the door creaks open. The King of the Glaring Eyes enters, his wide eyes revealing an uncanny ability to perceive deep into the hearts of others. His eyes gleam with darkness, as if they can see every detail around him. He wears a dark cloak that adds to his imposing presence, and his movements are slow and deliberate, as if he controls time itself.
King of the Glaring Eyes: (in a deep, powerful voice) "Here it is, as promised. Half of the flowers and herbs you requested. The other half will remain with me until you ensure that no one learns of their secret."
The Priest: (smiling a mixture of greed and fear) ". I would not dare break my word,
King of the Glaring Eyes: (approaching with confidence, placing the box carefully on the table) "See to it. If these secrets spread, you will no longer exist in this world."
The priest opens the box carefully, revealing a collection of small, blue, sparkling flowers that glow with an eerie light. He picks one up and places it near the black seed in his hand, then moves toward a cage containing giant scorpions.
The Priest: (whispering to himself) "If these beasts consume this mixture, they will become stronger and more obedient. A power unlike any other..."
King of the Glaring Eyes: (leaving, with a faint smile) "Be careful, priest. Your intentions must be pure, for everything here depends on your control."
At that moment, the scorpion begins to move strangely, its eyes glowing with a dark red hue, and it appears to have gained strange and violent power. The King of the Glaring Eyes smiles a cruel smile as he leaves the hall.
The Fire Bow mercenaries halted in a wild land where lush greenery intertwined with scattered rocks. Tall trees surrounded the area, their leaves swaying gently with the light breeze carrying the fragrance of wildflowers. A small stream meandered through the land, reflecting the sunlight, adding a deceptive serenity to the atmosphere.
Arman: "This place is perfect for camping. The water is nearby, and the nature is abundant. We'll rest here tonight."
Larios: (scanning the surrounding trees) "The tranquility here is suspicious... as if something is hiding behind this serene facade."
Randall: (tossing his pack beside a tree) "Larios, stop overthinking. Not every place has to be a battlefield."
Larios: (sighing) "I'm not overthinking, but something feels off... there are large footprints on the ground, and I doubt they belong to ordinary animals."
The group gathered around a small fire they lit on the edge of the forest. Mathias pulled out his cooking pot and began preparing a meal, while Erian lay on the grass, gazing at the sky.
Erian: "This place feels different from anything we've seen so far... everything looks so normal, yet it hides a strange feeling."
Lara: (picking a small flower between her fingers) "Maybe you're overreacting, Erian. The nature here is beautiful, not hostile."
Mathias: (raising his head) "But nature always hides something... lush places aren't always as safe as they seem."
Suddenly, a distant sound echoed—a heavy crunching of branches under massive feet. Everyone froze, tension rising in the air.
Larios: (standing quickly, his hand on his sword hilt) "Did you hear that? Something's approaching."Everyone is surprised by Larious as if he heard this voice alone, and they ignore the matter.
Larious speaks with Arman at the beginning of their journey, gripping the Sword of Fire tightly. His face is filled with doubt.
Larious: "Arman, I feel like this sword's power holds more than I can understand. How can I develop it further?"
Arman: (smiling confidently) "A sword is not just a tool; it's a reflection of your will. If you want to strengthen its power, ask yourself: why did you choose fire? What does its strength mean to you?"
Arman pauses briefly and adds, "Fire is not only about destruction. It's light, warmth, and a symbol of new beginnings. Once you understand that, you'll uncover the secrets of this sword."
Larious looks at the sword, contemplating Arman's words.
The group walks through a vast plain, surrounded by towering trees. A soft breeze carries the scent of strange flowers.
Erian: "This land feels too peaceful... Can it really be as dangerous as it seems?"
Suddenly, they hear the screams of people, and villagers appear, running in fear. The group approaches an old man who looks terrified.
Larious: "What's wrong? What's happening here?"
Old Man: (whispering fearfully) "They... they're coming soon. I must follow orders... or I'll perish."
The man flees without explaining further.
The group continues on and eventually reaches the center of the village, where they meet the village chief—a calm man with worry etched in his eyes.
Village Chief: "Welcome to our village. We are peaceful people who love farming, and our land is known for flowers that grant strength and energy to rejuvenate the weary."
Larious: "If these flowers are so beneficial, why is everyone so frightened?"
Village Chief: (sighing deeply) "The problem isn't the flowers, but the Earth Kingdom. Their king is greedy and insatiable. He demands that we create potions from the flowers to grant extraordinary strength. When we refused, he sent giant scorpions after us. These scorpions are merciless and controlled by skilled tamers."
Randel: "This isn't our problem. We have our own mission."
Arman: (interrupting) "Wait, Randel. Perhaps we can help them."
Village Chief: "If you rid us of the scorpions and their tamers, I'll grant you rare herbs that enhance strength. They might prove useful for your journey."
Larious recalls Arman's earlier words about fire as a force of renewal.
Larious: ". Protecting these people is the right way to use my power."
What is the source of those seeds that were fed to the monsters and what is a new path for Arius?