Pyros District is a fiery expanse of rugged terrain, dominated by volcanic peaks, ashen plains, and streams of flowing lava. At its heart lies Ignis Central, a bustling city built around the legendary Fire Forge, where Fire Elementals hone their skills and craft artifacts of great renown. The city's architecture glows in crimson and gold, mirroring the vibrant energy of its people. On the outskirts lies Kuroki Village, a tranquil settlement surrounded by obsidian fields and flame lilies, home to artisans and blacksmiths.
The market square of Ignis Central buzzed with life until chaos erupted. A strange, giant gorilla-like beast with fierce red eyes and white fur stormed into the crowd, sending people fleeing in terror.
"Prince Kael! Prince Kael! Prince Kael!" the crowd cheered, their cries reaching the young warrior.
Kael emerged, standing tall and imposing, his fiery red hair glowing like embers. His amber eyes held a constant spark, reflecting his impulsive yet courageous nature. Hot-headed and stubborn, Kael often acted without thinking, but his bravery was undeniable.
Confronting the creature, he smirked. "You're no match for me, big monkey," he taunted, gripping his sword tightly.
The gorilla roared, beating its chest with thundering force. "Groaaaannnn!"
Kael wasted no time. "Flame Strike!" he shouted, leaping toward the beast. His blade ignited with flames as he slashed at the creature's chest, leaving a scorched wound. The beast howled in pain before retreating silently to the mountains, sparing the city further destruction.
The crowd erupted into cheers. "Thank you, Prince! You saved us!"
Before Kael could bask in the gratitude, a town crier's voice rang out. "Prince Kael, return to the Fire Palace immediately. The King has returned from Aqual and requests your presence!"
Kael sheathed his sword, its red grip still warm from the flames, and sprinted toward the palace.
Perched atop Mount Ignis, the Fire Palace is a fortress of glowing obsidian and molten lava. Its spires radiate fiery light, visible across the ashen plains. The Infernal Chamber, where the Fire King holds court, is a grand hall of molten rock and crystallized flames, surrounded by ever-burning braziers. Lava streams and magma trenches serve as both defense and a symbol of Pyros' raw power. Inside, the air hums with heat and energy, reflecting the unyielding strength of its ruler.
Kael entered the chamber to find his father seated on the fiery throne. The Fire King, an imposing figure with molten-gold eyes and hair like living flames, regarded his son with a smirk.
"You've grown, haven't you?" the King said. "Beating giant gorillas with ease now, are we?"
Kael grinned, but the King's tone turned serious. "I have a task for you. You're strong now, Kael, and it's time you fought for something greater than yourself. You've heard of the Oracle, yes?"
"Yes, Father," Kael replied.
"The Oracle has summoned a team—Team Elemental—to protect Eryndor from the disasters threatening our land. You are to represent the Fire Clan. You must reach the Oracle's Grove within five days."
Kael's eyes lit up with excitement, but the King added with a smirk, "One more thing—you won't be using the King's cart for this journey. Start packing."
"Thank you, Father! I mean... Your Majesty!" Kael exclaimed, unable to hide his enthusiasm as he hurried to prepare for his journey.
Far to the southeast lies the mysterious Umbra District, a land of perpetual twilight. Towering obsidian cliffs encircle the region, their jagged peaks piercing the star-specked sky. Black forests and shimmering pools of reflective water dot the land, their eerie beauty concealing untold secrets. At its heart stands Tenebris Citadel, a sprawling fortress carved into the side of a massive obsidian mountain.
The citadel's spires reach skyward like jagged claws, and its black stone walls shimmer faintly with an inner glow. Inscribed with ancient runes of concealment and power, the fortress exudes an aura of quiet dominance. The Eclipse Chamber, the central hall, is dimly lit by floating orbs of ghostly light. At its center sits the Dark King's throne, a masterpiece of polished obsidian veiled in ethereal shadows. Beside it are two smaller thrones, reserved for his daughter, Princess Zara a Tall and lean girl with black hair and pale skin. Her eyes are an unusual shade of violet, giving her an ethereal, haunting beauty., and his late queen.
Inside the Eclipse Chamber, the heavy doors opened with a low rumble. A dark aura spilled into the hall as the Dark King entered, a crow perched on his shoulder. His presence filled the room with an almost tangible weight.
"Welcome back, King-san," Princess Zara said respectfully, rising from her seat.
"Sit," the King commanded in his deep, resonant voice.
Zara obeyed, watching her father as he settled onto his throne.
"Zara," he began, his tone stern, "you are to leave for the Oracle's Grove immediately. You have been chosen to join Team Elemental and defend this nation against the strange events threatening our lands. Pack your belongings and leave at once. No questions."
"Yes, King-san," Zara replied, masking her emotions. As she turned to leave, she murmured under her breath, "Good for me."
The King's sharp ears caught her words. "And even better for me," he added, his tone colder than before.
Zara, accustomed to her father's strict demeanor, kept her head high. Since her mother's death, she had endured his rigid discipline alone. Despite the pain, this opportunity brought her a rare sense of happiness—a chance to prove herself and escape the oppressive shadows of Tenebris Citadel.
...
Kael and Zara, each with their own burdens and hopes, now prepare to answer the Oracle's call. The journey to the Oracle's Grove has begun, and with it, the first steps toward uniting the elements to save Eryndor.
TO BE CONTINUED!!