Jonady immersed himself in studying this new world, driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to understand the forces at play. He quickly discovered that magic was omnipresent, a fundamental energy shaping lives and societies. This world was inhabited by thirteen distinct races, most of whom worshiped a multitude of gods, each associated with various aspects of life and nature.
The nation where he found himself, Ednia, had a rich and tumultuous history. Founded 400 years ago, it now had a population of 49 million, spread across 17 provinces. The unification of the island of Ednia had been the result of a conflict that dated back 410 years. At that time, two great principalities had fought for supremacy. Roland K. Ednia, a visionary leader, had triumphed. Inspired by his charisma and ambition, his followers had supported him in conquering neighboring territories. Within ten tumultuous years, he had managed to unite the entire island under a single banner.
Returning to the present, Jonady learned that the central continent was home to eight great nations, dominated by two major powers: the Empire of Katakiel, ruled by demons, and the Kingdom of Indrania, governed by orcs.
The princess of Ednia explained the geopolitical situation with striking clarity:
"Katakiel has always viewed our island nation as a dominion," she said, folding her arms with a serious expression. "Back when Ednia was just a collection of provinces, the Empire played the role of protector. In return, it monopolized trade, especially in wheat. Some principalities even benefited from preferential tariffs, which reinforced their dependence on Katakiel."
She paused, her eyes locking onto Jonady to make sure he was following.
"As for the orcs of Indrania, they are famous for their tradition of mercenaries. Their loyalty is bought, and I have no doubt that the demons of Katakiel pay them handsomely for their support in the current conflicts."
Jonady raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And the other nations? Don't they intervene in this conflict?"
The princess shook her head with a sigh.
"No. The five other nations see no strategic interest in getting involved in this war. We are an isolated island, which limits the importance they place on us. If we were on the central continent, the situation would be different. But as it stands, they prefer to remain neutral."
The princess's explanations shed harsh light on Ednia's precarious position. Despite its glorious past and hard-won independence, the nation was caught in a vice between rival powers and abandoned to its fate by the rest of the world.
For Jonady, this raised many questions. Why had he been summoned here? And what role was he supposed to play in this complex conflict? One thing was certain: the challenges he had faced in his life on Earth were nothing compared to what awaited him in this foreign and war-torn world.
Thus, the fate of Ednia and Jonady's own seemed now intertwined.