Airtulan, situated at the northernmost edge of the Eastern Continent, is a land where vast mountain ranges, endless forests, and crystal-clear rivers weave together to form a vivid tapestry of nature. Every inch of this terrain is teeming with life. Wild animals roam freely across the fertile land, while verdant forests provide sanctuary to countless creatures. The architecture in Airtulan is simple yet primal, reflecting the harmonious relationship between its people and the gifts of nature.
The most renowned feature of the Eastern Continent is Airtulan's World Tree—a towering giant that pierces the heavens, its lush foliage seeming to bridge earth and sky. Its roots dig deep into the earth, intertwining with every inch of Airtulan's soil. According to legend, the World Tree is the source of all life, offering protection to every being that dwells in this land. It symbolizes the vitality and power of nature, a beacon of the land's resilience and spirit.
The leader of Airtulan, Selena Arden, is affectionately called the "Queen of the Land." She carries an innate aura of authority and grace. As the Land Queen, she represents not only the strength and wisdom of Airtulan but also its spiritual essence and vitality.
Standing about five feet ten inches tall, Selena has a slender yet athletic build. Her golden hair, reminiscent of ripened fields of wheat, cascades down her back. Her features are delicate yet resolute—her sharp nose, long neck, and slightly upturned chin exude confidence and determination. A gentle but firm smile often graces her lips, offering warmth while commanding respect.
Selena's beauty extends beyond her physical appearance, shining through in her inner strength. She is deeply compassionate, carrying the weight of leadership and the sacrifices it demands with unwavering resolve. Her courage, intellect, and perseverance have made her a symbol of Airtulan. Every decision and action she takes profoundly influences every life on this expansive land.
One of Airtulan's most celebrated traditions is the annual Ancient Warrior Tournament. Each year, under bright blue skies, towering mountains, and lush green forests, the people gather in the ancient arena to honor this sacred competition. The tournament celebrates not just strength and valor but also wisdom and tradition. The victor earns the blessing of the World Tree, while even those who do not win return with deeper responsibility and honor.
The event begins with a grand ceremony. Queen Selena, dressed in a flowing robe woven from leaves and flowers, walks among the roots of the World Tree, holding the Staff of Life, and bestows her blessings upon the warriors.
The warriors face multiple challenges, including horseback riding, archery, climbing, and navigating a labyrinth to find an exit.
As the night falls, the final challenge—the Maze of Wisdom—begins. This is the most enigmatic part of the tournament. Warriors, each holding a lantern, navigate a massive stone labyrinth. At every turn, riddles designed by Airtulan's elders block their way. These riddles include ancient rune puzzles, mathematical problems, and questions that require knowledge of history to solve.
The maze's exit, concealed by thick vines, can only be found by lighting all the mechanism lamps hidden within. Outside the maze, the crowd watches with bated breath, cheering and applauding each warrior's progress. Ultimately, Arthur Thornton emerges victorious, solving the challenges with remarkable precision.
At the tournament's conclusion, the warriors gather beneath the World Tree. Queen Selena personally crowns Arthur with an ancient circlet crafted from the branches of the World Tree, symbolizing the unity of strength and wisdom. Amid the crowd's cheers, Arthur humbly bows, expressing gratitude to his tribe for their unwavering support.
Arthur Thornton hails from a traditional warrior family in the Silver Wolf Tribe. His father, Hark, was a revered elder and a former military leader, renowned for his brilliance and bravery. His mother, Irena, was the tribe's most skilled huntress, whose precise archery saved the tribe from danger on numerous occasions. Growing up in such a family, Arthur developed a profound understanding of the warrior's mission and honor.
Arthur's childhood was shaped by rigorous training. From his father, he learned strategy and leadership; from his mother, sharp observation and patience. With a combination of innate talent and relentless practice, Arthur quickly distinguished himself among the younger generation of the tribe.
Arthur is not only a leader of the Silver Wolf Tribe but also a symbol of Airtulan's new generation. He embodies the core values of the tribe: courage, loyalty, and wisdom. His victories in the warrior tournament have brought glory to his tribe and united Airtulan's various clans.
As the competition draws to a close, the participants line up before the queen and the ceremonial stone, receiving the people's cheers and admiration. While the tournament has ended, every warrior knows that this is more than a personal honor—it is a tribute to nature, their tribes, and history. Through their efforts and spirit, Airtulan's warriors showcase the true strength of their nation to the entire continent.
As night falls, great bonfires light up Airtulan's grasslands, their glow illuminating the surrounding forests and mountains. The tension and excitement of the day fade into memory, replaced by an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. The warmth of the flames drives away the evening chill, and long wooden tables overflow with fruits and meats harvested by the hunters, while the scent of mead fills the air.
By the bonfires, warriors from various tribes sit cross-legged, holding wooden cups filled with Airtulan's signature honey wine. Their eyes sparkle with pride, and hearty laughter fills the air.
Loka, the chief of the Flame Tribe, known for his straightforward nature and booming voice, raises his cup toward Arthur and exclaims, "Arthur, your archery truly impressed me! Next time, I'll beat you for sure."
He laughs heartily, his bold demeanor prompting cheers from the crowd.
Beside him, Magda, the leader of the Glacier Tribe, with her stoic demeanor and unyielding spirit, shoots him a sharp glance. "Loka, perhaps you should first learn how to stay on your horse before discussing archery," she remarks dryly.
The crowd roars with laughter as Loka sheepishly scratches his head, clearly stung by her jab but unfazed. "Fine! Next year, then!" he bellows.
Kanu, the agile leader of the Mountain Eagle Tribe, raises his cup and teases, "Calm down, Loka and Magda. The real test is in running. Speed defines a warrior, isn't that right, Arthur?"
Arthur chuckles lightly. "Then let's see if you can outrun me next year."
Meanwhile, Taka, the master hunter of the Green Shadow Tribe, known for his love of storytelling, sets down his cup and sighs. "Why argue? Let's focus on the old tales of valor. How about I share a story?"
Before he can continue, the crowd erupts in playful jeers. "No more stories, Taka! We've heard them all!"
Taka smiles in defeat and waves off their protests.
As the bonfire blazes at its peak, the elders step forward, holding staffs symbolizing nature and wisdom, to lead the closing ceremony. The senior elder, the venerable Elnor, speaks with a deep voice that resonates through the crowd.
"Today, we celebrate life, nature, and the glory of our warriors," he proclaims. "We are all children of the World Tree, and you, our warriors, are its proudest fruits."
As his words settle, the crowd quiets, a sense of reverence filling the air.
Elnor calls the warriors to stand and face the World Tree, receiving blessings from the elders. Each warrior bows solemnly, giving thanks for the gifts of nature. The ceremony concludes with the elders scattering flames of blessing among the crowd, a symbol of hope for the coming year.