The day had been long, the journey arduous, but Raizer Phoenix knew the effort was necessary. High above the mortal plane, hidden among the clouds, lay the Sky Kingdom of the Garudas—a realm of isolationists who valued their freedom above all else.
Raizer leaned against the side of his private jet, looking out at the thick blanket of clouds below. Unlike his previous dealings with the naga, who were pragmatic and trade-savvy, the garudas were an entirely different challenge. Their pride and self-sufficiency made them wary of outsiders, and rumors of their discontent with his partnership with the naga made their cooperation vital.
"Still think this is worth it?" Yubelluna asked, seated across from him with a file of documents in her lap. She'd been reviewing trade reports to ensure they were ready for any questions the garudas might throw at them.
Raizer nodded, his golden eyes steady. "The garudas aren't just a potential ally—they're a cornerstone. If they view us as a threat or a problem, it could destabilize the entire region. The naga alliance was hard-won, but without the garudas' trust, it's incomplete."
Yubelluna raised an eyebrow. "And what makes you think they'll trust us? They've spent centuries avoiding everyone else."
"Because they know we're here to talk, not impose," Raizer said calmly. "And if they don't, we'll make them understand."
A loud snort interrupted their conversation as Garp entered the cabin, carrying a plate piled high with sandwiches. "BAHAHAHA! Talking's all well and good, but if they give us too much trouble, I'll knock some sense into their feathered heads."
Yubelluna sighed, rubbing her temple. "Garp, we're trying to build an alliance, not start a war."
Garp grinned, unbothered. "A little brawl never hurt anyone."
Raizer couldn't help but chuckle. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."
The Sky Kingdom
The journey to the Sky Kingdom was unlike anything Raizer had experienced. The garudas maintained no portals or conventional means of transportation to their domain. Instead, Raizer and his team relied on enchanted phoenix fire, a magic that allowed them to ascend into the sky under their own power.
As they emerged from the thick cloud cover, the Sky Kingdom revealed itself—a sprawling city of crystalline towers and floating platforms that defied gravity. Massive golden structures glinted in the sunlight, and flocks of garudas darted through the sky, their majestic wings reflecting hues of gold, bronze, and silver.
"Beautiful," Yubelluna said softly, her usual composed demeanor giving way to genuine awe.
"Not bad," Garp said, shielding his eyes from the bright light. "Though it's got nothing on those sky islands I used to visit. Now those were wild."
Raizer landed lightly on one of the floating platforms, his golden flames dissipating around him. He glanced at the group of garuda guards who had arrived to greet them. Their sharp eyes and imposing wings made it clear they were not here to exchange pleasantries.
One of the guards, a tall garuda with bronze-tipped feathers, stepped forward. "Lord Phoenix, the Elders are expecting you. Follow us."
Raizer nodded, gesturing for Yubelluna and Garp to follow.
The Council of Elders
The Council Chamber was a massive, open space designed to highlight the garudas' affinity for the skies. Instead of walls, the chamber was surrounded by towering columns that supported a ceiling carved with intricate patterns of wings and stars. The wind flowed freely through the room, carrying with it a sense of calm and weightlessness.
Seated in a semicircle were the five Garuda Elders, each radiating an aura of wisdom and authority. At the center was Elder Suparna, his golden plumage glowing faintly in the sunlight. His sharp, hawk-like eyes fixed on Raizer with a mix of curiosity and caution.
"Lord Phoenix," Suparna began, his voice deep and commanding. "We have heard much about you and your ventures. Speak, and tell us why you have come to our skies."
Raizer stepped forward, his movements measured and respectful. "Elders of the Garuda Council, I come seeking understanding. My alliance with the naga was forged in mutual respect and shared benefit, but I have heard whispers that it may have caused unease here in your kingdom. I wish to address any concerns directly and build a foundation of trust between us."
Suparna's feathers ruffled slightly, a subtle sign of agitation. "You align yourself with the naga, yet you seek trust with us? The naga are known for their cunning and their territorial nature. Do you not see how this partnership might be viewed as a threat to the balance of the region?"
Another elder, her feathers tinged with green and blue, tilted her head. "You speak of trust, Lord Phoenix, but actions speak louder than words. What is it you truly seek from us?"
Raizer's tone remained calm. "I seek an alliance that benefits us both. The garudas are known for their speed, their wisdom, and their unmatched knowledge of the skies. Your isolation has kept you strong, but it has also kept you separate from the changes happening in the world below. I offer partnership—resources, trade, and cooperation that will ensure your kingdom thrives in the years to come."
Resistance and Counterpoints
Suparna leaned forward, his golden eyes narrowing. "And what do you gain from this partnership, Lord Phoenix? Do not claim altruism. We are not fools."
Raizer allowed himself a small smile. "You're right—this isn't altruism. I'm building an empire, and I need strong allies. The naga are part of that vision, and so are you. But unlike others who might seek to control you, I offer you freedom to decide your role. I respect your sovereignty."
The green-hued elder spoke again, her tone skeptical. "Sovereignty is precious to us. If we align with you, what guarantees do we have that we won't become pawns in your larger plans?"
Yubelluna, who had remained silent until now, stepped forward. "Forgive my interruption, Elders, but I believe you misunderstand Lord Phoenix's intent. His alliances are built on mutual respect, not dominance. The naga have retained full control over their territories and decisions. Why would you expect anything different?"
Suparna's gaze shifted to Yubelluna, his expression unreadable. "And yet, you come here with words alone. Words are fleeting. Trust is earned through action."
The Challenge
The tension in the room was palpable as Suparna straightened. "There is a region beyond our kingdom—an area of contested skies, plagued by rogue creatures and chaos. Clear it for us. Drive out the threats and stabilize the area. Do this, and we will consider your proposal."
Garp let out a low chuckle, cracking his knuckles. "Finally, something I can work with. I was getting bored of all this talking."
Yubelluna shot him a sharp look. "Garp, please."
Raizer nodded. "Very well. We'll handle this task. Once the skies are clear, I trust we can finalize our partnership."
Suparna inclined his head slightly. "We shall see."
Securing the Contested Skies
The contested skies were as dangerous as the garudas had warned. Turbulent winds and rogue supernatural creatures turned the region into a battlefield. Wyverns screeched through the air, their claws raking at anything in their path, while massive sky serpents coiled and struck with deadly precision.
Raizer led the charge, his cursed blade Shodai Kitetsu slicing through enemies with ease. His phoenix flames blazed across the skies, stabilizing the winds and clearing paths for his team.
Garp, true to form, turned the battle into a spectacle. His Haki-coated fists sent wyverns spiraling to the ground, and his booming laugh echoed through the air.
"BAHAHAHA! These overgrown lizards don't stand a chance!"
Yubelluna, her mastery of the Soul-Soul Fruit on full display, created spectral homies to trap and disorient the serpents. Her precise coordination kept the group moving efficiently.
By the time the last creature was driven away, the skies were calm, and the once-chaotic region had been cleared.
A New Alliance
When Raizer and his team returned to the Sky Kingdom, the Elders were waiting. Suparna stepped forward, his expression more thoughtful than before.
"You have completed the task," he said. "The skies are clear, and your strength is evident. But strength alone does not earn trust."
Raizer met his gaze. "I understand. That's why I offer more than strength. I offer a partnership built on respect and mutual benefit. Together, we can ensure your kingdom remains strong and secure, without compromising your freedom."
The green-hued elder glanced at Suparna before speaking softly. "Freedom is precious to us. If we align with you, it must be on equal terms."
Raizer nodded. "And it will be. This is not about dominance—it's about building something greater together."
After a long pause, Suparna finally inclined his head. "Very well. The Sky Kingdom will join your alliance. But do not betray our trust, Lord Phoenix. There will be no forgiveness."
Raizer smiled faintly. "Understood. Let's create a future worth remembering."
Moving Forward
As Raizer and his team departed the Sky Kingdom, the alliance with the garudas secured, he felt a sense of accomplishment.
"This went smoother than I expected," Yubelluna remarked, her tone relieved.
Garp grinned. "BAHAHAHA! Smooth? I barely got to stretch my arms!"
Raizer chuckled. "Don't worry, Garp. There'll be more challenges ahead. This is just the beginning."
And with that, the rising phoenix continued his journey, one step closer to building the empire he envisioned.
This expanded version of Chapter 19 adds more detail, natural dialogue, and character interactions to make the negotiation process feel more realistic and grounded. Let me know if further adjustments are needed!