In this world, not only humans but animals and demons can also use magic. They all rely on a power called Rune Magic. With this magic, every country strives to become the strongest. Those who fall behind are crushed by the stronger nations.
In the Kingdom of Valrith, people are gathered in a bar, discussing a shocking incident. The prince of the kingdom has been killed by a mysterious group.
"Why did they kill him? What do they want?"
"Who are they? Could they bring war to Valrith?"
Speculations run wild until the bar's door creaks open, silencing everyone. A man walks in, draped in a black cloak that covers his entire body, his face hidden behind a mask. He moves to the center of the room as the crowd stares at him.
He raises his hand to chest level, and suddenly, a glowing circle materializes in front of his palm. It's a rune, etched with strange words. The crowd realizes he's using magic, but before anyone can react, the man shouts:
"Hellfire Expanse!"
A massive explosion erupts, engulfing the entire bar in flames that reach the sky. The people outside hear the deafening blast and rush to the scene, surrounding the burning building. But without Water Rune users, no one can stop the fire. Panic spreads as the crowd wonders what to do.
Then, a shadow emerges from the flames. The figure steps forward, his cloak scorched and face smeared with ash. Someone in the crowd shouts, "Is there anyone alive? Wait! Help is coming!"
But the man ignores them. Standing amidst the destruction, he raises his voice:
"Get ready for the greatest war in human history!"
The flames roar once more, and the man disappears, leaving the crowd frozen in fear. The people know one thing for certain—something catastrophic is about to unfold in Valrith.
---
The next day, a high-ranking mage reports to the king. Kneeling before the throne, he speaks:
"My lord, I've investigated the ruins. There's nothing left but ash and the charred bodies of our mages. I did find a piece of a burned cloak, but it seems insignificant."
The king's eyes narrow. "Nothing is insignificant. Even the smallest detail could lead us to the truth. You must examine it thoroughly. We cannot let this situation worsen, especially while my son's murder remains unsolved."
The mage bows his head. "I am deeply sorry for the delay, my lord. We've found no clear evidence in either case so far, but we will keep trying."
The king sighs heavily but speaks with authority. "Do not forget—those mages belonged to the Skylashers clan. Their leader is on a mission now, but when he learns of this attack, he will cause an uproar. Report this to the King of Runes immediately. Only he can handle the Skylashers."
The mage nods. "Understood, my lord. I will report this at once."
With that, the mage leaves the throne room. The king remains seated, his face grave. He knows that Valrith stands on the brink of chaos, and time is running out to stop the coming war.
Chapter 1 End's here
-----------------------------------------------------------
A new chapter will be released every week.
King name: Thalion Valrith XVIII
King of runes name: Taryonis
Higer ranked mage Name:Malvaric Frostgaze
Skylashers Leader Name: Zoryn Veynar
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! Please let me know your thoughts in the comments—if there's anything wrong or something I can improve, feel free to share. This is my first time doing this, and I'll make sure not to repeat any mistakes.