Chapter 1: The Baker
In a world divided by two powerful ideologies—the Governors and the Guilds—seven nations exist, each with its own fate intertwined. Three of these nations are ruled by Governors, while three fall under the influence of various Guilds. At present, five Guilds thrive, with three holding significant power. The governance system is notably distinct; each nation is led by a king and possesses its own military, following rules set forth by the Governors.
Kings are bound to these regulations, unable to alter them without risking their positions. Unlike a singular monarch, the Governor's power is distributed among seven sovereigns, each representing their own authority. Among them, three kings currently reign over their respective nations, while the remaining three are governed by the Guilds: the Celestial Aegis, the Phoenix Guild, and the Guild of Lions. These three dominate the landscape, with many smaller Guilds operating under their aegis, and countless adventurers striking out to form their own independent Guilds.
The tale centers around a boy named Tatsu, who resides in the western part of a nation scarred by more than a decade of conflict over freedom and land. The country is cleaved into two parts, forming a U-shape, where the majority of the populace fights valiantly alongside the Guilds for their homeland. Meanwhile, the aristocracy has made a stronghold in the lands blessed with resources, now referred to as Wisdom.
At the far end of Wisdom lies a quaint village where Tatsu calls home. He is just eight years old, the son of Hiroshi, a humble human baker, and his elven mother. Their lives are simple yet fulfilling as they contribute to their community by providing food and occasionally selling their baked goods abroad with support from the Guilds in exchange for essential materials. However, the civil war looms ominously over their peaceful existence.
One fateful day, a powerful explosion shakes the non-war zone, leaving the villagers in shock. Panic ensues as a second attack threatens their already fragile tranquility, forcing everyone to evacuate in haste.