I am currently six years old, and ever since I was little, I've been learning about this strange new world. It's unlike anything I've ever known. The world comprises 12 vast continents, and though some aspects are familiar, it's vastly different from my old world.
The most striking difference is that it's ruled by seven monarchs—powerful, immortal beings. They have a meeting once every year in a place shrouded in mystery, known as Eternis Citadel. No one enters without their permission, and no one knows exactly what goes on within those walls. All we know is that the seven monarchs control the fate of the world.
I was born on the continent of Zephyros, a sprawling land of mountains, forests, and plains, comprising three major kingdoms. The kingdom I live in is called Valkhast, and it just so happens to be ruled by one of these so-called monarchs.
Our king, Oden the Stormbringer, is said to wield lightning as his special ability. Stories about his power are whispered across the land—how he can call storms that raze cities and reduce entire armies to ash. Like all the monarchs, Oden is said to possess immeasurable strength and unending life.
This world is less developed than my old one, and it's no mystery why. It's not because of a lack of intelligence or innovation, but because of the unique energies that govern this world, energies that shape its very fabric. There are four types of energy here:
Aura
Aura is the energy of life itself, derived from one's vitality and spirit. It's often used by warriors who train their bodies to perfection. Aura enhances physical abilities such as strength, speed, and endurance, allowing its users to perform incredible feats. Some say the strongest Aura users can crush boulders with a single punch or leap over mountains.
Mana
Mana is the energy of magic, drawn from the environment and one's own inner reserves. It allows people to cast spells, conjure fire, manipulate water, and even bend time and space. Those skilled in mana are often called mages, and they study for years to master their craft.
Ki
Ki is the energy of nature, said to be the force that binds all living things. It's often associated with the eastern continent, where its users channel the elements—fire, water, earth, and air—into their techniques. Ki-users, or elementalists, are known for their harmonious connection to nature, and the greatest among them can control storms or cause earthquakes.
Divine Powers
The rarest and most mysterious of the energies, divine powers are said to come directly from the gods. Those who wield them are seen as chosen, capable of miracles and feats that defy logic. Divine powers can heal wounds, summon holy flames, or smite enemies with pure celestial energy.
In Valkhast, life is harsh. Taxes must be paid to King Oden every month without fail. If you're even a single Zoril—the currency of this world—short, the punishment is execution. It doesn't matter who you are or what circumstances led to your failure.
My mother runs a small inn and bar to scrape together enough Zorils to pay our taxes. She works tirelessly, and though she doesn't complain, I can see the strain in her eyes.
For those who can't make a living through ordinary means, there's only one other option: the dungeons. These mysterious, dangerous places connect to realms of monsters and untold treasures. People who brave these dungeons are called adventurers, and they rely on one of the four energies to survive.
Adventurers are ranked by their skill and strength, from S-rank, the elite few, to F-rank, the weakest and most inexperienced. S-rank adventurers are practically legends, capable of slaying dragons and conquering the most dangerous dungeons. F-rank adventurers, on the other hand, are little more than fodder for the monsters.
Life here isn't easy, but it's the only life I've ever known. For now, I'm just a child, watching and learning. But I can't help but wonder—what does the future hold for me in this strange, unforgiving world?
One thing's for certain: this is only the beginning.