At some point in time, among the kingdoms of the land, a great war erupted. One army wielded the magic of darkness on there service, while another emerged from an unknown place, blessed by the gods with the magic of light. They clashed fiercely—one defending, the other attacking. One army fought while shouting, and the other bore a terrifying smile.
The clash of swords echoed violently, the sound of catapults striking, and the mages on both sides chanted their spells without pause. Yet, in a land raised high in the sky, an intense battle raged between two warriors—an explosion here, a sword strike there. One soared through the sky, while the other pursued.
But after moments of relentless combat, both stood exhausted yet in perfect condition, each gripping their sword with both hands, standing only a few meters apart. Suddenly, they lunged forward, aiming their blades at each other's throats. However, after the deafening clash of their swords, they found themselves standing a single step apart, frozen in place.
—-—————
In an Era of Time:
The streets of Elynthera trembled with cheers of joy as Alethion Azrakar rode his black horse, Stormyth, leading his army back from a decisive battle. The long-feared beast that had terrorized the kingdom for years had finally been vanquished, and now, the hero who had put an end to the threat and restored peace had returned.
Men, women, and children lined the roads, waving scarves and throwing flowers beneath Stormyth's hooves. The soldiers marched in steady steps behind their commander, their gleaming armor reflecting the sun's rays, while the sound of bells rang across the capital.
Alethion advanced with unwavering confidence, his sharp gaze scanning the crowds that chanted his name, his long hair flowing with the wind. Despite the victory, his eyes lacked the same joy that filled his people's hearts.
As he reached the palace gates, King Theodorin awaited him, a proud smile on his face. Beside him stood his advisor, Valeran, whose ever-watchful eyes remained cautious as always. The gathered officials and nobles bowed in respect to the victorious commander, but Alethion knew well that triumphs were merely fleeting moments—what lay ahead could be far more dangerous than anything he had faced before.
"I have returned… Elynthera," Alethion muttered softly, his gaze fixed on the palace that had always symbolized everything he had fought for.
Inside the royal palace, beneath a dome adorned with gold and glowing magic, Alethion gathered with his five generals before the royal throne. King Theodorin sat with dignity, his eyes studying the warriors who had restored glory to the kingdom. Beside him, Valeran listened silently to the conversation that was about to unfold.
Darcyan, the master strategist, was the first to speak, his voice calm and resolute:
"The battle was complicated, Your Majesty. The beast was not just an ordinary creature—it possessed an unusual intelligence, as if someone was guiding it from the shadows…"
Valinor, quick-witted and sharp, added enthusiastically:
"Even so, we managed to turn the tide thanks to Darcyan's strategy and our rapid troop movements. Our coordination was flawless, leaving the beast no chance to regain its strength."
Rajarth, the renowned swordsman, struck his chest with a confident grin:
"It was a formidable opponent, but I personally enjoyed the fight. My body still feels the effects of the battle, but nothing compares to victory!"
Serinos, the expert archer, nodded before speaking in a calm voice:
"Our archers played a crucial role. Our relentless strikes weakened its movements, allowing the soldiers to close in and finish it off. It was a precise task, but we accomplished it successfully."
Finally, Velaria, one of the kingdom's greatest sorceresses, stepped forward, her eyes glowing with magic:
"I used all my power to ensure the beast could neither escape nor cast any mysterious spells. However, there is something unsettling… The power it wielded was not natural—I can sense that someone was behind it."
King Theodorin listened intently before rising from his throne, his gaze filled with pride as he looked at Alethion:
"You have saved the kingdom once again, as you have countless times before. No words can truly express the magnitude of your achievement, Alethion. You are Elynthera's undisputed hero, the pride of us all!"
A moment of silence filled the grand hall before the gathered officials erupted into cheers, praising their commander.
After hearing the king's words, Alethion and his five generals bowed in respect, expressing their gratitude and loyalty. It was a formal occasion, yet deep inside, they longed to leave the palace and return to their personal lives, even if only for a while.
Alethion raised his head and spoke in a calm voice:
"Your Majesty, we have fulfilled our duty today. We request your permission to leave."
King Theodorin nodded with a warm smile:
"You have given much to the kingdom—go and rest with your loved ones."
As Alethion and his generals exited the hall, their formal demeanor faded, replaced by casual conversations once they were out of the royal court's sight.
Darcyan, ever the strategist, sighed:
"I think it's time we returned to our families. War has drained us all."
Valinor, with his usual quick wit, grinned:
"Absolutely! Nothing compares to coming home after a long battle."
Rajarth let out a hearty laugh, clapping Serinos on the shoulder:
"Finally! I'm sure my family has prepared a grand feast for my return. I can't wait to eat and sleep in a real bed!"
Serinos, with a faint smile, added:
"As for me, I promised my little sister a new story about our adventures… Tonight, I'll keep my promise."
Velaria simply nodded slightly before saying in a quiet voice:
"Let's meet again after we've had some rest."
Alethion glanced at his comrades before offering a warm smile:
"Alright, let's take some time for ourselves. Enjoy these moments—they may not come again soon."
And so, each of them went their separate ways, returning to their families to embrace a brief moment of peace in a world that knew nothing but war and conflict.