The World of Noah
The continent of Noah was vast, divided among three great kingdoms: The Canglang Empire, The Kingdom of Light, and The Dark Dominion. Each held its own power and ambitions, shaping the history of this land. While these three superpowers dictated the fate of Noah, smaller nations struggled to survive in the turbulent gaps between them, often serving as pawns in the hands of greater empires.
At the heart of the Canglang Empire, an economic powerhouse reigned supreme: The Haipoli Merchant Guild. Their influence stretched across borders, controlling the empire's trade, wealth, and financial networks. Even the royal family had to acknowledge their power. The head of this merchant empire was none other than Duke Haipoli, a man of keen business acumen and noble prestige. His only son and heir, David Haipoli, was hailed as a once-in-a-century genius, a prodigy who promised to lead the family into a golden age.
The Genius of the Haipoli Family
David was no ordinary aristocrat. His brilliance had been evident from a young age—by three, he could recite entire religious scriptures; by eight, he had mastered astronomy and geography; and by eleven, he was officially declared the heir of the Haipoli Merchant Guild. With sharp intellect, diplomatic grace, and an intuitive understanding of commerce and politics, David was the pride of his family.
His reputation was known far and wide. Among the noble circles, young lords and ladies sought his friendship, scholars admired his intellect, and merchants feared and respected his talent. He was not just a businessman in training—he was also an adept swordsman, tactician, and leader. It was widely believed that under his leadership, the Haipoli Guild would one day surpass even the power of the imperial court itself.
But power was a dangerous thing. And the more David and his family flourished, the more enemies lurked in the shadows.
The Chancellor's Fear
One man in particular saw David not as an asset to the empire, but as a threat—Chancellor Bismarck. The chancellor was an old and cunning politician who had spent decades consolidating power within the imperial court. To him, the Haipoli Guild was growing far too strong, dangerously close to overshadowing the emperor himself. If left unchecked, their influence could one day challenge the very throne of the Canglang Empire.
Bismarck believed in the absolute authority of the state. He despised the idea of a merchant family holding more sway than the nobility and military. For years, he had carefully monitored the Haipoli Guild, searching for weaknesses, waiting for the right moment to strike. Now, as David grew into a capable young man, Bismarck knew that the time for action was fast approaching.
Late at night, within his grand office in the imperial palace, Bismarck pored over intelligence reports detailing Haipoli trade routes, alliances, and military strength. He called upon his most trusted spies, instructing them to dig deeper, uncover secrets, and prepare for a decisive move.
"Power must reside within the empire alone," he muttered to himself. "Not in the hands of merchants."
The Hidden Suspicion
Meanwhile, David was unaware of the full extent of Bismarck's schemes. He had sensed growing tension between the nobility and his family, but he believed that with careful negotiation, he could maintain a balance of power.
One evening, during a private council meeting within the Haipoli estate, his father and several senior members of the guild gathered to discuss the rising hostility from the imperial court.
"The chancellor's recent actions trouble me," said Duke Haipoli, his expression grim. "Our spies report increased surveillance on our trade routes. Officials are investigating our finances under the guise of 'tax regulation'. This is more than just routine oversight."
David sat quietly, absorbing every word. After a moment, he finally spoke.
"Bismarck is a man who only acts with purpose. If he is investigating us, it means he is preparing for something much larger." His voice was calm, but his mind was already formulating possibilities. "We must tread carefully. If we react too aggressively, we confirm his suspicions. If we do nothing, we leave ourselves vulnerable."
The older merchants exchanged uneasy glances. They had all placed their faith in David, knowing that despite his youth, his mind was sharper than any of theirs.
"Then what do you suggest, my son?" the duke asked.
David leaned forward. "We continue business as usual, but we strengthen our alliances in the background. The noble houses that rely on our wealth, the military generals who benefit from our resources—we ensure they remain loyal. If Bismarck plans to strike, we must make sure that his sword does not find an easy target."
His words carried wisdom beyond his years. The council murmured in agreement.
A Shadow Moves in the Dark
That night, as the city of Canglang slumbered beneath its grand towers and golden palaces, a lone figure moved through the darkness of the merchant district. A spy under Bismarck's command carefully approached a hidden meeting place, slipping a coded message to an unknown contact.
The message was simple:
"The Haipoli Guild grows stronger by the day. If we do not act soon, we may lose control. Awaiting orders."
From the other end, a shadowed figure nodded and vanished into the night. The storm was gathering, and soon, David Haipoli would face the first great challenge of his life.