The Grand Fall
In a world brimming with life and progress, yet shrouded in mystery and hidden truths, continents intertwine, kingdoms clash, and the Nine Ancient Sects wage an unending struggle. Amidst this turmoil lies the outskirts of Athenos, a city known as the ‘City of Happiness,’ where people from all over the world gather—seeking prosperity… or fleeing from their pasts. But beneath its radiant glow, darkness and oppression creep in, suffocating the souls longing for freedom.
A young boy stood still, gazing at the horizon with eyes burdened by sorrow, before whispering:
"I want to leave this world..."
Beside him, a man of imposing presence turned to him, his voice calm yet piercing:
"And why is that?"
The boy hesitated for a moment before letting out a bitter laugh, averting his gaze.
"Can't you see? Do I look like someone who belongs in this world? Do I seem like someone who wants to live?"
The old man smirked—not out of pity, but something else… something the boy couldn’t quite grasp. Then, in a tone filled with certainty, he said:
"Don’t say something so dull… Instead, come with me. I’ll show you what this world truly is."
The boy eyed him warily, hesitating for a moment before asking:
"Who are you?"
The old man turned slightly, as if the answer held little importance, then replied with a teasing tone:
"Me? Just an old man… My name is Rikudo, but they call me the Ruler of Paths."
He paused, then looked back at the boy, his eyes gleaming with intrigue.
"And what is your name, boy?"
The boy clenched his fist as if confronting himself for the first time, before answering in a quiet yet profound voice:
"My name… is Ashura."
The old man raised an eyebrow, as if he had just heard something interesting. The boy then spoke again, this time with unwavering resolve:
"Ashura Tekah."
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