The Year 864

The storm rumbled outside, echoing the rhythm of the barely perceptible downpour. The melancholic atmosphere of the dark room reminded the young girl curled up on the floor of the harsh reality she had to face. That reality stabbed her with every moment, every breath, every flicker of hope.

"I'm hungry..." she murmured through chattering teeth, shaking her arms against her body.

The child, clad in tattered white clothes, with disheveled white hair that betrayed her deplorable state of hygiene, trembled as though the cold had invaded every fiber of her being.

Her only source of light came from beneath the metal door in front of her, faintly illuminating the tiled floor. Since her arrival here, that light had become one of the few things keeping her tethered to life. Each day spent in this place felt like an eternity, pushing her ever closer to the edge of madness.

"I want to go home. I want to see my family again... I want to kill them all... Every last one of them..."

Footsteps approached the door, their echoes reverberating down what seemed like a long corridor. The young girl, understanding what this meant, stood up in an instant. The dreaded moment finally arrived when three powerful knocks resounded against the door.

"SUBJECT Q-19! WAKE UP!"

The sudden voice of the man startled Alora awake in her room. It was nothing more than a nightmare.

"AH!" she gasped, jolting upright.

Alora realized that it had been yet another bitter nightmare. How many times had she relived this same dream? She had no idea—it had become a relentless recurrence.

Lowering her head, she sat cross-legged as sorrow engulfed her. Unstoppable tears streamed down her cheeks. In a fit of rage, she violently tore out strands of her long hair, shaking her head until dizziness overcame her.

"I'm sick of this! I'm sick of this! I'm sick of this!" she repeated over and over.

After a prolonged outburst, she finally calmed down, releasing the handfuls of hair she had ripped out. She stared blankly for a moment before turning to the nightstand and grabbing her phone. When she turned it on, the screen displayed "01:44 AM," indicating that the night was far from over.

"One in the morning... Hey, wait a second, what's this?!"

Something else on the screen caught her attention. It was a peculiar notification—an international news alert. The notification detailed the recent events that had unfolded in Iraclif, within the Kingdom of Rymis.

"Oh no..."

Alora clicked on it with great urgency, fearing the worst for her friend Rogue, who was still in the kingdom. Inevitable dread seized her when she saw the horrifying image of the Cleared Manor's destruction, accompanied by the revelation that Lana had been kidnapped by the Reversed Magic Sect.

In some way, she felt relieved that Rogue was safe, but what about Lana? Even though she didn't particularly like her, she couldn't help but feel a pang of concern for the Temparus heiress.

[King of Rymis' Castle, Meeting Room]

Meanwhile, at the top of the royal edifice, a meeting was taking place. Rymis III had summoned Dasra, Charles, Charnald, and a dozen mages and soldiers.

Dasra, as dedicated as ever, stood in stark contrast to Charnald's anxious demeanor. Charles, on the other hand, was aware of the terrible news that had struck the Cleared Manor. He maintained his composure, though his instincts as a father screamed at him to abandon all restraint. His beloved daughter, Lana, had been abducted by malicious individuals—the Inverted Magic Sect.

Among those present were Arghatian and Edrian diplomats, their distinct three-piece suits making them easy to distinguish.

Rymis sat on his customary throne, his expression far more serious than usual. His trembling gaze lingered for a long moment on the portrait of his father, Rymis II, a man clad in metal and gold armor, a testament to his warrior nature. His orange eyes, short beard, and slicked-back medium-length hair embodied both strength and regality.

At last, Rymis spoke, his voice heavy with gravity:

"The tragedy that unfolded in Iraclif last night has forced me to reconsider the traditions my father taught me. He always told me that magic would solve any problem I encountered during my reign. But today, I realize that the problems of four centuries ago are no longer relevant."

A hushed silence filled the room as everyone internally speculated on what Rymis had in mind. The wait for an answer was short-lived, as Rymis firmly planted his feet and swept his gaze across the room.

"I can no longer allow my people to live in insecurity. I can no longer let malevolent demons act freely in my country. That is why, today, on the 14th of Julexis 864, I solemnly declare that my kingdom will embrace new technologies to counter the Demonic Rebellion!"

A murmur of surprise and anticipation rippled through the table. Faces that had once been marred with worry now lit up with a mixture of relief and curiosity. Dasra, ever loyal, nodded respectfully, while Charnald, though still anxious, seemed to weigh the consequences of this historic decision. Charles subtly smiled, a silent sign of approval and support for Rymis.

"Starting next week, we will establish an Internet network. We will renovate our roads to gradually introduce modern vehicles for our citizens. We will also reform our educational system to prepare the next generation. And most crucially of all, we will deploy magical firearms to counter the massive proliferation of malevolent demons!"

The meeting room, already steeped in palpable tension, became a crossroads of various reactions to these revolutionary announcements. The Arghatian and Edrian diplomats exchanged questioning glances, realizing the potential impact of these changes on the international balance. Dasra appeared approving, though a flicker of concern flashed in his eyes.

Charnald, however, remained skeptical. His gaze briefly met Charles', as if seeking reassurance. Charles, understanding the gravity of the moment, discreetly nodded in affirmation.

Rymis felt the weight of history pressing upon his shoulders. He continued with determination:

"We will also strengthen our collaboration with other nations. Strategic alliances with Argha and Edra will allow us to share knowledge and reinforce our collective defenses."

Suddenly, a mage expert, dressed in a dark robe adorned with mystical symbols, rose from his seat. His aged face, marked by wisdom, betrayed a certain reluctance.

"Your Majesty, your decisions are bold, but I fear they may disrupt the balance between magic and technology. We must be cautious not to lose our essence. Think of your father, Rymis II. What would he say?"

"I understand your concerns, Master Aldric. However, I must face my own challenges—challenges my father imposed upon me. I believe magic and technology can coexist and complement each other, which is why we will ensure that our traditions are not lost, but rather enriched by these new perspectives."

A young soldier, his eyes sharp and posture alert, dared to speak:

"Your Majesty, with all due respect, how do we integrate these technologies without disrupting our ranks?"

"We will start with intensive training for our soldiers and mages. It is crucial that our armed forces be the first to adapt to this new era."

"And how do you plan to fund these projects? The financial burden will be colossal."

"Yes, I am fully aware. We will intensify international trade, develop new enterprises, and, if necessary, consider requesting a loan from the Cleared family."

The diplomats from Edra and Argha took notes as Rymis' vision for his kingdom's evolution unfolded before them.

While everyone exchanged optimistic remarks about this unprecedented revolution, Rymis was lost in deep thought. He bitterly recalled painful memories of his father, Rymis II.

Forgive me, Father. But you must understand that times are changing, and so is the world. I cannot allow our kingdom to crumble because of your extremist beliefs.

Rymis, absorbed in his thoughts, was pulled back to reality by Dasra's voice, who addressed him with confidence:

"Your Majesty, if I may, these changes require open and transparent communication with the people. It is crucial that they understand the reasons and benefits of this transition into a new era."

"You are right, Dasra. We must secure the support of our people. A public announcement will be made. We must prove to them that this change will not only contribute to their well-being but also to their security."

The discussions intensified as everyone contributed their expertise on how to harmoniously integrate technology and magic. Plans were drawn up for the education of the youth, the training of the armies, and the modernization of infrastructures.

Suddenly, a messenger entered the room, breathless from exertion:

"Your Majesty, a Lost One requests an audience with you."

The meeting, though filled with a tumult of hope and historic decisions, was immediately assailed by a flood of questions that silenced the assembly.

"Who is requesting to see me?"

"It is Jacob Kalis, Your Majesty. He claims to have crucial information regarding the future of Trillia."

"Really?" Rymis exclaimed, his eyes widening.

"Yes."

Rymis was aware that Jacob's information would cause a stir within the meeting. So, in a voice both firm and optimistic, he announced the meeting's adjournment, but decreed that everything discussed must be implemented in the coming days.

Once the assembly had left, Jacob, with a determined expression, entered the room when Rymis invited him to take a seat at the table.

"Good day, Your Majesty…"

"Good day, Jacob. Please, have a seat."

Jacob sat down, adjusting his kimono to avoid any discomfort.

"Would you like a drink?"

"No, thank you."

"Then, what brings you here?"

"The situation is dire…"

Jacob cleared his throat and began recounting what had happened during his journey through Deity Battle. For obvious reasons, he chose not to mention his fight against Marshal and Orion but instead focused on his encounter with the Founders. On one hand, he explained that they had likely hired Damahan to kill Ergania, the entity living within Gwendoline, deeming her evil and too powerful for the multiverse. On the other, he informed Rymis of the arrival of a second collaborator long before Damahan. He detailed everything he could, from the appearance of the Founders to that of the Egyptian collaborator.

Rymis listened intently, his eyes reflecting a mix of concern and fascination. He interrupted Jacob several times to ask precise questions, eager to understand every detail. Finally, he leaned back, his mind visibly troubled by the revelations.

"Have you spoken to the other Lost Ones about this?"

"No, not yet."

Rymis pondered deeply, weighing every word.

"Do you have any idea or plan in mind to protect Trillia from this threat?"

Jacob nodded, pleased that his concerns were being taken seriously.

"Yes, Your Majesty. I am well aware that this is not a fully formed plan, but I have decided to eliminate anyone who stands in my way. In other words, whoever threatens my friends or this planet will taste the power of my personal ability."

Jacob's determination brought a proud smile to Rymis's face, knowing he had such a Lost One in his kingdom. With him and Rogue within the country, Rymis could now fully focus on the technological development of his realm while the two Lost Ones ensured its protection. However, he refrained from making hasty conclusions, knowing that the second collaborator could emerge at any moment.

"I appreciate your commitment to protecting this world, even though it is not your own. You are truly an invaluable asset to my country, which is why I trust you."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. You will not regret it."

Rymis lowered his head, recalling the consequences of his choices and how they had affected the Lost Ones.

"Jacob… I would like to tell you something."

"Yes?"

"I… I am aware that I neglected your lives and well-being by summoning the four of you to this world… And I know that losing Marshal must not have been easy for you. However, you must understand that I did what was necessary to ensure everyone's protection. So, if you or the others ever need anything, I will always be here to help you overcome your troubles."

Jacob nodded, thinking back on all the hardships he and the others had endured during their time on Trillia.

"I can tell you that we've been through a lot, the others and I. But if it reassures you, know that on the day we were summoned, we all accepted the mission of our own free will. We knew what was coming, and yet we embraced our fate. Of course, I do think it would have been better for us if we had been summoned to one of the other two countries."

Rymis chuckled, recalling the meeting between himself, Milityasha, and Marc.

"Ahhh… that choice was the result of a successful manipulation by a very skillful leader. But… the more I think about it, the more I thank her, for she opened my eyes to many things."

"Oh really?"

"Yes, proof being that before you arrived, we were in the middle of a meeting to modernize the kingdom."

Jacob raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by this revelation. He had always perceived the Kingdom of Rymis as a land frozen in its traditions, where magic reigned supreme over technology.

"Modernizing the kingdom? That's quite ambitious, especially for a place like this."

Rymis nodded, his penetrating gaze fixed on Jacob.

"Indeed, and it is not a decision I made lightly. But after witnessing firsthand what you and the other Lost Ones have achieved, I realized that we can no longer stay on the sidelines of progress. Magic has always been our pillar, but it is time to integrate new methods to face the challenges ahead."

Jacob nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

"I agree, Your Majesty. Well, if I can assist in any way, know that I am at your disposal."

"Thank you."

He paused, then added:

"However, there is a more immediate matter to discuss. You mentioned an 'Egyptian collaborator.' I wanted to know if you had any further information on them."

Jacob furrowed his brows, recalling his encounter with the Founders.

"Not much, unfortunately. But I have a feeling that this person could be a key element in the events to come. I will continue my research and keep you informed."

Rymis, with a sincere smile, rose from his chair and approached the large window overlooking the vast lands of his kingdom. The rising sun bathed the landscape in golden light.

"I have faith in you and the others. A new era is dawning for us, and you, the Lost Ones, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in it. I am counting on you."

"You can, Your Majesty. We will do whatever is necessary. With that, I take my leave—I'm returning to Haradi."

Jacob stood and exited the room. Rymis remained alone in the meeting hall, lost in thought. The task ahead was immense, but he was determined to protect his kingdom from all threats, whether from malevolent demons or unknown cosmic forces.