“Whispers of Eternity: Alzeria’s Grimoire Gambit” [CHAPTER-02]

Raven's eyes, deep and enigmatic, reflected the weight of untold history, embodying the essence of countless forgotten eons that flickered within their depths like distant stars. "Listen, Alzeria," she murmured in a tone imbued with both warmth and gravity, "as you are aware, the manifestation of four collective dragons is a requisite for a deity to summon a hero from another realm. This divine partnership not only enhances the kingdom's wealth but also facilitates its expansion—spanning across population growth, territorial acquisition, and a significant increase in power. Regrettably, your kingdom stands at a critical juncture with only a singular dragon manifested, thus rendering you ineligible for such assistance."

Alzeria's voice interjected, trembling yet resolute, "I cannot summon a hero."

Raven nodded solemnly, her gaze unwavering. "Indeed, you are correct. The emergence of the four additional dragons hinges upon the collective merit demonstrated by the people of your realm to the supreme divine. Regrettably, your kingdom has yet to evolve significantly; its inhabitants have barely commenced their journey through the Iron Age. To ascend to the level necessary for the summoning of four dragons, your society will require an expanse of approximately 1,000 years, thrusting them into the epoch of the Middle Ages.

"Alzeria's voice cracked with despair, "So, my death is inevitable."While the weight of truth lingered heavily in the air,

Raven responded with an unwavering determination, "It may appear so, but I refuse to permit your demise, my child. I am Raven, the goddess of all grimoires. My divine knowledge is unparalleled, and none in the celestial realm can contest my authority." With that declaration, Raven closed her eyes, her lips parting in a chant of ancient spells, "Yawogya intaman mrityu kale."

At once, a magnificent black grimoire materialized before her, its pages whirling in an ethereal dance. Outside, the skies darkened ominously, with crows and bats converging around her palace, and the winds howled with an unsettling ferocity.

"Come to me," Raven commanded with an air of absolute authority.

In an instant, everything stilled, the ominous black aura dissipating as the grimoire settled in Raven's hands, opened to a particular page.

"Alzeria, here it is," she announced, extending the grimoire to her acolyte.

Meanwhile on Earth,

the atmosphere pulsed with the fervor of revolution, a fervor ignited by the audacious collaboration between Milio and the citizens of the city, who rose against the oppressive grip of the royal family, culminating in the triumphant abolition of the monarchy.

As the dust settled on this resounding upheaval, 

Hush! I'm utterly worn out from toppling an entire kingdom, yet here I am, ready to luxuriate for the rest of my days surrounded by stunning beauties.

Allow me to introduce myself; I'm Aqua, a dashing figure intent on living in the lap of luxury. Picture this: awakening in a lavish chamber encircled by enchanting women, indulging in the most exquisite fruits and gourmet dishes the kingdom has to offer. Just the idyllic aspirations of a young man, right? Yet, therein lay my dilemma: this entire system was predicated on monarchy. For someone like me, who lacked royal pedigree, the prospects of romance and sustenance were as bleak as a barren winter."

"Hello, Aqua. Thank you for your invaluable assistance in the overthrow of the royal family. Our success would not have been possible without your courage.

The man showering me with gratitude is Milio. Let me take you back to when I decided to work for my dream. Two years ago, I was pondering how I could become royal or rich enough to live the life I dreamed of. That day, I met a young man in his twenties with golden hair, a sharp face, and fancy clothes, but he was getting beaten by soldiers. I usually don't interfere in these matters, but because he looked rich, I thought I could use him to achieve my goals. I jumped into the fight and beat the crap out of the two soldiers. Honestly, it was a cakewalk, and then I brought him to my small shelter.

"Thank you, kind sir," the young man gasped, recovering his composure.

"Yeah, yeah, first drink some water, and let's get to the point. What were those soldiers after? You don't look like a common thief.

Have I made a grave misstep by harboring this stranger? What if the soldiers suspected me of treachery? I would spin a tale, concocting a narrative of abduction if the need arose but this man appears incapable of even capturing a wayward dog. "Stay calm. Just like the wise Chinese philosopher once said, 'Don't overthink, boy.'"

"Please, allow me to explain. Have you heard of the Republican faction?

"Yes, I'm familiar."they're nothing more than a bunch of fools. What are they risking their lives for? For the common people? The populace of this city hardly seems invested in their wellbeing."

"Oh, but that's where your perspective may be flawed, sir. They do indeed care about us,""How do you know they care about you?"

"Well, sir, Consider this: Why have we not succumbed to starvation or the wounds we carry? The odds are stacked against us, yet we remain standing,

Hmm, I hadn't thought of that. Everyone in the Republican group is basically a traitor. You can't roam outside; otherwise, you'll be sent to jail. You can't buy anything or do any business because of the treason crime. But still, they look well-fed, and even his other injuries are healed.

"I don't know. How are you guys getting supplies?"

"Well, sir, each day, an anonymous benefactor leaves us supplies—vegetables, food, water, and even medicine—at our headquarters, undeterred by fear. We know the city's dwellers can't offer their assistance openly, but their support is palpable. It is these very citizens who propel our fight, the reason we stand against the tide.