Chapter 3: The Start of Journey

The vast mainland of Eldoria Prime stretched as far as the eye could see, a land teeming with countless kingdoms, sprawling icy rivers, and untamed wilderness. Three figures stood high above the world, their gazes surveying the grand continent beneath them. The sky above was painted in a deep shade of twilight, with stars flickering like celestial lanterns, casting a soft glow over the land.

Kek's silver eyes gleamed with curiosity as he turned to his father. " , Father, where are we?"

Lucian, his golden hair flowing slightly in the cool breeze, crossed his arms, his gaze analytical as he surveyed the vast world below. "Father, is this the mainland I read about in one of the books back home?"

Primorath, standing at the forefront, nodded slightly, his expression unreadable yet wise. "Indeed, you're correct. This is the mainland of the lower world. It's quite beautiful, isn't it, my sons?"

Kek, though fascinated, could not hide the slight sense of boredom in his tone. "It's beautiful, sure, but is there anything interesting here? Any strong warriors, divine beings, or lost civilizations?"

Lucian, standing beside him, sighed. "You always think about fighting, Kek. Try appreciating the beauty of the land for once."

Kek rolled his eyes but smirked. "I do appreciate it. I just think it would be more fun if there were legendary battles taking place here."

Primorath chuckled at their exchange. "Patience, my sons. The world holds many surprises. You will see soon enough."

Meanwhile, deep in the Valdoria Kingdom, the sound of rapid footsteps echoed through the dense forest. The air was thick with tension, the rustling leaves whispering secrets of an unfolding chase. A woman, dressed in tattered yet regal garments, was sprinting through the undergrowth, her breaths ragged. Her dark hair flowed behind her like a cascading river, and her emerald eyes flickered with desperation.

Behind her, armored mercenaries clad in black gave chase, their expressions ruthless, their weapons gleaming under the moonlight.

"Don't let her escape! The Queen's sister is worth a fortune!" one of them barked, his voice rough with greed.

Lady Amara Drakestone, younger sister to the Queen of Valdoria, felt her strength waning. The magic suppression seals placed on her body prevented her from fighting back or using her powers. If they caught her, she knew exactly what fate awaited her—she would be used as a bargaining tool, a pawn in a dangerous game of political manipulation.

As she ran, her mind raced for a way out, but suddenly—

A figure appeared in her path.

She came to an abrupt stop, her heart pounding as she found herself face-to-face with a boy, his silver hair catching the moonlight, his posture relaxed but unreadable.

Her instincts flared. "Who are you?! Get out of my way! I'm in a hurry!"

The boy, Kek, blinked in confusion. He had just been thrown into the forest by his father as part of their usual training. His body still ached from the impact, but now, here he was, standing in the middle of a dire situation.

"Kek, where am I? My body really hurts..." he muttered to himself before finally noticing Amara's presence and sensing something odd.

It was then that his senses sharpened. He could feel them—ten or more bloodthirsty mercenaries closing in fast, their intentions soaked in malice.

Without another word, Kek's form flickered.

A sharp gust of wind swept through the forest, followed by piercing screams.

For Amara, it all happened in an instant. One moment the boy stood before her, the next, he was gone. Then, just as suddenly, he emerged from the shadows of the trees once more—his silver hair stained with droplets of blood, his gaze calm, almost casual.

He wiped his hand on his tunic and sighed. "Kek, I apologize for the mess."

Amara's lips parted in shock. The mercenaries—gone. No, not just gone—erased. She hadn't even heard the struggle, no clash of weapons, no cries of battle. It was simply... over.

Her voice trembled as she whispered, "Who... are you?"

Kek blinked as if just remembering his manners. "Ah, sorry! I forgot to introduce myself. Hi, I'm Kek. Nice to meet you."

Slowly, she gathered herself. Despite her initial panic, she was no ordinary noblewoman—she was of royal blood, raised in the intricate politics of the Valdoria Kingdom.

Regaining her composure, she straightened and spoke, "I am Lady Amara Drakestone of the Valdoria Kingdom, sister to the Queen. If you need anything, I can repay your kindness."

Kek tilted his head. "It's a pleasure to meet you, my lady. We were actually planning to visit your kingdom soon."

Amara's expression shifted slightly in thought before she offered, "Then allow me to bring you to the palace. I will generously reward you for saving my life."

Kek waved a hand. "It's no trouble at all. But tell me, why were they after you?"

Amara's eyes darkened slightly. "They intended to kidnap me, not kill me. They planned to use me to blackmail my sister. Unfortunately, they sealed my magical powers to prevent my escape."

Kek hummed in thought. "Cowards. They were lucky they caught you off guard. If you weren't sealed, I imagine they wouldn't have stood a chance."

Amara smiled faintly. "You flatter me, but yes, that is true."

As the night deepened, Amara glanced toward the horizon. "It's getting late. You should return to your father, but remember—if you visit the Valdoria Kingdom, seek me out. I owe you a great debt."

Kek gave a slight nod before his form vanished into thin air, leaving behind nothing but a whisper of wind.

Kek reappeared atop a mountain where his father and Lucian were deep in conversation. His sudden arrival was met with Lucian's teasing smirk.

"Hey, brother, that girl was quite nice, wasn't she?"

Kek frowned. "What are you talking about?"

Lucian grinned mischievously. "Don't be shy. We were watching the whole thing. That was quite the dramatic rescue."

Kek scoffed. "I was just dealing with some scum. That's all."

Primorath, standing between them, finally interjected. "Enough of that. We need to head to the kingdom. Are you both ready?"

Kek and Lucian exchanged glances before nodding in unison. "Yes, father."

With that, the three figures disappeared from the mountain peak, their next destination clear—the Valdoria Kingdom