The Threads of Destiny

"Focus on Your Lessons Now,"** Professor Henry added with his stern and commanding presence. Feared by the students, none dared disrupt his lectures.

**"Today, we'll discuss the great Kingdom of 'Awa',"** Henry continued. The Kingdom of Awa, considered the beating heart of the world, was founded 300 years after the Great Catastrophe. It is said that the ancestor of the ruling family was one of those who helped create **"Tayo."**

**"The Kingdom of Awa,"** Henry explained, **"lies in the northern part of the western continent, sharing its lands with other kingdoms and nations. Each kingdom has its own political system, but Awa is ruled by an aristocratic monarchy. Alongside the royal family, there are noble houses—most notably the Spencer, Alexander, and Agnes families—whose power rivals the royals."**

**"Understood?"** Henry asked, spreading his hands. **"These noble houses protect us, provide food and water, and ensure the operation of 'Tayo.' Without their vigilance, we'd drown in cold darkness and perish."**

Oliver and Augustus listened eagerly. In this world, humanity would have gone extinct without **Tayo**. Three centuries ago, the Great Catastrophe struck without warning: the sun began to dim until it nearly vanished. Fortunately, an alliance built **Tayo**, machines that mimic sunlight (albeit weaker) and sustain human life with light and warmth.

But **Tayo** came with a flaw: **"Aura,"** a mysterious energy humans have harnessed for 200 years—though none know how or why.

As Professor Henry stepped out to speak with a worker, Augustus turned to Oliver: **"I heard a noble from one of the great houses is coming to evaluate us this time."**

**"Really?"** Oliver replied.

After the grueling two-hour lecture, the students gathered in the cafeteria. The aroma of food flooded Oliver's nostrils, sharpening his hunger.

**"What's for lunch today, Leo?"** Augustus asked.

**"We've got Rukh meat and other options, but I'd recommend the Rukh—it's special,"** replied Leo, behind the counter.

The Rukh, a large but weak and foolish bird, was easy prey for hunters.

**"Was the hunt successful this time?"** Oliver asked, reaching for a hot pan.

**"Damn, that's hot!"** Leo hissed, pulling his hand back. **"Yes, the haul was good. Some monster herds are moving toward the city, abandoning their mountain grazing grounds. For now, it's manageable, but if this continues… no one can predict the outcome."**