Geopolitical Background
The world is divided into three major lands, each a vast island made of multiple states:
Land of Power
Zaiden State
Maria State
Volnaris State
Alden State
Land of Internal Conflict
Redia State
Meredia State
Klyria State
Veloria State
Land of the Dead
Haven State
Viren State
Quarth State (destroyed/unreachable)
These lands are bridged together by a central neutral island known as the Capital or Trade Centre, home to the legendary Central University — an ancient institution governed by the Grandmaster, open to all states for education and diplomacy. The university predates even the creation of the kingdoms.
Scene: Redia Kingdom — Palace of Gods
A young maid entered a grand chamber, bowing respectfully before a poised woman dressed in white silk and blue adornments.
"Princess Cleopatra, news has arrived: King Zaiden has been assassinated. The Emperor's seat is now vacant. King Marek summons you, along with Princess Lysandra and Prince Riven, to the dining hall."
Cleopatra closed the book she was reading. Her silver-white hair reflected the sunlight pouring through the windows. "Understood. Let's go."
Dining Hall — Royal Gathering
King Marek sat at the head of the long obsidian table. His face was solemn.
"With Emperor Louis V dead, the Ceremony of Succession must begin anew," he announced. "I respected Louis deeply. But I shall not allow an unworthy successor to claim the throne — not his son, not anyone undeserving. Redia must produce a candidate worthy of the imperial crown. I will abdicate and pass my title to the rightful heir."
Riven leaned back smugly.
But Marek's next words shattered him:
"I hereby name Cleopatra, my firstborn, as the next Queen of Redia."
Riven stood up, fury burning in his eyes. "How can a girl rule? I'm your son. She's lived in Klyria for seven years. You don't even know if she's truly your daughter. Maybe you saw white hair and were fooled."
Lysandra leapt to her feet. "Speak again, and I'll carve your tongue out."
Marek chuckled softly. "I know she is mine. She has mastered the Fire Stance, and her Ki has awakened into the Outer Heavenly Stage — just like her mother. She's spent her years in Klyria mastering their elite combat methods. You, Riven, have strength, but no foresight."
Still fuming, Riven pointed his sword toward Cleopatra. "Then let her prove herself. I challenge you, sister. Winner takes the throne. Don't worry — I won't kill you."
Cleopatra met his gaze calmly. "Accepted. Don't hold back."
Arena of Kings — Redia Capital
Crowds flooded the royal arena. The tension was electric. Even kings from other states had arrived to witness the battle for Redia's throne.
With a single command, the duel began.
In a blink, Riven appeared behind Cleopatra. "I'll end this quick."
He slashed — but she spun out of reach effortlessly. Riven's technique, forged in the brutal Redia Sword Style, emphasized raw strength and overwhelming speed.
Cleopatra moved like flame. Her style — a blend of Klyrian Ki-infused combat and fire manipulation — danced through the air.
"You still have time to surrender, brother," she said.
Riven's pride flared. "Never!"
He unsheathed his blade. Cleopatra followed suit — and her sword ignited, blazing with heat so intense the arena's temperature spiked. Winds swirled, and murmurs filled the crowd.
King Arthonis of Klyria leaned toward Marek. "Should we stop this? You know your son stands no chance."
Marek smiled. "Let him learn."
The swords clashed. Sparks flew. They moved like lightning — steel ringing, footwork flawless.
"I'll finish this with my signature!" Riven shouted.
But Cleopatra's eyes glowed crimson. Ki surged like a tidal wave.
"Realm: Grave of Fire!"
A burning landscape unfolded around them, engulfing half the arena in flames and ash. Spectators gasped. For many, it was their first time seeing a Realm — a manifestation of overwhelming Ki and will.
Inside the blazing domain, Riven's knees buckled.
"I could kill you, but I won't," Cleopatra said gently. "Accept defeat."
Riven fell to his knees. "Such... power. I yield. But remember — we will fight again."
He stormed out of the arena, humiliated but alive. Cleopatra bowed solemnly as the crowd erupted.
Coronation Day — Throne Room of Redia
Before nobles, kings, and merchants, King Marek raised the crown and placed it on his daughter's head.
"I, Marek of House Redia, declare Queen Cleopatra, rightful ruler of Redia."
Applause thundered. Banners unfurled. A feast began.
King Arthonis approached Cleopatra. "Well done, my student. You've truly awakened the realm. Now you're ready for the Capital — to train under the Grandmaster himself."
"I will go once my duties here are settled," Cleopatra replied.
Meanwhile: Bridge to Capital
Riven crossed the great stone bridge that linked Redia to the Capital. His thoughts were heavy — shame, anger, and determination swirling inside him.
A shadow followed.
He turned and flung a knife.
A hooded man caught it midair. "Impressive reflexes," he said. "I am Arion, Minister of Zaiden. Our new king, Louis VI, invites you to dinner."
Riven narrowed his eyes. "What does Zaiden want with me?"
Arion smiled. "An opportunity... and perhaps, a path to surpass your sister."