Two carts rolled steadily toward the northern kingdom of Glacira—one loaded with goods, the other carrying Michi, Lior, Kael, Junia, and Tieu.
Michi broke the silence. "I never asked any of your reasons for this mission, but since we're traveling together, I want to know."
Lior's expression tightened. "I can't share mine for now… but I want to save the world, just as Depri said."
Kael nodded. "Same here. Tiana wanted to come, but I left her at home for her safety. I want a world where she can smile without fear."
Michi smirked. "You really love her, don't you, Kael?"
Kael's face reddened. "Yes… haha. Don't worry, I'll bring her to meet all of you when we return."
Junia spoke firmly. "As clan leader, it's my duty to protect my people—and that goes for Tieu as well."
Tieu nodded. "Exactly. I may be young, but I'm still a clan leader. I have to protect my clan."
Lior glanced around the cart. "Michi, notice something? We all have a forehead mark. History says that long ago, supreme beings bestowed their powers through these marks, passing them down through generations."
Michi listened intently.
Kael added, "Of course, some ignore the marks entirely and form their own power systems."
Junia's eyes sharpened. "Zahratek Kingdom."
Kael confirmed with a nod.
Tieu smiled faintly. "We're lucky to have these marks. And with them, we'll save everyone."
Michi returned the smile. "Yes… we will."
The night deepened. Hours later, the cart jerked to a sudden stop, jolting them awake.
Lior frowned. "Hey, why are you stopping?"
The driver's voice trembled. "Sir… we have company—!"
Before Lior could react, a scream tore through the air. Moments later, the driver's severed head landed inside the cart.
Everyone leapt out, weapons drawn—only to find themselves surrounded by eerie, zombie-like machines, their cold eyes glowing in the darkness.
Michi gripped his sword.
Kael readied his twin knives.
Lior raised his blade.
Junia pulled back her bowstring.
Tieu's grimoire began to glow.
The night was about to explode into chaos.