The Bloodstone Dynasty has deep roots in the region, having held power for over a thousand years.

The dynasty traces its origins to a legendary knight who founded the kingdom. This warrior is celebrated in tales for almost singlehandedly wiping out the orcs, the native inhabitants of the land, to secure lasting peace for humanity. His exploits laid the foundation for a kingdom that would become a significant force on the eastern side of Silver Flower Island.

The Bloodstone Kingdom occupies the eastern territories of the island, one of the three leading powers in the region. The Silver Flower Island, now a bastion of human civilization, was once dominated entirely by orcs. The turning point came with the arrival of expeditions from the Flicker Empire. Among these expeditions were five legendary knights whose valor and leadership paved the way for human settlement.

Through years of relentless conflict, these knights founded two prominent kingdoms: the Silver Kingdom in the north and the Elowen Kingdom at the center. The cost of their conquest was immense—three of the five legendary knights perished during the battles. Of the surviving two, one became the king of the Silver Kingdom, while the other established the Elowen Kingdom.

The eastern lands remained under scattered orc control for many years until the arrival of the Bloodstone Knight. His triumph over the remnants of the orc forces brought stability to the east and gave birth to the Bloodstone Kingdom. However, this meant that the Bloodstone Kingdom was much younger than its northern and central counterparts, with a shorter history, smaller population, and fewer resources.

Although the three kingdoms are technically considered unincorporated territories of the Flicker Empire, in practice, they operate independently. With the orcs no longer a common enemy and no new frontiers to conquer, the kingdoms gradually turned their ambitions against each other. Over time, competition for resources and territorial disputes bred animosity and bad blood between them.

The Elowen Kingdom, strategically positioned between the Bloodstone and Silver Kingdoms, was the most populous. However, its growth was consistently checked by the joint efforts of its neighbors, maintaining a delicate balance of power. This equilibrium, while stable now, is precarious; any disruption could lead to catastrophic consequences for the entire region.

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King Rodric Bloodstone, the current head of the Bloodstone dynasty, was a figure of immense renown. At 711 years old, he was one of the oldest living individuals on Silver Flower Island. Yet, despite his advanced age, his youthful appearance defied time. His skin was unlined, his features sharp, and his body radiated vitality, resembling a man no older than 25.

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Rodric’s extraordinary talent was evident from a young age, which is why he was chosen as the successor by his great-uncle, despite being from a branch of the family rather than the main lineage. At the age of 130, he achieved the rank of Golden Knight, a feat that caused a sensation at the time.

Years later, at 375, Rodric broke another record by reaching the rank of Legendary Knight, surpassing his great-uncle’s record of 381. His rise was not just a personal triumph; it ensured the survival of the Bloodstone Kingdom. When his great-uncle passed away, having failed to ascend to the mythical rank, Rodric’s smooth succession was unopposed. His great-uncle's death made him the sole Legendary Knight of the Bloodstone Kingdom, the unshakable pillar safeguarding its sovereignty.

Without Rodric’s presence, the Elowen Kingdom, which boasted two younger Legendary Knights, could easily have overrun the Bloodstone Kingdom. The alliance between the Bloodstone and Silver Kingdoms, having one Legendary Knight each, was the only thing keeping the Elowens in check.

Upon ascending the throne, Rodric adopted a hands-off approach to governance. He delegated internal affairs to the nobles and ministers, instead focusing entirely on cultivation. His ultimate ambition was to break through to the mythical rank—a feat his great-uncle had failed to achieve.

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In a serene room adorned with beautiful paintings and a calming atmosphere, a man with blood-red hair, brown eyes, and an aquiline nose sat at a table. King Rodric Bloodstone was enjoying a quiet moment, sipping a drink from a finely crafted cup.

The tranquility of the room was broken by a knock at the door.

“Come in,” Rodric said, setting his cup down.

The door opened to reveal a man with blonde hair and a neatly trimmed mustache. He stepped inside, bowing deeply.

“My king, I bring urgent news,” the man said, his tone heavy with importance.

“Speak,” Rodric commanded, his sharp gaze fixed on the messenger.

The man produced a folded piece of paper, handling it with great care as he passed it to Rodric. “This letter arrived from the Windwalker territory. At first, I couldn’t believe its contents, but after verifying it twice, I am left with no doubt.”

Rodric unfolded the letter and began to read. His expression, calm at first, shifted to one of shock and disbelief.

“It can’t be…” he murmured, his voice trailing off.

“My king, I have confirmed it,” the blonde man reiterated firmly.

Rodric rose abruptly, moving to stand before a large mirror. As he donned his armor, he issued rapid commands. “Send word to the Flicker Empire immediately. Use every contact we have to convey the gravity of this message. Furthermore, reach out to the Elowen Kingdom. Invite them here. It’s time to put aside our enmity.”

The mention of inviting the Elowen Kingdom underscored the seriousness of the situation. For centuries, the Elowens had been the Bloodstone Kingdom’s main adversaries. Extending such an olive branch was nothing short of extraordinary.

“Yes, my king!” the messenger said, bowing before swiftly leaving the room.

Rodric stood alone, gazing at his reflection in the mirror.