Just before Ren left for Crystal, there was a young man named Edward, who spent his days locked in his room. After certain traumatic events, he couldn't find the motivation to venture out. No matter how hard he tried, the tumultuous thoughts persisted in his mind, growing clearer by the day. Edward, once the prince of Storne, felt lost and desolate since his defeat against Ren. He considered himself superior in many aspects – more influential, more handsome, and the prince of a powerful country. However, he couldn't comprehend why he had lost.

Edward was absolutely convinced that he was chosen to rule the kingdom in the future. Yet, when he lost to Ren, he questioned what was different about the other young man. In Edward's eyes, it was inconceivable that someone could surpass him. His pride didn't allow him to accept such an outcome, and he refused to embrace a destiny that wasn't being the best at everything. To Edward, his superiority was unquestionable, and he was determined to prove it.

Furthermore, as if all these concerns weren't enough, news spread throughout the kingdom, coming from Solaris. Although Storne had lost the war, it didn't mean their strength had been completely defeated. Nevertheless, attempting another attack after a defeat would be utterly humiliating. Regardless, these worries didn't matter to him at the moment. The only thought that consumed Edward's mind was the hatred he felt for X, a person he considered insignificant and foolish. He refused to admit that this commoner could be changing the world with his inventions. Edward vehemently denied this fact in his mind.

"If he simply didn't exist, my world would be perfect. Why does someone like him need to exist?"

Edward lamented, frustration and resentment evident in his voice. To him, X's presence was a disruptive and incomprehensible factor. Edward couldn't understand why someone so insignificant and inferior had the power to deeply affect his life. From his perspective, X's existence was an imperfection in the universe that he couldn't accept.

While these thoughts were swirling in Edward's mind, he didn't realize there was movement in his room. A shadowy figure watched him from the balcony, dressed entirely in black. Quietly, the mysterious man began to enter Edward's room. However, contrary to initial expectations, as soon as the man set foot inside, Edward turned to face him almost instantly. Surprise and suspicion mixed in Edward's gaze as he cautiously assessed the mysterious figure.

"Who are you? How did you get in here?"

Edward spoke the words with determination, rolling off the bed and reaching for his sword lying nearby. The man, faced with Edward's defensive stance, hesitated for a brief moment before finally responding. His voice echoed in the space, but the hood covering his face kept his features hidden, adding to the mystery surrounding him. Edward became even more cautious, keeping a safe distance and waiting for further explanations before taking any hasty action.

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"It seems the famous Prince Edward wasn't as useless as they said"

The man said with a sarcastic tone in his voice.

"The rumors about you being a genius were not just lies, which leaves me even more intrigued about how you lost to someone you clearly consider inferior"

His words echoed in the room, filled with provocation and challenge. The hood covering his face made it impossible to discern his expression, increasing the tension in the atmosphere. Edward felt a mix of anger and curiosity upon hearing the intruder's words, awakening his determination to find out who he was and what he wanted.

But upon hearing the man's words, Edward maintained his defensive posture. He couldn't recall meeting anyone with the same stature and voice as that mysterious man. Why did this stranger seem to have knowledge of Edward's thoughts as well? Determined to extract information from him, Edward spoke firmly.

"You... how do you know this? Why do you know me so well?"

His voice carried a mix of suspicion and curiosity, while his piercing eyes focused on the stranger, seeking answers to his questions. At the same time, Edward discreetly assessed the surroundings, searching for possible strategic advantages in case a confrontation became necessary. His hand firmly held the sword, ready to act if the situation took an undesirable turn.

"You don't need to be so defensive"

Said the stranger in a soft and calm voice.

"To be honest, we're not here to fight against you. In fact, we want to become your allies"

The man said as he fixed his gaze on Edward. For some reason, a playful and enigmatic smile adorned the man's face, as if he found the entire situation hilarious. Although Edward couldn't confirm this theory, something in the man's words didn't go unnoticed by his keen ears, prompting him to question promptly.

"Us?"

Edward questioned, his voice laden with curiosity and a slight touch of suspicion. He was determined to obtain clear and precise answers. The mysterious man flashed an enigmatic smile and quickly corrected himself.

"Oops, it seems I misspoke"

He said in a casual tone.

"Please, ignore what I just said. It's not important now"

The man uttered his words with a false expression of regret, but no matter how much Edward observed him, he didn't seem genuinely sorry.

"Alright... let's suppose we become allies. What do I gain from it?"

Edward asked, maintaining his steady gaze on the man before him. Upon hearing Edward's words, the man's smile widened even further, revealing a mysterious glimmer in his eyes. He then responded, his voice filled with mystery and confidence.

"Something you certainly desire... We'll take care of the boy named Ren for you. All we want is for you to provide us with maps of all the kingdoms you can acquire. Someone as influential as you should be able to do that easily, right?"

The man smiled beneath his hood, as the offer proved irresistible to Edward.