In a nearby carriage, the Lumius family’s royal cart rolled up the palace steps. The banners of their house fluttered in the wind—silver and azure, with radiant star the proud symbol of the Lumius line. Inside, Rena Lumius sat with her father, Lord Caesar Lumius, the current head of the prestigious Lumius family. The air inside the cart was one of quiet anticipation as they neared the palace.
Caesar’s gaze settled on his daughter with a thoughtful look. “You’ve read the reports, haven’t you, Rena?” he asked, his voice steady but laced with curiosity. “This Neil of Edalyn—the scholar who sealed Crius. Quite the feat, especially for someone without any formal training.”
Rena nodded, her eyes drifting to the window, where the capital stretched beneath a sky just beginning to dim. “Yes,” she replied softly. “I’ve heard the stories. They say he’s no warrior, and yet he achieved what so many couldn’t.” Her tone held a note of respect, tempered with a trace of intrigue. Her gaze fell to her hand, where Golden Nirvana, one of the fabled Emperor Rings, glowed faintly on her finger. Her thoughts then shifted to the report detailing Neil’s possession of another Emperor ring—the Mirage Pearl.
Caesar raised an eyebrow, studying her reaction. “What do you make of him, then?”
Rena’s expression shifted, her eyes distant as she weighed her answer. “I suppose I find it… rare. A scholar turned hero. It’s an unusual combination. But I’d like to see him for myself.”
Caesar’s gaze followed hers to the ring on her finger, his eyes thoughtful. “The Mirage Pearl and Golden Nirvana awakened within the same era,” he mused. “The Thunder Crown rests with the king. It’s almost as if the rings themselves know… something is about to befall Elysion.”
Rena’s gaze flickered with recognition. The ancient writings she’d studied foretold that in times of great turmoil, the Emperor Rings would stir, seeking each other out to fulfill their roles in defending Elysion. Her heart quickened at the thought. “Three Emperor Rings, together in the capital,” she murmured, more to herself than to her father. “It can’t be coincidence.”
Caesar gave a slow nod. “No. There’s purpose in this, Rena. The king has called Neil here for more than just recognition. I suspect you’ll be working closely with him in the days to come.”
Rena’s gaze met her father’s, her expression calm but determined. “Then I’ll do what’s necessary,” she replied. “If this is the start of something greater… we must be ready.”
Caesar’s hand settled on her shoulder, a faint smile of approval softening his usually stern expression. “Remember, Rena, you carry more than the Lumius name. As the keeper of Golden Nirvana, your duty is not just to the king, but to the realm itself. Honor and integrity must come above all else.”
Rena nodded, absorbing her father’s words with quiet resolution. She looked out the carriage window once more, her gaze tracing the distant spires of the palace. In her heart, she felt the gravity of her responsibilities deepen. The rings were drawn together, and the legends of old were stirring. Whatever was coming, she knew her place was here, ready to face the unknown.
——
Back in the palace courtyard, Neil was escorted out of his carriage by a royal guard, who led him up the grand marble steps and through a set of towering doors into the heart of the palace. As he entered the grand hall, Neil’s breath caught. Vaulted ceilings soared above, golden chandeliers cast a warm glow, and ancient tapestries lined the walls, telling stories of long-ago battles and heroes. It felt as though he had stepped into a realm of legends.
A guard approached and gave a polite bow. “This way, Master Neil,” he said, gesturing for him to follow.
Neil’s heart pounded as he followed the guard through corridors adorned with mosaics and statues, each piece whispering of Elysion’s deep history. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was walking through a place that carried the weight of centuries.
As they entered the main chamber, Neil was surprised to be met with a warm, friendly embrace that almost knocked the breath out of him.
“Finally! The man himself,” said a cheerful voice.
Neil pulled back to see none other than King Chris Elysionsonn, his broad grin and easygoing manner a far cry from the regal image Neil had imagined.
“Y-Your Majesty!” Neil stammered, instinctively bowing.
“Oh, none of that ‘Majesty’ business,” Chris said, waving his hand dismissively. “When it’s just us, I’d rather you call me Chris. I’ve been waiting for a real talk. We only met briefly after the battle, but I’ve read just about everything you’ve published—fascinating work. You’re practically a legend to me already!”
Neil’s cheeks reddened at the praise, but before he could respond, Chris turned to introduce Rena Lumius, who was standing nearby with a poised yet intense air.
“Neil, this is Rena Lumius,” Chris continued. “High Cleric, likely the next head of her house, and a fellow Emperor Ring bearer.”
Rena inclined her head with a measured grace. “Welcome to Aurelia, Neil. It’s an honor to work with someone who’s already proven his mettle.” She extended a hand, and Neil noticed the Emperor Ring she wore—Golden Nirvana, which gleamed faintly in the warm light.
His own Mirage Pearl, one of the lost Emperor Rings, felt heavier on his finger as he acknowledged her greeting. The fact that their rings had awakened in such close succession felt charged with meaning, a sign of something ominous.
Chris looked up, his gaze following Neil’s, to the frescoes adorning the high ceiling. Among the swirling constellations was a depiction of the 13 Emperor Rings crafted by Uranus himself, with three rings subtly highlighted in color.
“You know, I only noticed this fresco recently,” Chris said, gesturing to the three glowing rings in the painting, representing the rings they now wore. “The fresco seems to resonate with the power of each awakened ring. Every time one stirs to life, a new star appears to light the way. If it’s fate, it’s not a subtle one.”
Neil stared, mesmerized by the fresco, feeling the pull of destiny in the very air. “So… the rings really do call to each other,” he murmured. “Maybe the ancient texts were right about their purpose.”
Rena gave a slight nod, her expression thoughtful. “It’s said they gravitate toward each other in times of crisis, as if the rings themselves are aware of the dangers that lie ahead. With the Titan Keep failing, perhaps they’re preparing us for what’s to come.”
Chris’ gaze turned serious, though his tone remained easygoing. “That’s why I summoned you here, Neil. We’re about to embark on something new, a joint effort to strengthen the kingdom in ways we’ve yet to attempt. But the finer details will be revealed once the heads of the noble houses are all gathered.”
Just as Neil was about to ask further, the grand doors of the hall swung open, and the herald’s voice filled the chamber.
“All rise for the Lords and Ladies of Elysion!”
With regal grace, the remaining heads of the noble houses entered, their expressions solemn yet expectant, ready to hear what the king had called them all together to discuss.
First to enter was Lord Gilbert Verdant, a tall man with a lean frame and sharp green eyes. He was the first to bow before His Majesty, King Chris, a sign of respect that spoke volumes. “Your Majesty,” he greeted, his voice steady. “It’s an honor to stand among such esteemed company.” He then nodded respectfully toward Rena and Neil, acknowledging their roles in this momentous occasion. “The tales of your bravery have reached even the distant expanses I guard. You’ve done what many could only dream of.”
“Thank you, Lord Gilbert,” Chris replied, a hint of warmth in his tone. “Your protection of the verdant lands is as vital to our kingdom as ever.”
Behind Lord Gilbert, Lady Casseia Ignis strode in with fiery confidence, her red hair tied back in a neat braid that mirrored the intensity of her gaze. The House of Ignis, known for their mastery of fire and craftsmanship, commanded respect. “Your Majesty, it’s good to be back at court,” she said, her voice warm but tinged with the fatigue of recent motherhood. “I appreciate your patience during my time away. The past year has been a whirlwind.”
Chris smiled, his expression softening. “Welcome back, Lady Casseia. It’s wonderful to see you healthy and strong again. We’ve missed your presence. How is your little one?”
“Thriving, thank you,” she replied, a proud smile breaking through her composed demeanor. “Though the sleepless nights are a challenge! I may still be juggling both duties and motherhood for a while, but the flames of duty always burn bright.” She turned her gaze toward Neil and Rena, nodding respectfully. “It’s a pleasure to meet you both. I’ve heard much about your exploits.”
“Pleasure’s all mine, Lady Casseia,” Neil responded, trying to match her confident demeanor, though he felt a flutter of nerves. “Your house is known for its creativity and craftsmanship. I look forward to seeing how we might collaborate.”
Lady Casseia smiled slightly, a spark of interest flickering in her gaze. “Let’s hope we won’t need to wield our strengths against each other,” she said, a teasing lilt in her voice. “After all, there are bigger fires to fight.”
Her playful tone lightened the atmosphere, and Neil felt a sense of camaraderie beginning to form.
Next came Lord Lambert Apollo, the firstborn of Lord Lucas and elder brother of Lord Vincent Apollo, the future head of House Apollo. He strode in with an easy confidence, his robes embroidered with golden suns. “My apologies for my father’s absence,” he said, his golden eyes flickering with concern. “His health has kept him from joining us today. But he sends his regards and his faith in your leadership, Your Majesty.” He turned his gaze to Neil and Rena. “And to you, bearers of the Emperor Rings. We stand at a pivotal moment in history.”
“Thank you for being here, Lord Lambert,” Chris replied, his expression serious. “Your family’s vigilance over the Titan Keep has been crucial, especially in these troubling times. I hope your father will get well soon.”
Finally, Lord Caesar Lumius stepped forward, his silver hair catching the light as he moved with the grace befitting the head of House Lumius, which oversaw the Church of Gaea. His sharp features softened briefly as he made eye contact with Rena, pride flickering in his expression. “Your Majesty, Master Neil, and Lady Rena,” he began, his voice resonating with authority. “The weight of our ancestors rests upon us today. We are called not just to lead, but to unite our strengths against the encroaching darkness.”
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Once all four had taken their positions, they bowed deeply in unison before King Chris Elysionsonn, Neil, and Rena—three bearers of Emperor Rings. The room seemed to still for a moment, the weight of history and the significance of this gathering settling upon the shoulders of all those present. The four heads of the royal houses were not just leaders of noble families; they were protectors of ancient traditions, stewards of power passed down through the ages. Yet here, they stood in deference to the bearers of the first three Emperor Rings—symbols of an even more ancient authority.
Chris’ voice broke the silence, firm and confident, echoing the regal confidence that had come with his recent ascension to the throne. “Please, rise. There is no need for such formality today. We gather not as rulers or lords, but as protectors of this realm.”
The heads of the houses rose from their bows, a palpable tension in the air as they looked to Chris, ready to hear what he had to say.
Chris gestured to the long table at the center of the room, its surface adorned with the sigils of the royal houses and the emblem of the Elysian Empire. "We have convened today to discuss a matter that concerns the very future of Elysion. The battle against Crius may have ended in victory, but the threat of the titans has not passed. If anything, their attacks have grown more frequent, more vicious.”
A moment of silence followed, allowing the weight of his words to settle over the council. Lord Lambert Apollo was the first to respond, his voice deep and steady. “Your Majesty, it’s not just the battles that worry me. We’ve always known the chain holding the titans won’t last the eternity, but now it’s more than that—it’s failing. Atlas broke free first, and now Crius. Each escape is a tremor, weakening the entire chain. I fear the next shattering may not be so distant.” He paused, meeting Chris' gaze with a somber look. “During Crius’ awakening, the Order of Titans Keep suffered terrible losses. Without reinforcements, I doubt even our best Ring Bearers can hold the Keep alone when the next titan awakens.”
The weight of his words lingered in the room. Lady Ignis’ gaze softened, and she gave a solemn nod. “My heart goes out to your order, Lord Apollo. Crius’ awakening shook all of Elysion, but none of us felt it as keenly as those at the Keep—and those in the north. The devastation… we can hardly imagine what your knights endured.”
“Thank you, Lady Casseia,” Lambert replied, inclining his head with a grave expression. “The Order has suffered losses beyond measure. Crius’ icy fury took more than we were prepared to face; many of our finest knights were frozen in an instant, unable to withstand his power. The villages in the northern regions lie in ruin, shattered by a force they could neither fight nor flee from.”
The room fell silent, the gravity of Lambert’s words settling like a chill. He continued, his voice steady but laced with a deep concern. “Even now, the Order works tirelessly to strengthen the defenses. But we are holding back the inevitable with little more than hope and what remains of our strength. —For now, the chains hold. But we know the Keep’s power is fading. It has stood for millennia, binding the Primordials with unbreakable chains. Now, only six remain. If all were to break—if every seal snapped at once—it would spell doom for Elysion.”
Lady Ignis frowned, her concern deepening. “Then we truly are out of time. If even one more chain were to fail, I fear not just for the Keep, but for all of Elysion. The old defenses, as powerful as they once were, are no longer enough.”
Lord Gilbert Verdant, with his brows knit in thought, chimed in, “The effects ripple beyond the Keep, reaching the very edges of our lands. The titans’ activity has grown more pronounced across the eastern and southern borders, especially in the Shadow Abyss and near the southern tip. Our scouts report that shadows of titans—beings we thought long dormant—have stirred. It’s not just raids anymore. They’re probing, testing our defenses.”
Caesar Lumius nodded, his calm yet urgent tone lending gravity to the conversation. “It’s true. The Great Titan’s Veil has stood as a barrier for centuries, shielding the Verdant Expanse and the central regions, but it wasn’t built for this level of sustained attack. If the titans are awakening en masse, our scattered forces cannot hope to defend every corner of the realm.”
Lady Ignis, arms folded thoughtfully, leaned forward, her gaze unwavering. “The last battle against Crius proved as much. Our defenses—the very ones we’ve relied on for generations—are crumbling. Our forces took too long to mobilize from the capital, and by the time they reached the villages, they found little more than ruin. We need a way to react faster, to bring our people’s strength together when and where it’s needed most.”
She paused, allowing her words to resonate, and then continued with a touch of frustration. “Though each of the houses maintains its own order of knights, they are heavily concentrated in the central region, close to the capital. My own forces at Flameheart, far to the southwest, are some of the few stationed beyond this core. And Solis, the stronghold of House Apollo, is in the northeast. This leaves the vast stretches of Elysion nearly defenseless against sudden titan attacks.”
Lord Verdant’s brow furrowed as he considered her words. “She’s right. The central houses have the luxury of calling upon reinforcements quickly, but the outer regions… it’s a different story. Even with Flameheart’s and Solis’ presence, the distances are too great. By the time word of an attack reaches the capital, let alone a response, the damage is already done.”
Lady Ignis nodded, a note of urgency sharpening her tone. “We can’t continue this way, relying on forces that are hours or days away. Every minute counts when a titan strikes, and it’s the villages and towns closest to the borders that suffer first. They’re left scrambling for survival, often without adequate defenses. What’s worse is that without substantial reinforcements, they’re effectively cut off from our protection, forced to fend for themselves against beings that we barely have the strength to contain.”
She glanced around the table, her gaze fierce. “If Crius could devastate as much as he did, what will happen when the next Primordial breaks free? We’re out of time to rely on the old ways, on slow communication and delayed responses. The villages—the very heart of Elysion’s people and culture—are becoming sacrifices we cannot afford.”
A tense silence filled the room until Lord Verdant spoke up, his sharp green eyes shifting to Neil. “We could attempt to do as the Northerners did, gather every Ring Bearer we have and ask them to fight. But we all know how desperate that battle truly was.” He paused, a grim expression on his face. “If I have to be blunt, the battle of the north was a miracle, Master Neil. Pure luck.”
Neil’s face paled slightly, and he looked down. “That’s true,” he admitted quietly, his voice carrying a note of guilt. “I never expected my ring to be an Emperor Ring. I don’t even think I was capable of sealing Crius, let alone killing him. I saw many of those Ring Bearers fall in vain that day, bearing Keeper Rings they could barely wield. I could have been one of them.”
Chris let out a long breath, the weight of their vulnerabilities settling heavily on his shoulders. “I understand the concern of relying on Ring Bearers who are barely trained. Many of them possess powerful Keeper Rings yet lack the ability to harness even a fraction of their potential. Without proper guidance, I fear their power could become a double-edged sword, a risk to them and to the rest of us.”
The solemn hush returned as they absorbed Neil’s words and the reality they faced.
He glanced across the room, and the lords’ silence signaled their agreement. The council seemed to settle into a heavier, contemplative silence, as if each head of house were absorbing the depth of Elysion’s crisis.
Rena’s calm voice broke through the quiet. “If I may, Your Majesty.” She straightened in her seat, addressing both Chris and the gathered nobles. “The time has come for us to establish an academy. A place where our Ring Bearers and warriors can train together— Elysion’s defenses cannot afford to remain scattered and disorganized.”
An attentive hush fell over the council, all eyes fixed on her. Lord Verdant leaned forward, a faint smile gracing his lips. “An academy… I had wondered if such a thing would ever come to pass. It could become a foundation for unity, a place where our people can grow stronger together.”
Lady Ignis tapped a finger thoughtfully on the table’s surface. “Lady Rena, I believe you may be onto something. A formal academy could forge bonds between Houses that mere alliances never could. Those who train together, bleed together—they develop loyalties far beyond simple duty.”
Neil, who had been listening with quiet intensity, cleared his throat, feeling the weight of their attention on him. "If I may add,” he said, his voice steady but carrying a note of humility, “such an academy shouldn’t just be a place for training. We need more than warriors—we need guardians, people who understand the true nature of their power and how to balance it with wisdom.”
Chris looked at him, intrigued. “And what do you propose, Neil?”
Neil paused, gathering his thoughts carefully. “We could call it Equilibrium,” he began, his voice steady and measured. “But this would not be a mere militia academy, where Ring Bearers simply come to train and then leave. It would be something far more purposeful, a place that fosters not only skill but a lifelong commitment to Elysion. Upon graduation, each student would return to their homeland, to the villages and cities they once called home. They wouldn’t just be soldiers; they’d be defenders, healers, leaders—the sword and shield of Elysion.”
He took a breath, eyes scanning the room to ensure his words were reaching them. “Equilibrium would embody the balance between strength and wisdom. It would teach not only the art of combat but the weight of the power each Ring Bearer wields and the profound responsibility that power carries. This academy would serve as a beacon of harmony—a place where each Ring Bearer learns that their abilities are not just tools of war but instruments of peace, protectors of life. We’re striving not just to train warriors but to cultivate guardians who honor the lives they protect and preserve the peace they stand for.”
His gaze settled on Chris, then moved to the rest of the council. “Our goal should be harmony, not only in combat but in principle. Equilibrium should stand as a symbol of that balance—between the old and new, between strength and understanding. It would unify the strengths of each region, teach our people that power without purpose is a danger, and show that the might of Elysion lies not in individual valor but in the unity of all its defenders.”
The room fell silent again, but this time, it was a silence filled with possibility, the beginning of a vision they could all stand behind.
Lord Verdant murmured the name, “Equilibrium… Yes. A fitting name. It signifies that we’re not just fighting for survival but for peace, for harmony.”
Lady Ignis allowed herself a slight smile, her gaze fierce yet approving. “I like it. Balance, as you said, Neil. But let’s not forget that when the time comes, we will still need warriors who can tip that balance in our favor. An academy of ideals is all well and good, but we’ll need strength too.”
Lambert Apollo nodded, his golden eyes glinting with agreement. “And scholars who understand the forces they wield. Equilibrium must be a place of knowledge as much as power. We need those who can study the titans, learn from history, and perhaps discover new ways to reinforce our defenses.”
Caesar Lumius turned to Chris, his expression resolute. “Your Majesty, if this is the path forward, then know that my house stands behind it. We will lend our support, our resources—whatever is necessary to bring Equilibrium to life.”
Lord Verdant nodded solemnly. “The House of Verdant will do the same. For the sake of our people and our lands, we will see this academy established. It’s time Elysion unites not just in defense but in spirit.”
Lady Ignis gave a firm nod, her voice steady. “Count the House of Ignis as well. Our flame is yours to command, Your Majesty. Together, we will forge a future where every corner of Elysion has the strength to stand.”
Lord Apollo inclined his head, a rare warmth flickering in his usually guarded gaze. “You have our full support, Your Majesty.”
The room was filled with a renewed sense of purpose as each noble head pledged their allegiance to the academy’s vision. Chris’ eyes gleamed with gratitude and determination as he looked at each of them, understanding the gravity of the commitment they had just made.
Meanwhile, Rena’s gaze drifted to Neil, studying him in silence. Her mind was a whirl of thoughts, all of which centered around the unexpected brilliance of his proposal. Once again, it was as if the Emperor Rings had chosen their bearers with an infallible wisdom. Neil, a man she had known only briefly, had conceived something more than a mere academy; he had envisioned a foundation for Elysion’s future. He exceeds every expectation, she thought, a rare glimmer of hope kindling in her heart. With him by our side, perhaps we truly have a chance to protect Elysion, our beloved homeland.
Her silent reflection turned into a quiet, approving smile, and she gave Neil a subtle nod. In that moment, she knew that they would build Equilibrium not only as a fortress but as a legacy that would endure long after their time.
A renewed energy filled the room, the lords’ earlier concerns giving way to a shared purpose. Chris smiled, standing from his seat. "Then it is decided. Equilibrium will be the heart of our kingdom’s defense, a place where warriors, scholars, and Ring Bearers unite in purpose. Together, we will forge a future strong enough to withstand whatever comes next.”
As the meeting drew to a close, the three Emperor Rings—Chris', Neil’s, and Rena’s—began to glow softly, their light intertwining and resonating in unison. It was as if the rings themselves recognized the significance of this decision, their ancient power stirred by the unity forged here.
The heads of the royal houses rose to their feet and bowed deeply once more. Caesar Lumius spoke, his voice solemn. “We pledge our support to this new order. May Equilibrium stand as a beacon of hope for all of Elysion.”
And as the royal heads exited the hall, leaving Chris, Rena, and Neil alone, Chris looked to his two newfound allies with a spark of hope in his eyes. "This is only the beginning. Together, we will build a new world.”