Narration:

a time long past, the world was divided into three powerful nations: Retsyd, Tora, and Knorr. Each of these countries held a unique place in the region, their fates intertwined by politics, power, and conflict.

Retsyd, a nation of peace and prosperity, was known for its steadfast law—a decree that forbade the country from engaging in warfare unless it was first attacked. This principle was the cornerstone of Retsyd's identity, a reflection of its people's desire to live in harmony. The capital city, Retsylia, was a beacon of culture and tranquility, its streets filled with scholars, artisans, and merchants who thrived under the protection of their pacifist law.

But not all was serene in this region.

To the east lay Knorr, a country driven by ambition and a hunger for expansion. Knorr's leaders believed in the supremacy of their nation and sought to extend their influence by any means necessary. Their eyes often wandered towards the fertile lands and resources of their neighbors, sparking tension that simmered just below the surface.

To the west, the nation of Tora stood as a formidable force, known for its military prowess and unyielding spirit. Tora had long been embroiled in conflict with Knorr, a rivalry fueled by deep-seated grudges and territorial disputes.

The war between Tora and Knorr raged on, with no end in sight, as both sides fought for dominance in the region.

Retsyd, however, was separated from these warring nations by a vast wall of mountains that stretched across the land like a natural fortress. This formidable barrier made any attempt to invade Retsyd a near-impossible endeavor. The treacherous terrain would decimate any army foolish enough to try, ensuring that Tora and Knorr kept their distance, unwilling to sacrifice their forces for a campaign doomed to fail.

Amidst this backdrop of rising tensions and inevitable conflict, the peaceful village of Eldoria lay nestled within Retsyd's borders. It was here that the story of Colim Argen Marlvarson began—a simple man living a life of contentment with his family, unaware of the storm that was about to engulf his world.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the fields and forests, Eldoria remained blissfully unaware of the danger that lurked in the shadows. The tranquility of the village belied the chaos that was soon to come, and the events that would forever alter the lives of those who called this place home.What follows is a tale of loss, vengeance, and the shattering of innocence—a story that will test the limits of a man's resolve and the lengths he will go to protect what he holds dear.

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Chapter 1: Tranquility

Colim Argen Marlvarson awoke to the soft light of dawn filtering through the wooden shutters of his simple yet sturdy home. The birds outside sang a serene melody that echoed through the peaceful valley, where his house stood nestled among the trees. The scent of pine mixed with the fresh morning air, creating a calming atmosphere that made him smile. Life in this quiet corner of the world was as close to perfect as he could imagine.

His wife, Cynde, was already up, preparing breakfast. The aroma of freshly cooked rice and dried fish wafted through the air, making his stomach rumble in anticipation. As he entered the kitchen, Cynde looked up with a warm smile.

"Good morning, love," she greeted him, her voice soft and filled with affection. "I’ve made your favorite."

Colim leaned down to kiss her on the forehead. "Thank you, dear. You always know how to start the day right."

They sat down to eat together, enjoying the simplicity of their morning routine. Cynde’s face, usually radiant with happiness, held a hint of worry today.

"I heard some news from the market yesterday," she began, her voice hesitant. "There’s talk of war between the neighboring countries, Knorr and Tora. People are saying it could spread."

Colim paused, setting down his fork. He reached across the table to take her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "Cynde, Retsyd has stayed neutral in this conflict. We’ve always kept to ourselves, and I’m sure our leaders will continue to do so. We’re safe here. We’re far from the borders, and there’s no reason for the war to touch us."

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Cynde nodded, trying to believe his words. "I hope you’re right."

"I am," Colim said with a smile. "Now, don’t worry. I’ll go to the woods today, gather some firewood, and check on the garden. Life goes on as usual."

After breakfast, Colim set out into the forest. The tall trees provided shade as he worked, cutting down dead branches and gathering them into a bundle. On his way back home, he passed by the vegetable patch he had planted near the edge of the woods. The plants were growing well, and he picked a few ripe vegetables to bring home for dinner.

As he approached the house, the sun was just beginning to dip toward the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape. His two dogs, Coby and Copper, came running to greet him, their tails wagging excitedly. Colim knelt down, ruffling their fur. "Good boys," he said with a chuckle. "You’ve been keeping an eye on things, haven’t you?"

He continued toward the house, where the door opened, and his children came running out to meet him. "Papa!" Rodi and Marhea shouted in unison, their faces lit up with joy. "Welcome back!"

Colim scooped them up in his arms, laughing as they hugged him tightly. "I’m back! Did you behave for your mother?"

"Yes, Papa," Marhea said, her eyes shining. "We helped her in the kitchen!"

Cynde appeared in the doorway, smiling at the scene. "Dinner’s ready, love," she called out. "Come inside."

They all sat down at the table, the warm glow of the fire in the hearth adding to the cozy atmosphere. Before they began eating, Marhea clasped her hands together and bowed her head. "Dear God, thank you for this food. Please keep us safe and happy, and bring peace to the world. Amen."

The simple prayer filled Colim’s heart with a deep sense of gratitude. They were blessed, and he was determined to protect this life they had built, no matter what.

The next morning, just as dawn broke, the tranquility was interrupted by the sound of horses approaching. Colim stepped outside, greeted by a small group of soldiers led by a stern-looking man in his early forties. The captain dismounted and approached Colim, his expression serious but not unkind.

"Good morning," the captain said, extending a hand. "I’m Captain Bernan Rhaynan Tures. We’re on a routine patrol near the border. There’s been increased military activity from Knorr and Tora, and we’re just making sure everything is secure."

Colim shook his hand, nodding. "I’m Colim Argen Marlvarson. Thank you for the information, Captain. Is there anything we should be concerned about?"

Bernan looked around at the peaceful surroundings, then back at Colim. "There’s always a chance that the conflict could spill over, but I wouldn’t worry too much. Your village is far from the frontlines. Just keep an eye out and stay vigilant."

"I will," Colim assured him. "Thank you for your service."

The captain’s gaze softened as he observed Colim’s simple life—a life filled with love, peace, and the comforts of family. "You’ve got a good thing here, Marlvarson. I hope it stays that way."

"Thank you, Captain," Colim said with a nod. "I do too."

As the soldiers rode off, Colim watched them disappear into the distance, a slight unease settling in his chest. But he quickly shook it off. There was work to be done.

Colim spent the day gathering firewood and making charcoal, which he planned to sell in town. The walk to the market was long, but it gave him time to think and appreciate the quiet beauty of the countryside. On his way back, he encountered a deer in the woods. With a practiced hand, he took it down swiftly and carefully dressed the animal, taking the best parts home to provide for his family.

By the time he returned home, dusk was falling. Once again, Coby and Copper were there to greet him, their tails wagging with excitement. "Good boys," Colim murmured, patting their heads as he made his way inside.

His children ran out to meet him, their eyes lighting up when they saw the toys he had brought. "Yeheey! Toys! Thank you, Papa!" Rodi and Marhea cheered, hugging him tightly.

Cynde stood in the doorway, watching with a smile. "And what about me?" she asked, pretending to pout. "Did you bring anything for your poor wife?"

Colim grinned, reaching into his bag and pulling out a necklace and bracelet. "How could I forget my beautiful wife?"

Cynde’s eyes filled with tears of joy as she took the jewelry from him. "Oh, Colim, they’re lovely. Thank you." She hugged him tightly, then whispered in his ear, her cheeks flushing with warmth. "Do you want to have another baby?"

Colim chuckled, lifting her off her feet. "Why not? The more, the merrier, right?"

He carried her upstairs, turning to their children with a playful smile. "Kids, go to your room and play, alright? Your mother and I need to talk."

Rodi and Marhea nodded, running off to their room. As they played, they began to discuss the idea of a new sibling.

"I hope it’s a boy," Rodi said confidently.

"I hope it’s a girl!" Marhea countered, giggling.

Their playful argument continued until they both fell asleep, content in the warmth and security of their home.

As the night settled over their quiet village, Colim and Cynde held each other close, whispering of hopes and dreams for the future. But even in this peaceful moment, a shadow loomed—a shadow of uncertainty, one that neither of them could foresee.

Next Chapter: The Calm Before The Storm