The Gaia nation and the Earth nation share a profound diplomatic bond, akin to two friends supporting each other in their long journey of knowledge and culture. Throughout history, these two nations have consistently exchanged information, whether related to mesmerizing magic or transformative knowledge that shapes perspectives and moral guidance. The Gaia nation, deeply interested in the insights offered by the Earth nation, views this knowledge as a gateway to better understanding their world. Conversely, the Earth nation believes that studying the culture of Gaia will lead them to uncover the keys to all the mysteries of the world, mysteries preserved by the tree of life that is implied in every aspect of their existence.
To achieve this objective, the Earth nation has established a meticulously structured diplomatic system capable of responding to cultural dynamics. This system serves not only as a medium for negotiation and communication but also as a means to address various issues related to culture, economy, and trade, which often require sensitive handling. Furthermore, this system is tasked with monitoring the movements of the Gaia nation, providing crucial insights into life in that wonder-filled land, and strengthening their standing in the eyes of the world.
The selection of diplomats from the Earth nation is a highly selective and intricate process. The chosen youths, known as Lords, do not necessarily need to possess extraordinary physical strength or intelligence. However, they must demonstrate strong loyalty to the Earth nation. This is crucial, as every step they take on the land of Gaia can unveil unimaginable wonders, such as the mystical creatures inhabiting its mysterious regions, concepts of nature that transcend the limits of imagination, and opportunities to gain power and wealth. In Gaia, the liberal system has firmly established itself following the end of the Independence Day or Enlightenment era, fostering an atmosphere that is both challenging and stimulating to curiosity.
The Independence Day began under the reign of the Queen of the Gamma Nation, recognized as the second leader of the group, a position filled with challenges and responsibilities. This era lasted for 400 years, primarily aimed at ensuring that the chaos known as the Chaos Day would never repeat itself. The Chaos Day was triggered by the loss of justice for the common people, who were looked down upon and labeled as 'trash' by the ruling nobility, resulting in profound social discontent. This dark period endured for a century, culminating in a historic treaty ratified after a hero successfully united the common people to fight against the oppressive blue-blooded race. This treaty, known as the Resurrection Treaty, was signed by Queen Gamma Cecilia, the strongest leader of the time, and its essence was to abolish the traditions that had perpetuated oppression, as well as to reform the societal order to ensure equal treatment in social and political aspects for the marginalized.
For 400 years of struggle, chaos continued to reign, fueled by inhumane treatment towards the powerless. Many found themselves overwhelmed and ultimately resorted to suicide, unable to bear the heavy and unjust burdens of life. From this injustice emerged the Common Era, a time that championed various new systems, one of which was the collaborative system aimed at collectively fulfilling the aspirations of society in pursuit of social justice. Meanwhile, some old systems were retained but with updated areas of governance, such as the presidential system which granted the populace a greater voice and strengthened democratic engagement.
The Gaia nation, intrinsically a peaceful and harmonious community, allowed all its members the freedom to act according to their desires, provided they did not harm the nature that sustains their livelihoods. They are nature enthusiasts, with souls deeply connected to the flora and fauna that nurture this planet. In their governance structure, the Gaia nation mirrors that of the Gamma nation, led by a wise king or queen.
Considering this history, the diplomats from the Earth nation relentlessly sought to monopolize the existing system in Gaia, despite the significant risks involved. They employed a range of tactics, both subtle and extreme: from enticing Gamma leaders with a drop of gold and shimmering treasures to utilizing more aggressive methods such as threats and manipulation. The abundant natural resources caused the nobles of the Gaia nation to overlook their potential and management strategies, which could actually serve as powerful bargaining tools. Their extreme methods included perilous journeys to the residence of Queen Iris, a place known for its challenges and obstacles, often risking lives in seemingly futile pursuits that were crucial for their future power. Their singular goal was to acquire the Soul of Genesis, an entity rumored to protect them from the beings inhabiting Gaia.
Lord Esgal Mercury, one of the most skilled diplomats of the Earth nation, had finally reached the residence of Queen Iris. With great hope, he requested that Queen Iris surrender the Soul of Genesis in exchange for the legendary Stone Golem. However, consumed by his relentless greed to obtain the Stone Golem without considering the age of the Soul of Genesis, his entire army met a gruesome fate, left unprotected by the very magic that was supposed to shield them. After a hundred days of suffering, the Soul of Genesis transformed into a new soul, radiating a dark aura resembling a beam of inverted light, which incited the Gaia creatures to launch vicious attacks.
In the aftermath of that tragic event, Lord Esgal Mercury vanished from the pages of history, making way for Lord Hector Alfrenzo, an ambitious new diplomat. With unwavering determination, he took on the mission to mend the relationship between the Earth nation and Gaia before embarking on a quest to recover precious items in the tainted world of Gaia, striving to rebuild what had been shattered. It didn't take long for Lord Hector Alfrenzo to convince all the Gaia nobles with his captivating charisma, widely recognized among the populace. They provided him with an extensive list of rare artifacts he needed to retrieve from the mysterious Gaia creatures, hoping to extract even greater wealth while simultaneously rebuilding trust.
Scandium, one of nature's treasures, can be obtained from an elegant spiritual being known as the Sylph. Widely recognized as fairies by many, Sylphs are creatures that exist in symbiosis with the elements of nature, preserving the precious balance of the ecosystem. Each type of Sylph has a distinct name depending on the element they represent: Salamander for fire, Undine for water, and Gnome for earth. The fundamental attributes of Sylphs include enchanting magic, profound wisdom, and soft feminine energy, although they can also occasionally radiate masculine strength, creating a captivating grace. While Sylphs are known as friendly and sociable beings, the presence of humans unfortunately often disrupts the peace they have enjoyed, leading to ongoing environmental tensions and conflicts.
Yttrium originates from a mystical being named Yttrium, who inhabits the Ytterby village on the island of Burnes, renowned for its magical natural beauty. The Gaia people believe that before they are born, they listen to a song that echoes, "we choose our angels, we choose our spirits, and we choose our totems," symbolizing choice and commitment. Yttrium is recognized as a totem or animal spirit that often remains unseen, yet they constantly surround us in deep silence. To reveal the presence of these totems, members of the Gaia community typically embark on a journey to Ytterby village, where they conduct a summoning ceremony by invoking the names of the totems they desire, as if paying homage to their ancestors and the forces watching over them.
Commonly mentioned totem names include Tiger "Nemer," Elephant "Elephas," Cat "Felina," Wolf "Valko," Leopard "Chui," Snake "Nyoka," Cheetah "Duma," Deer "Paa," Donkey "Dunka," Hyena "Fisi," Monkey "Kima," Sheep "Kondo," Lion "Simba," Snow Leopard "Sabu," Dragon "Basilisk," Komodo "Anetos," Fish "Azu," Eagle "Halcon," and Butterfly "Palabras." Each name symbolizes unique strength and characteristics that are deeply connected to nature.
Lanthanum originates from a colossal heart known as lanthanein, more commonly referred to as Tarasque. This creature resembles a fish with the head of a lion, a serpent-like tail, and fins akin to bat wings. The Tarasque is an amphibian that can adapt to life both on land and in water. With a power equivalent to one hundred times that of a lion, its long teeth, as sharp as spears, make it terrifying, especially when devouring prey, including human flesh.
Cerium, on the other hand, comes from the tears of a nymph that are closely guarded by the dwarfs in the village of Cerva. These tears possess incredible properties for restoring barren land and reviving withered plants, making them a highly valuable source of livelihood. With the enchantment of the nymph flowing in each droplet, a desolate landscape can transform into a lush green oasis, supporting the flora and fauna around it and symbolizing renewed hope for the community that once lost everything.
Praseodymium, the colossal creature from the waters of southern Didymos known as Adaro, is a terrifying fusion of human and fish. Recognizable by its unique features, it possesses a pair of gills located behind its ears, powerful tail fins replacing legs, and dorsal fins reminiscent of a shark. Armed with a fearsome spear and equipped with shark-like teeth, Praseodymium should not be underestimated. Unlike enchanting mermaids from folklore, this vengeful predator lurking in the depths is dangerous, showing no hesitation in piercing the flesh of any unfortunate human who dares to approach, relishing the heart as its target.
Neodymium also haunts the depths of the waters around Didymos, embodying the essence of neos, a colossal shark with terrifying teeth capable of effortlessly crushing bones. When neos and prasios clash, it triggers titanic battles, with only one emerging as the victor, often leading to the demise of one of these formidable creatures.
Promethium traces its lineage back to the Titan Prometheus, symbolized as the guardian of the flame that gives life. This creature dwells in the fiery core of a volcano on Burnes Island, where the air is thick with the scent of sulfur, and the ground vibrates with the pulse of ancient molten rock.
Samarium is born from the weapons wielded by the infamous goblins Vasili, Samarsky, and Bykhovets. This mischievous creature, known for its childish yet wicked nature, is famous for its cunning hunts. After capturing their prey, they engage in cruel games, mercilessly toying with their victim before delivering the final blow.
Europium emerges from a wondrous world of giant insects that closely resemble ants. What makes these unique creatures stand out is their extraordinary ability to lay eggs bearing the same name—Europium. When these eggs are carefully laid, they shimmer with a mesmerizing light that appears filled with distant starlight. This enchanting glow promises the imminent arrival of larvae destined to grow into resilient beings, each a marvel of nature's design.
Gadolinium originates from the earth monster Gadolin, commonly referred to as a sandman—a type of fairy that brings dreams by sprinkling fine sand over children to help them sleep. However, its fate changed when struck by the wicked magic of a sorcerer, transforming it into a terrifying creature. Its body, which once resembled that of a small child, evolved into a fearsome figure; its once-smooth skin now resembles that of a rotting corpse, a dark purplish color, while its lengthy fingers are armed with sharp claws seemingly ready to tear. It lulls each of its victims to sleep with care before indulging in its nightly feast, leaving the next morning's parents staring vacantly at the bones left on the mattress where their child once lay.
Terbium comes from the mysterious fins of the Ecatando fish, which inhabits a lake near the village of Ytterby, a legend among the local people. This dolphin-like fish, with its vibrant pink hue, only appears at night, casting a magical aura as it glides under the moonlight. The fish often tempts fishermen, who are enchanted by its beauty and strive to catch it. Once mesmerized, the fish surprises them with a sudden attack that smashes their boats, causing them to sink into the dark night, a warning of the power that cannot be underestimated.
Dysprosium is derived from the skin of an insect resembling a mosquito, named dysprositos. This mosquito has a habit of sucking blood from both animals and humans, as well as gently yet effectively gathering nectar from plants. As it absorbs more nutrients, its body grows larger, revealing its bizarre and fearsome allure.
Holmium comes from the vocal cords of a bat known as Stockholm. This bat possesses the remarkable ability to emit infrasound frequencies ranging from 0 to 20 Hz, audible frequencies between 20 and 20,000 Hz, and ultrasonic frequencies exceeding 20,000 Hz. With this frequency power, the bat creates sound waves that can affect the workings of the human brain, often resulting in victims being trapped in a hypnotic state. In this hypnotized state, the bat will slowly drain the blood of its victims, making the experience increasingly ominous.
Erbium originates from the shell of a giant crab named Eribiu, which dwells in a lake near the village of Ytterby. On nights of the full moon, this crab defies the boundaries of nature, crawling onto land and destroying everything in its path with its sharp claws. The atmosphere becomes eerie as Erbium rampages, creating chaos around the tranquil lake, as if nature itself gasps at the awakening of the giant.
Thulium comes from the petals of a carnivorous flower called Tulippo, which originates from the land of Thule. Each time this flower releases its pollen, an intoxicating aroma spreads through the air, luring anyone who catches its scent into an inescapable hypnosis. The enchanted victims will unconsciously follow the source of the pollen. When they arrive before Tulippo, the flower arrogantly opens its wide mouth, large enough to swallow its victims whole, marking a dramatic end for the unfortunate souls.
Ytterbium is derived from a legendary creature named Ytter, hailing from the village of Ytterby. Known as the Roc The Rukh, this predatory bird boasts pristine white feathers and extraordinary strength, capable of effortlessly lifting an elephant. Although not as large as the ancient Pterodactyl legend, the Roc's size is twice that of a common eagle, showcasing its elegance and terrifying power as it soars high in the sky.
Lutetium originates from the blood of a demon woman named Lutetia, known as a succubus or dream demon, who possesses an extraordinary passion for sexual activities. Over time, the men who approach her will experience a drastic decline in health, which can even cost them their lives; this occurs in a pleasurable manner as she absorbs their life energy, leaving them weak or even causing death if they fail to satisfy her. Lutetium is also known by various other names, including Lilith, The Lilin, Mara, Rusalka, Yuki-Onna, Allu, Belili, and Lamia, and she serves Asmodeus faithfully. Unlike her counterpart, the incubus, who was exterminated by a young paladin wielding Excalibur after launching a brutal attack on a village and violating all the women there; this paladin hunted them down until none were left in the world.
Lord Fitran Fate, the top graduate from the Atlantis School of Magic, graduating cum laude, chose the path of a paladin. At a young age, he achieved the level 50 milestone, creating various types of magic and mastering quantum spectrum and aura. After eliminating the incubus creatures, he was honored with the title of diplomat by Queen Iris and assigned as a mediator between the Gaia and Earth nations. Fitran was dispatched by the Gaia nobility to assist Hector Alfrenzo in gathering rare items that were critically needed.
However, during the extermination of Lutetia, on the last hill before the ruins of Alvara Fortress, stood a young man—Fitran Fate, a young paladin with silver hair that shimmered like stardust and eyes sharp as the memories of wounds. Beneath his tattered cloak, the world could sense the pungent aroma of blood, not from the foes lying helplessly, but from those who had once called him a friend.
Beside him lay the cold body of Lord Hector Alfrenzo, as if time had halted his will to live. The old man's body still clutched his sword tightly, as if believing that even in death he would continue to protect Fitran. Yet, for the Earth soldiers watching from afar, the sight appeared to be the opposite; a tragic symbol of loss and betrayal.
"He killed Hector."
The words echoed like lethal poison among the remaining ranks of soldiers. None dared to raise their swords against Fitran, yet none were willing to obey his commands after that tragic event. The rift was born from fear... and jealousy.
How could a teenager, who is not even old enough to attend the diplomacy council, lead an army composed of various nations?
How could Queen Gaia, known as Queen Iris, place such great trust in someone who has yet to grasp the intricacies of this complex world? Is it because he once shared a bed with the queen? Truly, humanity is a repulsive creature.
Fitran did not answer them. He merely stood, his hands stained with blood, gazing towards the horizon that began to split under the shroud of darkness—a clear sign of Lutetia's arrival, the ruler of the night, a mysterious entity that consumes stars and spits out light with a chilling coldness.
In the silent battleground, where the stillness seemed to swallow every sound, only the beating of Fitran's heart echoed in his ears, reminding him of the tension crawling throughout his body.
"They have abandoned me." he murmured, his voice barely audible, like a prayer full of hope lost in the darkness.
Yet, despite the crushing despair, he continued to move forward. Into the destruction that awaited. Into the throngs of dark creatures birthed from the womb of night, their eyes glowing as if harboring a hatred and hope equally dreadful.
And there, Fitran stood alone, an isolated hero in the midst of the storm of darkness.
The battle was never fully recorded. Some say Fitran summoned lightning from the darkened sky, splitting Lutetia's body into three parts in a brilliant flash. Others swore he transformed into a faceless, formless being of light, burning Lutetia's forces from within with an eternal flame. Yet, no one truly knows for certain.
What remains undeniable is this:
When the sun rose, only one body still stood.
And the world... was silent, as if holding its breath in unspoken tension.
Nights in Gaia are usually gentle, as if the kingdom is blessed by nature itself, with twinkling stars hanging in the sky. But that night, the air felt heavy— not from the fog that shrouded or the storm that raged, but because of a truth that refused to surface.
Fitran sat quietly on the altar in the inner chamber of the Aetheris Palace, a place where prayers and judgments sometimes blurred. Before him stood Queen Iris, her figure seeming carved from marble patience, her expression one of reassuring strength, yet behind her eyes lay an unnamed storm, filled with doubt and pain.
"They demand justice," Iris whispered, her voice soft yet full of emphasis.
"I didn't kill him," Fitran replied quietly, his tone barely more than a sigh.
"I know," the Queen said, glancing toward the window reflecting the moonlight. "But in this world, truth is not just about who is right. It's about who is believed."
The investigation began.
The first to take action was Diaz Xavier, a cunning yet skilled diplomat from Earth. He infiltrated the battleground, now frozen in ashes, with a surrounding atmosphere filled with remnants of sorrowful battles. Near the spot where Hector fell, he discovered something amiss, something that would change the course of this investigation.
"The stab wound in his abdomen," Esgal told Iris, "comes from a smaller blade. Fitran's sword is too large to create that mark."
Shortly after, a veteran paladin named Albrecht approached, harboring a deep-seated envy toward Fitran in the depths of his heart. He claimed to have seen a figure dressed similarly to Fitran moving through the thick fog, but could not ascertain who that person was.
"Are you sure it wasn't just your own shadow?" Iris asked skeptically.
"I swear on the paladin's emblem," Albrecht replied, although his eyes flickered rapidly, hinting at a profound uncertainty behind his words.
A few days later, in the dark and silent basement of the castle, Iris secretly met with Fitran. She handed him a transparent crystal—Fragment of Memory, a magical stone that holds reflections of time, accessible only to the owner of the memories.
Fitran carefully placed his hand on it.
The memories began to flow.
In that flash, he saw himself in the midst of a battlefield, blood seeping from his wounds, shouting for everyone to fall back. Hector appeared from the right, trying to provide aid, but behind Hector's figure... emerged a figure cloaked in black. Silent and unseen, its presence heightened the atmosphere's tension. Then—a flash of a sword. Blood flowed. Cries of anguish filled the air.
The last face Hector saw was Fitran's... while the killer, with his mastery of illusion magic, took on his form, enveloping his true identity in darkness.
"I never touched it," Fitran whispered, his voice breaking like shattered glass, adding to the sorrowful ambiance.
Iris closed her eyes, her heart shattered by the revealed truth.
"So... this is sabotage. Someone wants you to look guilty."
The investigation finally led to one name: Durnas Feigh. He was an exile from the Archaikum magic faction, condemned for his experiments with face magic—the ability to transform into anyone and even take on the aura of his target. Durnas, a cunning follower of Vlad, had mysteriously disappeared after the battle, as if swallowed by darkness.
No one in the Earth forces, except Hector, realized that Durnas had infiltrated their ranks, pretending to be an ally to "provide assistance" that was nothing but a ruse.
The only remaining witness to that dark event was a Warg pet of Hector named Thal. The thick-furred creature snarled sharply at everyone who approached, except for Fitran, creating a mysterious aura around them.
"Animals cannot be deceived by magic," Iris said, gazing deeply into Thal's sharp and intelligent eyes, appreciating the animal's instinctual intelligence often overlooked by humans. "Perhaps the world should learn from this sincere instinct, which cannot be manipulated by dark powers," she added, inviting everyone around her to reflect on the boundary between magic and real truth.
"Perhaps the world should learn from this sincere instinct, which cannot be manipulated by dark powers."
This truth was ultimately known only to a select few, yet the world that chose to hate Fitran refused to overturn its verdict.
Hector's death continued to be viewed as "Fitran's mistake," even though, in reality, he did not kill anyone; he simply survived while others fell, an irony that pierced the heart.
"You're too perfect to be trusted, Fitran," Beelzebub said, embracing Fitran from behind, his voice filled with irony and heartache.
"In this world, immortal heroes will always be hated by those who are not." he added, placing an unspoken burden on Fitran's shoulders.
Diaz Xavier was an influential figure who ordered Pastor and Julie to meticulously monitor every move of Fitran. He also tasked them with negotiating with the leaders of Gaia, a strategic step aimed at persuading Marquez, a knowledgeable expert, to provide valuable insights to the Earth Nation. Furthermore, Diaz incited the Alfrenzo family, steering them away from Fitran while spreading damaging lies that he was responsible for the murder of Hector Alfrenzo. In reality, the court's decision had already cleared Fitran's name. As a result of all these intrigues, Rinoa was compelled to distance herself from Fitran. Taking full responsibility, Fitran decided to postpone Rinoa's proposal, not wanting to burden her with the pressures and conflicts arising from her family.