《VOID RE-BORN》 The Call to Destiny The night was unnaturally still. Velmora''s grand council palace shimmered under the pale moonlight, every cobbled stone reflecting years of prosperity and power. Inside, Prime Minister Aldric Rogathrone stood alone in his study, staring out at the capital of Aersgale with weary eyes. His breath was steady, his gaze sharp. But the shadows had other plans. A sudden crash shattered the silence. Three masked assassins emerged from the windows, blades gleaming with a promise of death. Aldric moved like a seasoned warrior, drawing a hidden dagger from his belt. His movements were precise, deadly¡ªthe instincts of an old soldier never dulled. The first assassin lunged. Aldric sidestepped, driving his blade into the attacker''s neck. Blood splattered across ancient scrolls, staining the history of Velmora. Two more came swiftly. One threw a dagger aimed for Aldric''s heart, but he deflected it with expert precision. "I won''t fall tonight," Aldric growled, slicing across the second assassin''s chest. The attacker crumbled, gasping for air. But as the last assassin lunged, Aldric felt it¡ªthe sharp sting of pain. A blade pierced his back. "Raventhorn may live enternal" the assassin whispered in his ear. Aldric collapsed to his knees. His vision blurred as the life drained from him, but not before one final image burned into his mind¡ªthe faces of his family. Velmora - A Nation of Secrets Velmora. A country that seemed calm on the outside, with grand buildings, smooth cobbled streets, and lush green parks. But beneath its tranquil surface, the tension was rising. To the left, the mighty kingdom of Raventhorn loomed, ever hungry for power. To the right, the shadowy land of Mordrath sat like a silent predator, waiting. And to the south? The endless sea¡ªwide, unpredictable, and alone. The capital of Velmora, Aersgale, was bustling with life as the sun lazily set, casting an orange hue across the skyline. People laughed, shouted, and went about their daily lives, unaware that everything was about to change. Kael Rogathrone ¨C The Lost Heir In a small corner of the city, Kael Rogathrone was chilling on his apartment''s balcony, staring at the city below. His fingers swiped lazily through his phone, scrolling past messages from random people in his life. Mostly nonsense. Kael wasn''t anything special. Just another student trying to survive in a world that didn''t care much for him. He was a quiet guy, focused more on his gaming and occasionally daydreaming about something bigger than the life he had. He looked at a particular message from his classmate Lukas, the resident jokester. Lukas was the kind of guy who always had a weird sense of humor, often sending Kael random memes and sarcastic comments. "Yo, Kael, gonna actually open a book for once? Or are you just gonna keep being a slacker?" Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Kael snorted, typing back, "How about you worry about not getting lost while walking, Lukas?" He tossed his phone aside. Nothing seemed real. Until now. Lukas ¨C The Jokester With a Hidden Side A few miles away, Lukas was walking through the park, pretending to train with a wooden sword. His friends laughed as he swung it around, looking more like a clown than a warrior. "Dude, you''re hopeless!" one of them laughed. "That''s not how you hold a sword!" Lukas paused and grinned. "It''s not about being serious, it''s about style." He twirled the sword awkwardly. "See? All about the flair!" His friend shook his head. "Flair? That''s the last thing you need." Lukas didn''t mind. He wasn''t interested in being perfect, just having fun. But little did he know, his life was about to take a sharp turn. Yui ¨C The Focused and Stoic One Meanwhile, at a small caf¨¦ tucked away in the quieter parts of Aersgale, Yui sat alone, sipping her coffee and reading an ancient book on military tactics. She wasn''t the kind of person to mess around with jokes or games. To Yui, knowledge was power, and power meant survival. Her quiet, stoic nature made her an enigma to those around her. At school, people often found her intimidating, but Yui wasn''t concerned with that. She was too focused on the pages before her, memorizing every word. But soon, her world would be flipped upside down, just like the others. Rose ¨C The Mischievous One Across the city, in a cozy little street corner near the university, Rose was leaning against a lamppost, texting some friends about a weekend party. She had a reputation as the wild one¡ªalways up to something, never shy, always looking for the next thrill. She tossed her phone into her bag and headed home, thinking about the gossip from the latest party she''d attended. Her confidence and carefree attitude made her stand out from the crowd, and everyone knew Rose had a way of getting exactly what she wanted. But her carefree days were about to end. Big changes were coming. The Mysterious Visitor It was a regular evening for all of them, until the strange man in the black suit appeared. He wasn''t someone you noticed at first. Just a normal guy in a perfectly neat suit, standing right in front of Kael''s apartment. But when Kael turned around, the man was there, standing silently, his dark sunglasses hiding his eyes. "Kael Rogathrone," the man said, his voice low and commanding. "You''ve been selected." Kael blinked. "What?" "Don''t ask questions, just listen," the man continued. "You have been chosen to be a part of the Sovereign Council of Velmora." "Yeah, I don''t think I asked for that," Kael said, confused but intrigued. The man smirked behind his shades. "You don''t need to ask. This isn''t a choice¡ªit''s destiny." Before Kael could say anything else, the man simply disappeared, leaving nothing but a cold chill behind. The Call Reaches Lukas, Yui, and Rose As if it wasn''t strange enough, the same man appeared to the others in completely different places at the exact same time. Lukas was still in the park when the man appeared out of nowhere, giving him the same line, "You''ve been selected." Lukas immediately snorted, thinking it was some prank, but the man''s serious look left no room for humor. "What do you mean, ''selected''?" Lukas asked, half-joking but genuinely confused. The man didn''t reply, just turned and vanished. At the same time, Yui, sitting at the caf¨¦, almost spilled her coffee as the man appeared in front of her, whispering the same words. She blinked, looking up at him as he stood motionless, almost as though he had been waiting for her to notice. Rose, walking home, froze as the man appeared in her path, repeating the exact same phrase. A Mysterious Future Each of them¡ªKael, Lukas, Yui, and Rose¡ªwas left in confusion, standing alone in the places where the man had disappeared from. The words "You''ve been selected for the Sovereign Council of Velmora" echoed in their minds, but none of them knew what that really meant. But as the night grew darker, one thing became clear to them all: their lives were about to change forever. The calm days they''d known? Gone. The world they had been living in? Shifting beneath their feet. End of Chapter 1 ? 2025 Jatin. All Rights Reserved. This story, [VOID RE-BORN], is an original work by Jatin. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, or adaptation of any part of this story without the author''s written consent is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or other works is purely coincidental unless otherwise stated. If you find this story published elsewhere without credit, please report it immediately The Crucible of Fire & Ashes of the Past Before Kael Rogathrone could ascend to his destined council seat, he was cast into the inferno of trials¡ªan unrelenting crucible designed to forge boys into men, sharpening their instincts into weapons and their will into iron. The path to power in Velmora was never given; it was seized through blood, sweat, and an indomitable spirit. Kael and three others, chosen by the shadows that whispered of their potential, were thrown into the depths of wilderness¡ªa vast, untamed jungle where death lurked behind every shadow. No weapons, no supplies, only their wits and endurance. For months, they lived like beasts, fighting starvation, enduring the howls of unseen predators, and navigating treacherous terrain where the strong devoured the weak. Every dawn was a battle, every dusk a victory. Yet, the jungle was only the first trial. When their bodies were honed to survive, their minds had to be tempered. Mock battles followed¡ªfierce, brutal clashes where they fought against seasoned warriors who showed no mercy. Each lesson carved into their flesh, each failure met with pain. Strategies were drilled into their bones, tactics tested under the unforgiving eyes of their instructors. This was not training; this was rebirth. Two years passed within this hell. The four who emerged were no longer mere youths. At twenty, Kael and his comrades were warriors forged in suffering, their eyes holding the weight of unseen battles, their souls scarred with the knowledge of what it took to stand at the summit. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. And now, the council seat awaited. The wind carried the scent of old parchment and burning embers as Kael stood before the grand hall, his mind flickering between the present and the past. His grandfather''s voice echoed in his memories, a deep, weathered tone filled with sorrow and rage. "They took everything from us, Kael. The moment your father stood for justice, the monarch of Rhinestone signed his death warrant. A silent blade in the dark. A command given from a golden throne, dripping with the blood of the innocent." Kael clenched his fists as the images of that night resurfaced¡ªhis father, Nuzel Rogathrone, the noble Prime Minister of Velmora, slain in cold blood. It was no mere assassination. It was a message, a declaration that Rhinestone''s monarch would silence any who opposed his rule. Velmora was meant to cower, to bow before the crown of a tyrant. But Kael did not learn submission. He learned vengeance. His grandfather had made sure of that. Through years of grueling lessons, through the fire of trials, the wisdom of war, and the relentless forging of mind and body, Kael had been prepared for the inevitable. The council seat was only the beginning. The death of Rhinestone''s monarch was an inevitability. And soon, the world would know that no throne built on blood could stand forever. ? 2025 Jatin. All Rights Reserved. This story, [VOID RE-BORN], is an original work by Jatin. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, or adaptation of any part of this story without the author''s written consent is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or other works is purely coincidental unless otherwise stated. If you find this story published elsewhere without credit, please report it immediately The Rise of the Sovereign Council The grand hall of the Sovereign Council was nothing short of magnificent. Towering pillars lined the vast chamber, the high ceiling adorned with intricate carvings of past rulers and wars fought for Velmora''s survival. Golden chandeliers bathed the room in a warm glow, illuminating the heavy wooden seats that encircled the grand council table¡ªeach representing the most powerful figures in the kingdom. Kael Rogathrone stood at the entrance, his expression unreadable, his mind sharp. The weight of his new title pressed on his shoulders, yet he stood unwavering. He had endured two years of hellish training¡ªsurviving in the untamed wilderness, mastering the art of war, deception, and politics, and standing at the peak alongside his closest allies. Beside him stood Lukas, Yui, and Rose, the only ones who had endured the same brutal training. Lukas, sharp-witted and calculative, was appointed Minister of Finance¡ªa role that ensured Velmora''s wealth remained untouchable. Yui, brilliant and composed, would oversee Education & Development, tasked with shaping the minds of future generations. And then there was Rose, the unwavering warrior, now in charge of Military & Foreign Affairs, a position fitting for someone who had commanded the battlefield even as a trainee. But Kael? He was given the crown of the Sovereign Council President. He wasn''t just another voice in the chamber. He was the voice. The 300 members of the Elder Council watched in silence as the four approached the grand table. These elders had governed Velmora for decades, yet their power paled in comparison to the Sovereign Council. Their decisions could be overturned with a single vote from the elite four, and even among them¡ªKael held the final veto power. Only the Vice President, Rose, could challenge his authority, and even then, it would take a full council vote to override him. The tension in the hall was thick. "Take your seats," the Head Elder commanded, his voice carrying age-old wisdom and authority. Kael and the others stepped forward, their footsteps echoing in the vast hall. As they lowered themselves onto their respective thrones, the weight of the kingdom settled upon them. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. The ceremony began. One by one, they took their oaths, their voices unwavering. The council chamber buzzed with murmurs, some elders shifting uncomfortably. Kael''s presence was undeniable. Though only twenty, he exuded a presence that demanded respect¡ªand fear. As Kael finished his oath, an elder in the front row scoffed. "At least walk properly, young man. You''re not in a battlefield anymore." Kael smirked, leaning back on his throne. "Shut up, you old hag." The room fell into stunned silence before bursting into laughter. Some elders chuckled at Kael''s boldness, while others fumed at his disrespect. Then came the punch. "Apologize!" Rose barked, delivering a sharp jab to his side. Kael winced, rubbing his ribs. "Damn, woman. You hit harder than the beasts in the jungle." "Good. Maybe next time you''ll behave," she huffed, arms crossed. Her face, however, betrayed her¡ªa soft pink dusting her cheeks as she looked away. Lukas chuckled. "Still got that soft spot for our dear President, huh?" Rose''s face turned crimson. "S-Shut up!" Kael grinned. "Oh? So you do?" Rose raised a fist, but Yui sighed, shaking her head. "I swear, this council is going to be the death of me." The ceremony continued, formalities passing in a blur. But Kael''s mind was already elsewhere. Vengeance. The moment the ceremony ended, the hall quieted as all eyes fell on him. He rose from his seat, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "The Sovereign Council has taken its place." His tone was calm, but his eyes burned with determination. "Velmora will move forward, and we will forge a future that cannot be challenged." His fingers tightened around the hilt of his ceremonial blade. "However..." He turned, gazing toward the stained-glass window depicting Velmora''s proud history. "...There are debts that must be settled." The air grew thick with tension. Those who knew, knew. Rose glanced at him, worry flickering in her eyes. She had seen that look before¡ªthe one that spoke of war, of vengeance. Kael exhaled slowly. Then, with the faintest smirk, he murmured under his breath¡ªjust loud enough for those closest to hear: "It''s time." To Be Continued... ? 2025 Jatin. All Rights Reserved. This story, [VOID RE-BORN], is an original work by Jatin. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, or adaptation of any part of this story without the author''s written consent is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or other works is purely coincidental unless otherwise stated. If you find this story published elsewhere without credit, please report it immediately Shadows and Misunderstandings The Grand Council Palace The Sovereign Council Palace stood as the beating heart of Velmora''s power, an unshakable fortress of both authority and security. Towering walls, reinforced with state-of-the-art defense systems, loomed over the landscape like silent guardians. Machine gun turrets sat strategically along its perimeter, their barrels gleaming under the sun, while electrified barriers ensured that no intruder¡ªman or beast¡ªcould cross unscathed. Beyond these layers of protection, the palace itself stood in striking contrast: an architectural marvel of elegance and might. Intricate gold and silver carvings adorned its grand halls, each telling tales of Velmora''s deep-rooted history. It was a symbol of power, a place where leaders shaped the future of the nation while ensuring its enemies never forgot its strength. As Kael Rogathrone and his council made their way through the capital''s bustling streets, the people of Velmora turned their gaze upon them with admiration and respect. Some bowed deeply, their faces reflecting unwavering loyalty, while others simply watched in awe, whispering among themselves about the young sovereign leader. Merchants halted their trades, offering glimpses of their finest goods¡ªexotic silks, shimmering trinkets, and baskets of rare fruits, a tribute to those who ruled. The city itself was a spectacle¡ªa seamless blend of tradition and progress. Stone-paved roads wove between lush gardens and towering spires, their glass facades reflecting the golden hues of the setting sun. The air carried a mix of freshly baked bread, the rich aroma of spices, and the distant scent of incense from the temples. Children ran through the streets, their laughter cutting through the afternoon hum, adding to the city''s vibrant life. Yet beneath this beauty, Kael knew the truth.Velmora was not at peace. Beneath the veil of admiration and order, shadows lurked¡ªwhispers of conspiracies, the echoes of old rivalries, and enemies plotting beyond the borders. Even as he walked among his people, Kael''s mind remained elsewhere, focused on the storm that had already begun to gather. A... Unfortunate Encounter After a long day of inspections, Kael returned to his personal quarters in the palace. He was about to freshen up when he realized that most of the bathrooms were occupied. Annoyed, he walked toward the last available one and knocked. No response. Thinking the door was jammed, he pushed against it with his strength. The lock gave way, and the door swung open. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. Inside, the warm glow of lanterns reflected off the steamy water. And standing there¡ªcompletely bare¡ªwas Rose. Time seemed to freeze as they locked eyes. Water droplets cascaded down her toned skin, her long hair clinging to her shoulders. Kael blinked, his gaze momentarily drifting before he smirked. "Well, those are... impressive." A deep red flush spread across Rose''s face as she registered what he just said. "You BASTARD!" she screamed, grabbing the nearest bucket and launching it at him. Kael dodged, barely avoiding a soaking. "It''s not my fault! I thought the door was stuck!" he defended, laughing as he bolted out of the room. Lukas, who had just woken up, sighed. "They''re really energetic in the morning." Yui, rubbing her temples, groaned. "I swear, I''m going to lose my mind living with you two." Before Lukas could reply, Rose stormed out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around her, and delivered a powerful kick straight to his stomach. "DON''T COMMENT!" she snapped, her face still flushed. Kael, peeking from the hallway, chuckled. "Thanks God got saved ." The Truth Behind the Assassination That evening, as the laughter of the morning faded, a heavy silence settled in Kael''s study. A man in a dark uniform entered, bowing respectfully. "Sir, we have completed our investigation," he reported. "Out of the sixty-three assassins, only two survived. Our intelligence team extracted information from them under interrogation." Kael leaned forward, his gaze cold. "And?" "They revealed that the order came directly from Rhinestone''s monarch." A sharp silence filled the room. Kael''s fingers tapped against the desk. "Did they give a reason?" "Yes, sir." The man took a deep breath. "It was vengeance. Decades ago, during the battle between Velmora and Rhinestone, a knight of Velmora personally slew the then-monarch of Rhinestone. That knight later became our prime minister¡ªyour father." Kael''s expression darkened. The weight of the revelation settled deep in his chest. His father wasn''t just assassinated for power¡ªhe was hunted down for an old grudge, a past war still casting its shadow on the present. A slow, dangerous smile spread across Kael''s face. "So... that''s how it is." His voice was almost a whisper, yet it carried an unshakable resolve. His fingers clenched into a fist. "Prepare yourselves... I''m coming." A cold wind howled outside the palace walls. The storm had begun. ? 2025 Jatin. All Rights Reserved. This story, [VOID RE-BORN], is an original work by Jatin. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, or adaptation of any part of this story without the author''s written consent is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or other works is purely coincidental unless otherwise stated. If you find this story published elsewhere without credit, please report it immediately Shadows of Vengeance The sovereign council chamber was bathed in the moon''s pale glow as Kael leaned against the edge of his desk, his gaze cold and unflinching. "Prepare the Regiment," Kael ordered, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. From the shadows, Julie¡ªa tall man with ebony skin and a presence that demanded respect¡ªstepped forward. "Sir... Are you sure? You wish to release them? That unit isn''t a squad¡ªit''s equivalent to half the military might of an entire nation." Kael''s jaw tightened, his voice a low growl. "I need those warriors. The superhumans¡ªsix men, two women¡ªabandoned by this very country. They fought alongside my father in the Fourth Great War. They''re the only ones who understand what''s needed." Julie hesitated, his eyes reflecting a flicker of fear and loyalty. "Sir, we have an entire army ready for your command. Why take this risk?" Kael''s voice dropped to a near-whisper, deadly and sharp. "Because I will end this myself. The monarch of Rhinestone started this war, but I''ll finish it with my own hands." Julie''s breath hitched. "You plan to sneak into an enemy nation... alone?" Kael nodded slowly. "I won''t drag my people into this. No more blood will be spilled because of me. This revenge is mine alone." If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. The Eavesdropper''s Tears Meanwhile, outside Kael''s chambers, Rose stood silently in the darkened hallway. She had woken for a simple trip to the bathroom but froze upon hearing the weight of Kael''s Conversation Her fists clenched, nails digging into her palms. He''s going to throw his life away for this ... A tear slipped down her cheek. "Will you ever return to us, Kael?" A Commander''s Silent Oath Back in the room, Julie lowered his head, acknowledging the inevitability of Kael''s decision. "My lord, as you wish. But there''s only a one-in-a-hundred chance you''ll make it back alive." Kael''s eyes burned with fierce resolve and a smirk. "Don''t worry, I am the strongest." A rare smile touched Julie''s lips. How could I ever have doubted this man? "I will arrange the meeting with the Regiment, Sir." Without another word, Julie vanished into the night, leaping from the window as if swallowed by the shadows themselves. A Promise to the Fallen Kael stepped onto the balcony, his gaze fixed on the moon. The cool night breeze whispered across his face. "Worry not, Father. I will finish what was started." Behind him, the weight of destiny loomed. Ahead of him, vengeance burned like an unstoppable fire. The war loop started.. to be continued....... What do you think about Kael''s decision ? Comment below¡ªI wanna hear your thoughts!""If you felt that last scene hit hard, drop a vote to show some love!" Shadows of Betrayal The morning sun filtered through the grand windows of the Sovereign Council Palace, casting golden rays across the long breakfast table. The four members of the council sat together, their plates laden with lavish meals prepared by Velmora''s finest chefs. The air was thick with unspoken tension. Yue, stirring her tea lazily, broke the silence. "Lucas, did you hear about someone falling from the council tower window last night?" Lucas raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Yeah, heard a whisper. Strange, right? Who would risk their life scaling the palace chambers?" Kael stiffened, his hand pausing mid-air, holding a fork. Julie''s sudden exit last night flashed through his mind. But his face remained unreadable. "Probably just a rumor," he muttered, brushing it off casually. Just as Kael arose to leave, Rose stood up sharply, arms crossed. "And where do you think you''re going, Mr. President?" Her playful yet firm tone made Kael pause. "Some duties to attend to," Kael replied with forced nonchalance. "Oh really? Duties involving mysterious visitors in your room?" Her voice carried a teasing edge but hinted at genuine concern. "I heard everything last night, Kael." Lucas leaned in, grinning like a mischievous child. "Rose, are you jealous? Maybe you were worried that someone else was sneaking in for some... quality time with your precious Kael?" Yue, unimpressed, yanked Lucas by the ear. "Grow up." Kael chuckled dryly, but Rose''s gaze remained intense. "Why didn''t you tell us? What''s going on, Kael?" The smile faded from Kael''s face. His voice lowered, becoming serious. "Fine. You want the truth? You''ll have it." He revealed everything¡ªhis father''s assassination, the corruption veiled behind the monarchy, his planned revenge, and Julie''s mission to recruit the forsaken elite unit. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. The room fell into heavy silence. Lucas slammed his fist on the table. "WHAAATT" "Why the hell didn''t you involve us, Kael? We''re your comrades." Kael''s voice was cold. "Because it''s my burden to carry. If something happens to me, one of you must lead Velmora." Rose''s voice wavered. "Why alone? Why won''t you let us help don''t You trust us ?" Kael (in his mind )" I should confront them boldly otherwise they will insist further" Kael turned his gaze to the floor, the weight of his memories pressing down on him. "Because I won''t let my revenge drag this country into a war it can''t afford." "STAY OUT OF THIS , ROSE" hearing this tears came rolling down from rose''s eyes The silence deepened, broken only by the sound of Rose''s slap echoing through the hall. Tears welled in her eyes. "Fine. Do it alone then." Yue and Lucas followed her out, heads lowered in disappointment. Kael standing in same postition standing upfront frozen with head held down and mumbles "sorry everyone" ¡ªScene Shift¡ª Later that night, Julie appeared beside Kael without a sound. "The meeting is set. They''re waiting." The next morning, Kael, Julie, and a contingent of officers stood before a cold, metallic cell deep beneath the palace. Inside, the discarded elite unit¡ªsix men and two women, battle-hardened and feral¡ªwatched them with unreadable expressions. Kael''s voice cut through the silence, steady as steel. "Let''s go." In the shadows of betrayal and regret, Kael''s journey was only beginning. "Pls drop a vote if you are liking this" To be continued....... ? 2025 Jatin. All Rights Reserved. This story, [VOID RE-BORN], is an original work by Jatin. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, or adaptation of any part of this story without the author''s written consent is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or other works is purely coincidental unless otherwise stated. If you find this story published elsewhere without credit, please report it immediately Bonds Forged in Fire Rose''s Regret: The Slap That Cut Too Deep The palace was silent, but Rose''s thoughts were chaos. She sat alone, eyes fixed on her trembling hands¡ªthe same hands that had struck Kael. "Why did I do that? Was it anger? Fear? Or something deeper... something I couldn''t admit?" ¡ªFlashback: The First Encounter¡ªIt felt like a lifetime ago. The first day of council training. She remembered shaking hands with everyone¡ªLucas, Yue¡ªbut not Kael."Stay away, pervert. You don''t know what these guys are capable of."Kael''s sarcastic reply had stung. "Even if I was gay, I wouldn''t choose you." His words were sharp, but his eyes... they were already carrying too much pain for someone so young. ¡ªThe Jungle Trial Begins¡ªThree days of survival in the wild. No allies, no mercy.She stumbled through the dense forest, exhausted and hungry. Just as her vision blurred, she collapsed against a tree.Darkness came. But when she woke, Kael''s voice was the first thing she heard: "Idiot... You''re gonna die like this."He stayed with her, risking the test''s rules to tend to her wounds. ¡ªThe Boulder Incident¡ªA boulder fell from above. Rose froze¡ªbut Kael didn''t. He shoved her aside, taking the hit himself. The memory burned. "Why would you save me after everything?" she had asked.Kael never answered. Now she knew why¡ªbecause that''s who he was. Lucas'' Doubt: Shadows of Trust Lucas sat alone in the training room, staring up at the ceiling. His fists clenched with frustration. "Does Kael think we''re weak? Or is it worse than that... Does he think we don''t care?" ¡ªFlashback: A Brother in the Shadows¡ª During the jungle trial, Lucas had seen Kael dragging Rose out of danger, bleeding from his leg. Kael never once asked for help."Always carrying the weight alone... even when we never asked him to."The anger simmered inside him. "You''re not alone, Kael. And I''ll prove it to you." Yue''s Conflict: Duty vs. Destiny The wind whispered across the balcony where Yue stood, holding an old charm from her childhood. ¡ªFlashback: A Father''s Command¡ª"You''ll marry for the good of our clan," her father had said."No," she had replied, fire in her voice. "I''ll serve this country with my own strength." The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. ¡ªNow: A Shattering Bond¡ªThe thought of Kael pushing them away cut deeper than any blade. "If we lose him... the council could crumble." The Elite Unit: A King in the Making The cold air in the dungeon was suffocating. Kael stood before the elite unit¡ªsix men, two women, eyes sharp as blades honed by betrayal. "You''re the council''s lapdog now?" sneered their Isaac the most dominant womenin the group. Kael''s voice was ice. "I''m here to offer you a choice¡ªhelp me , or rot in your regrets." the council had 8 member 1. Selene Valtara A dominant, mature woman in her early 30s, Selene carries a powerful yet seductive presence. She''s tall, with a curvy figure, piercing violet eyes, and long black hair tied in a high ponytail. Known for her sharp intellect and cold demeanor, she commands respect effortlessly. Her body is battle-hardened but alluring, with scars marking her victories. Despite her icy personality, there''s a hidden softness she rarely shows¡ªexcept for those who earn her trust. 2. Aria Dorne Another stunning woman in her thirties, Aria''s beauty contrasts her brutal combat skills. She has flowing red hair, a toned yet curvy body, and an air of confidence that makes her both intimidating and seductive. Her playful smirks mask deep emotional scars from past missions. Aria is fiercely loyal but doesn''t hesitate to challenge anyone who underestimates her due to her looks. The Six Men of the Elite Unit 1. Darius Vane A giant with rippling muscles, standing at 6''5", known for his brute strength and loyalty. His body is covered with battle scars, and his deep voice commands authority. 2. Leon Graves Lean and fast, Leon specializes in assassinations. His sharp jawline, dark eyes, and short silver hair make him look like a predator always ready to strike. 3. Kaelen Rhys A strategist with an athletic frame and calm demeanor, his piercing gaze often unnerves even his allies. 4. Markus Holt The explosives expert, shorter but heavily built, with a rugged beard and playful energy. Despite his carefree attitude, his skills are deadly. 5. Eren Black The silent sniper, lean and tall with a scar running across his cheek. His precision is unmatched, and his cold exterior hides a tragic past. 6. Rook Draven A close-combat specialist with a wild, chaotic energy. His spiky dark hair and tattoo-covered arms reflect his rebellious nature. A pause. The Selene ''s smirk returned, slow and dangerous. *"Careful, boy... You''re starting to sound like a king. If you act like this i might fall for you ( says in a teasing way ) * ¡ªFinal Words¡ª Kael stepped closer, eyes burning with resolve. "Maybe it''s time this kingdom had one." [End of Chapter 7] The Pact Of Redemption and the Unsetttling The cold dungeon air clung to every breath as Kael stood before the imprisoned elite unit¡ªsix men and two women, their bodies bound but their spirits unbroken, weighed down only by betrayal and regret. Selene Valtara, once the proud and dominant commander, sat with her head bowed, her piercing violet eyes dulled by endless guilt. The memory of that night haunted every corner of her mind. ¡ªFlashback: The High Elder''s Daughter''s Sacrifice¡ª The palace burned with tension as shadows slithered through the halls. The elite unit had been stationed to guard the High Elder''s daughter, but danger lurked closer than anyone expected. Without warning, masked assassins surged from the darkness. Darius Vane roared like an unstoppable force, his massive axe cutting through foes like thunder splitting the sky. Leon Graves danced in the shadows, his silver blades glinting as they found their targets with deadly precision. Kaelen Rhys stood calm amidst the chaos, calling orders with strategic brilliance while slicing down attackers. Markus Holt laid traps that exploded in bursts of fire and shrapnel, slowing the tide of enemies. Eren Black rained death from above with his sniper''s precision, each arrow a silent promise of vengeance. Rook Draven was a storm of chaos, his fists breaking bones and daggers leaving trails of crimson. Selene fought furiously, blades flashing as she cut down assassins. But behind her, she didn''t see the shadow creeping closer, dagger poised to strike her heart. The High Elder''s daughter did. Without hesitation, the girl lunged forward, intercepting the assassin''s blade with her own body. and with the girl eyes dimming said sorry to worry and then when she was dying flashback occured to her she playing with selena as she was the only one who understood her in her childhood everybody ignored her including when she was playing with her friends Then when the girl came to mother as she was dirty and her mom shouted at her Why you did your clothes dirty and beated her till she was half dead then she said we are of a noble family your father is of a high ranking family but when the elite unit was put with a duty to guard her then selena and the other members played with her spent time with her and she started to see them as their another father mother and sister so he had no regrets and said i love u selena in dimming way If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. seeing this selena and other went berserk killing half of the assasins and when this moment cooled down then Selene turned just in time to catch her as she fell, eyes wide with horror. Blood stained her hands as she tried to stop the inevitable. The assassins, their mission complete, melted into the darkness. When the guards arrived, they saw the dagger in Selene''s trembling hand¡ªand the High Elder''s daughter lifeless in her arms. And this whole unit were sent to prison while they were going in road people along the sides were throwing tomtooes and eggs as form of disrespect and now the blades which were once used for kingdom became rusty ¡ªNow: The Depths of Despair¡ª Kael''s voice broke the silence, low and unwavering. "I know what truly happened that night." Selene flinched, her voice hollow. "You know nothing of failure. Her blood is on my hands." Kael stepped forward, his presence cold and commanding. With deliberate calm, he tilted her chin up with his hand, forcing her to meet his gaze. "Stop drowning in your past," his voice was like ice¡ªsharp, unyielding. "Start living for your future. Its your choice " For the first time in years, Selene''s eyes widened in shock, a faint blush creeping across her cheeks. The weight of his words struck deeper than any blade. She was seeing his father in him then selena was seeing the shadow of his father in him and for the first time she had a wide smile as her father was the one who had done the deed to upbring and he was the person whom she trusted the most and but after the prime minister assasination she became too broke and after seeing kael she became like something new and all the elite members were in a awe and happing seeing the condition of selena and leon said she sure has returned and all in the elite group started laughin in their chains but still they needed a purpose and still had their doubts in kael.. ¡ªThe Elite Unit''s Doubts¡ª Leon Graves sneered. "And why should we trust you? The kingdom threw us away. What makes you any different?" Kael''s gaze swept across them, unwavering. "Because I don''t fight for the council''s lies. I fight for the truth¡ªand for people who deserve justice." Darius Vane''s voice was low, gruff with hidden pain. "Even if we wanted to believe you... what''s stopping history from repeating itself?" Kael didn''t blink. "Because this time, I''ll stand with you. I won''t let anyone fall again." Selene, her voice barely a whisper, spoke. "What''s your real reason for helping us?" Kael''s eyes softened. "Because no warrior deserves to be remembered for their worst mistake. You deserve a future where your loyalty isn''t punished." ¡ªA Pact of Redemption¡ª The silence was thick, but slowly, one by one, the elite unit''s members stood¡ªunbroken, ready. Selene rose last, her voice steady but soft. "We''ll follow you, Kael. But don''t expect blind loyalty. Earn it." Kael nodded, a small smirk playing at his lips. "Good. Loyalty means nothing if it''s given for free." ¡ªFinal Moments: A Bond Forged¡ª As the unit prepared to leave their prison behind, Kael placed a firm hand on Selene''s shoulder. "You''re stronger than your regrets," he said, his voice low and reassuring. [End of Chapter 7] Shadows of the Past The sun cast a golden hue across the city streets as Kael and the newly freed elite unit made their way through the heart of Velmora. The air was thick with whispers and wary glances from passersby. "Aren''t those the elite traitors?" a voice hissed from the crowd. "Why would anyone release them? They''re a menace," muttered another. As they walked, Kael''s aura exuded quiet authority. Around him, security forces moved in formation, keeping a watchful eye on the growing crowd. The murmurs didn¡¯t faze Kael, but the elite unit could feel the weight of every suspicious glance. A group of young women giggled on the sidelines, one whispering to another, "If I had a chance, I¡¯d marry him and¡ª" Her cheeks flushed a deep red as her imagination spiraled. Overwhelmed by her own thoughts, she stumbled and nearly fell, drawing an annoyed glare from her friend. Selene, watching Kael¡¯s calm stride, murmured under her breath, "Just like his father... Unshaken by the world around him." ¡ª Arrival at the Palace The elite unit¡¯s awe was clear as they approached Kael¡¯s palace. Gleaming marble walls rose high, adorned with intricate engravings. Yet, hidden behind the beauty was unmistakable strength¡ªcannons lined the battlements, guards patrolled every corner. Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Selene whispered, "This place¡­ it¡¯s beautiful and elegant but terrifyingly fortified at the same time." Kael greeted them with his usual calm, introducing the three remaining council members. During introductions, Rose couldn''t help but compare herself to Selene. Her gaze drifted toward Selene¡¯s chest, and an unspoken rivalry sparked in her eyes. Yue noticed and burst into laughter. "Rose, you¡¯re seriously comparing that now?" Blushing, Rose quickly changed the subject. "Kael, I¡¯m sorry for slapping you earlier." Kael waved it off. "Don¡¯t mention it." "Do you... hate me?" Rose asked in a soft voice. "No, why would I hate you?" She hesitated before mumbling, "Do you lo¡ª" Her face turned crimson, and she stopped mid-sentence. Before Kael could respond, Selene smirked, clearly enjoying the tension. "Oh, so that¡¯s the thing, huh?" Kael, genuinely confused, asked, "What¡¯s going on?" "Nothing!" Rose snapped, her blush deepening. As they settled into the palace, Kael offered them rooms. Everyone quickly found one¡ªexcept Selene. "You can share a room with Rose," Kael suggested casually. Rose¡¯s face twisted in protest. "No way!" "Then share mine," Kael offered, trying to be practical. Rose immediately jumped in, pointing at Kael accusingly. "You¡¯re a pervert! Who knows what kind of naughty things you might do in that room." Selene raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "I¡¯ll share with him. He¡¯s not that bad." "No, no! For your safety, you should share a room with me," Rose snapped, dragging Selene away. Selene smirked, teasing, "Of course, Mrs. Vice President." "I¡¯ll teach you a lesson, you old witch," Rose mumbled, her voice low and sulky. ¡ª The Next Morning Kael stood before the elite unit, his gaze sharp. "Starting today, we train. You will become the sharpest blade Velmora has ever seen. Rusty weapons aren¡¯t fit for the future we¡¯re forging." The elite unit straightened, determination burning in their eyes. A spark of their old selves began to reignite. End of Chapter 8 The Final Dawn Before Vengeance The chapter opens on the vast training grounds, where echoes of clashing steel and bursts of energy ripple through the air. The elite unit, hardened by months of rigorous training, engages in relentless mock battles. Sweat drips from their brows, but the fire in their eyes is unmistakable. Darius wipes the sweat from his forehead, turning to Leon. "This... this is bringing my old self back. I haven''t enjoyed a fight like this in years." Leon, gripping his blade tighter, responds, "It''s been too long since we fought with real purpose." Suddenly, a hush falls across the grounds. Every gaze locks on two figures in the center¡ªKael and Selene. Their auras clash like storms, raw energy crackling between them. The air thickens with tension as the duel begins, each strike faster than the eye can follow. As their blades collide, Selene smirks, "It''s been a while since I''ve faced someone who could push me this hard." Kael meets her gaze, his voice steady, "You''re not holding back either. No wonder my father trusted you." Their duel intensifies until, with a final clash, their daggers shatter. Kael¡¯s cloak falls from his shoulders, revealing a body carved by discipline and battle. Scars trace across his torso, each telling a story of sacrifice and survival. A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. Rose, watching from the sidelines, feels her cheeks flush. "I must protect him," she thinks, "This clueless idiot has no idea how easily some witch like Selene could seduce him." The duel ends with mutual respect, and the elite members erupt, shouting, "Welcome back, Commander!" That night, as the team rests, Rose shares a quiet moment with Selene. "This mission... it''s only known to the top two elders, right?" Selene nods, her expression serious. "Only us." "Promise me," Rose whispers, "Make sure Kael survives this mission." Selene smirks, lying back on her bed. "I''ll try, but this is his fight. Still, if that 1% chance of death comes... I''ll do everything in my power to stop it." Three months pass in grueling training. Their bodies sharpen, their skills honed to perfection. Then, one night, a shadowy figure delivers a message to Kael. "Sir, the border infiltration method has been prepared. The officials are bribed. We¡¯ve secured four forged IDs." Kael¡¯s eyes narrow. "We¡¯re five, not four. Fix it." Julie steps forward. "The fifth identity is problematic. One of the targets we planned to impersonate died unexpectedly. We need time." Two months later, Selene selects three elite members to join the mission¡ªeach handpicked for their loyalty and skill. The final day arrives. Standing before his team, Kael¡¯s voice cuts through the air like a blade. "Tonight, vengeance begins. Monarch, your karma has come full circle. I will be your doom." The chapter closes with their silhouettes disappearing into the darkness, ready to ignite a revolution. Wounds Of Past Kael lay still, the moonlight spilling through the narrow cracks of the tent as his breathing slowed into a deep slumber. The weight of the upcoming mission pressed against his mind, but exhaustion had claimed him first. In his dreams, the past clawed its way back with ruthless clarity. He was seven again¡ªfragile, weak, unaware of the cruel twists fate had planned. The warmth of his mother''s gentle voice still echoed in his memory, a lullaby of comfort in a world too harsh for a child. But that night, the fragile illusion shattered. Shadows crept into their home¡ªsilent, deadly assassins with a mission to end his father''s life. But fate had spared his father for the moment; he was away on a business trip. Instead, they found his mother. She had hidden Kael in his room, locking the door, whispering hurried promises that everything would be fine. Through a small crack in the door, Kael watched in frozen horror. His mother fought valiantly, striking down one of the assassins with desperate fury. But she was outnumbered. The cold steel of their blades finally found its mark. By the time the guards arrived, it was too late. As her life slipped away, she crawled toward the door where Kael hid. Her bloodied hand touched the wood, and her fading voice reached his ears: "Be strong, my son. Don''t let this world suppress you... I love you." This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Her eyes lost their light before he could answer. He blamed himself of the reason that he was weak that his mother died The days that followed were a blur of grief and silence. His father, fearing the assassins would come for him next, made the heart-wrenching decision to send him away, away from danger. Separated from the only family he had left, Kael was thrust into relentless training under the guidance of a cold, unfeeling instructor. Every strike, every fall, every drop of blood was a reminder of his weakness that night. Years passed. His body grew stronger, faster, deadlier. But the trauma never left. When his father was finally assassinated, the last warmth in Kael''s heart turned to ice. His lively spirit faded into a cold, ruthless focus. His eyes no longer held the spark of hope¡ªonly the burning embers of vengeance and survival. Back in the present, Kael stirred in his sleep, a bead of sweat rolling down his temple. The weight of his memories settled on him like a stone. The next morning, as dawn broke across the sky, Kael and his unit stood at the border, ready to infiltrate enemy territory. His gaze was sharp, unreadable¡ªa man forged from pain, driven by duty. But little did anyone know, the real story hadn''t even begun yet. Next Chapter Preview: What follows seems real¡ªan intense mission, unexpected death, and betrayal. But readers won''t know the truth until it''s too late. The ultimate game begins now. The End of an Era? The sun barely peeked over the horizon, casting a dull crimson glow across the sky. Kael, Leon, Selene, and Dravix stood at the border, their eyes fixed on the enemy lines. Every step, every move, calculated. The air was thick with tension, the calm before the storm. They had bribed the border patrol, everything was supposed to go smoothly¡ªuntil it didn¡¯t. The moment they crossed the line, the patrol turned on them. Blades drawn. Faces twisted with malice. The ambush was set. "Fight!" Selene barked, her voice cutting through the chaos. "We¡¯re surrounded¡ªstay sharp!" Kael¡¯s eyes narrowed. He drew his weapon, but before he could strike, an explosion rocked the ground beneath them, sending them stumbling back. "What the hell was that?!" Leon gasped, looking around, disoriented. And then... it happened. Amid the smoke and confusion, a deep, rumbling voice echoed from the shadows. "Do you seek power, my son?" Leon blinked, frozen in place. "Wait, what? Who¡¯s...?" A shimmering figure appeared before him, glowing with an eerie, otherworldly presence. It was the God of Fart¡ªthe bizarre deity who had inexplicably entered their world. "I offer you the power of the fart, Leon," the God¡¯s voice boomed. "This power can destroy, elevate you, make you stronger than you ever imagined... but beware. Every fart comes with consequences." Leon, eyes wide with a mix of disbelief and excitement, dropped to his knees. "Yes, father! I¡¯ll take the power! I¡¯ll accept it, just... gimme that power!" The ground trembled. A gust of wind surged through him. And just like that, Leon was bestowed with the most ridiculous power imaginable¡ªthe power of Super Saiyan Fart. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Selene and Dravix exchanged bewildered glances, their mouths hanging open. "What are you doing, Leon?!" Selene shouted, her voice urgent. "Focus! We¡¯re in danger here, get your head in the game!" Leon snapped back to reality, but something felt... off. He glanced down, eyes wide with horror. "My... my dong!" Leon gasped. His gaze dropped to his pants. "My balls are¡ªgone!" "What?!" Selene shot him an incredulous look. "I don''t have time for this! We¡¯re fighting for our lives here!" But Leon, still in a state of panic, realized something. The soldiers were down. The fight should have been over¡ªbut something was wrong. The shadows were moving. "No way," Leon muttered under his breath, a cold realization creeping over him. "The vision... it¡¯s real!" Suddenly, in a moment of pure stress, Leon couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. He ripped a massive fart. The night air shifted. A foul stench erupted, so potent it could¡¯ve made the stars cringe. "WHAT THE HELL?!" Selene shouted, gagging as she tried to cover her nose. "Why the hell did you do that, Leon?!" Kael, Dravix, and Selene stood there, stunned. The atmosphere thick with disbelief. Kael, holding a match, turned to Leon with a deadpan stare. "Did you just... fart?" "Y-yeah," Leon stammered, still in shock from the absurdity of it all. "Great," Kael muttered, striking the match. "Now we¡¯ve got a damn fart storm on our hands." The match flared to life, and as the dim light revealed their surroundings, Selene¡¯s eyes widened. Through the smoke, she saw it¡ªa shadow in front of them. Not just one shadow, but four faces, staring directly at them. And they didn¡¯t look friendly. Kael¡¯s hand tightened around his sword. "You fool¡ª" BOOM. An explosion ripped through the air, throwing them all back into darkness.
When the dust settled, Kael, Leon, Selene, and Dravix lay motionless on the ground. Their final breaths slipping away. Kael¡¯s dying words were bitter, a whisper filled with fury. "You idiot. This is your fault. We died because of you." Leon, though on the edge of death, gave him a defiant smile. "You... You just called me an idiot? I¡¯m about to die, and you¡¯re insulting me? May the God of Farts forgive you, Kael." And with those final words, Leon exhaled, his body slipping into nothingness. Kael, dying, grimaced. "Why are you still here? I¡¯m dead. Go touch some grass while you have the free time to watch someone¡¯s death."
[END.] But wait... Kael¡¯s eyes shot open. His body was drenched in sweat. He was back in his tent. The remnants of the fart battle¡ªgone. He rubbed his eyes, his mind still reeling from the madness. "What the hell was that?!" he muttered. "Was that a dream? Or... a warning?" He paused, his gaze drifting down to his stomach. "I should be wary about Leon¡¯s farts now..."
Shackled Pride Kael shot up from his bed, his breath ragged, a thin sheen of sweat on his forehead. The memory of flames, blood, and an eerie whisper still clung to him like a ghost. "Thank God¡­ just a nightmare," he muttered, exhaling deeply. The first rays of dawn filtered through the window as he pulled himself together and stepped out of his room. His mind was still hazy, but his body instinctively moved forward¡ªuntil he saw her. Standing just a few feet away, Rose. She was in her nightwear¡ªthin, silky fabric draped loosely over her frame, just enough to leave little to the imagination. Her silver hair cascaded down, catching the morning light, making her look almost ethereal. A goddess among mortals. Kael blinked. What a beauty. "Huh? Did you say something?" Rose tilted her head. Kael instantly snapped out of his trance. "Nope! Not a thing! Just... clearing my throat. Yep." Rose gave him a suspicious glance but shrugged. "Anyway, I spoke to the Elders. They know about your mission to assassinate the Monarch." Kael froze. "...You what?" "They''ve summoned you for a meeting. They''re against it." Kael''s jaw clenched. "Are you dumb?! Who told you to¡ªthis was my personal mission!" Before Rose could reply, two more figures emerged from behind him. Lucas and Yue. Lucas smirked. "Not personal anymore, buddy." "Indeed," Yue added, arms crossed. "This concerns the entire nation." Kael inhaled sharply, rubbing his temples. "Nope. Not happening. I am NOT going to a meeting where a bunch of old geezers will fry my brain like an omelet." With that, he spun on his heels and bolted. "Kael¡ª!" Too late. He was gone. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Or so he thought. The Great Capture Kael''s escape was short-lived. He had barely reached the main hallway when a shadow loomed over him. Rose. With the grace of a panther, she lunged. Damn it¡ª! Before he could react, her leg swept his feet from under him, sending him crashing onto the ground. Kael groaned. "Ow¡ªokay, okay, let''s talk this out¡ª" Rose smirked. "Are you faster than me?" Kael barely had time to blink before Lucas and Yue pinned him down. "Oh, come on! This is betrayal! Karma is real, and I WILL have my revenge!" he yelled as they tied him up like a helpless lamb. Lucas chuckled. "Yeah, yeah, cry about it later, little prince." With the ropes secured, Rose dusted her hands off and exchanged glances with the others. "Alright, let''s deliver him." Kael thrashed. "I will NOT forgive this treachery! You all are worse than evil itself!" Yue just sighed. "He talks too much." "Agreed." Rose and Lucas nodded. Before Kael could retort, he felt himself lifted off the ground. Lucas and Rose hoisted him up like a damn piece of cargo, balancing him on their shoulders like he was nothing more than a pipe. A human pipe. "OYE! This is humiliating! PUT ME DOWN!" Lucas snickered. "Aww, don''t cry, little Kael." Kael seethed. "I swear, I''m gonna¡ª" At that moment, Selene¡ªwho had been silently watching from a distance¡ªlet out a small chuckle. Her piercing gaze followed the group as they carried their tied-up leader toward the grand hall. Kael caught her gaze, his face turning redder. "ET TU, SELENE?!" She simply smirked. The Council of Elders Kael was bouncing. Literally. His tied-up form was plopped onto a raised wooden stage in front of the Council of Elders. Every movement made the ropes tighten, causing him to boing slightly with each breath. A long silence. Then¡ª One of the elders chuckled. "Isn''t he just the cutest little warrior? He looks like a child in his cradle." The entire hall erupted in laughter. Kael''s eye twitched. This is it. My villain arc begins now. Rose, Lucas, and Yue were dying laughing. Kael glared at them. "I. Will. Not. Forgive. You." Lucas wiped a tear from his eye. "Oh, come on, you gotta admit¡ªthis is hilarious." Kael inhaled deeply, exhaled sharply. Patience. Breathe. I am a warrior. I will endure this humiliation and¡ª "Hey, Kael?" Rose grinned. "What?" She reached out and poked his cheek. Kael twitched violently. The elders burst out laughing again. He was DONE. "I''M GONNA BREAK OUT OF THESE ROPES AND WRECK EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU!" Kael roared, shaking in his binds. An elder coughed, finally regaining composure. "Ahem. Now, now, young one, enough playtime. We have something important to discuss." Kael scowled. "You mean the part where you try to talk me out of this mission?" The elder''s gaze darkened. "That, and something else." Silence fell over the room. The tension thickened. Kael''s humor faded as he stared back at them. Something else? A storm was brewing. And Kael was right in its eye. A Deal with Destiny The council chamber was filled with a suffocating tension. Elders sat in their high-backed chairs, their eyes locked onto Kael, who stood bound just moments ago but now stood firm, his presence demanding attention. He was no longer laughing. His playful demeanor had faded, replaced by a cold, determined aura. An elder leaned forward, his voice carrying the weight of age and authority. "Do you even understand the weight of your decision, Kael? Who do you think you are, throwing your life away for vengeance? Are you a fool? You are the sovereign leader of Velmora! If you fail, this nation will bear the consequences. A war could be sparked, and our reputation shattered." Kael remained silent, his jaw clenched as flashes of the past struck him like lightning. His father, once a pillar of strength, had been reduced to a lifeless corpse. His mother, the gentle warmth in his life, was gone. All of it stolen by one man¡ªthe Monarch of Rhinestone. His hands curled into fists, nails digging into his palms. This wasn''t just about revenge. This was justice. This was destiny. The elder sighed, mistaking Kael''s silence for hesitation. "Sit," he ordered, motioning to a chair placed before them. Kael stepped forward, slow and deliberate, lowering himself onto the chair as if he were a king on his throne rather than a boy being judged. "You speak of war," Kael finally said, his voice cold. "But war began the day Rhinestone spilled my family''s blood. You think I don''t understand the risk? You think I don''t know what this means for Velmora?" He exhaled sharply, his eyes blazing. "Do not lecture me on duty, old men. I know duty more than any of you. While you sit in comfort, debating politics, I have lived with the consequences of your inaction." Another elder scoffed. "We understand loss, Kael. But you are blind if you think vengeance outweighs the safety of your nation. We will not allow you to act recklessly. If you walk this path, you will be removed from your position as president of the Sovereign Council. You must choose¡ªyour title, your nation... or your revenge." Silence blanketed the room. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Kael rose to his feet. "You speak as if I am seeking your permission. I am not. I am informing you. This isn''t a matter of if¡ªI will kill the Monarch." His words struck the elders like a hammer. "You think stripping me of my position will change anything? That I need a title to have power?" He pulled the golden emblem pinned to his chest¡ªthe mark of the Sovereign President¡ªand tossed it onto the table, the clinking sound echoing in the chamber. "Keep your symbol. Keep your titles. I do not need them to be who I am." Gasps rippled through the council, but one elder smirked, whispering to another, "This is what we needed to see. His resolve is unshaken." One elder, who had been watching carefully, finally spoke. "You may act as if you do not need us, but even you must acknowledge the reality of war. A leader does not act alone, Kael." He leaned back, eyes calculating. "Let''s say you succeed. If the Monarch dies, Rhinestone will be in chaos. They are rich in resources¡ªminerals, trade routes, wealth. A country without a leader is ripe for the taking. Velmora can strike at the perfect moment." Kael narrowed his eyes. "You mean to use my mission as a prelude to conquest?" The elder chuckled. "We mean to make your mission more than personal. If you succeed, Velmora will invade Rhinestone. Your vengeance will not just be yours¡ªit will be our nation''s triumph." Kael remained still, absorbing their words. "And if I refuse your games?" "Then you lose everything," another elder cut in sharply. "Your title, your legacy, your people. You will be cast aside, an outlaw with nothing but your pride. But if you accept... we will grant you sixty days to succeed. You will be given a cover¡ªan illness, to explain your absence. In the meantime, your Vice President, Rose, will assume leadership. If you return victorious, you will not only reclaim your position, but you will return as the man who handed Velmora a kingdom. If you fail¡ª" The elder''s eyes sharpened. "You will lose everything." Kael looked at Rose, who stood quietly, her eyes betraying concern. She had always been his most trusted ally, and now she was being used as leverage. He smirked. "You''re playing a dangerous game, old men. But fine. Sixty days? That is more than enough time." The elder nodded, satisfied. "Then it is settled. You have sixty days to assassinate the Monarch. May your vengeance serve this nation well." Kael turned, the ghost of a smirk on his lips. "Vengeance? No. This is justice. And I will deliver it." As he walked out, Rose hesitated before following. "Kael... are you sure about this?" He didn''t answer immediately. When he finally spoke, his voice was quiet but unyielding. "I am not just sure, Rose. I am inevitable."