《The Story of Amnesia - Book 0: Where It All Began》


 Prologue

    Darkness.


    Was I asleep? No, it felt too... empty.


    I couldn''t feel the ground beneath me, yet I was standing. I couldn''t feel the air, yet I was breathing. My body felt weightless, like I was floating in nothingness. Maybe I was dead¡­ but could a dead person stand?


    The last thing I remember¡ª


    A strange man stopped me on my way home.


    He claimed he had something interesting to show me. Normally, I''d ignore someone like that, maybe call the cops if they got pushy. But before I could, he said something.


    Something only I knew.


    My blood ran cold. Even my mother didn''t know about that.


    I took a step back, my mind racing. Was he some kind of stalker? A scammer? How the hell did he know?


    Seeing my hesitation, his lips curled into an amused smile. He assured me he wasn''t a bad guy.


    Then he reached out his hand. "Come with me. It''ll be fun."


    I should''ve run.


    Instead, my curiosity got the better of me. If anything seemed off, I''d just leave.


    His grin widened as if he had read my thoughts. Before I could change my mind, he grabbed my wrist and pulled me into an alley.


    I barely had time to react before¡ª


    Shove.


    I fell.


    Everything turned black.


    A strange sound stirred me awake.


    Flapping wings. Pages turning.


    I opened my eyes¡ªor at least, I tried to.


    Blinding white light flooded my vision.


    Instinctively, I raised my hand to shield my eyes. Slowly, the brightness faded, and I lowered my arm.


    Wait.


    Was this¡­ my arm?


    No.


    My "skin" was a transparent, milky white¡ªlike a ghost straight out of a horror movie.


    What the hell?


    I tried to speak, but no sound came out. Panicked, I touched my neck. Phew¡ªstill there. But why couldn''t I talk?


    I forced myself to focus. First, where was I?


    I looked around.


    An endless white corridor stretched ahead, lined with towering bookshelves crammed with books. A deep red carpet ran down the center, contrasting the stark white surroundings. Above, the sky¡ªor what should have been the sky¡ªwas an endless white void, filled with¡­


    Eyes.


    Countless floating, winged eyes, each one carefully carrying books to the shelves.


    I blinked.


    Still there.


    A slow chill crept up my spine.


    This wasn''t an illusion, was it?


    I squinted, trying to make sense of the bizarre scene.


    Bad idea.


    A sharp pain shot through my head. My vision blurred.


    And then¡ª


    I don''t know how long I was out.


    When I came to, the headache had faded. I forced myself up, rubbing my temples.


    Right. Don''t look at the eyes too closely. Got it.


    Shaking off the unease, I turned my attention to the bookshelves.


    If these floating things were carrying books here, then maybe those books held some answers.


    I reached for one.


    The moment my fingers brushed the spine¡ª


    A swarm of eyes descended upon me.


    What the hell?!


    I stumbled back as they swirled around me. Their unblinking gazes bored into me from every angle.


    They weren''t attacking. Just¡­ staring.


    But there were too many.


    I gulped.


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    Alright, message received. No touching the books.


    Slowly, I stepped away.


    As soon as I put some distance between myself and the shelves, the eyes retreated, returning to their eerie floating routine.


    I exhaled, my heart still pounding.


    What the hell is this place?


    I decided to walk. If I kept moving, maybe I''d find an exit.


    Or at least someone who could explain what was going on.


    I lost track of time.


    No matter how far I walked, the bookshelves and red carpet never seemed to end. Eventually, I realized I was looping. The intersections weren''t new paths¡ªthey just led me in circles.


    Time itself felt meaningless here.


    I didn''t feel hungry. I didn''t feel tired.


    Still, I needed a break.


    Then¡ª


    "Oh, hello. It seems like you''re lost."


    I froze.


    A soft, feminine voice.


    Behind me.


    I hadn''t heard footsteps.


    Slowly, I turned my head.


    Nothing.


    I swallowed hard. I must be hallucinating.


    I took a step forward.


    "Hey, ignoring a girl is rude."


    My breath hitched.


    No. I wasn''t going crazy. That voice was real.


    I clenched my fists and walked faster.


    "Hey, are you deaf?"


    Suddenly, a girl appeared right in front of me.


    "¡ª?!?!"


    I yelped and stumbled backward, landing hard on my butt.


    She giggled. "Serves you right."


    I stared up at her, my mind struggling to process what just happened.


    She looked¡­ normal.


    Well, mostly.


    Her long, light purple hair was tied in two braids. She wore an elegant white dress, like something a scholar from ancient Greece might wear. Her posture was composed, mature.


    But her eyes¡ª


    They were shut.


    Not squeezed closed, but calmly, deliberately shut, like she didn''t need them to see.


    Oh, and also¡ª


    Her chest was massive.


    I shamelessly stared.


    If she were real and I was still alive, I''d probably ask her out. She was exactly my type.


    I sighed dramatically.


    "Thanks for the compliments." She smirked. "And no, I''m not an illusion¡ª" she paused, tilting her head slightly, "¡ªand you are not dead yet."


    I froze.


    "You¡ª!"


    I shot up and grabbed her shoulders. "You can hear my thoughts? And why the hell can''t I talk normally?!"


    "Yes, yes. I can understand your thoughts. And since this is a library, you can''t speak¡ªexcept for me." She sighed. "But stop shaking me! You''re about to shake all the knowledge out of me!"


    I immediately let go. "Ah¡ªsorry. Got a little excited."


    She huffed, fixing her clothes. "I''ll let you off this time."


    ¡­She was kind of cute when she was mad.


    "Well then," I hesitated, "what''s your name?"


    She smiled softly.


    "I am Libra."


    She paused.


    "Call me Sister."


    Sister? That''s kind of¡ª


    Wait.


    She smirked again, like she knew what I was about to think.


    I groaned. This was going to be a pain.


    "Well then, Sister Libra, let me ask you something. You said this was a library, right? Where exactly am I? And why did you say I''m not dead?"


    She chuckled.


    "Alright, let me tell you."


    She took a step forward.


    "My name is¡ª"


    *A distorted sound filled the air.*


    A chill ran down my spine. My brain¡­ couldn''t process the name.


    I staggered back. "What... was that?"


    "Oh, sorry," she giggled. "I forgot¡ªour real names can''t be heard by lower life forms."


    Lower life form? Me?


    And¡­ our?


    "What do you mean ''lower life form''? And who else besides you?"


    She nodded. "That''s right, you''re a lower life form. If you actually heard our real names, your brain would overload and melt."


    I shuddered.


    "Judging by your reaction, you must be thinking, ''I''m lucky I didn''t hear it,'' right?"


    I nodded. Hard.


    Libra smirked.


    "Then let me properly introduce myself."


    She spread her arms wide.


    "I am the Librarian of Origin, keeper of the Library of Origin¡ªa place that stores all books about everything, including things that have existed, have never existed, will exist, should not exist, and have never existed."


    Everything?


    I felt a lump in my throat.


    Just where had I ended up?


    And more importantly¡ª


    "So, can you tell me how I got here? Oh, and¡ªwhy do you always keep your eyes closed?"


    "Interesting question," she replied softly.


    "There are many ways to arrive: slipping through a crack in reality, ascending to a higher existence, or countless others. As for me closing my eyes¡­ well, if you''d like your brain to overload and melt, feel free to ask me to open them."


    I shook my head violently. She stifled a laugh behind her hand, amused at my reaction.


    Embarrassing. But back to the main point.


    "I came here because some weird guy pushed me into an alley. When I opened my eyes, I was already here."


    "A guy pushed you¡­ and you ended up here?" she repeated, puzzled. "There are cases of people slipping through unstable rifts, but finding the exact location of one is nearly impossible. Unless¡ª"


    Her expression darkened. A rare flicker of anger crossed her face.


    "It couldn''t be him. What did he look like?"


    I searched my memory.


    "He was about my height, black hair, kept rambling about everything under the sun¡­ and he gave off this really strange aura."


    Her breath hitched.


    "Then it must be him."


    "Him? Who are you talking about?"


    "Our brother. The one who holds the power of the Origin. The one responsible for protecting the balance of everything. He''s trustworthy, but he loves causing trouble for us." She exhaled in frustration. "But why would he bring you here¡­ unless you have something special?"


    Even powerful beings have siblings, huh? But what does any of this have to do with me?


    "Can you explain a little more clearly?"


    "Alright." She leaned back slightly. "It all began when #%@^@!¡ªwhat we call ''Father''¡ªcreated the first concept. From that, others followed. More and more were born. And then, he¡ªthe one who possesses all concepts¡ªcame into existence first. Confusing, I know, but that''s how it is. As for why he brought you here¡­ I don''t know yet. I''ll have to ask him later."


    My head spun. Universes? Supreme entities? My brain wasn''t keeping up.


    "Oh! I just realized how rude I''ve been." She snapped her fingers.


    In an instant, we were somewhere else¡ªa small, simple room. A wooden table. Two crude chairs. Brown wooden panels boxed us in, making the space feel tight.


    "Uh¡­ is this really a room?"


    "Don''t like it?" she asked lightly. "I can change it."


    "No, no, it''s fine!" I said quickly. "I''m just a guest, after all."


    She smiled. "Then please, have a seat."


    I hesitated before sitting across from her. She placed her hands on the table, her voice turning almost playful.


    "Since you''re here, would you like me to tell you a story? This place holds millions of stories from countless worlds. There''s even one about your future."


    "My future?" My eyes widened. "Then can you show me¡ª"


    She laughed. "I''m kidding. Anything related to a guest''s future is forbidden. It might disrupt the flow of time."


    "Ah¡­ right."


    "So, do you want to hear a story about another world?"


    I nodded.


    "But wait¡ªyou''re a librarian, right? Shouldn''t you be busy?"


    "I''m just a guardian," she corrected. "Unless something threatens this place, I don''t interfere. The kids handle the rest."


    "By ''kids''¡­ you mean those floating eyes?"


    "That''s right."


    "Alright, enough questions. Let''s hear this story you''re so eager to tell."


    She snapped her fingers. A book materialized on the table. Its cover bore a single title:


    ¡ªThe Story of Amnesia¡ª


    "''Amnesia''? Like memory loss?" I frowned. "Why would someone name their child that?"


    "Haha, I knew you''d react like that." She chuckled. "It''s not her real name. It''s just what she calls herself¡ªa way to cope with her past."


    "Her past?" I leaned forward. "What happened to her?"


    "You seem excited. I like that." She grinned. "Then sit up straight and listen well. This is a story set long before the old epics, in an age already forgotten in the new era. A time when fragile humans stood against an unknown force to protect their home."


    I straightened in my chair.


    She opened the book.


    "Let me tell you what happened before the girl named Amnesia was born."


    Suddenly, my vision blurred. The room wavered. Darkness swallowed everything¡ªuntil a brilliant flash of light consumed me whole.

 Chapter 1: Utopia and the Shadow of Apocalypse

    In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where countless stars shimmer in infinite shapes and sizes, each celestial body is a masterpiece woven by the hands of the gods. Yet among them, one stands apart¡ªa world seemingly favored by the divine itself. A lone miracle where life was born, flourishing against the endless void.


    This world is called Utopia¡ªa realm of prosperity and wonder, home to countless powerful races. Vast emerald forests stretch across its lands, teeming with life as creatures race through the underbrush. Majestic mountains pierce the heavens, their peaks echoing with the roars of resting dragons. The deep blue oceans glisten under the sun, where mermaids sing and play upon the waves. Beneath the surface, an intricate and vibrant ecosystem thrives, coral reefs glowing with bioluminescent light, sheltering countless aquatic beings.


    To those who first set eyes upon it, Utopia was paradise¡ªa land untouched by suffering. Yet, beneath its breathtaking beauty lay a bloodstained past. This world was not always a utopia. It was once hell.


    Over the years, war consumed the land. Kingdoms clashed endlessly, their rulers driven not by necessity but by pride¡ªarrogant lords who waged meaningless conflicts to assert dominance. Forests burned, black smoke choking the skies. The once-pristine seas ran red with the blood of the fallen. No cries for mercy, no pleas for peace were ever heeded.


    But fate would not allow this cycle to continue.


    It was the descendants of these warlords who finally broke free. Unwilling to inherit a world of ruin, they rose up and overthrew the tyrants of the past. The war that followed was inevitable, and the cost was steep, but when the dust settled¡ªvictory belonged to the future.


    Rather than rebuild their separate nations in isolation, the victors chose a different path. Unity. Together, they rebuilt from the ashes, sharing knowledge and resources to create a civilization greater than anything their ancestors had imagined. Magic, technology, and faith intertwined to form wonders beyond comprehension¡ªfloating islands adorned with sacred temples where angels and bird people danced in the sky, a crystal palace beneath the waves, glowing with the radiance of precious gems, where mermaids and sea creatures lived in harmony, and an ancient tree whose leaves brushed the heavens, at its roots a vast library that held the wisdom of the ages, safeguarded by elves and guardians of the forest.


    Thus, the ruins of war became the foundation of paradise.


    To commemorate their unity, they named their home Utopia¡ª"The Kingdom of Happiness."


    Yet even a kingdom of wonders must have a ruler. While many regions remained under the leadership of their own lords, there was one city that stood above all others¡ªthe pinnacle of civilization, the crown jewel of this golden age.


    Atlantis. The Kingdom of the Future.


    A place where advancements defied imagination¡ªautomated machines assisted the people in daily life, supercomputer networks stretched across the planet, and grand observatories peered into the depths of space, tracking stars light-years beyond Utopia''s skies. Such achievements made Atlantis seem as though it were guided by the gods themselves.


    And at its helm stood its ruler¡ªthe King of Atlantis. A wise and noble sovereign, revered as a sage among kings. It was his father, the previous ruler, who had once led Utopia out of its dark history, forging a new era of unity. Now, the son carried his father''s legacy forward, guiding the world with wisdom and strength. Under his rule, peace flourished, and the people lived without fear¡ªevery day a celebration of prosperity, every street filled with laughter and joy.


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    But peace is fragile. And fate is cruel.


    From the darkest corner of the universe, where light could not reach, space suddenly distorted. Without warning, a monstrous claw pierced through, slowly tearing open a gash in the fabric of reality¡ªa space-time rift, a wound upon the universe. An anomaly beyond understanding had been forced into existence.


    And from deep within the rift¡ª


    One eye. Two eyes. Thousands of eyes.


    Countless strange, lifeless eyes of various shapes and sizes blinked open, peering into the vast expanse of the universe. Then, a terrible roar echoed, vibrating through the void like a howl of unrestrained joy.


    Above the rift, twisted, writhing arms emerged¡ªmonstrous and sharp. They reached outward, grasping the edges of the tear, and with a sickening shriek, the arms pulled, forcing the rift wider and wider. The very fabric of reality cracked and splintered under their touch.


    And when the tear was wide enough, the arms strained once more¡ªnot to expand it further, but to pull something through.


    Its own body.


    A colossal abomination¡ªsomething beyond comprehension, beyond existence. Its form defied logic, a heaving mass of flesh pulsing with veins that twisted and bulged as if alive as if alive as if coming out of the nightmares of the gods. A monstrous body covered in thousands of ever-shifting eyes, scanning the cosmos with an insatiable hunger. Its countless tentacle-like appendages slithered and coiled, propelling it forward into the light.


    And then, it saw its first prey.


    A star.


    Like a predator descending upon its victim, it lunged. Clawed, grotesque arms wrapped around the celestial body, its fingers digging deep into the burning surface, as if trying to strangle the light itself. The star''s brilliance flickered, as if struggling, but resistance was futile. With incomprehensible force, the entity''s claws sank deeper, rending the star apart, piece by piece.


    Then, from what could only be described as its head, countless cracks began to form¡ªsplintering and widening like the grotesque bloom of some eldritch flower. The cracks stretched, until at last, they revealed a gaping maw¡ªan abyss lined with countless rows of jagged, saw-like teeth. A void darker than the emptiness of space itself.


    And from within that void, writhing tendrils slithered forth, coiling around the star''s shattered remains. One by one, the fragments were dragged into the abyss, devoured without mercy.


    But it was not enough. It was still hungry.


    And so, it turned its gaze toward the surrounding stars¡ªdevouring them one by one in an insatiable frenzy.


    In Utopia, the astronomers were the first to witness the horror.


    They trembled as they gazed upon the impossible¡ªa cosmic nightmare feasting upon the stars. Some refused to believe it, calling it an illusion. But denial was meaningless in the face of the undeniable.


    Then, as if it had sensed something, the entity stopped.


    The arms that had been crushing a star froze mid-motion. Its countless shifting eyes went still.


    And then¡ªall at once¡ªthey turned toward Utopia.


    A piercing gaze that transcended time and space, cutting through reality itself, reaching straight into the minds of the astronomers.


    Terror took hold.


    Some screamed in despair. Others mumbled in strange, incomprehensible tongues. A few convulsed in agony, clutching their heads as if something was clawing through their minds. Madness spread like a plague¡ªsome turned on each other in a frenzy of violence, others clawed at their own eyes, desperate to unsee the horror. Blood painted the observatory walls, and within moments, no screams were left to be heard.


    And yet, the entity remained indifferent.


    It simply turned its colossal form toward Utopia.


    Its body coiled, its countless tendrils retracting, its very presence distorting the space around it as it gathered momentum.


    And then¡ª


    It launched forward.


    Space itself shattered. The void trembled as it moved, ignoring the stars in its path, warping reality with every pulse of its existence.


    No one remained to witness it.


    None except one.


    Amidst the carnage, one astronomer¡ªbarely clinging to their sanity¡ªfought against the overwhelming force in their mind. Bloodied hands trembled as they scrawled out a final message, a desperate warning to the rulers of Utopia.


    Not just a message.


    A prophecy¡ªsoaked in blood and madness.


    This was not merely an entity.


    This was a catastrophe.


    An extinction event.


    And Utopia''s end was drawing near.

 Chapter 2: The Fate of Utopia

    As the kingdoms of Utopia slowly settled into a peaceful night, the lights dimmed one by one, and families prepared for rest. But within the palace, the sudden blare of warning alarms shattered the silence. The leaders of Utopia, startled by the commotion, were soon presented with a recording from the observatory.


    As soon as they played the message, a wave of horror filled the room. Agonized screams and distorted noises echoed through the speakers, making it nearly impossible to discern anything at first. Then, a trembling voice broke through, its tone laced with fear. The speaker desperately warned of an impending disaster¡ªsomething approaching Utopia from beyond the sky. Its nature was unknown, but one thing was clear: it was not coming in peace. Before any further explanation could be given, the transmission was abruptly cut off by the speaker''s final scream, followed by eerie, deranged laughter and the gruesome sounds of repeated stabbing. Then¡ªsilence.


    The recording ended, leaving the leaders frozen in shock. A heavy dread settled over them as they struggled to process what they had just heard. Panic threatened to consume the room, but before chaos could take hold, another message arrived.


    At first, none of them dared to open it. Who knew what horror it might contain? But upon closer inspection, they realized the sender was none other than the King of Atlantis himself. A collective sigh of relief passed through the chamber. With cautious urgency, they opened the message.


    The King''s voice was hurried but firm. He informed them of the observatory''s last findings and commanded all kingdom leaders to assemble in Atlantis immediately. The reason was clear: a catastrophe from beyond the sky was coming, and Utopia had little time to prepare.


    Without hesitation, the leaders swiftly gathered their courtiers and set off for Atlantis. Upon arrival, they were escorted directly to the throne room, a grand hall that had not hosted such a gathering since the founding of Utopia itself. As they took their seats, their trusted advisors stood behind them, silent yet watchful.


    Though outwardly composed, fear lurked beneath their expressions. The weight of uncertainty pressed down on them, and unspoken questions filled the tense air.


    For a long moment, the King of Atlantis did not appear. Doubts began to creep in¡ªwas this truly happening? Had they misinterpreted the threat?


    Then, the massive doors behind them swung open.


    A royal announcer''s voice boomed across the chamber:


    "His Majesty, the King of Atlantis, has arrived."


    All eyes turned toward the entrance.


    The King stepped forward, his regal presence commanding the room. Unlike the others, he showed no signs of fear. His composed expression and steady steps radiated authority and confidence, a stark contrast to the turmoil within his audience. Behind him followed his most trusted magicians, top scientists, and the few surviving astronomers¡ªthose who had witnessed the horror firsthand.


    As he advanced, the assembled leaders instinctively rose and bowed in respect. The King acknowledged them with a nod before taking his seat upon the throne. With a simple gesture, he bid them all to return to their seats.


    His first words were spoken with measured calm:


    "I must first apologize for my delay. Before arriving, I conferred with my scholars and sent a rescue team to the observatory. Now, we shall begin."


    The air in the room grew heavier.


    This was not just a meeting¡ªit was a discussion on the very survival of Utopia.


    The King wasted no time. He officially acknowledged the existence of the entity that had driven the astronomers to madness. This was not mere superstition¡ªit was real. And it had a name.


    The scientists, after analyzing the data, had dubbed it:


    The "Star Eater."


    The King signaled for his scholars to present their findings. The room fell into grave silence as the report was unveiled. Three key concerns stood out:


    Its Colossal Size ¨C Estimated to be one-third the size of Utopia''s moon, the Star Eater''s sheer mass meant that a direct impact could annihilate the planet.


    Spatial Distortion ¨C The creature warped space around itself as it moved, making it nearly impossible to predict its trajectory, let alone stop it. Any attempt to intercept it would require precise calculations and extraordinary measures.


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    The Eyes of Madness ¨C The most terrifying aspect. The Star Eater''s eyes were an enigma¡ªthose who gazed directly at them descended into instant insanity. Strangely, scientists studying indirect images of the creature remained unaffected, though they still described a profound, unnatural fear.


    One by one, the leaders examined a photograph of the Star Eater''s eyes. Even through mere images, the sight was disturbing¡ªsoulless voids that seemed to gaze directly into them, filling their minds with unease.


    Someone finally broke the silence:


    "What ability do these eyes possess? How does merely looking at them drive a person mad?"


    The King remained composed.


    "For that answer, you should hear it from someone who has experienced it firsthand."


    At his signal, one of the surviving astronomers stepped forward.


    The man was barely standing. His body bore deep wounds¡ªscars inflicted by his own colleagues during their madness. His eyes were hollow, his face one of a man who had glimpsed hell itself.


    With a hoarse voice, he addressed the room:


    "Honored leaders¡­ I, like my fallen comrades, am grateful for this audience."


    A leader impatiently interrupted:


    "Spare the pleasantries. We are running out of time."


    The astronomer nodded, taking a breath before speaking:


    "When we looked into the Star Eater''s eyes¡­ we were no longer in our observatory.


    Our minds were dragged into another space, an abyss where an unknown liquid swallowed our feet and endless darkness surrounded us. From that darkness, shadows emerged¡ªtwisted figures that screamed and cursed us in words we could not understand.


    If we succumbed, we became like my colleagues¡ªlost in madness forever.


    But if we resisted, enduring the torment with sheer willpower, we could break free. And when we awoke¡­ not even a second had passed in the real world."**


    A shudder ran through the room.


    Though many leaders were relieved that strong willpower could resist the Star Eater''s influence, they also understood the horrifying reality¡ªmost common people would stand no chance.


    The King reassured them. His mages had devised a magical barrier capable of distorting the creature''s gaze, making it impossible to see its true form. However, shielding all of Utopia was impractical. The best they could do was fortify the major kingdoms and gather the population within when the time came.


    Additionally, the King proposed an array of anti-air defenses¡ªartillery, magic missiles, and spatial warping techniques¡ªto counterattack should the illusion spells fail. The method was untested, but with so little information, it was their best option.


    A leader hesitantly asked the question on everyone''s mind:


    "How much time do we have?"


    The King''s answer was cold, unwavering.


    "Five years¡­ or less."


    A heavy silence fell over the room.


    As panic spread, arguments broke out among the leaders. Some proposed escape, others questioned if surrender was even an option. The room was descending into chaos¡ªuntil a thunderous roar silenced them all.


    The Dragon King slammed his fist against the table, cracking the solid stone beneath it. His golden eyes blazed with fury as he rose from his seat.


    "Enough!"


    The sheer force of his voice sent a shudder through the chamber. His presence alone was overwhelming¡ªa being who had led countless battles and whose name was spoken with both reverence and fear. He cast a scornful glance across the room, his gaze settling on those who had spoken of retreat.


    "Are you leaders¡­ or weaklings pretending to be kings?"


    A heavy silence followed. The Dragon King scoffed, shaking his head.


    "You speak of fleeing like frightened prey, as if abandoning Utopia would save you. Do you truly believe an entity capable of devouring stars will simply let you escape? No¡­ If we turn our backs now, we will die as cowards¡ªhunted down one by one, without honor or resistance!"


    His words struck deep. The leaders averted their eyes, shame creeping into their expressions. The Dragon King''s lips curled into a smirk, but there was no amusement in it.


    "If you fear death, then fight. Prove that Utopia is worth saving. That our ancestors did not build this world for it to be consumed by a mindless beast."


    Silence lingered for a moment. Then, one by one, the leaders straightened their backs, their fear now tempered by the Dragon King''s defiance.


    The King seized the moment. He rose and spoke:


    "If you do not wish to be prey, then fight. This creature sees us as nothing¡ªbut I refuse to let it decide our fate."


    The King''s words struck deep, stirring something primal within the gathered leaders. Their fear boiled into pride¡ªa burning defiance that refused to accept the fate of prey.


    They were warriors, rulers, and hunters. If death awaited them, then they would face it on their feet, with weapons drawn, rather than cowering in the dark.


    The chamber, once drowning in anxiety and hesitation, now roared with determination. A chorus of voices rose, declaring their will to fight.


    Amid the uproar, the Dragon King turned toward The King. A knowing smile crossed his lips¡ªhe understood the razor-thin line the king had walked. One misstep, and all hope would have shattered into despair. But the king had done it.


    He had succeeded.


    The King looked at him and smiled back, a silent acknowledgment between rulers who had weathered countless storms.


    The Dragon King joined them, his presence solidifying the resolve in the room.


    Yet the moment he turned away, King of Atlantis smile faded.


    The King''s expression darkened., his golden eyes narrowing as a deep silence fell over him. Something weighed on his mind.


    After a long pause, he finally spoke, his voice steady but carrying an undeniable gravity:


    "Alright, everyone. I don''t want to ruin the mood¡­ but there''s something we must address."


    The shift in tone silenced the room. Every leader sat down, their expressions turning serious.


    "You all remember the discussions I had with the scientists¡ªthe plan we devised to counter the Star Eater?"


    He let the question hang in the air.


    No one dared to interrupt. They were waiting.


    The King exhaled., then spoke the words that would decide their fate.


    "Now, I will tell you all about it. Not just a plan... but our one and only hope for survival."


    "The Abyssal Breaker Project."

 Chapter 3: Hope and Cost

    The King of Atlantis addressed the gathered rulers with unwavering resolve. He explained that the Abyssal Breaker Project was their best chance at countering the Star Eater¡ªa weapon system specifically designed to intercept the cosmic horror.


    But there was a problem.


    Their knowledge of the enemy was dangerously limited.


    The best they could do was construct a plan using what little information they had, relying on both scientific advancements and desperate measures.


    Step 1: The Observatory and Illusion Magic


    The first step was to enhance their observatory systems and use them as testing grounds for a new type of illusion magic¡ªone designed to distort perception and hopefully increase the efficiency of monitoring the Star Eater.


    But this came at a cost.


    To fully understand the Star Eater, they would have to expose themselves to its gaze.


    Even with precautions, madness was inevitable.


    The King turned to the Mermaid Queen.


    "Since the mermaid race possesses the power to heal and soothe minds, I entrust this task to you¡ªto ensure that our observers are treated before insanity consumes them completely."


    A heavy silence followed.


    It was an unbelievably dangerous role. If even one person succumbed before being treated, the consequences could be catastrophic.


    Yet, instead of fear, the Mermaid Queen smiled.


    "If it is for the safety of Utopia, my people and I will gladly make this sacrifice."


    The King nodded.


    "Very well. Then let us proceed to the next step."


    Step 2: The Spatial Disruption Defense Line


    To counter the Star Eater''s ability to warp space, they would deploy a network of satellites armed with devices that continuously emit spatial disturbance waves.


    These waves would prevent the Star Eater from bending reality too easily, making it vulnerable to attacks.


    The King turned to the Deep Sea King.


    "Your people possess sound-based magic that could greatly aid our research into space waves. Will you assist us?"


    Without hesitation, the Deep Sea King nodded.


    "Good."


    Step 3: The Magic Missile System


    The next line of defense involved countless large-scale magic missiles. These missiles would be designed for instantaneous acceleration, allowing them to strike the Star Eater before it could react.


    Upon impact, they would link together, forming a gravity field to restrict its movement.


    A voice from the council interrupted.


    "Why only limit its movement? Why not launch the missiles beforehand and use them as a permanent jamming field?"


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    The King sighed.


    "Our current technology is barely capable of restraining it. We are stretching our limits just to make this system functional."


    Another council member raised a concern.


    "But the reports mention something about a real magic stone system within the missiles. What else can they do?"


    The King elaborated.


    "Once the gravity field is erected, the missiles will deploy smaller warheads containing enchanted magic stones¡ªeach inscribed with high-damage spells. These will continue bombarding the Star Eater to slow it further."


    He turned to the Elf King and the Underground King.


    "This will require an immense amount of magic stones and intricate magic circle engravings. I believe your kingdoms are best suited for this role."


    The two rulers nodded in unison, accepting their duty without question.


    Final Step: The Abyssal Breaker Cannon


    At last, the King unveiled the heart of the project.


    A weapon capable of delivering a fatal blow to the Star Eater:


    The Abyssal Breaker.


    The blueprints had been discovered in the ruins of a long-forgotten kingdom. The weapon had never been completed, but if it could be fully restored and enhanced, it might be their only true chance at victory.


    Upon hearing this, the room erupted into cautious hope.


    For the first time, it felt like survival was possible.


    Yet¡­


    The King did not share in their relief.


    He remained silent, his expression clouded with unease¡ªa look he had never worn before.


    To his people, he had always been the unyielding pillar of Atlantis. But now, he looked no different from a father preparing to send his children to war.


    The room fell silent.


    The Mermaid Queen observed him carefully before speaking.


    "You don''t look well. You''ve been working yourself to exhaustion researching the Star Eater. You should take a moment for yourself."


    She gestured to the other rulers.


    "Even they are trying to celebrate what little victories they can, despite knowing what awaits us."


    The leaders immediately turned away, pretending they hadn''t been caught drinking or sharing quiet jokes earlier.


    The Mermaid Queen smiled.


    "Why not come to me after the meeting? My people can use our songs to ease your burdens. You could even bring the others along. We all deserve a moment of peace before the storm."


    The King chuckled.


    "Thank you for your kindness. And I apologize for making you all worry."


    But then¡ª


    His smile faded.


    A chilling weight settled over the room as he spoke his next words.


    "But¡­ I need everyone to brace themselves. What I''m about to say next concerns the very existence of our kingdoms."


    The leaders stiffened.


    What could possibly threaten their kingdoms more than the Star Eater itself?


    The King closed his eyes for a moment, then continued.


    "I''m sure you all understand that the stronger something is, the greater the price that must be paid. The Abyssal Breaker is no exception."


    A cold silence filled the air.


    The King hesitated, then finally revealed the truth.


    "The Abyssal Breaker requires a special ammunition: a bullet known as Anti-Life."


    "Anti-Life¡­?" someone murmured.


    The King''s voice grew cold.


    "It is a forbidden magic that once destroyed an entire kingdom, sinking it into oblivion. The ruins were discovered not long ago, but the power was deemed too dangerous to be used¡ªuntil now."


    Shock spread across the room.


    "How could a single bullet destroy an entire kingdom?"


    The King answered bluntly.


    "It erases all life within its range. Instantly."


    A suffocating dread settled over the council.


    A weapon capable of such destruction had once existed on Utopia.


    Had it been perfected, who knew what their world would look like now?


    For a moment, they felt relief that it had failed.


    But now, it was being resurrected as their last hope.


    The King continued.


    "Anti-Life does not just require magic¡ªit requires life itself. To fire a single shot, it demands the energy equivalent to an entire kingdom."


    Gasps filled the chamber.


    This was no ordinary cost.


    If they used the Abyssal Breaker, it meant sacrificing one of their own.


    The Spirit Queen tensed.


    The King turned to her.


    "The cannon will require an immense magical core. I believe your kingdom is best suited for this."


    Though fear flickered in her eyes, she nodded.


    The King sighed.


    "I know this is terrifying. But we have no time to find another way."


    At that moment, the Dwarf King stood.


    "Then why don''t we use their cores?" he demanded. "They contain vast amounts of magic and are practically living creatures."


    The King shook his head.


    "And what of their stability? Their compatibility? Have you considered what would happen if the cannon failed? It would be a disaster before the battle even began."


    The Dwarf King fell silent.


    Then¡ª


    The King spoke one final chilling sentence.


    "Besides¡­ I intend to keep them for the worst-case scenario."


    The worst case?


    A new horror dawned upon them.


    Was the Star Eater not the worst thing they would face?


    The room plunged into despair.


    And then¡ª


    Suddenly¡ª

 Chapter 4: The Sacrifice of Hope

    A voice rang out through the chaos, cutting through the despair in the room:


    "If that is so, then let me and my kingdom be the ones to accept this sacrifice."


    Everyone froze.


    All eyes turned toward the source of the voice¡ªand to their shock, it was Queen Spirit. She stood tall with unwavering resolve, her expression firm and fearless. Confusion and disbelief spread throughout the hall. Even the King appeared stunned¡ªshe was the last person anyone expected to speak those words.


    According to ancient records passed down from his father, her race was the only one that cherished life above all else. They had never participated in the wars of the past, avoiding conflict even when oppressed. They were the first to rise and gather those who believed in peace, and their influence had been a pillar in Utopia''s path to harmony. Because of that, the Spirit Queens were held in high regard by all other races¡ªeven the King himself.


    And yet, now¡­ she was the first to offer her people as a sacrifice.


    Before anyone could process what had just happened¡ªbefore they could wonder if they had misheard¡ªQueen Spirit turned to the King and spoke again, her voice clear and unwavering.


    "If it''s about supplying magical energy to power Abyssal Breaker, then my race is the most suitable. We were born from the pure magical currents flowing through the world. Our bodies are living vessels of mana¡ªit is only natural that we become the source. It feels as though fate itself designed us for this purpose."


    "But possessing strong magical power and sacrificing an entire race are two completely different things," someone objected, voice trembling with concern. "Didn''t you hear what His Majesty said? Supporting the Abyssal Breaker is a death sentence! Even if you''re powerful, it still means certain death. Please¡­ reconsider!"


    "I understand what you mean." She turned toward him with a gentle, almost sorrowful smile. "I truly do. I know this is a suicide mission¡­ but even so, I choose to do it. No matter how many try to stop me."


    "But¡ª"


    "Enough!" she suddenly shouted, her voice booming through the chamber.


    The entire room went silent.


    Gone was the gentle aura she was known for. What radiated from her now was a crushing pressure, the strength of a leader who had made her choice.


    Before anyone could speak again, she continued:


    "I know you''re all wondering why someone like me, who cherishes life, would make such a decision so easily. The answer is simple. What we''re doing is an exchange¡ªthe lives of one race, for the survival of all others. Isn''t that a fair price?"


    No one could argue. Her reasoning was painfully sound. And just as she said, it was a tragic but logical exchange.


    "Are you truly certain about this?" the King finally asked, his voice heavy. "This involves your entire kingdom. And I had already assigned your people to develop the core of the Abyssal Breaker. Are you not concerned they''ll be drained before the battle even begins?"


    "You don''t need to worry," she said calmly. "I''ve already communicated with my people through the winds. They''ve all accepted this. Now all that remains is your approval."


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    The King sighed deeply. He scanned the room, silently hoping someone¡ªanyone¡ªwould speak up again to stop her. But no one did. The chamber remained quiet.


    Everyone had realized it¡ªher decision wouldn''t change.


    He closed his eyes briefly, preparing to give his final verdict.


    "Alright. If there are no more objections, I hereby dec¡ª"


    A mocking laugh rang through the room, halting his words.


    "How noble. How glorious. Just as I expected from my rival."


    Everyone turned sharply toward the new voice.


    It was King Phantom, Queen Spirit''s eternal nemesis. The one who would do anything to bring her down.


    Queen Spirit frowned. "What are you trying to say?"


    King Phantom stood up with a smug grin. "Ah, forgive me. Perhaps I didn''t speak clearly. I''m simply wondering whether this is truly your will¡­ or just a performance to show everyone how ''righteous'' you are."


    "What nonsense are you spewing now?" she snapped.


    "Oh, come now," he said mockingly. "Tell us¡ªare you really doing this out of duty? Or are you just trying to make yourself look like a saint?"


    "You should watch your tongue!" she growled.


    "Then answer me," he sneered. "Was it truly your choice, oh noble queen?"


    The room fell into tense silence. It was not the first time they had seen the two clash like this.


    Before Queen Spirit could reply, King Phantom turned toward the King.


    "How about this¡ªwhy don''t I and my people provide the energy for Abyssal Breaker instead?"


    "What?!" Queen Spirit''s eyes widened in shock, echoed by the startled gasps around the room.


    He continued, eyes gleaming with pride. "After all, I, too, was born from the magical forces of the world¡ªnot from nature, but from will. That makes me stronger than her, doesn''t it?"


    "Besides, imagine the Abyssal Breaker failing at a crucial moment¡ªjust because someone ran out of mana mid-battle," King Phantom added with a smirk, throwing a glance toward Queen Spirit.


    "You arrogant fool!" Queen Spirit snapped. "You may be born of will, but that doesn''t make you superior!"


    Their argument intensified rapidly, voices rising with each exchange.


    Seeing the situation worsen, Queen Mermaid stepped forward hesitantly.


    "Please¡­ both of you, calm down. This isn''t the time to argue¡ª"


    Too late.


    "Silence! Do not interrupt!" both monarchs shouted in unison.


    Queen Mermaid flinched, trembling, then collapsed to her knees in tears.


    Someone quickly rushed to her side to help her back to her seat while the others sighed in frustration, gently comforting her.


    The King watched the scene unfold with weary eyes.


    "So this is what it''s come to¡­ even now, when the end draws near, you two haven''t changed."


    Everyone could only shake their heads. They all knew this was typical of the two¡ªSpirit and Phantom. One believed in love and compassion, the other in strength and domination. Their rivalry had never ceased, and now it threatened to derail even their final hope.


    After a while, people moved to separate them, physically dragging them away from each other¡ªyet they still continued trading insults as they were pulled apart.


    At last, the King made a decision.


    "Very well. I order both of you to undertake this task. Whoever endures the longest will be deemed the victor¡­ and I shall honor the winner before all."


    Everyone turned toward him in shock.


    "But, Your Majesty¡­!" one person protested. "Even if one of them wins, neither will survive to receive that honor!"


    The King nodded solemnly.


    "Perhaps so. But for the two of them¡­ that recognition is more valuable than life itself. Isn''t that right?"


    Queen Spirit and King Phantom both smiled faintly¡ªand nodded.


    The King closed his eyes for a moment. "Then let this debate end here. We will now continue the meeting."


    Though many were reluctant, they had no choice but to accept his ruling.


    The rest of the session proceeded as the King distributed responsibilities and finalized preparations.


    And when it finally ended, the King rose from his throne, his voice firm and resolute:


    "Begin the campaign. Let us show that creature the strength of our world!"


    The leaders filed out one by one, their hearts a storm of anxiety and determination. This would be their final stand¡ªthere was no turning back now.


    Once the room emptied, the King remained alone in silence. He let out a long breath, the weight of their fate bearing down on his shoulders.


    In a voice barely louder than a whisper, he said:


    "May the gods bless us all."


    As he walked out of the chamber, the great doors slowly closed behind him.


    But from within the shadows of the throne room, a figure lingered¡ªunseen.


    "So¡­ it begins. I wonder if you''ll truly live up to my expectations this time."


    And then, the figure vanished into the darkness.


    A chilling silence remained.


    And the future¡ªonce so bright¡ªnow stood cloaked in uncertainty.

 Chapter 5: Breaking Despair and Moving Towards Hope

    As soon as the meeting ended and the King''s orders were issued, all leaders immediately returned to their respective kingdoms to prepare. Though it was deep into the night, time was too precious to waste. People were roused from their sleep and summoned to the kingdom squares.


    Announcements echoed across the lands, stirring the sleeping populace. Some were startled, others irritated at the unexpected wake-up call, and the cries of children filled the streets. Yet, all knew¡ªif the leaders had called such an emergency gathering, something grave must have happened. One by one, families hurried toward the squares, casting uneasy glances at their leaders standing high above with heavy expressions. The leaders, watching their people gather, shared the same worry¡ªhow would the people react once they heard about the Star Eater? But keeping it a secret would only spell doom. The truth had to be revealed.


    Once the crowd had assembled, the leaders began their speech, their voices heavy but steady.


    "First of all," they spoke solemnly, "I apologize for waking everyone at this hour. But we face a crisis¡ªone that threatens all of Utopia. I ask you to remain calm as we speak. If possible, please leave the children at home or shield them from what you''re about to hear."


    A wave of unease swept through the people. What could threaten all of Utopia? Hadn''t the war ended? Or¡­ was something even worse approaching?


    The leaders gave them permission to take the children back home, and while the people obeyed, the growing tension only deepened. The leaders understood, but there was no time for gentler methods.


    Once the children had been escorted away, the leaders continued.


    "First, we want everyone to stay calm when you see this image."


    A projection flickered to life on the main screen of each square. The Star Eater appeared before the eyes of the people¡ªan abomination of dread, with soulless eyes that seemed to devour everything.


    Instantly, panic erupted.


    People screamed. Some collapsed. Others fainted on the spot. Several had heart attacks. The terror was overwhelming, just as the leaders had feared¡ªbut even worse than they expected.


    The leaders acted quickly, trying to stabilize the situation. They knew they had to take a gamble¡ªso they used the Dragon King''s method: targeting emotion, pride, and the people''s sense of unity.


    "Everyone, listen!" the leaders shouted, cutting through the chaos. "We were terrified when we saw this creature too. But we stand before you now, not because we are unafraid¡ªbut because we chose to face that fear. And now we need you to face it with us."


    They paused, letting the words settle in the silence that followed.


    "Do you remember what we fought for? How many lives were lost to reach the peace we enjoy today? Will we surrender that peace so easily? No¡ªwe will stand tall! No matter what this creature is, it will not take our home! Utopia will not kneel!"


    Their voices rang out with power.


    "We are not helpless. We are strong. We are united. We are fearless! Are you with us?"


    The people''s hearts, still trembling, began to burn with a new fire. Many had never known war¡ªbut now they understood what was at stake. And though fear remained, it had been reshaped¡ªinto purpose.


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    The leaders raised their voices again.


    "Let''s show that creature the power of Utopia!"


    Cheers erupted from the crowd, echoing through the squares. Determination surged in their hearts. The gamble had worked.


    With the people calmed, the leaders moved on.


    "Now that we are united, we will share with you the plan to defeat the Star Eater."


    Excitement sparked among the people.


    "Listen carefully¡ªthis is what you must do."


    The leaders began dividing the tasks and assignments. By the time dawn broke over the horizon, a new energy had taken hold. A sense of hope stirred in the light of the new day.


    Though exhausted, the people were eager to begin. But before they could rush forward, the leaders raised their voices again.


    "Calm down, everyone. Your spirit is admirable, but don''t forget¡ªyou need rest too. We cannot afford to fall before the battle even begins."


    The people nodded and reluctantly paused to recover.


    The leaders returned to their thrones and activated communication screens to check on each other.


    "How is everyone doing?" one asked.


    "Not easy," another replied, "but somehow, we managed to calm them."


    Others nodded in agreement.


    "Great work," the King said.


    "But let''s not forget¡ªwe''ve got great warriors too," added the Dragon King and King Phantom.


    "Still," said the Elf King, scanning the screens, "isn''t someone missing?"


    Everyone looked around and noticed the absence of the Mermaid Queen. A grim thought crossed their minds¡ªsomething might have gone wrong.


    "I''m nearby, I''ll go check on her," offered the Deep Sea King, disconnecting quickly.


    Moments later, the screen flickered back on, now filled with the sounds of crying and screaming.


    "As everyone can see, it''s chaos here," the Deep Sea King sighed. "Looks like she failed to calm the people. She''s joined them to help directly. I''ll take I will take care of everything here until it''s resolved."


    He disconnected again, leaving the others in silence¡ªthen they burst into laughter.


    "Just as we thought," the Dwarf King chuckled. "It''s been a while since I laughed this hard."


    "At least it helps relieve some of the pressure," said the Dragon King.


    "Alright, enough fun," Queen Spirit said sternly.


    "Yes, yes, dear queen," King Phantom teased.


    "What did you say¡ª" click¡ªthe screen went black.


    The meeting was over. It was time for action.


    The days that followed were filled with tireless work. The thunder of giants carrying stone, the flutter of angel wings, the hum of machines, and the glow of magic circles filled every corner of Utopia. Regardless of age, race, or status, every citizen worked day and night. None dared to rest too long¡ªfor every second wasted might be a second too late.


    While the people worked to build the Abyssal Break, the astronomers and mages¡ªwith mermaid assistance¡ªresearched the Star Eater. Though the creature''s image drove many to madness, they endured the torment again and again. They accepted their suffering to spare others from it in the future.


    The leaders, too, pushed beyond their limits. Some trained relentlessly. Others turned to forbidden techniques, ready to sacrifice themselves should the plan fail¡ªeven if it meant giving their lives for peace.


    Meanwhile, the King stood on his balcony, quietly observing the world below. A heavy burden pressed on his mind¡ªWould this plan work?


    His wife, the Queen of Atlantis, approached him.


    "You look exhausted. That''s natural, even for the strongest. Maybe it''s time to rest. Go play with the children¡ªor visit the Mermaid Queen, if you want to relax."


    The King smiled faintly. "Thank you. Maybe I should. I think our people don''t want to see their king collapse¡­ And the Mermaid Queen is probably still overwhelmed."


    "She is young, after all."


    "Still¡­ thank you."


    The King turned and walked down the hall. Once he was alone, he opened a space gate.


    He stepped into a vast, dark chamber.


    "I didn''t think this day would come," he murmured. "I didn''t want to awaken you guys¡­ but the time has come."


    "Awaken¡­ Guardians of Utopia."


    Then the entire area began to shake. From the darkness, three glowing red eyes slowly opened¡ªfollowed by smaller eyes gradually appear.


    The King stood silently, watching with a smile.


    "It seems you''re all ready," he said calmly.


    With that, the King turned and returned to the palace to oversee the final preparations.


    Time passed quickly. Years went by, and at last, the project was completed¡ªthe hope of all Utopia, the weapon that had once brought destruction to the Star Eater: Abyssal Breaker.

 Chapter 6: Hope vs Despair – The Final Battle Begins

    The Abyssal Breaker Project¡ªthe ultimate symbol of hope for Utopia¡ªwas finally complete. A weapon system forged by the combined efforts of every kingdom, designed with one purpose: to bring destruction upon the Star Eater.


    Weapon systems were deployed across Utopia¡ªcountless satellite missiles equipped with space-jamming devices, gravitational cannons ready to fire without hesitation, and thousands of underground energy cannons linked to spatial gates, each programmed to target the Star Eater''s eyes the moment an order was given. Magic circles, etched across every kingdom, brimmed with illusion spells meant to shield the people from psychic assaults.


    But at the center of this monumental defense stood the Abyssal Breaker, the heart of the project and the embodiment of hope, a colossal convergence of science, magic, and ancient arts. A colossal cannon, towering higher than any mountain, piercing the clouds like the weapon of a god. Crafted from Utopia''s most durable materials by the finest dwarven hands, it stood proud¡ªunyielding and majestic.


    Its core pulsed with flowing magical currents, carefully created by mages and spirits. Surrounding it were numerous magical stones to accelerate energy condensation and elevate the cannon''s power to its maximum. Ancient runes carved by forest rangers adorned its body, redirecting excess magical energy back into the system to minimize waste. The cannon was laced with energy-conducting pipes, drawing power from nature and storing it for future bursts.


    Beneath the cannon, a special platform absorbed both magical power and the life force of anyone who stood upon it. But hidden within was a terrifying secret¡ªan override function unknown even to the King. Once activated, the platform could drain everything¡ªmagic, life, and soul¡ªuntil there was nothing left. It was a horrific mechanism¡­ but a price everyone was willing to pay.


    The cannon''s twin-barrel design allowed for dual energy streams¡ªone of raw destructive energy, and another of anti-life essence. When both beams collided, they merged into a devastating blast. Magic circles above the barrels stabilized the energy output, while embedded magic stones along the firing path enhanced both speed and destructive power. A computer system managed calculations, while an electronic eye tracked targets in real time, adjusting aim automatically.


    Floating defense devices surrounded the cannon, ready to intercept any threat. Additional protection systems stood by, ensuring no enemy could interrupt the firing sequence and devices placed around to limit the impact caused by the cannon.


    When the project was finally completed, the entire planet erupted in joy. The people stood in awe, overwhelmed by the unity and strength they had forged. Some cried tears of pride, others cheered with newfound courage. They believed that now, the Star Eater could finally be defeated. A single moment of peace filled the air¡ªa fleeting reprieve before the storm.


    Even the leaders allowed themselves a moment of joy.


    The King, however, stood quietly atop the cannon platform, staring down at his people. For a moment, even time seemed to hesitate.


    "You were born from their unity and hope¡­" he whispered, placing a hand on the cannon. "Funny, isn''t it? An ignorant thing like you¡­ yet they see salvation in your shadow. If only they knew their so-called wise king is nothing but a coward¡­"


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    He chuckled bitterly.


    "They call me wise, but it''s all an illusion. I''m just a man who loves his family¡­ I''m not as wise as my father, not as strong as the Dragon King¡­"


    His voice faltered, and he smiled softly.


    "Still, talking to you¡­ it helps ease what I can''t say out loud."


    He stood there in silence for a while before turning to leave¡ªonly to receive an urgent message that sent a chill through his bones. He opened it immediately.


    Screams erupted from the observatory.


    "It''s here! The Star Eater has arrived!"


    The celebration fell into immediate silence.


    "Impossible¡­ It''s too early! Where is it now?" the King demanded.


    "It''s entered our galaxy''s belt¡ªbut strangely, it slowed down as it approached."


    "How much time do we have?"


    "Five minutes before it reaches Utopia."


    "Damn it¡­" All the leaders reacted at once.


    "Everyone, move to your stations! There''s no time!" the King ordered.


    "Understood!"


    Orders were dispatched swiftly. The celebration ceased, and people scrambled into position. Magic circles were activated. Missile systems were armed. Cannons powered up.


    King Phantom and Queen Spirit teleported to the Abyssal Breaker and began the energy transfer, standing on the platform and pouring their magic into the cannon.


    "Receiving magic power," the system echoed.


    Elsewhere, mages activated protective barriers, missiles locked on targets, and all systems stood ready.


    The King continued pouring his magic into the cannon, glancing at the sky uneasily.


    "¡­It''s coming."


    Dark clouds gathered. Thunder cracked. The winds howled, and the earth trembled. And then¡ªfrom behind the clouds¡ªa grotesque, fleshy mass emerged. Countless eyes stared down at Utopia. Arms stretched toward the world.


    "Fire the satellite missiles!" the King shouted.


    Missiles soared skyward, releasing satellites that formed a barrier around the Star Eater, disrupting its space manipulation. The monster ignored the interference and pressed forward.


    "Step one complete!"


    "Proceed to step two!"


    Gravitational missiles launched next. Explosions erupted across the Star Eater''s body, severing limbs and destroying eyes. The creature howled in agony, its voice shaking the heavens. Though some missiles were destroyed by its thrashing limbs, the damage was done.


    Screams echoed through Utopia as the monster''s eyes pierced through illusions.


    "Sir, the barrier can''t block its gaze completely!"


    "Is the Abyssal Breaker charged yet?"


    "Still recharging!"


    "We''re running out of time!"


    The King''s eyes locked with one of the creature''s. Instantly, he was pulled into a dark, liquid-filled void.


    "¡­So this is the space they spoke of."


    From the black ooze emerged twisted creatures¡ªmanifestations of the King''s greatest fears.


    "Fools!" he roared.


    Summoning a sword, he cleaved through them mercilessly.


    "I may be a coward, but for my people¡ªeven gods will fall before me!"


    He swung wildly, drowning in the black liquid¡ªyet still fighting.


    Eventually, he broke free and returned to reality.


    "Your Majesty, are you alright?"


    "I''m fine¡­ Wait¡ªlook at the sky!"


    Everyone turned upward. The Star Eater had stopped¡ªsuspended near the moon''s orbit.


    "¡­What happened?" the King asked.


    "We don''t know. But something''s holding it back."


    The King smiled faintly. "Maybe the gods really are on our side¡­ All units, FIRE!"


    The cannons roared to life. As the final charge completed, the King channeled his magic through his eyes, expanding his vision.


    Gates opened. The bullets launched¡ªdirectly targeting the Star Eater''s eyes. The destructive beams collided with its warped space. Many shots broke through, obliterating every last eye.


    "All eyes destroyed! Everyone is regaining their senses!"


    The Star Eater let out a final, enraged roar that shook all of Utopia. The King collapsed from exhaustion, but stood again, lifting his sword toward the sky.


    "You feel that pain, monster? That''s the price of challenging Utopia!"


    As if understanding, the Star Eater''s eyeless face twisted toward the King. It let out a guttural, mocking roar.


    "Bring it on, you damn thing," the King snarled.


    The battle for Utopia had begun.

 Chapter 7: Roaring Ray of Hope

    Cannons and missiles roared, endlessly bombarding the Star Eater. Its massive body was being torn apart, bit by bit¡ªslowing its advance, but not stopping it.


    Yet the monster refused to fall. One of its arms suddenly burst through Utopia''s atmosphere, tearing through the clouds and slamming toward the ground. It crushed countless cannons¡ªonly to be obliterated by a storm of retaliatory fire from all sides.


    "Is the system ready yet?!" the King shouted.


    "Eighty percent charged!"


    "Keep firing! The Abyssal Breaker is almost ready!"


    "Yes, sir!"


    As everyone desperately tried to hold back the Star Eater, the Phantom King and the Spirit Queen continued fueling the massive cannon, pouring their mana into it. Even with the world hanging by a thread, the two still found time to mock each other.


    "Well, look at that beast getting closer, and you''re still just standing here?" the Phantom King sneered.


    "Someone''s still behind you. Maybe try a little harder?" the Queen snapped back.


    "Bring it on! What''s there to be afraid of?!"


    Their shouting surged with their mana, which now flooded the cannon even faster.


    "Ninety percent charged!"


    Time passed slowly. Though the Star Eater was taking heavy damage, it kept advancing. The people of both kingdoms were fading¡ªdissipating into glittering magical particles.


    "Oh? Looks like all our people are gone," the Phantom King murmured. "Only you and me now."


    "Want to make a final bet?" the Queen asked, panting.


    "Let''s hear it."


    "Let''s pour out all our power at once. Whoever collapses first admits the other was stronger."


    "Heh. Fine by me. But you don''t look too good yourself."


    "Shut up. Let''s begin."


    Their bodies glowed fiercely as they poured every last drop of power into the cannon. The King, still guiding the system and locking targets, glanced back again¡ªhaunted by guilt he had no time to resolve.


    Then he turned one last time¡ªand saw only glowing motes of mana where the Spirit Queen once stood.


    "Damn it! Is the system ready yet?!"


    "Ninety-nine percent charged. Energy conversion in progress."


    The Phantom King, breathing heavily, kept forcing his mana in.


    "Still standing¡­ I won''t lose yet¡­"


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    But when he turned to taunt his rival again, he froze. She was gone. Only her lingering energy remained¡ªno words, no farewell. A silent end.


    There was a moment of quiet.


    The Phantom King bowed his head, tasting victory¡­ and bitter emptiness.


    "So, our little game is finally settled¡­" he whispered. "And yet you disappeared without saying I was stronger. You liar. But¡­ if there''s a next life¡­ I still want to fight you. Only you."


    He raised his head, fury in his eyes.


    "You bastard! TAKE OUR WRATH!"


    He screamed and poured his final magic into the cannon.


    "System fully charged. Ready to fire."


    The Phantom King collapsed, turning toward the King with a faint smile.


    "The rest¡­ is up to you."


    And then, he too faded into mana, joining his eternal rival in silence.


    The platform was now empty¡ªonly echoes remained.


    "Damn it... Abyssal Breaker¡ªFIRE!!" the King shouted, choking back grief and pain.


    "Commence firing sequence."


    The cannon roared. Energy surged from the core, gears grinding, pistons pumping. Magic surged like waves, runes glowing, the massive barrel aligning toward the heavens. Crystals shone, pulling in surrounding mana through glowing wires. Magic circles detached from the cannon muzzle, rotating around the twin barrels.


    Twin vortexes of energy formed¡ªtwo cosmic storms spiraling into one another.


    "Target locked."


    Just as the Star Eater''s massive body neared the atmosphere, the vortexes were sucked into the cannon¡ªthen, in an instant, the world fell silent.


    Then¡­ the explosion.


    The ground cracked beneath the Abyssal Breaker. Space around it twisted and tore. Its roar drowned out the Star Eater''s screams.


    Shockwave buffers activated, but even they couldn''t hold¡ªtheir surfaces splintered under the force. The King, beneath the cannon, raised layers of barriers just to survive the crushing pressure.


    Then came the light.


    Two enormous beams shot forth, tearing through the sky¡ªpillars of blinding hope that lit the entire world. As they rose, they twined together into a single massive blast that tore through the Star Eater''s barrier and ripped into its flesh, pushing it back with divine force.


    Star Eater screamed in pain¡ªits shriek shook the sky, deflecting countless bullets and waves of magic. But even its cries couldn''t stop Abyssal Breaker from tearing its flesh into pieces. It twisted its body in desperation, trying to retreat, raising its massive arms to block the blast. But none of it mattered. The moment it entered Abyssal Breaker''s line of sight, it became a target locked in fate. The cannon instantly adjusted its aim to follow the monster''s movement.


    Its limbs were immediately suppressed by continuous volleys from the surrounding turrets, bombarded relentlessly by high-density missiles and artillery fire. Gravity missiles exploded all along its escape route, activating force fields that distorted space and dropped hundreds of magic stones into the air¡ªstones that anchored the very fabric of movement, trapping the Star Eater in a collapsing cage of power. Every attempt to flee only brought more agony, as its monstrous flesh was torn apart and scattered across the battlefield like cursed embers falling from a dying star.


    The King, battered but alive, teleported away from the cannon. He looked up¡ªrelieved, but uneasy.


    "¡­Why was it so easy? Why hasn''t it used any other abilities?"


    Then, as if answering his fear, the Star Eater suddenly used its limbs to cover its body. A crimson energy shield formed around it¡ªblocking every attack except the Abyssal Breaker''s beam.


    "What is that¡­?" the King gasped.


    "Sir¡­ all weapons are ineffective now. Only the Abyssal Breaker can damage it."


    "Cease all fire. Reload everything."


    "Yes, sir."


    As the systems reset, the King stared¡ªhis unease growing.


    And then¡­ it opened its mouth.


    A gaping, thorn-lined maw stretched wide¡ªwelcoming the Abyssal Breaker''s light inside. And from that black void¡­ came a new crimson beam, born of despair, colliding directly with the Abyssal Breaker''s beam of hope.


    The clash shook the world.


    "What the hell¡­?" the King whispered in shock.


    The crimson beam began to push the Abyssal Breaker''s light back, forcing the two forces into a deadlock.


    "It''s copying us!" one officer yelled.


    "It''s imitating the Abyssal Breaker!" the King growled. "This is beyond anything we expected!"


    "Resume fire! Cannons and missiles¡ªeverything we have!"


    But no attack could pierce the crimson shield now. It was too late.


    The people of Utopia watched in horror.


    Their final hope¡­ was being eclipsed by despair''s crimson hunger.

 Chapter 8: Igniting the Flame of Life

    The tide of battle had turned. All attacks on the Star Eater were nullified¡ªit was as if hope itself had vanished. The people stood frozen, despair etched into their faces. Moments ago, they brimmed with determination. But now? Now, it felt like reality had spoken: hope was a lie.


    "Damn it, what should I do now?" the King muttered through clenched teeth.


    "Think. What else can you do now?"


    He tried to expand his vision using magic, hoping for answers¡ªbut the moment his gaze collided with the Star Eater¡¯s shield, he was struck down, consciousness faltering.


    "How did it adapt so quickly? What is it? Where did it come from? What does it want from Utopia?" Questions raced through his mind, unanswered.


    While he stood dazed, the Star Eater reached the edge of the atmosphere. It raised its arms, and from the palms, grotesque eyes opened, casting beams of unnatural light across Utopia. Madness followed. Not just insanity¡ªtransformation. The people morphed into humanoid monsters, tearing through everything in a frenzy of chaos.


    Utopia became a blood-drenched nightmare. Screams, wild laughter, the scent of blood in the air¡ªheaven was gone. Only hell remained.


    "Impossible¡­" The King stared blankly. "Is everything truly over? All our work, our unity¡ªlost?"


    He dropped his sword. He stared into the Star Eater¡¯s eye and was immediately drawn into an illusion.


    But unlike before, this illusion wasn¡¯t a void of darkness. He found himself in a lush green garden beneath a radiant blue sky¡ªa false paradise, a twisted Eden.


    "I see," the King laughed bitterly. "So this is how you control us. You give us what we crave¡ªan illusion of peace in a dying world. How ironic."


    A figure emerged from behind him.


    "So this is what you desire, my son." said the voice.


    The King turned sharply.


    Standing there was his father¡ªthe former King of Atlantis. A man of wisdom, strength, and courage¡­ everything the current King believed he lacked.


    "I never thought I¡¯d see you again¡­ old man," he said coldly.


    "I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m real, or just a projection," his father said calmly, smiling. "But does it matter? This is what you¡¯ve always wanted."


    "Not entirely," the King replied softly, looking away. "Something¡¯s missing."


    His father seemed surprised. The son who was once reckless now spoke with depth. As a father, he felt pride.


    "You¡¯ve grown so much¡­ even though you look my age now."


    "Shut up, old man," the King grumbled. "At least I¡¯m better looking. And I have family that I love.¡±


    Suddenly, realization struck. He scanned the illusion urgently.


    "What are you looking for?" his father asked.


    "I get it now," the King muttered. "This illusion shows what we desire most. But it made a mistake."


    His father furrowed his brow, but after a moment, understanding dawned.


    "So you¡¯ve figured it out. You were worthy of the crown."


    He stepped forward, arms open. But a flash of steel ended the moment¡ªa sword pierced his chest.


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    "What is this¡­?"


    "What else? I¡¯m killing you, impostor."


    "Why are you so sure I¡¯m not real?"


    "Because what I truly want is my family¡ªnot you. You only cared about power and never your children. A man like you wouldn¡¯t be here, not unless it was a lie."


    The King¡¯s voice trembled with rage. "You¡¯re not worthy to lecture me."


    "Wait¡ª"


    The King¡¯s sword slashed again, splitting the figure in two. It dissolved into black liquid.


    "Heh¡­ you really have surpassed me," the illusion muttered as it faded. "I was a successful king¡­ but a failed father. You, who always doubted yourself¡­ now stand tall to protect your family. I¡¯m proud."


    Only a puddle of black fluid remained.


    "Thank you, anyway," the King whispered, bowing.


    He raised his sword, slashed through the illusion, and shattered the false paradise. He opened his eyes¡ªback to reality. A world in pain, but still alive.


    He stood again. He would protect his people, no matter the cost.


    And he wasn¡¯t alone. All across the kingdoms, people snapped out of their illusions and began fighting back, helping each other suppress the maddened victims.


    Seeing this, the King¡¯s resolve hardened. If the people hadn¡¯t given up¡ªthen neither could he.


    He picked up his sword and stood tall.


    "If you¡¯ve got guts, come at me, you bastard!"


    The Star Eater moved closer.


    "Wake up¡ª"


    But before he finished, a deafening roar shook the land. A massive shadow soared past him, followed by many more, blasting winds across the battlefield.


    When the dust settled, the King saw it¡ªthe true form of the Dragon King. A colossal dragon, larger than a kingdom, leading his people into battle.


    "What are you doing?!" the King shouted.


    "What else? Let it see our power!" the Dragon King bellowed.


    Flames erupted from his body¡ªflames born from his very life force. His people, too, ignited with their own life flames, slowly disappearing into the fire. But their flames merged with the Dragon King¡¯s, making him even greater¡ªtaller than a mountain, an inferno incarnate.


    "Wait¡ªthere might be another way! We still have¡ª"


    But it was too late. The Dragon King charged, burning bright like a sun, crashing into the Star Eater¡¯s limbs and piercing through them.


    The King finally understood.


    ¡°To all survivors! Aim your cannons and missiles at its arms¡ªclear the path for Dragon King!¡±


    The survivors responded quickly, unleashing a torrent of firepower. Limbs collapsed, the path was cleared.


    But now, another obstacle remained¡ªits shield.


    Suddenly, a wind surged, forming a massive arrow.


    ¡°This power belongs to the Elf King¡± the King murmured.


    ¡°Let¡¯s show it our might!¡± the Elf King shouted.


    The wind arrow spun violently, accelerating until it became invisible to the naked eye¡ªthen shot forward, striking the shield. Cracks formed¡ªbut it still held.


    ¡°Damn it! Not enough!¡± the Elf King cursed.


    ¡°Then let me finish it!¡± the Dragon King roared.


    He charged behind the arrow and punched it with full force¡ªshattering the shield. Then he barreled forward, straight toward the Star Eater¡¯s gaping maw.


    ¡°DIE!!!¡±


    The flames erupted even greater, burning like the sun itself. The moment he entered the creature¡¯s mouth, a divine explosion erupted¡ªan inferno that erased the Star Eater¡¯s face.


    The King stood silently.


    ¡°¡­Thank you, Dragon King.¡±


    The creature¡¯s death beam faded. The Abyssal Breaker fired again, pushing it back. The Star Eater screamed silently, writhing, but still refused to die. It hurled itself toward Utopia once more.


    ¡°Persistent monster¡­¡± the King growled.


    ¡°Energy remaining: 10%.¡±


    ¡°Damn it, we¡¯re almost there!¡±


    But everyone was still busy fighting the monsters around them. Abyssal Breaker was running dry.


    Far away, hidden in the ruins of Atlantis Palace, a shadowy figure watched everything.


    ¡°¡­More than I expected,¡± the figure whispered. ¡°Let me help you.¡±


    He raised his hand¡ªdark energy flowing toward Abyssal Breaker.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you what hope means.¡±


    Back on the battlefield¡­


    ¡°Energy at 5%¡­¡±


    The light from the cannon dimmed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll use my own magic to fuel it!¡± the King shouted.


    But just before he could act¡ªa new voice echoed from the machine.


    ¡°Energy rising¡ª10%, 20%¡­ 100%! Surpassing maximum threshold!¡±


    ¡°What the hell¡­?¡± The King stared in disbelief. ¡°The gods¡­ did they answer us?¡±


    ¡°ABYSSAL BREAKER¡ªFULL POWER!¡±


    A massive explosion erupted. The cannon¡¯s shockwave split the ground, destroying barriers across the land. All of Utopia could now hear it.


    Two massive beams twisted together into one colossal force¡ªbright as divine wrath¡ªblasting toward the Star Eater.


    Star Eater in desperation tried to create a shield again to block it¡ªbut it was futile.


    The beam The beam pierced through the shield and engulfed its body in a torrent of light, tearing it apart, ripping its flesh into particles of nothingness.


    As soon as the light fades away... only flickering spots of light remain in space.


    The Star Eater was no more.


    Abyssal Breaker, broken and cracked, slumped off its mountain¡ªbut even as it fell, its gun remained pointed skyward as if to prove its unyielding will.


    "It¡¯s really over¡­ The Star Eater has finally been defeated. So good¡­ so peaceful¡­" The King couldn''t hold back his tears.


    "We won"


    He raised his sword high and shouted along with everyone''s cheers the sky was now clear and shining all over Utopia.

 Chapter 9: The Calm Before the Storm

    The battle with the Star Eater had ended. Now, the people of Utopia rested, trying to recover from the devastation.


    The once-glorious land was reduced to ruins. Yet, amidst the rubble, the fact that Utopia still stood was a symbol of hope.


    The King had collapsed from exhaustion after the final blow. The people had carried him back to Atlantis, where he lay unconscious for a month. When he finally woke, his body was still weak¡ªbut his spirit remained strong. He refused to rest any longer.


    Slowly, he rose from bed and staggered toward the door. But the moment it opened, he straightened his posture, masking his pain with regal dignity. He stepped onto the palace balcony and gazed out over the damaged kingdom.


    "It¡¯s a mess," he muttered. "But at least¡­ we stood firm. That¡¯s something."


    As he stood in silence, his wife approached from behind.


    ¡°You should still be resting,¡± she said gently. ¡°Your body hasn¡¯t recovered.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d like to¡­ but what they need now is a guide¡ªespecially those who have lost their leaders.¡±


    She smiled faintly. ¡°At least eat something first.¡±


    ¡°Hah¡­ fine. You always win.¡±


    Together, they walked to the dining hall, where their children were already waiting¡ªcheerful as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°What playful children,¡± the King said, smiling.


    They sat and shared a simple meal. No royal feasts remained¡ªjust humble food like any other citizen. But none complained. They were simply grateful to be alive.


    Afterward, the King set out toward the Dragon Kingdom¡ªa land now reduced to ruins, empty and silent.


    ¡°This place used to be full of life¡­ now, only echoes remain,¡± he whispered.


    He walked solemnly through the debris until he reached the throne room¡ªa vast hall draped in worn banners, engraved with the deeds of fallen kings. At its center stood a throne, carved from the bones of past Dragon Kings. He placed his hand on it.


    ¡°No matter how many times I see it, it still gives me chills¡­ I told you this wouldn¡¯t make you look cooler. You were always stubborn,¡± he murmured, a bittersweet smile on his lips. ¡°You always made me laugh.¡±


    His hand trembled.


    ¡°But now¡­ there¡¯s not even a fragment of your bones left. I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t protect you. All of you.¡±


    He stepped away, but turned one last time to bow his head.


    ¡°Goodbye¡­ and thank you, Master.¡±


    Next, he visited neighboring kingdoms, offering aid. But most of them refused his help, worried about his health.


    Still, as he stood there, feeling somewhat useless, a tiny hand tugged at his robe. He looked down to see a little girl, and behind her, a group of children.


    ¡°Come play with us! We¡¯re missing a player!¡± she said brightly¡ªthen they all ran off giggling, not waiting for a reply.


    The King blinked in surprise.


    ¡°They¡¯re just kids¡­ so innocent,¡± someone beside him chuckled.


    ¡°They are and their laughter¡­ it made the world feel normal again. Just for a moment.¡± the King replied. ¡°If only my childhood had been like that¡­¡±


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    ¡°Sir?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡ªjust old memories,¡± the King said, then smiled. ¡°If I can¡¯t help rebuild, I¡¯ll play with the children instead.¡±


    ¡°You deserve to rest, Your Majesty.¡±


    Laughing softly, the King followed the children as they waved at him with joy.


    But no one noticed the ominous change in the sky¡ªhigh above, beyond the clouds, the shattered fragments of the Star Eater were slowly beginning to reassemble.


    A Year Later


    Utopia had almost returned to its former glory. Homes were rebuilt. Kingdoms restored. But the dead would never return.


    The King declared a day to honor the fallen. Their tombs were placed beneath the ruins of the Abyssal Breaker, so they could eternally watch over Utopia.


    On the day of remembrance, the King stood on a podium, facing the people¡ªboth in person and across broadcast screens. Behind him stood the remaining leaders, each holding portraits of those who had perished.


    ¡°Today,¡± the King began, ¡°we give our thanks to the brave souls who gave their lives to protect Utopia. Without them, we would not be standing here.¡±


    He lowered his head, and all followed in silent respect.


    ¡°But we must not let them see only our sorrow,¡± he continued, raising his voice. ¡°Let¡¯s show them that we¡¯re still alive. That we endure!¡±


    He raised his glass high.


    ¡°For Utopia¡ªand for the dead!¡±


    The crowd echoed in unison:


    ¡°For Utopia and the dead!¡±


    Joy returned with music and laughter. A grand festival began.


    During the celebration, the King once again took the stage.


    ¡°As I once promised¡ªafter everything was over¡ªI declare the winner of the contest between King Phantom and Queen Spirit to be¡­ King Phantom!¡± he declared theatrically. ¡°But to me, they¡¯re both victors¡ªfor they defeated a man like me with their spirit and sacrifice. So let¡¯s celebrate their victory!¡±


    The crowd erupted in cheers, their voices carrying across the land. Even the leaders joined the festivities, basking in the hard-earned peace.


    But after his speech, the King quietly slipped away.


    He returned to his chamber, poured two glasses of wine, and said coldly, ¡°How long are you going to stand there, stranger? Care for a drink?¡±


    A figure emerged from the shadows.


    ¡°Well well¡­ such a wise king. How did you notice me?¡±


    ¡°Your aura isn¡¯t exactly subtle.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough. I come not as an enemy¡­ but bearing a gift.¡±


    The figure stepped forward and handed him a book¡ªan eerie tome etched with unfamiliar patterns.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°A gift. You¡¯ll need it¡­ soon.¡±


    The King touched the book¡ªand a murderous aura surged out, forcing him to drop it.


    ¡°What the hell is this!?¡± he shouted, but when he turned, the stranger had vanished¡ªleaving only an empty glass behind.


    The King picked up the book again. The aura was gone. He opened it¡­ but the language was foreign, unintelligible.


    ¡°What a strange book¡­ just like its owner,¡± he muttered.


    Just then, his wife entered.


    ¡°Someone wishes to see you. What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Just a strange book I picked up. Nothing important.¡±


    He left the book on the table and went out¡ªbut after the door shut, the book flipped its pages wildly, stopping on an illustration: a monstrous form of the Star Eater, twisted and reborn.


    Later, as he welcomed a visitor, an urgent whisper echoed in his mind.


    ¡°Sir¡­ look at the sky.¡±


    He rushed outside¡ªand froze.


    A massive mass of flesh floated in the sky, as large as a mountain.


    ¡°What¡­ is that?¡± he gasped.


    ¡°No one knows, sir. It wasn¡¯t there yesterday.¡±


    His eyes widened in horror.


    ¡°That¡¯s the Star Eater¡­ it survived¡­¡±


    He immediately called for the festival to be suspended.


    ¡°But why, sir?¡± a leader asked.


    ¡°Look at the sky!¡±


    ¡°We see nothing¡­ are you alright, Your Majesty?¡±


    ¡°What? How can you not see it?!¡±


    Panic set in¡ªonly the King and a few astronomers could perceive the creature. It wasn¡¯t a hallucination¡ªit was real.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t an illusion,¡± he said grimly. ¡°The Star Eater is still alive.¡±


    His declaration sent a wave of fear across the council.


    ¡°But¡­ it was destroyed a year ago. How¡­?¡±


    ¡°I swear on my honor. It¡¯s real.¡±


    ¡°Then we must alert the people,¡± someone said.


    ¡°But won¡¯t that cause mass panic?¡±


    ¡°Better panic than ignorance¡ªbetter fear than letting them laugh beneath that thing in the sky.¡±


    The people were quickly evacuated. The festival came to an abrupt, grim end.


    As the King stared upward, unable to look away, he muttered:


    ¡°It resembles the Star Eater¡­ but smaller. What is it¡­ really?¡±


    A soldier ran to him. ¡°Sir, evacuation complete. Weapons ready on your command.¡±


    ¡°Good. Thank you.¡±


    But then¡ªpain. A sudden, sharp headache struck him.


    Strange symbols, voices, and words surged through his mind. He collapsed to his knees, groaning.


    ¡°Are you alright, Your Majesty?¡± a soldier shouted.


    ¡°What is this¡­ this pain¡­ these words¡­¡± the King gasped. ¡°Could it be¡­?¡±


    And as if realizing something, the King looked up into the sky towards the mass of flesh.


    And just as he had predicted, the mass of flesh slowly opened its eyes and looked down at Utopia, and it began to let out terrifying screams that echoed throughout Utopia¡ªscreams so deep, so distorted as if it were extremely angry¡ªas if to signal that it had returned, and this time, it would show the people below what hell truly meant.

 Chapter 10: Hell has just begun

    After the terrifying roar, the Star Eater immediately plunged into the atmosphere at an insane speed, ignore its grotesque body burning as it tore through the sky.


    The King did not hesitate. His eyes locked onto it, unwavering.


    ¡°All at once¡ªfire everything you have!¡± he roared.


    A storm of bullets and missiles erupted into the sky, launched through the King¡¯s Gate and targeting the monstrous being. But the attacks collided uselessly against its shield.


    ¡°That trick again?¡± the King scoffed. ¡°No¡ªyou won¡¯t get away with the same move twice. Elf King, now!¡±


    The Elf King below the palace instantly understood. He summoned a colossal wind arrow¡ªformed by the power of his people¡ªand spun it at a ferocious speed before launching it toward the Star Eater.


    ¡°Eat this, you damn thing!¡± the Elf King shouted.


    Without delay, the King summoned a glowing spear and cast powerful enhancement spells on both the weapon and his own body. He hurled the spear directly into the spinning wind arrow¡ªboth forces resonated, combining into a massive spiral wind spear that pierced the Star Eater¡¯s shield, leaving behind a visible crack.


    ¡°You learned to adapt quickly.¡± the King muttered, ¡°but it won¡¯t save you. Everyone, aim for the crack¡ªopen fire!¡±


    The armies redirected their cannons and rained fire upon the weak point. The shield began to fracture further.


    Seizing the opportunity, the King opened the gate once more and charged toward the crack, conjuring a radiant sword mid-flight. The Star Eater, startled by his advance, locked eyes with him¡ªbut the King only smiled.


    ¡°Surprised¡­ you damn creature,¡± he shouted out loud in anger.


    His sword pulsed with energy as he slashed directly into the crack¡ªshattering the shield completely right before the Star Eater¡¯s horrified eyes.


    ¡°Good luck,¡± he provoked, vanishing back through the gate and return to the palace.


    The moment he vanished, countless bullets surged toward the Star Eater, engulfing it in a storm that disoriented and slowed its descent. and wounding it ¡ª but it wasn¡¯t finished yet.


    Its outer shell suddenly split apart, forming a grotesque mouth, and with all its strength, it launched its core straight down into the ocean. The shell then exploded mid-air, raining debris across all of Utopia¡ªobliterating buildings, claiming countless lives, and plunging the land into chaos and devastation.


    The core struck the ocean with violent force, unleashing a massive water column and a tsunami that swept away everything in its path¡ªincluding the nearby coastal kingdoms. Countless screams echoed, only to be drowned by the roaring waves. Even beneath the sea, the Mermaid Kingdom trembled from the shockwaves, its very foundations beginning to collapse.


    ¡°Report the situation immediately!¡± the King demanded.


    ¡°All coastal kingdoms have been wiped out, sir¡­¡± a trembling voice replied. ¡°We¡¯re finding bodies floating everywhere. We¡¯re still searching for survivors¡­¡±


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    ¡°What about the Mermaid Kingdom?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s stable for now,¡± the Mermaid Queen answered nervously. ¡°But the damage is immeasurable.¡±


    ¡°What about its core? Any signs?¡±


    ¡°Searching the impact zone,¡± said the Deep Sea King.


    ¡°Be careful. That thing is unpredictable,¡± the King warned anxiously.


    While the Deep Sea King continued his search, the King ordered the remaining forces to stay alert and prepare for the worst.


    ¡°Everyone, raise your guard. Increase troops, prepare every spell and weapon system. We don¡¯t know what¡¯s coming next.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± the leaders responded in unison.


    Preparations escalated quickly. Forbidden spells were prepared, defense systems activated, and weapon reserves mobilized. Even the King personally checked the information systems, ensuring everything was in place."


    ¡°Is their system ready?¡±


    ¡°All stats stable. Ready on command.¡±


    ¡°Good¡­ now show me, Star Eater¡ªwhat else can you do?¡± he muttered, his voice a mix of determination and dread.


    After a long search, the Deep Sea King finally found the Star Eater¡¯s core.


    ¡°Sir, I found it. What now?¡±


    ¡°Memorize the location and return immediately,¡± the King responded calmly.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    The King sighed in momentary relief¡ªbut then something felt off.


    A strange voice echoed in his head.


    ¡°Focus and listen¡­ you can hear it getting angry.¡±


    ¡°What¡­? Hear what?¡± the King spun around¡ªbut saw only his soldiers.


    Cold sweat dripped down his face. He heard it¡ªfaint cries of rage. The unmistakable presence of hatred.


    ¡°Deep Sea King, get out of there now!¡± he screamed suddenly.


    ¡°Sir, what¡ª¡±


    Before the Deep Sea King could finish, a giant eye opened beneath the ocean and locked onto him. Countless black hands emerged from the abyss, grabbing him and his companions, pulling them into the depths despite their resistance.


    ¡°Help¡ª!¡±


    That was the last thing the King heard¡ªhis scream cut short, followed by the crunching of bones and silence. The communication line died, replaced only by static.


    ¡°Deep Sea King¡­ no¡­ impossible¡­¡± the King whispered, trembling.


    ¡°Fire all missiles at the location he marked¡ªNOW!¡±


    Missiles launched, crashing into the ocean, creating vast columns of water. But then¡­ silence. No movement.


    ¡°It¡¯s too quiet,¡± the King muttered. ¡°As if nothing ever existed there¡­¡±


    Suddenly, thick black liquid bubbled up from the sea and spread across the surface.


    ¡°What is that?¡± the leaders gasped.


    And then, from within the tar-like substance, humanoid creatures emerged¡ªgrotesque, rotted, stitched together by monstrous appendages. Their soulless eyes reflected only one instinct: hunger and killing.


    They shrieked¡ªstarving beasts unleashed¡ªand swarmed across sky and sea in overwhelming numbers.


    Without needing commands, all kingdoms opened fire¡ªmissiles, cannons, magic¡ªeverything.


    But it wasn¡¯t enough.


    One by one, the kingdoms fell.


    The Mermaid Kingdom fell first¡ªits people hunted down and torn apart, their final screams echoing only through the communication channels. The ocean soon turned red with blood and flesh.


    Then came the flying fortresses of the angels and birdmen, engulfed by the swarm and dragged down, exploding on impact. The sky turned crimson, raining blood and flesh.


    One by one, the kingdoms fell¡ªno magic, no weapon could stop them.


    Even the Abyssal Breaker, the symbol of Utopia¡¯s will, was collapsing under their assault.


    The King stood frozen¡ªparalyzed as the world crumbled before him. His vision blurred under the weight of despair and screams.


    Until a voice broke through¡ª


    ¡°If you do nothing¡­ everything you love will disappear.¡±


    He snapped back to reality. Without hesitation, he opened a portal and dove into battle.


    From the sky, he summoned a titanic lightning bolt, striking the land near the Star Eater¡¯s core, vaporizing swarms of creatures.


    He landed, eyes blazing.


    ¡°Listen up, all of you¡ªbear my wrath! WAKE UP GUARDIANS OF UTOPIA!¡±


    Far below the palace, countless eyes opened in the dark.


    Just before the horde reached him, a massive gate opened behind him¡ªa colossal arm burst out, crushing the creatures instantly. From the gate, a giant fighting machine emerged¡ªarmed with blades, guns, and energy cannons. It rampaged across the battlefield, slicing the monsters apart and drown them in flames.


    Then, across all of Utopia, other gates opened, unleashing an army of war machines, each destroying the swarm with devastating force.


    The King stood tall amidst the chaos¡ªunshaken, resolute.


    ¡°Time to counterattack.¡±