1 Ten Years
-READ THE PROLOGUE-
In a vast, grand domed chamber, an elderly priest with a deep complexion knelt in fervent devotion before a magnificent statue seated upon an opulent throne. Upon closer inspection, keen observers might be astonished to discern subtle signs of vitality flickering in the statue's eyes, a hint of the divine.
"Your Divine Eminence," he whispered with utmost reverence, his voice trembling like a fragile leaf in the wind, "We find ourselves incapable of approaching the young lad, for he remains protected under the unwavering vigilance of the Mustafa Clan."
Suddenly, as if the heavens themselves commanded it, the statue's crowned head pivoted with an abruptness that sent shivers down the spine. An oppressive weight descended upon the priest, coercing his already bowed head to sink even lower. The tiles beneath him fractured and shattered, unleashing a cacophonous symphony of destruction, all under the immense force exerted by the divine statue.
"Your incompetence !" a booming divine voice thundered down onto the priest's ears, "Is the reason why you can't execute my decree, understand?!"
"Yes, I understand, your Holiness!" he quivered in reply, his voice trembling with fear.
The priest managed to utter those words through the searing pain that ravaged his soul. A brilliant beam of light erupted from the statue's forehead, piercing into the priest. Fear gripped him, but he quickly realized it was a Divine Gift, a precious boon of immeasurable worth.
A single Divine Gift held the power to elevate someone into the esteemed rank of a Divine Son or Daughter, propelling them through stages or layers of spiritual growth at an astounding pace. Clearly, this gift was destined for the current Divine Son and Daughter.
"I humbly thank thee for bestowing such a divine gift upon us," the priest continued to bow in reverence, his voice filled with gratitude, even as the statue's once-potent divine aura seemed to wane.
As the divine aura faded entirely, leaving the statue devoid of its former presence, the priest rose to his feet, his movements shaky and unsteady. He couldn't suppress a painful cough that expelled a mouthful of blood, and a low groan of agony escaped his lips. With great effort, he lowered himself to sit cross-legged on the chamber's marble floor, closing his eyes in meditation, focusing his inner energy to heal his wounded body.
Despite the physical pain wracking his form, a fire of excitement burned fiercely in his eyes, the prospect of newfound power coursing through his veins.
"Hahaha! Let's see how you try to stop us now, Adroa Mustafa!" His laughter echoed thunderously through the expansive building, a declaration of defiance that reverberated in every corner.
-Eastern Region-
The Eastern Region, anchored by the Eastern Sea City, is an urban tapestry divided among four High Class Families and the esteemed Alkebulan Spirit Academy. The power dynamics among these families are unmistakable:
**Mustafa Royal Clan** - Reigning supreme over the Central Commercial District, the Mustafa Royal Clan orchestrates the bustling hub of economic activity, where trade and commerce flourish. However, their grip on the city goes beyond economics; they are an indomitable Martial Clan, harboring the most gifted Spirit Alchemists. In a world fraught with danger and strife, their medicinal and Layer Breaking Pills are sought after by many. To offend the Mustafa Clan is to invite not only their wrath but also the enmity of others eager to curry their favor.
**Bantu Clan** - In the Southern District, the Bantu Clan preserves the city's rich cultural heritage through Spiritual Tattoos. Their roots run deep in traditional artistry and customs, and their power is a cornerstone of the city's identity. However, even they tread cautiously in the shadow of the Mustafa Clan.
**Ashanti Clan** - The Northern District houses the architectural wonders and centers of knowledge overseen by the Ashanti Clan. Wisdom seekers and scholars flock to their domain, but they too acknowledge the Mustafa Clan's martial might, a force that casts a long shadow over the city.
**Nia Clan** - The Nia Clan, based in the Eastern District, has a strong focus on spiritual development and connecting with one's Ori, or soul. They firmly believe that the path of Spiritual Cultivation is the only orthodox way to reach their full potential. However, they are acutely aware of the far-reaching influence of the Mustafa Clan, which extends beyond the physical realm and into the realms of politics and power. This awareness has led to a certain tension between the two clans, as each seeks to prove the superiority of their chosen path.
The Alkebulan Spirit Academy located in the center of the city, is a neutral institution, that plays a pivotal role in this intricate web of power. All children from these clans study there, forging bonds and rivalries that will shape the city's future. The academy remains a beacon of neutrality, only intervening when requested to mediate conflicts, for it understands that in a city where might makes right, a delicate balance must be maintained.
