1 Start
In the year 188 of the Holy Era, amid the reign of the Jenstar dynasty, tensions brewed within the Ikegai clan, once revered as the most loyal to the empire. Henry's voice thundered through the room, echoing the frustration of many: "We've served the empire faithfully for 180 years, yet the King treats us like expendable pawns. He lavishes rewards upon those who flatter him and condemns any who dare to challenge his authority."
Morgan, his twin, added with a simmering anger, "We're not his slaves! We are descendants of the feared warriors who once commanded respect from even the kings themselves. It's time we reclaim our honor."
Their pleas fell upon the clan head, who listened with a heavy heart. "As the eldest," he reminded them, "we must tread carefully. A revolt could invite the wrath of neighboring empires, leaving us vulnerable and isolated."
He continued, "Our strength lies not in open rebellion, but in our unity and strategic thinking. The King may undermine us, but he knows our worth. We must bide our time."
The clan head's words struck a chord of shame within the twins, prompting them to retreat, chastened by the reality of their situation.
This era, known as the Holy Era, was a time of swords and sorcery, where humans, wielding learned magic, reigned supreme over a world teeming with diverse creatures.
Within this realm, empires vied for power, with royal families engaging in both political maneuvering and occasional conflict. The Ikegai clan, once revered as a Dragon Class clan, had been relegated to the Golden Class due to the King's disdain for their perceived threat.
The newer generation of the Ikegai clan, resentful of their diminished status, frequently clamored for revolt, much to the chagrin of their elders. Sensing a fracture within the clan, the clan head convened a rare meeting to address the growing dissent.
Gathered in the solemn halls of the Ikegai Palace, the clan representatives deliberated on their future. The clan head, his voice heavy with emotion, implored them to preserve the legacy of loyalty and sacrifice that defined their clan.
Amidst the somber silence, a young voice, that of Oliver, son of a fallen warrior, rose with a proposal. He acknowledged the grievances of the newer generation but urged restraint, advocating for a path of reconciliation rather than rebellion.
Before the discussion could proceed, however, the meeting was rudely interrupted by the arrival of the Imperial Army. A proclamation from King Blackbeard 2 mandated strict control over magical education, citing a recent attempt on his life by a child.
As chaos erupted outside, a devastating magical assault struck the meeting hall, leaving devastation in its wake. In the aftermath, amidst the wounded and the chaos, the clan head sought out Oliver, his interest piqued by more than just the fate of the next generation.
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[Little chapter rewrite]
