CHAPTER TWO: Red Blizzard
The Empire of Aquaria, an immaculate territory bordered with shining gold. It is believed that this empire is ruled by the Northern stars who are said to be direct descendants of heaven – a bloodline of ancient deities.
Zion gained his title 'the dawn breaker' after he came back alive from the infamous "red blizzard" encounter two years ago where his ten thousand men clashed with a groups of Aquarian mercenaries. Though outnumbered, they still managed to wipe the half of Zion's army. It was an unexpected encounter and Aquarians are comparable to ferocious wolves hiding in your shadows. However, despite of the massive casualty, Zion is still claiming that it ended with a stalemate for his sword had brutally wounded the marvelous leader of the pack.
The capital is able to enjoy the taste of peace for decades under the presence of Machabeth. He was a former soldier known for decapitating his enemies and bathing with their warm blood. However, he owes his life to Zion for saving his life during the red blizzard encounter. That incident had remained in Machabeth's mind for the scars all around his body still hurt like a winter storm.
In the other part of the country near the capital, the commoners are secretly attending Lady Ingrid's little class where she teaches different kind of arts, but what her students love the most are the fascinating stories that she shares daily.
"These people must be starving both for grains and knowledge, a little bit of enlightenment won't hurt them but would ignite hope within their hearts." The people have already put their trust on Ingrid for how many months now. She serves as paragon of power, beauty, and purity. Her presence in the town revived the spirit of unity and solidarity for the citizens are gaining confidence and knowledge day by day.
South Bròn is not only known for devouring its enemies but they are also an infamous tacticians. They have deployed thousands spies and undercover agents around the world to gather classified information from their enemies, prevent major attacks, and safeguard the national interest in general.
One of the reports of an undercover agent was all about Lady Ingrid's daily secret activities with the commoners. The heroine of the town is being watch for weeks. Stated also in the report were the lessons being taught daily and the stories she loves to share.
"This reports only proves our suspicion, your majesty. People of the North are rumored to be highly educated," Machabeth said anxiously as they analyse the confidential report. His fists are stuck in his chest, protecting his heart from bursting out.
"They are intelligent, and live ahead of their time. However, what separates the Northern commoners from the royals is the way they are taught and educated. This prisoner, if she's from the North, is neither an army spy nor a merchant!" He added. Machabeth starts to weep and his cold tears runs through his battle scars.
Zion slowly turns his back as he felt sudden disgust, "I should have left your body that day for your frailness gives me fatigue. Those wolves are fed with tears and distressing agonies, does wiping the tears in your weary eyes with my sword now part of the refuge that I had given to you?
The acting King leaves the room for Machabeth's actions frightened the butterflies in his stomach. His face cannot hide the disappointment. This only shows that the Machabeth in front of him now is being hunted by his inner demons, not even close to the feared warrior that roars like a monstrous lion two years ago.