Chapter 11: Eastern Mystralia's Conference

In the Kingdom of Salamanca, the structural government was an intricate web of power, divided into distinct regions. At the apex of this hierarchy stood the King, a figure who wielded authority over the entire expanse of Salamanca's lands.

Beyond the sovereign, each region was governed by five individuals, poised on the precipice of a significant breakthrough in Tier 3: Journeyman Master level. They were known as the governors, and their domains spanned from the Northern realms to the Eastern territories, from the Western domains to the Southern reaches, and finally, the central region. These governors harbored aspirations of ascending to the coveted Acolyte level, eagerly awaiting the opportunities that would propel them to new heights.

The regions, in turn, were partitioned into a mosaic of Provinces, Cities, Towns, and Villages. Here, leadership was a privilege reserved for those who had ascended to Tier 3: Journeyman, master level—a symbol of their mastery over governance and their territories.

Yet, within the borders of Salamanca, a peculiar quirk of fate had led to the North and East regions being jointly occupied by an enigmatic and formidable expert decades ago. This figure was so formidable that even kings from neighboring kingdoms regarded him with a mixture of awe and trepidation.

This enigmatic figure was known as the Arcane Beast Tamer—an arcanist of unparalleled skill. He possessed a unique gift for communicating with the arcane beasts that roamed the land, and many of these creatures were their loyal companions. The Arcane Beast Tamer's renown extended far and wide, casting a radiant spotlight upon Salamanca itself. However, despite their fame, the expert yearned for solitude, desiring nothing more than a tranquil existence undisturbed by the tumultuous affairs of the world.

This enigmatic expert was the guardian of a territory teeming with arcane beasts, yet no one knew from whence these creatures came. 

Today, the place is known as the Night Forest, a name whispered with reverence throughout Salamanca and its neighboring kingdoms. But before it became the Night Forest, the expert had vanished as if into thin air, leaving behind no trace of their whereabouts or their purpose in this land. The mystery of the departure remained unsolved, a riddle that confounded all who pondered it. Despite the enigma that surrounded his absence, the people remained grateful. 

Afterward, no one ever mentioned this expert again.

It was several years after the expert's disappearance that destiny smiled upon the Alarcon and Arcon siblings, elevating them to prominence in this mystical territory. 

***

As the day dawned over the Eastern Continent of Mystralia, a spectacle of otherworldly proportions was about to unfold. Representatives from various kingdoms and empires were converging upon a designated meeting point, each arriving in their own unique and arcane mode of transport.

The first to arrive were the riders atop the majestic Flying Arcane Beasts, creatures of myth and magic. These colossal beings soared gracefully through the skies, their iridescent wings spanning the horizon. The representatives perched atop them hailed from kingdoms known for their affinity with nature's arcane forces. As they descended, their creatures exuded an aura of serenity, a testament to the harmonious bond between man and beast.

Following closely behind were the delegates from more traditional realms, drawn in magnificent horse-drawn carriages. These carriages, adorned with intricate runes and enchanted wheels, seemed to glide effortlessly over the earth. They emanated an air of regality, befitting the dignitaries they carried. From empires steeped in history and tradition, these representatives arrived with an air of stoic grandeur.

Then came the enchanting Flying Brooms, their riders weaving through the sky like acrobats in a mystical ballet. These were the ambassadors of kingdoms known for their mastery of the arcane arts, where broom-riding was an esteemed tradition. They painted the heavens with colorful trails of magic as they performed intricate maneuvers. It was a breathtaking display of skill and finesse, a testament to the fusion of magic and technology.

As the various emissaries assembled, the diversity of their magical conveyances was a testament to the richness of Mystralia's arcane heritage. These representatives hailed from realms both ancient and contemporary, united by their shared quest for diplomacy and understanding.

***

The grandeur of King Sander's palace was unmistakable, with its towering walls and opulent chambers, but on this particular day, its significance surpassed even its luxurious façade. Within its hallowed halls, a diverse assembly had gathered, and a sense of anticipation hummed through the air like an electric charge.

"Let everyone please stand," commanded King Sander, his voice echoing with authority and reverence. His subjects and courtiers obeyed, rising from their seats in anticipation of the royal proclamation that hung heavy in the air.

The king, a figure of regal bearing, continued, "The reason for your gathering here is that I've summoned the five governors to welcome guests from various parts of the Eastern continent of Mystralia..."

As his words trailed, a wave of reactions swept through the assembly. Some attendees quivered with excitement, their eyes wide with wonder at the prospect of meeting distinguished guests from far-flung regions. Others, however, bore the weight of nervous anticipation, recognizing that the fate of their kingdom might rest upon the outcome of this meeting.

Before he could reveal more, the king redirected their attention, saying, "...As you may have noticed, we are not in the main hall of the palace. This is because a section has been prepared specifically for our high-ranking official guests. Our Kingdom is hosting this meeting due to the Night Forest's story. Perhaps after the meeting, there will be an inspection by the assembly."

Yet, uncertainty still lingered, prompting one of the town chiefs' to voice a question that hung heavy in the air, "My King, our territory isn't in any danger, is it?"

The Governor of the North region, usually stoic and composed, issued a sharp response, "Be silent!" His irritation was evident, given that one of his own subordinates dared to question the king's judgment.

The court remained in suspense until the king offered a reassuring reply, "Do not worry; that is not their purpose. They have assured us of that."

But curiosity persisted, with another inquiry arising, "But, Your Majesty, who do you mean by 'they'?"

King Sander, however, opted to leave the matter veiled in mystery, responding enigmatically, "Just prepare yourselves for the show of respect."

The air in the palace chamber seemed to hold its breath, charged with intrigue and unanswered questions. As the assembly contemplated the significance of this gathering, the fate of the Eastern continent of Mystralia hung in the balance, awaiting the unveiling of the secrets concealed within the enigmatic Night Forest and the alliances forged amidst this assembly of diverse envoys.

"And here they are..."