The Southern Region of the Arcane Federation - Eldoria Airport.
The plane landed smoothly on Eldoria Airport's runway. Harald disembarked with Tobirama, he was still two meters tall.
"We'll change planes here," Tobirama said as he led Harald through the transit terminal. "The plane that will take us to Olympus is smaller but faster. We have to fly over the Solara Region, which is to the west of us."
They walked through a modern corridor with clean glass walls, passing rows of cafés and duty-free shops, until they finally arrived at the special boarding gate.
A small, sleek, metallic white plane was parked on the tarmac. Its wings curved perfectly, and its design was aerodynamic. It was only big enough for five passengers.
"This is the Arc aircraft," explained Tobirama. "Specifically designed for fast travel between major cities."
They boarded the aircraft.
As soon as Harald entered, the automatic sensors activated the size adjustment technology, he was already familiar with this technology, so he immediately sat down in the soft, white leather seat provided.
The aircraft's interior was extremely luxurious, with wide windows offering a perfect view outside and a small holographic screen in front of each seat.
Tobirama sat in the seat opposite Harald.
The aircraft door closed automatically, and the engines started up with a soft hum.
Whoshhh!!!
The aircraft took off at high speed, accelerating smoothly.
It climbed rapidly, piercing thick white clouds as it flew west toward the Solara Region.
---
The sky above the Solara Region.
The plane continued flying at high speed through the vast blue expanse. Harald looked out the window to his left and enjoyed the view of the slowly floating white clouds.
Suddenly, Tobirama spoke.
"We'll be passing over the Solara Region soon," he said seriously. "It's the most dangerous region in the Arcane Federation. Look down. Those are the remnants of a devastating war."
Harald turned his head and looked at Tobirama curiously. "War? What happened there?"
Tobirama nodded slowly. His eyes stared out the window, revealing an expression Harald rarely saw, a mixture of respect and caution.
"Solara was once a battlefield between the Spirit Army from Frostenheim in the north and the Cybertron Robots from the south," he explained in a darker tone. "The war lasted for thousands of years and created a zone of destruction that still remains to this day."
Harald furrowed his brow. "Thousands of years?"
"Yes," Tobirama replied. "Frostenheim is the northernmost region of the Federation, a land of eternal ice. The Spirit Army has lived there since ancient times, long before the Federation was formed. They are shinigami, spiritual beings."
"You also know about Cybertron robots. They never die unless the energon in their bodies runs out. Coincidentally, the Shinigami have a very long lifespan, surpassing even humans and giants like you."
Tobirama paused for a moment, then continued.
"They are led by Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni, the commander of the Gotei 13, the strongest shinigami organization. Yamamoto's spiritual power is terrifying. He can burn anything with a spiritual fire that reaches 15 million degrees, equivalent to the core of the sun. His Zanpakutō, Ryujin Jakka, is the strongest fire sword that has ever existed."
Harald swallowed hard, imagining such power. Only the sun god Nika and the deepest secrets of the world government could oppose it.
"Meanwhile, the Cybertron robots possess highly advanced combat technology," Tobirama continued. "They can change shape, fire plasma and lasers with the power of nuclear bombs, and their armor is nearly indestructible. They are led by their three strongest leaders: Optimus Prime, Grimlock, and Megatron."
"Why are they fighting?" Harald asked.
"Solara is a place where the spiritual energy of nature is strongest. The Spirit Army considers it their holy land," Tobirama explained. "Meanwhile, Cybertron sees Solara as the largest source of Energon that can save their race. Neither side is willing to back down. So, the war began and lasted for thousands of years."
Tobirama clenched his fist on the table, his expression growing serious.
"Their battle created hell on Solara," he said softly. "Yamamoto burned the entire plain with his Ryujin Jakka, turning the green land into a desert with spiritual fire that could not be extinguished by water or anything else. Grimlock and his forces fired plasma and lasers that created giant craters. They destroyed each other for thousands of years, causing damage that can still be seen today."
Harald could imagine the destruction.
"The war only ended when Lord Astraeus Ron intervened directly," Tobirama continued respectfully. "It took six months of intense negotiations. Ron spoke with Commander Yamamoto as well as the leaders of the three robot factions. He convinced them that the war would destroy both sides forever. Finally, they agreed to a ceasefire and joined the Arcane Federation."
"Ron ended the thousand-year war?" Harald was amazed.
"Yes," replied Tobirama. "Without his intervention, Solara and perhaps the entire Federation would have been destroyed. At that time, our Eastern Territory was almost dragged into the great war as well."
The plane began to descend slightly, breaking through the cloud layer.
"Look down," said Tobirama, pointing to the window. "We're passing over Solara now. See what's left of the war."
Harald looked out the window.
His breath caught in his throat.
The Solara region spread out below him like an apocalyptic landscape.
From space, he could see a vast plain littered with the remains of terrible battles, far worse than anything he had ever imagined.
Giant chasms split the earth, stretching for tens of kilometers and thousands of meters wide. Their depths were invisible, revealing only boundless, pitch-black darkness.
The chasms formed a pattern resembling giant cuts tearing through the earth and intersecting like a terrifying spiderweb. Some chasms emitted a faint blue-purple light from their depths, remnants of Reiatsu energy that had not disappeared after all these years.
Large craters were scattered everywhere, some of which were impossible to see the width or depth of, as if they had been forcibly destroyed by an alien force.
The crater walls seemed to melt and harden, forming strange and terrifying patterns of shiny black glass. Inside some craters, remnants of blue plasma energy pulsed slowly, like a dying heart.
Giant metal ruins were scattered about the destroyed bodies of Cybertron robots, measuring tens to hundreds of meters in size, lay like metal dinosaur carcasses.
A 50-meter-long robot arm was stuck in the ground. A robot head as big as a house had extinguished eyes. Pieces of metal aircraft wings were twisted like crumpled paper.
Even though years had passed, some of the wreckage still emitted thin sparks of electricity.
The area was scorched, with vast stretches of thick black soil the aftermath of Ryujin Jakka's attack, which was so intense that it turned the soil into shiny black volcanic glass. Some areas emitted thin wisps of smoke, as if the heat were still stored in the ground, waiting to explode again.
The dead forest stood like a graveyard with giant trees that had become dry, black trunks without leaves standing like bone fingers piercing the sky. Some trees burned with blue flames that never went out, blazing forever in the silence.
The most terrifying thing was...
Electromagnetic disturbances are visible throughout the atmosphere. Flashes of blue and red light streak across the cloudless sky, creating a continuous thunderstorm. Purple firestorms rage in some areas, creating high-speed vortices of heat. Black sandstorms move across the ground, carrying dust so coarse and sharp that it can tear through anything.
The sky appears an unnatural reddish-purple color. The atmosphere below feels as if the area is still at war.
Harald stared at the destruction with wide eyes, gripping the armrests of his chair tightly.
What kind of war could create destruction like this?
How many had died? How many were missing?
This wasn't an ordinary war; it was a war between gods that had been going on for thousands of years.
"Even after thousands of years," Tobirama said grimly, his eyes fixed on Solara below, "that area is still dangerous. The energy from the battle has mixed together there, creating an anomaly zone that can kill anyone in seconds. There's electromagnetic interference, unquenchable firestorms, and sandstorms that can tear anything apart."
Tobirama turned to Harald, looking at him seriously.
"Only someone with power on par with mine or stronger can safely move there," he said, pointing at himself. "Even ordinary Cybertron robots or lower-level Shinigami wouldn't dare enter without special permission and protective equipment. Only I, my brother, and a few of the strongest individuals in the Federation can enter Solara's core zone safely."
Harald felt cold sweat run down his back.
Power on par with Tobirama?
'Tobirama, whose power is similar to that of a Navy admiral?'
'Only that level of power or higher can survive in that place?'
'How many individuals in the entire Federation possess that level of power?'
The aircraft flew faster, accelerating to leave the Solara Region behind. Even from a distance, Harald could still see the blue-red light flashing in Solara's atmosphere, like an open wound in a world that never healed and never would.
---
The sky above the mainland - Olympus City.
"We will soon be landing at Olympus International Airport," the pilot announced over the intercom. "The weather is clear with a temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. Welcome to the capital of the Arcane Federation in the heart of the Arcane Continent."
The plane began to descend, breaking through the thin clouds.
Harald stared out the window, trying to distract himself from the destruction of Solara that still haunted his thoughts.
As the clouds parted...
His breath caught, but not because of destruction this time, rather, it was because of the extraordinary beauty below.
Olympus City lay below, sparkling like a giant jewel in the heart of the continent.
From this height, Harald could see the entire city clearly. It was located in the center of the land, surrounded by land in all directions, only land stretching far to the horizon.
Its area was almost equal to that of the entire Sabaody Archipelago even larger. The city's layout was perfect and organized with astonishing precision, forming a beautiful circular pattern.
Harald saw several large, striking zones arranged in a radial pattern around the center.
To the west, there is an area with widely scattered rows of luxurious houses, ranging from modern mansions with glass walls to classic palaces with tall towers and traditional houses with large gardens.
Each house is surrounded by lush gardens and sparkling private pools. Some houses even float in the air using anti-gravity technology. This area looks the most residential and crowded.
To the east, Harald saw a vast complex of pristine white buildings: high schools with giant sports fields and playgrounds and laboratory buildings with observatory domes on top. The atmosphere here was calm and academic.
In the southern area, there are white healthcare buildings with large red crosses on their roofs and modern hospitals with helipads on top. Ambulances moved slowly, ready for action.
Along the circular main road, Harald saw giant malls and shopping centers with stunning architecture. Some were shaped like glass domes and others like inverted pyramids with large, colorful holograms in front. This area was busy with traffic.
In the middle of the commercial zone, skyscrapers towered like giant spears, each with a large, glowing logo at the top. The buildings looked different from one another, with unique designs reflecting the clans or factions that owned them.
Harald saw a giant, oval-shaped stadium with a retractable roof in the eastern area. It appeared to be able to accommodate hundreds of thousands of people, if not more. A perfectly green field was visible in the center.
Most surprising of all...
Near the foot of the mountain, there was a giant colosseum with ancient yet magnificent architecture. It was perfectly circular, with high stone walls and tiered stands.
It was much larger than the stadium and could probably hold a huge number of people. In the center of the Colosseum, Harald could see a large arena with reddish-brown soil.
The most striking thing of all was that...
In the center of the city, right in the middle of all these structures, stood Mount Olympus, a giant mountain towering far above all the skyscrapers. Its green, forested slopes looked like a crown.
At its peak...
A tree grew tall, its top disappearing into the clouds. Its trunk was perhaps 500 meters wide, and its branches spread like the hands of a giant god. Its leaves were golden green and glowed softly with their own light.
Harald stared at the tree with wide eyes, almost unable to move.
That tree was life itself.
"What kind of tree is that?" Harald asked without looking away, his voice barely a whisper.
Tobirama followed Harald's gaze, then smiled slightly the only expression showing true respect.
"That is the God Tree," he replied solemnly. "It grew when the goddess Kaguya first descended to this world thousands of years ago. She planted the tree herself. Its roots penetrate deep into the earth, absorbing the energy that flows through this planet and transforming it into life. Every leaf and branch is part of the Arcane Federation. As long as the tree stands, the Arcane Federation will continue to live. If the tree dies, the entire Federation will come to an end."
Harald was still transfixed by the tree.
Goddess Kaguya...the tree that grew when the gods descended...
This was not just a tree. It was the heart of this land.
The plane descended, approaching the airport runway located on the southern edge of the city. It was situated away from the city center so as not to disturb the residential and corporate zones.
Olympus International Airport was enormous. Its main terminal was a giant dome made of transparent glass that shimmered like crystal. Dozens of runways stretched out with perfect white lines.
Bonk!
The plane landed smoothly, its brakes working perfectly.
"Successful landing," the pilot announced. "Welcome to Olympus, the heart of the Arcane Federation."
---
Inside the airport terminal.
Harald followed Tobirama off the plane. His body was still two meters tall because the size adjustment technology was still active; they were still in the airport area.
The Olympus airport terminal was an architectural marvel with a high, curved glass ceiling; perfectly polished, white marble floors; and giant, holographic screens displaying smooth, 3D graphics on the walls.
Tens of thousands of people of various races walked back and forth: humans, elves, and even giant-like creatures. Everyone walked side by side calmly, without any commotion.
"Follow me," said Tobirama.
They quickly passed through the terminal, passing the automatic check-in area and luxury shops. Finally, they exited to the parking area.
Outside, Harald saw a row of futuristic cars with aerodynamic designs, some of which were hovering slightly above the ground.
Tobirama walked toward a long, black, luxurious limousine with dark windows and the Arcane Federation emblem on the door.
The car door opened automatically with a soft sound.
"Get in," said Tobirama.
Harald got in. The interior of the car was spacious and luxurious with soft white leather seats, a folding table stocked with cold drinks, and large windows that provided a perfect view.
Tobirama sat across from him.
The doors closed automatically and the car began to move smoothly without the sound of an engine, powered by clean energy technology.
---
Inside the Car: The Journey to the White Palace
The car drove smoothly on a wide, spotless road with perfect black asphalt and bright white markings.
Harald stared out the window, curiously taking in the cityscape, which was unlike anything he had ever seen.
Tobirama smiled slightly at Harald's expression.
"You saw some of the zones from the plane earlier, right?" he said. "I'll explain each place in more detail as we pass by. We're going up to Mount Olympus and the White Palace at its peak, where Lord Ron lives."
Harald nodded, still staring out the window with curiosity in his eyes.
[Residential Zone - West Side]
The car first passed through a large residential area on the west side of the city.
Harald saw rows of houses with diverse architecture; each house looked unique and beautiful.
There were modern, minimalist mansions with wide glass walls that reflected sunlight like crystals; infinity pools with clear blue water in the front yards; and lush, green rooftop gardens with small trees arranged neatly.
There were also classic European-style palaces with towering spires, large arched windows with gold frames, wrought-iron fences with intricate dragon- and rose-shaped carvings, and large fountains that sprayed water five meters high.
The traditional Eastern-style house features an elegant, curved, red-tile roof; a Zen garden with artistically arranged large stones and a quiet, flowing fountain; smooth, wooden sliding doors with cherry blossom carvings; and a small wooden bridge crossing a koi pond full of colorful fish.
Most amazingly of all, there are houses floating in the air thanks to anti-gravity technology. These transparent glass cubes glow with soft blue light and are connected to the ground by sparkling, transparent energy bridges. Harald could see people walking casually on the bridges as if they were walking in the air.
The streets in this zone were wide and spotlessly clean. There wasn't a single piece of trash. Shady trees with fresh green leaves stood on both sides of the road, providing natural shade.
Classic-style streetlamps with elegant designs, resembling large Victorian-style lanterns, stood neatly at perfect intervals.
"This is the Residential Zone," Tobirama explained, looking out the window. "All the Federation citizens in the capital live here, from ordinary people to leaders like me and the other clan heads. Each house is designed according to the owner's preferences. We value cultural diversity and lifestyle choices."
Harald gazed at the houses in awe. "Does everyone live in the same zone? Leaders and ordinary people?"
"Yes," Tobirama nodded. "There is no segregation based on status in the Federation. A farmer could live next door to a clan chief if they wanted to. The only differences are the size and design of the houses, which are based on personal preference, not a forced hierarchy."
"How do they get their houses?" Harald asked.
"Some receive houses as rewards for their services. For example, scientists who create new technologies, soldiers who protect the Federation, and diplomats who maintain peace," Tobirama explained. "Others buy them with contributions of labor or innovation. The Federation does not measure a person's value by money alone, but by what they contribute to society."
Harald fell silent, pondering those words.
In Elbaf, only the royal family had big houses. Everyone else lived in wooden shacks.
The car continued driving, leaving the residential area behind.
---
[Education Zone — East Side]
A few hours later, the car entered the East Side Education Zone.
Harald saw a vast complex of pristine white buildings that resembled a small city dedicated to education.
The main school building was five stories high with wide, spotless glass walls that revealed the modern classrooms inside.
Harald could see blue-lit holographic tables and giant interactive screens displaying dynamic 3D graphics on the walls. Children of various races sat together, studying peacefully. Everyone was studying peacefully, side by side. There was no discrimination. There were no fights. They were just studying together in harmony.
Next to the main building, Harald saw a giant sports field that could accommodate tens of thousands of people at once.
The red running track was perfect, with eight parallel lanes, each at least 400 meters long.
There was a soccer field with green grass that met international standards. It was so green and flat that it looked like a giant carpet.
There was an outdoor basketball court with five courts, shiny steel rings, and digital scoreboards.
There was also an Olympic swimming pool with clear blue water sparkling in the sun, complete with diving boards and lane dividers.
In the middle of the complex, Harald saw a futuristic playground where small children were running around happily. Harald sees playground equipment he never imagined.
Harald watched the children playing happily in the park. They laughed and ran around, playing together without fear. No one was hungry. No one was crying over life's burdens. They were all happy.
No one was hungry. No one was crying. They were all happy.
When was the last time I saw Elbaf's children laugh like that?
How many children in Elbaf die of hunger every year if the human kingdom blocks food supplies?
The car continued driving, leaving the education zone.
---
[Health Zone — South Area]
The car passed through an area of clean, white buildings with large red crosses on their roofs.
"This is the Health Zone," Tobirama explained.
Harald saw several huge, 15-story hospital buildings with elegant, modern designs that were soothing to the eye.
The main hospital had a large helipad on the roof for quickly transporting patients by air. In front of the building, there was a large green park with wooden benches for recovering patients. Several people sat there quietly, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine; their faces looked healthier.
Ambulances were neatly parked in front of the emergency entrance. They were aerodynamically designed, with blue and red lights on top. Harald could even see several ambulances that could fly using anti-gravity technology. They were ready to fly to any patient in seconds.
Specialized clinics stood next to the main hospital. These included a children's clinic with colorful walls and cheerful cartoon paintings; a surgical clinic with advanced laser equipment visible through the windows; and a spiritual healing clinic with a glowing energy symbol at the entrance. This clinic was designed to cure diseases that could not be treated by conventional means.
"This zone is equipped with the most advanced healing technology in the Federation," Tobirama explained. "We offer cell regeneration for severe injuries, precision laser surgery for tumors or internal diseases, and reattachment of lost limbs, such as legs or arms. We even provide spiritual healing for diseases that cannot be treated by conventional means, such as curses or deep psychological damage."
Harald looked at Tobirama seriously. "Is all of that available to anyone?"
"All healthcare services here are free for Federation citizens," Tobirama replied firmly. "No one should die because they cannot afford treatment. Health is a basic right of every living being in the Arcane Federation."
Harald fell silent, feeling a heaviness in his chest.
In Elbaf, many died because there was no medicine. Many suffered because they couldn't afford treatment.
And I... I couldn't change that, so I joined the World Government, willing to do anything to bring about change, even become their sharp sword.
The car continued driving, leaving the health zone behind.
---
[Shopping and Commercial Zone — Along the Main Road]
The car entered the busy main road lined with malls and shopping centers boasting stunning architecture on both sides of the street.
Harald saw a lively and energetic scene:
A ten-story glass dome mall with transparent walls that clearly reveal the stores inside. In front of the mall was a giant, 20-meter-high hologram displaying product advertisements with perfect animation: clothes moving like real models and 360-degree rotation with amazing detail. The food looked so real that Harald could almost smell it.
There was also an inverted pyramid-shaped shopping center that appeared to float in the air with advanced anti-gravity technology. The top of the pyramid pointed downward and was connected to the ground by a transparent, blue-glowing energy escalator.
People rode the escalator up and down casually and safely, carrying shopping bags filled with items they had purchased.
There is also a modern traditional market with a retractable glass roof and rows of shops with holographic displays showcasing high-quality clothing, the latest technology, fresh food from various regions, beautiful weapons, and elegantly designed jewelry.
Harald saw merchants of various races, some of whom resembled merfolk, serving customers with friendliness and professionalism.
People walk leisurely along the wide sidewalks: families with laughing children; young couples holding hands and laughing; and elderly people casually chatting as they walk.
Everyone carries shopping bags and talks quietly while laughing together. The atmosphere is lively yet orderly; there is no chaos, fighting, or violence.
"The Shopping Zone," said Tobirama. "The economic center of the city. Here, citizens can buy anything they need, from daily necessities to the latest advanced technology." The Federation's economy is based on contribution and fair trade. There are no monopolies or exploitation. Prices are determined based on production value, not the greed of the owners."
Harald gazed in awe at the vibrant, orderly, disciplined economic activity.
No theft. No violence. Only fair and humane trade.
The car continued on its way.
---
[Administrative Zone - City Center]
As the car enters the administrative zone, the scenery changes dramatically, becoming more magnificent and impressive.
Skyscrapers tower like giant spears piercing the sky. Each has a unique design that reflects the identity and culture of the clan that occupies it. Large logos shine brightly at the tops of the buildings.
Harald noticed some of the most striking buildings.
The Uchiha Clan Building, for example, is an 80-story skyscraper with a sharp, aggressive, modern design that is intimidating. Its shiny black walls, accented with blood-red lines flowing from bottom to top, create a terrifying visual effect.
A large Uchiha fan logo glowed bright red at the top of the building, pulsing like a living heart. The building's windows were arranged to form a giant Sharingan pattern, which was clearly visible from a distance: three red tomoe slowly rotating around a mysterious black pupil.
The Senju Clan Building is a magnificent, 75-story building with classic, sturdy architecture that resembles an impenetrable modern fortress.
It has clean white walls and large Greek-style pillars at the front. At the top is a green, glowing tree logo, a tree with wide, spreading roots symbolizing life. A vast green park surrounded the building, filled with large trees and a 15-meter-high artificial waterfall that flowed beautifully and soothingly.
The Cybertron Faction Building is a futuristic, 85-story metal building with a surface that resembles giant robot armor. Metal plates move slowly, as if breathing the machine's breath. Blue and red neon lights shine throughout the building, creating patterns that resemble giant, pulsating circuits. The Autobot and Decepticon logos shine side by side at the top, symbolizing peace between the two former enemies who fought in a war that lasted thousands of years.
The Frostenheim Building is a stunningly elegant, 72-story building with transparent, sparkling ice walls. Artificial snow falls gently around the building throughout the day, creating a soothing, permanent winter atmosphere. Even from inside an air-conditioned car, the air around the building feels cold. A giant snowflake logo glows white and blue at the top and spins slowly forever.
Dozens of other buildings with different logos are lined up neatly. Examples include the Hyuuga Clan with its elegant white Byakugan eye logo; Akatsuki with its mysterious red cloud logo; and Medis with its green leaf symbol.
"The Administrative Zone," Tobirama explained, "is the administrative and business center of every clan and faction in the Federation. Each building is their official headquarters, where they manage internal affairs, conduct diplomacy with other factions, and contribute to the Federation's overall economic prosperity."
Harald stared at the buildings in deep admiration. "They all work together?"
"Yes," Tobirama replied in a serious tone. "Even though each clan has different cultures, traditions, and interests, even those that were once enemies, like the Uchiha and Senju or the Autobots and Decepticons, who fought for thousands of years, they are all bound by one common goal: mutual prosperity for the entire Federation. Conflicts are resolved through constructive dialogue and Federation law, not destructive war."
Harald felt his chest tighten with emotion.
This was a different world. A world where sworn enemies could live side by side in peace.
A world where war no longer existed, only debate and solutions.
The car sped past tall buildings filling the view.
---
Stadium - East Area.
The car then passed an enormous, oval-shaped structure in the eastern part of the city.
The stadium had a retractable roof with a highly sophisticated system. Its metal panels could be moved using a high-precision hydraulic system. The stadium appeared to have a capacity of hundreds of thousands or more.
In the center of the stadium was a perfect green field, the grass so green and flat that it looked like a giant, specially designed carpet. White lines marked the playing area with perfect precision.
Giant 15-meter-high, 25-meter-wide screens were installed on all four sides of the stadium. They displayed information and replays in very high resolution, allowing the audience to see every detail.
"Olympus Stadium," said Tobirama. "It's a place for sporting events, large music concerts, and other cultural events. It unites Federation citizens from various backgrounds through quality entertainment and healthy sporting competition."
Harald stared at the stadium with deep admiration.
Even their entertainment was so organized and of such high quality.
Colosseum Ares - Special Area Near the Foot of the Mountain
And then...
Harald saw something that took his breath away.
The giant Colosseum stands majestically in a special area near the foot of Mount Olympus. It is separated from the other zones by high stone walls and large gates.
The structure is a perfect circle, perhaps thousands of meters in diameter—much larger than the stadium they had just passed. The outer walls are made of large, reddish-brown stones that appear ancient yet remain sturdy and majestic, like a monument to ancient civilization. Rows of tiered stands rise to a height of 100 meters and contain thousands—even hundreds of thousands—of neatly arranged stone seats, indicating a very large capacity.
In the center of the Colosseum is a large arena with reddish-brown soil that looks like hardened sand from various battles over time. The arena is so large that it can accommodate battles between giants the size of Harald or larger without any problems.
"The Colosseum of Ares," said Tobirama in a serious and cautious tone. "It is a place for official Federation battles. It is used for annual tournaments, duels of honor, and resolving personal conflicts that cannot be resolved with words or diplomacy. Battles here are strictly regulated by Federation law. No killing. No excessive violence that causes permanent disability. Only honorable battles between fighters who agree to and respect the rules are permitted."
Harald stared at the Colosseum with wide eyes, his heart pounding.
A battle arena that big...
---
The car began to climb, and the road shifted from flat to winding uphill around Mount Olympus, offering beautiful curves along the way.
As they approached the mountain,
The higher the car climbed, the clearer the view of the city of Olympus became from the increasing height.
The entire city spread out below like a giant miniature model, alive with lights and activity. There was the residential zone with its colorful houses; the education zone with its clean white buildings; the shopping zone with its eye-catching holograms; the towering skyscrapers in the city center; and the magnificent stadium and colosseum on the outskirts.
Even though it was still afternoon, the lights began to turn on, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. It was as if stars had fallen to earth and scattered across the land.
What caught Harald's attention the most was...
The Tree.
The higher the car climbed, the clearer Harald could see the giant tree glowing with its own light.
Its trunk was wide perhaps 500 meters in diameter with golden-brown bark that glowed softly with a mystical light. Its branches spread out in all directions like the fingers of a god protecting the universe. They form a giant canopy that covers most of the mountaintop majestically. The tree's golden green leaves move gently even when there is no wind, as if the tree is breathing with nature's own breath.
The most amazing thing...
A soft, golden-green light emanated from the entire tree. It was not a blinding light that hurt the eyes; rather, it was soft and warm, like the pleasant rays of the morning sun. This light illuminates the area around the tree with an almost mystical warmth, creating an aura of tranquility.
Harald couldn't take his eyes off the extraordinary tree, as if his eyes and heart were glued to it.
"The God Tree," whispered Tobirama with deep, sincere respect. "Its roots penetrate deep into the earth, absorbing the energy that flows through this planet and transforming it into life for all creatures." It generates energy for the entire city and its surroundings, purifying the air of pollution and harmful substances. It balances the climate and weather and emits spiritual energy that calms and heals the soul. As long as the tree stands tall, the Arcane Federation will continue to live and thrive. If the tree dies, the Federation will quickly come to an end. That is why we protect it with all our might and strength."
Harald gazed at the tree with deep admiration and reverence. But he sensed something was wrong. His intuition told him the tree is like alive.
The car continued climbing through the dense forest on the mountainside. Tall trees with fresh green leaves and beautiful, colorful wildflowers lined the road. Occasionally, Harald could hear the melodious chirping of birds, creating a soothing symphony of nature.
The road became steeper, but the car continued to move smoothly, without shaking, thanks to its advanced suspension technology.
Finally, they arrived.
They arrived in front of a large, pristine white gate, magnificent in its grandeur.
The White Palace.
The car slowed to a stop in front of the enormous gate.
[The White Palace Gate]
A giant gate, 300 meters high and even wider, is made of sparkling white crystal marble that glows with its own light. The gate's elegant design features beautiful, intricate carvings: the emblem of the Arcane Federation, a magnificent tree, and symbols from various clans arranged on each pillar. This gate is not just a doorway; it is a stunning work of architectural art.
In front of the gate, on both sides of the entrance, stand twelve 8-meter-tall Guardian Knight robots, arranged in perfect precision.
These humanoid robots with an elegant medieval design guard the palace and look very formidable. Their metallic silver bodies have bright blue accents at vital points. Each Guardian has two high-tech hands whose fingers can transform into various weapons. Their eyes glow bright red as they scan everyone who enters and exits. They stood with perfect upright posture, like giant statues waiting.
Tobirama explained as the car slowed down, approaching the gate.
"That is the Guardian Knight," said Tobirama, his tone full of respect. "There are twelve units standing guard here at all times. They are ancient Cybertron robots. Each unit has the power of an Admiral candidate in the world government's navy."
Harald stared at the robots in awe.
"But what's most impressive," Tobirama continued in a lowered voice, as if sharing a secret, "is that they can unite into a single entity. When all twelve units combine their energy and technology, they transform into a three-headed dragon. Their combined power would equal my own, perhaps even surpass it."
Harald felt his breath catch.
Equivalent to his own?
'Tobirama, whose power is like that of a Navy admiral?'
"According to rumors I've heard," Tobirama continued in a thoughtful tone, "the Guardian Knight once defeated Optimus Prime, Grimlock, and Megatron when they united to become a giant dragon in the Colosseum of Ares. That is proof of their extraordinary power."
Harald was both fascinated and shocked.
The gate slowly opened, revealing a beautiful road leading to a palace even higher up. The road was lit by crystal lamps that emitted a soft golden light.
The car continued on, passing through the giant gate.
It was the White Palace driveway.
The car drove up the beautiful palace driveway. This road is flanked by well-maintained gardens with rare flora and fauna from across the Federation. Colorful leaves on trees, exotic flowers that bloom year-round, and artistic fountains create a pleasant, calming atmosphere.
Finally, the car stopped in front of the White Palace.
The car stopped in front of the White Palace itself.
The palace was extraordinarily beautiful.
It rose 50 stories high, blending classic European and modern architecture. Its main walls were made of sparkling white crystal marble, and large, elegant pillars stood at the front. The large dome atop the palace shone with golden light, like a king's crown. Large windows with gold frames reflected the surrounding scenery. A vast garden surrounded the building with clear ponds, spectacular flower gardens, and beautiful sculptures.
Tobirama got out first.
"Come on," he said to Harald. "Lord Ron is waiting for us."
Harald got out of the car; his body hadn't yet returned to its original form. The size-adjusting technology in the palace area activated automatically.
They walked into the White Palace.....The White Palace's front hall.
The palace's main corridor was vast, boasting high ceilings, pristine white marble walls, and floors that shone like mirrors. Giant statues of various creatures stood along the corridor, symbolizing the Federation's glory and diversity.
Tobirama led Harald through the hallway with confident steps. They walked up an elegant, white marble spiral staircase to the upper floor.
When they arrived, they stood before a large door.
A large door opened automatically, revealing a comfortable and elegant room. It was not a formal, official room, but rather a private workspace designed for comfort and productivity.
Large windows offered spectacular views of the entire city of Olympus below. The afternoon sunlight filtered in, creating a warm atmosphere.
The soft cream-colored walls held several tall bookshelves filled with literature from various fields of science. In the corner of the room, there was a large work desk made of precious wood, neatly arranged with various documents and holograms displaying important Federation data.
Soft sofas and chairs were scattered throughout the room, creating a relaxed yet professional discussion area. A coffee table in the center offered appetizing drinks and snacks.
Lush green plants adorn the corners of the room, breathing natural life into the space with their fresh green leaves. Soft, warm lighting blends perfectly with the golden afternoon sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
And there he stood.
He leaned casually against the large window.
He was so captivating that he seemed dangerous. Women who saw him unconsciously felt a possessive urge, wanting him to be theirs and no one else's, because his face had such a strong appeal.
He wore casual yet elegant clothes: a clean white shirt with sleeves rolled to the elbows and premium black pants that fit his body perfectly. There was no royal robe, only a natural aura of sophistication.
Perched on his collar was a unique little creature: a cat made of blue spiritual fire with bright yellow eyes and two tails that swayed gently.
Ron smiled as Tobirama and Harald entered.
"Ah, Tobirama! Thank you for bringing him. Welcome, Harald. I'm Ron."
But it wasn't Ron who made Harald freeze, but the woman beside him.
She exuded an indefinable mystery with her skin as pale as porcelain and her long hair like a waterfall of darkness. Two horns curved gracefully from her head, and a third eye, blood red with a rippling pattern, sat on her forehead.
"This is my wife," said Ron. "Kaguya Otsutsuki. She is a goddess who descended to this world thousands of years ago."
Kaguya smiled softly. "Welcome, Harald of Elbaf. We have been waiting for you."
Harald sensed a subtle pressure in the air. Ron's power was weak, similar to that of Hashirama's grandson. However, he couldn't feel Kaguya's power; it was as if it had merged with nature itself.
They sat down. Ron wasted no time asking Harald to explain the situation.
Harald recounted his mission to the Ruins of the Valley of the Gods, the rising sea level, and his growing doubts after spending several days there.
After listening carefully, Ron leaned forward and stared intently into Harald's eyes.
"Tell me, Harald. When Saint Garling recruited you, what specific contract did he give you?"
Harald sat up straight. "It was the Shallow Sea Contract. Saint Garling gave it to me directly. It was the first step in our redemption."
Silence.
The corners of Ron's lips lifted slightly and coldly.
"Shallow Sea and Redemption. The perfect narrative to trap a king."
Harald frowned. "What do you mean? It's an official contract. I am the right-hand man of the Knights of the Gods. They acknowledge me. I'm sure they're sending help even now."
Ron stood up and walked to his desk. With a light hand movement, he activated a device.
"You're right, Harald. Three powerful individuals have just broken through the Eldoria Forest. They're looking for you."
Zzzzt.
A giant hologram appeared and displayed real-time footage from the depths of the ancient Eldoria Forest. The image was crystal clear, as if they were seeing it directly from behind the trees.
Harald's eyes widened.
Three figures ran through the giant forest at high speed on the screen.
The figure in front looked like a woman, but she was carrying someone on her back. The person on her back had red hair, was covered in blood, and appeared to be unconscious. Another person was behind them, guarding against potential attacks.
Harald gasped. "That's the Commander of the Knights of the Gods' son!"
"They are indeed coming," Ron interrupted calmly. "But, as you can see, they are in big trouble. The forest's defenses are moving faster than they calculated."
He turned off the hologram.
"One of them is seriously injured. His life is hanging by a thread."
Harald paled. "The God Knight is seriously injured?"
That was a sign of desperation, Ron thought.
"They sacrificed their best elite just to get you back. But the question is, why?"
Ron stepped closer, his aura pressing down on the room.
"You talk about a thousand years of 'Redemption of Sins.' But do you know what the sin is?"
Harald fell silent. He only knew that his ancestors were wrong.
"The sin is a lie, Harald," Ron's voice echoed. "Eight hundred years ago, Elbaf did not stand with the World Government. You were on the opposite side."
Harald froze.
"Your ancestors fought alongside Joyboy. They fought against the tyranny that now sits in Mariejoa."
Harald was shocked. "Joyboy...? The Sun God?"
Ron nodded slowly. "The World Government couldn't extinguish that spirit. So, they twisted history. They turned your ancestors' struggle into a 'sin.' They made you feel guilty for centuries."
Ron patted Harald on the chest.
"And now they've succeeded. The King of Elbaf believes in that sin. You accepted the Shallow Sea Contract, the lowest one, to submit."
Ron pointed to where the hologram had appeared.
"They sent a rescue team, not because they cared, But because they were afraid. If you disappeared or realized the truth, they would lose access to your enormous power."
Kaguya put down her cup with a soft clink.
"You betrayed your ancestors with false beliefs, Little Giant," she said softly yet deadly.
Harald bowed his head. His hands were clenched until they bled. Shame, anger, and regret mixed together.
"I...I thought... I was doing a noble thing."
Ron looked at him sternly.
"It's not too late."
He extended his hand.
"The choice is clear. You can either return and become their weapon, or you can rise as the true heir of Elbaf, like your ancestors."
Harald lifted his face. Tears of anger flowed, but his resolve was reignited.
"Elbaf will not kneel."