Chapter 1 – The Day the World Burned:
The sky over Valerion burned red.
Kael stood in the middle of the palace courtyard, his small hands shaking as soldiers dragged his parents forward. He was only ten years old, but he understood one thing clearly:
This was the end.
His mother, General Seraphina Drayke, stood tall despite her chains. Her silver armor was cracked, stained with blood, yet her eyes were fierce. She had defeated thousands in battle… but today, she was helpless.
His father, Lord Elias Drayke, was on his knees, beaten and bruised. Still, he forced a smile at Kael.
"Be brave," he whispered.
On the throne above them sat King Aurelion the Black.
His crown glowed with dark magic. The air around him twisted like smoke. People said he was chosen by the gods… but Kael only saw a monster.
"You betrayed me," the king said calmly.
"We were loyal," Seraphina replied. "You are the one who betrayed the kingdom."
The king laughed.
"Loyalty means nothing to a ruler."
He raised his hand.
Magic exploded.
Kael screamed.
His mother fell first.
His father followed.
The world went silent.