Manifest War: The Weapons Within

The six leaders sat at the table looking bewildered by the events that just occurred, not sure how to proceed. However, after a brief period, the High Priest and Empress both stood from their seats. They quickly said their goodbyes and took their leave, swiftly walking out the double doors of the room. Azhane found this rather suspicious, but let it slide as there were other more pressing matters to tend to now.

“Can someone please explain to me what and who that was? He didn’t seem human to me.” Darius questioned, concerned for his family and nation.

Lovell lifted her head and turned to the Olun King, swiftly responding.

“He’s a Boundless… A long lost race that was one of the first to walk the lands of Alaira. They, along with Humans and Siestians, cultivated the lands of Alaira and helped build the foundations of this world. Siestians were in charge of the seas and oceans, Humans handled the terrains and wildlife, and the Boundless tended to the Core of Alaira down in the Core Depths.”

The remaining leaders gazed with curiosity as she continued the story.

“However, one day, the Boundless grew hostile and mad with power. They wanted all of Alaira to be under their control, feeling that since their connection to the Core was the closest, they were the more superior race. In the eyes of the Boundless, the Core of Alaira chose them and no one else. From this situation, a great war broke out between the Boundless, Humans, and Siestians.” Lovell said, calmly going over all the details.

“Many powerful Manifests clashed and the strongest Vestas from the three races fought with no end in sight. Thankfully, the Ocean Goddess at the time was able to use her Manifest to capture and seal away the Boundless race. Even though the decision was against her better judgment, Sially had no other choice. Once she succeeded, Sially used every ounce of her remaining power to seal her own Manifest, causing it to break into five pieces and spread across the lands. Thus making it near impossible to break the seal.”

Lovell sat forward in her chair, having completed the story. The room was silent as everyone pondered the story.

“I’ve never heard such a tale before. You mean to tell me that there was another great Manifest war?” King Darius asked, eager to get answers. Lovell nodded, thinking of a way to explain further.

“Yes. Most don’t know of this because the Boundless were stripped from all ancient texts by the Siestians and Humans after the war ended. They feared that the Boundless would become a threat again if future generations knew of their existence. That race was never spoken of again by anyone after that day.”

The room went quiet again until Azhane chimed in.

“So those objects that were stolen, are you thinking they’re the pieces that were spread across Alaira?” She asked, trying to connect the dots.

“Yes, the fact that he has the Key of Open Hearts is proof enough. That Manifest artifact was rumored to be one of the five pieces that split from Sially’s Manifest. I think it’s safe to assume he has the remaining parts as well…”

“Why are they called ‘Boundless’ or whatever? Seems like such a strange name to call their race.” Jonn asked, finally speaking up from his previous moment of embarrassment.

“It originates from their ability to manipulate Core Energy in any way they see fit. Unlike Humans and Siestians, every Boundless is capable of extracting, moving, and absorbing Core Energy from any living object that has it. Since they have a stronger connection to the Core of Alaira, their abilities go beyond the boundaries established for us. And not to mention their heightened senses, abnormal strength, and highly durable bodies. They as a species are truly ‘Boundless’ compared to Humans and Siestians, thus the name.” Lovell replied, unleashing her wealth of knowledge.

“So what are we going to do? Surely we can’t just let them run free and unchecked, especially if they know everything about us.”

Jonn was growing more irritated by the thought, his leg now shaking furiously.

“I agree, but what can we do? You saw it yourself, if we interfere with their plans, they’ll reveal all of our nation’s secrets and any personal classified information. I don’t know what other information he has, but if it’s anything major it could cripple us. Especially if the wrong people are made aware.” King Darius said while looking over at the empty chairs of the Empress and High Priest.

The others reluctantly agreed with the Olun King and wondered what to do next.

“To think we could be blackmailed so easily. That fiend has absolutely no honor. Beyond frustrating!” Jonn exclaimed, slamming his fist loudly on the table.

“Indeed. But, I say we keep our distance and see how things play out for now. No need for anyone to act hastily out of rage and irritation.” Lovell remarked, trying to quell the heavy mood.

The leaders agreed and with that final statement, the All-Nations Summit came to an uncertain close.

Meanwhile, down at the festival, Carmen and the gang were enjoying some live music being played in the town square. The famous singer and pianist, Charionna, was charming the crowds of people with her velvety voice and the band behind her played along perfectly. Everyone present was loudly cheering and clapping with each song, enjoying the display of masterful musicianship.

“Woah, she’s so awesome!” Sarah yelled, excited about seeing such a famous artist playing right in front of them. Carmen and Rivell agreed as they joined in on the fun.

Asiah of Three didn't look too thrilled as she was constantly on alert amongst the sea of people around them, making sure no one brought harm to the Princess. The music ended and everyone clapped, praising them for a splendid performance.

The crowds began to disperse and Carmen’s group went to some of the stalls, hoping to try some new food.

“Man, it sure got dark quick huh?” Rivell said, admiring the full moon greeting them in the sky.

As they walked around the various food stalls they recognized the chef behind one of the carts. It was the chef they ran into during their journey and he had a brand new cart, replacing the one destroyed by that fiendish bear in Olun. The group greeted him and quickly put an order in, having loved the food he served them before.

“Hey wait here for a bit, I need to go to the bathroom.” Carmen said, getting up from her stool. Asiah started to stand as well to accompany her.

“Ah it’s okay Asiah, I’m just going to that shop over there. You don’t need to follow me to the bathroom.” Carmen remarked with a smile, putting her hood up and running off to the shop across the way.

Asiah sighed and shrugged, turning back around and waiting for her food.

When Carmen finished and exited the building, there was a wall of people outside that wasn’t there before. Carmen reluctantly fought her way through the crowd and eventually got lost, not knowing which way to walk. She called out to Sarah and Asiah, but no response came from anyone. Carmen frantically looked around and even jumped up to see above all of the people.

However, after doing so, she noticed two hooded men in black robes walking towards her. When her eyes met with them, she got a splitting headache. Images from the nightmares she had before started flooding into her head, rapidly shifting in terrifying fashion. She firmly gripped her forehead while slowly backing away as they approached closer and closer.

Just as the mysterious men entered her space, someone grabbed Carmen’s hand and they sprinted away from the area. She couldn’t tell who was holding her hand or where they were going, but she trusted them enough to get away from those strange men. They found themselves in a fairly lit garden area just outside of the town square. No one was around and it seemed as though they had lost the two pursuers.

Carmen and the stranger were bent over and panting heavily, trying to catch their breath after such a long run. She finally looked up and fixed her gaze towards the stranger. It was a handsome young man with short black hair, stunningly blue eyes, and a tall muscular build. He brushed his hair back from over his eyes and stared at Carmen. Her eyes widened as her heart skipped a heavy beat.

“Oh my, he’s cute!!” She thought to herself, looking on with lustful eyes. The young man smiled and walked closer to her.

“Are you alright, miss?” He asked with infinite amounts of charm.

“U-uh, yeah. I’m alright, thank you. But uh.. Who are you?”

“My name is Caleb Ravenfell. Pleasure to make your acquaintance.” He smiled before respectfully bowing his head.

Carmen snapped out of her stupor and collected herself while removing her hood, allowing him to see her full face.

“Ah, I’m Carmen Belouis. Pleased to meet you too.” Her silver hair sparkled under the streetlight and her fairly petite frame moved gracefully as she bowed. Caleb was stunned by her looks, having never seen such beauty in his life. Carmen ended her bow and her vivid red eyes met with his as he stood there at a loss for words.

'Belouis? I didn’t know the Queen of Volaire had a sister around my age.'

He was quite surprised to hear this seeing as how he's never seen or heard of Carmen before.

“Thanks for the save back there. Those weird men were really creeping me out.” She said with a thankful smile, breaking the silence and quickly getting his attention.

“A-ah no problem. I caught a glimpse of you looking frightened and decided to offer a hand. Hopefully those two won’t bother you anymore.”

Caleb and Carmen share a brief moment, staring into each other’s eyes while showing playful smiles. However, their beautiful moment was short lived, getting interrupted by the sudden arrival of those two men from before.

“You don’t have to make this difficult little girl. Stop siding with these humans and come back with us. Lord Briddle could use your strength.” One of the men said with a fairly raspy voice.

“Huh!? What are you even talking about?” Carmen replied with great confusion.

Caleb quickly stepped in front of her and summoned forth his Manifest, Glacial Rend. An icy blue rapier with a crystal-like hilt on it gleamed in his hands, smoking as though it were extremely cold to the touch.

'Oh, he has a rapier too!'

Carmen couldn't help but admire the details on his weapon.

“Stay behind me Carmen, they’re dangerous.” Caleb said, sending a chilling glare at the mysterious individuals.

Carmen, being the hard headed girl that she was, stepped forward as well with great confidence.

“Nonsense. I’ll fight with you.”

She then held out her hand and summoned her Manifest. The black and silver rapier materialized, glowing with a menacing black aura. Caleb looked impressed by its appearance and smirked.

“Alright then, suit yourself.”

The two stood side by side, Manifests drawn, and readied themselves for combat. Their opponents took out their black, curved swords and quickly rushed towards them head on. Just who were these mysterious assailants challenging Carmen and her new companion?