Athan was visibly astounded by the immense potential of the area in front of him, and his breath seized in his throat. The fact that this land, despite being smaller in size, had a staggering variety of plant and animal species, surpassing even territories five times its size, was a sight that defied explanation. Athan was in awe of the magnificence of what he had learned.

Yet a strange sense of inevitability sneaked into Athan's awareness amid the overwhelming sense of amazement. How could he be so stunned by this astonishing discovery? He realized that the area he was talking about was not an ordinary realm; it served as the actual genesis of a charming story in which a princess attained the prestigious title of empress and ruled over Shenron. And in a remarkable turn of events, Athan's mother was the princess of that lovely story.

The information wasn't hidden; rather, it surfaced in a series of subtly placed hints throughout Athan's existence. The vibrant gardens of the Novalie palace revealed his mother's deep fascination with the numerous plant species, which revealed her origins. A tribute to the princess who had woven her spirit into the very fabric of the land, it was a tale that was whispered via the language of petals and leaves.

This revelation likewise brought forth a point to note: The throne was now occupied by Athan's uncle as the reigning king of the Principality of Gracia. The authority and dominion wielded by his kin became apparent, intertwining Athan's existence with the regal tapestry of his ancestral lineage. Yet, amidst the grandeur and power that enveloped his family, Athan found solace in the knowledge that his maternal grandfather still walked among the living, once burdened by the affairs of the principality, Freed from the weight of governance, the old patriarch could revel in the serenity that life had to offer, but he didn't like the serenity and tranquillity.

Thinking back on what her mother had said with a frown upon her face to his father.

"It looks like my father once again ran away from the palace, even after my brother told him not to go on his adventure when he could just stay at the palace and spend time with his grandchildren."

It was not surprising that Grandfather disliked staying at the royal palace in Gracia, even though he was in his 70s. He had always been an adventurous and restless soul, never content with staying in one place. Despite his age, he remained robust and full of vitality, much like my mother, who, despite being in her forties, appeared youthful and vibrant. Perhaps that is why Grandfather passed the crown to my uncle, allowing himself the freedom to explore the world as an accomplished eighth-circled archmage without the burden of kingly responsibilities.

As Athan contemplated his unique lineage, Gerald, wearing a stern expression, began to explain about the kingdom of Bahrain.

"Your Highness, the kingdom of Bahrain is one of the princely kingdoms within the Shenron empire. Our empire utilizes it as a trading hub for goods, and that sums up its significance."

Athan furrowed his eyebrows and thought to himself for a moment before speaking to Gerald.

"In that case, I have decided to choose the kingdom of Bahrain as the place to initiate my immolation."

Gerald, with a solemn voice, questioned, "Why is that, Your Highness? I fail to see anything particularly special about it."

"That is precisely the point, Uncle," Athan responded. "While the kingdom of Bahrain may not appear extraordinary at first glance, its role as a trading center for Shenron holds substantial value. As luck would have it, I am going to become broke soon."

Gerald maintained his expressionless face as he commented, "That is indeed a clever choice, Your Highness."

Athan found the response to be somewhat underwhelming and posed a peculiar question.

"Uncle Gerald, is it possible for me to commence my immolation without informing my mother and father?"

*****