Chapter 1: A reddish morning
It was 7:30 on Wednesday morning. The sky was reddish and the sun was about to rise. The birds were singing and the wind was howling. Yet it was quiet outside, almost. The sound of voices and noise began to be heard from the Bronze Valley, an area known for its magnificent mineral deposits. The Bronze Valley is also home to a kingdom called Octina. It is a quite new kingdom, having been founded only two years ago. Compared to the other eight kingdoms in the world, it is many hundreds of years younger. The heart of Octina is the city of Miracle. Miracle and its central square attract tourists. A young boy also lives in Miracle. However, he has no idea what kind of adventure awaits him. On the second floor of a small cottage sleeps a 15-year-old boy who has a big day ahead of him today.
"Wake up, Pierce. You have to be ready in 5 minutes," his mother Lumi shouted.
"Uh, what!" Pierce exclaimed.
He hurried downstairs in his pajamas. On the stairs, his right foot slipped and he began to slide down the stairs on his bottom. With a sore bottom, Pierce ran to the breakfast table and began to gobble his food. His parents looked at each other and grinned.
"Don't panic, son. You actually still have 20 minutes," Lumi said.
"We wanted you to wake up quickly," Father Gerald chuckled.
Pierce's family includes his father Gerald, mother Lumi, and older sister Selene. They have lived in Miracle for ten years. The family moved from the coastal town of Tidalia. Pierce, in particular, feels a connection to the sea and loves swimming.
Gerald and Lumi met when they were both adventuring outside Octina. The couple has been together for 24 years. Selene has always been outspoken and confident. She has always teased her little brother, but she still cares about him. Selene and Pierce have a competitive relationship as siblings.
Pierce said, "Darn it. I should have checked the clock."
"Someone your age should learn to wake up on time," Lumi scolded.
"And move out of your parents' house," her older sister Selene added wisely.
"Says the 18-year-old woman who lives at home," Pierce retorted.
Selene argued, "I work as a guard for the king in this city's castle. I have no reason to move out because my workplace is so close."
"You two eat your breakfast and get dressed nicely. Have you polished your armor yet, Selene?" Gerald commanded and asked.
"All set," Selene replied.
"And Pierce. After your morning chores, put on your new cloak," his father advised his son.
"Yeah. I can't wait," Hupi said eagerly.
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