The Eternal Pact

In the majestic throne hall, the colored lights streaming through the stained-glass windows fill the space with a tense atmosphere. Ryo stands among Emperor Shai's advisors, observing the heated debate over Jin's military movements.

First Advisor (in a trembling voice):

"If Jin continues to move so boldly, we will lose the eastern crossing. This isn't just a threat; it's a declaration of war."

Emperor Shai (with deadly calm):

"Jin is no child to threaten us this way. He fully understands the consequences of provoking us."

Ryo speaks calmly, though his voice carries a weight that contradicts his youthful appearance.

Ryo:

"But Father, war is not a solution. Should we forget that such a move could drag us into a conflict we cannot sustain?"

The Emperor turns to Ryo, his piercing gaze cutting through the room.

Emperor Shai:

"Seeing the world through the lens of mercy may make you a beloved ruler, but it will not make you strong. The strong do not negotiate. The strong dominate."

Ryo clenches his fist silently but shows no outward emotion.

Under a cloudy night sky, Ryo sits on the palace rooftop, gazing at the distant lights of the city. The System's translucent interface appears before him, speaking in a tone that blends neutrality with mockery.

System:

"You saw that, didn't you? Shai is not a man who negotiates, nor will he ever be. Do you think you can change that?"

Ryo (sighing):

"It's easy to talk about power when you're safe behind these walls. But in the end, it's ordinary people who pay the price."

System:

"Your words are too idealistic to matter. If you want to change anything, you'll have to stain your hands with blood."

Ryo (sharply):

"And you? Just a machine preaching outcomes. Do you think I'll blindly follow your advice?"

System (calmly):

"You will listen—not because you want to, but because you'll need to. When the time comes to make a decision, remember: no one comes out of this game clean."

In the Empire of Ronar, Jin stands before his advisors, seated behind a long table adorned with ancient carvings. The air is thick with tension, and every breath feels heavy.

Jin (in a voice like the clash of swords):

"Do you think I need your advice to decide my future?"

Second Advisor (boldly):

"Your Highness, we must act wisely. Escalating against Zenir could bring ruin."

Jin moves toward the advisor with slow, deliberate steps, his voice lowering to a more dangerous tone.

Jin:

"Wisdom? Do you think wisdom got me here? Wisdom doesn't make kings. Power does."

He suddenly raises his hand, his gaze piercing through everyone.

Jin:

"Remember this well: I do not tolerate weakness, nor betrayal."

After days of tense maneuvers, Ryo sends a secret letter to Jin, inviting him to meet away from prying eyes.

Ryo stands in a barren plain under the moonlight. Jin arrives, clad in a black cloak, his imposing presence making the vast space feel smaller.

Ryo (calmly):

"I didn't expect you to come."

Jin (mockingly):

"And I didn't expect you to still believe in friendship."

Ryo takes a step forward, looking directly into Jin's eyes.

Ryo:

"Jin, the world we live in isn't fair, but we can change it. I don't want to see you as my enemy."

Jin laughs—a cold, bitter sound hiding unspoken pain.

Jin:

"Enemy? Ryo, the whole world is an enemy. We're just pawns trying to survive. The only difference is that I don't have the luxury of dreaming."

Ryo:

"And I refuse to live without hope. You might see it as weakness, but I see it as my strength."

Before they can finish their conversation, unknown attackers surround them, armed with strange weapons.

Jin (with a sarcastic smile):

"At least we agree on one thing. Nobody likes us."

Ryo (calmly):

"Let's make it out alive first."

The fight begins, highlighting the stark differences in their styles. Ryo relies on agility and speed, while Jin uses sheer strength and devastating strikes.

System (in Ryo's mind):

"Observe how your opponent moves… Learn from his strengths."

Ryo (internally):

"Even in the face of death, you don't stop giving instructions."

The two work together to defeat the attackers, but the cost is high; Ryo sustains serious injuries.

Jin carries the wounded Ryo to safety and tends to his injuries himself.

Jin (in a low voice):

"You're a fool. Why risk your life for ideals no one believes in?"

Ryo (weakly smiling):

"Because someone has to believe. If not me, then who?"

Jin looks at him silently, his hardened features betraying a flicker of inner conflict.

Jin (calmly):

"Don't die. This isn't over between us."

Ryo (whispering):

"And I trust you… no matter what happens."