The Shadow Nexus Online

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Chapter 21: The King's Gift and the Five other Continents

Rio stood before the grand gates of the Royal Palace of Aurelia, his travel gear packed and ready for the dangerous journey ahead. The events of the past few days replayed in his mind—his hard-fought victory in the Colosseum, the shocking abduction of Princess Lysia by a shadowy force, and the desperate plea of the King. Now, the fate of the kingdom rested on his shoulders.

The King, a man who once wore the weight of his crown with pride, now looked worn and burdened. His eyes, however, burned with determination as he handed Rio a heavy pouch. The weight of gold coins inside was reassuring.

"Take this," the King said, his voice firm but laced with worry. "It's enough to sustain you through the perils you'll face. Use it wisely, Rio. Allies and resources will determine whether you succeed… or fall."

Rio bowed his head respectfully. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I won't let you down."

Beside the King stood a royal steward, holding the reins of a magnificent black stallion. The horse, sleek and muscular, snorted, its piercing eyes locked onto Rio.

"This is Shadowfang," the King said with a hint of pride. "One of the fastest and most loyal steeds in the kingdom. He will carry you far and ensure no enemy catches up to you."

Rio stroked the stallion's mane, feeling its raw power beneath his fingertips. "You and I are going to get along just fine," he murmured softly.

But before he could take his leave, Rio's curiosity got the better of him. "Your Majesty… I need to know. What lies beyond Aurelia? If I'm to navigate this world, I should understand it."

The King's expression darkened, and a shadow of ancient memories passed through his eyes. "There are five great continents," he began, his tone low and reverent, as though speaking of forces that shaped the world itself.

1. The Human Continent – "This is our land, Rio. Aurelia and the surrounding kingdoms, where adventurers rise and fall. But even here, danger lurks in the shadows."

2. The Demon Continent – "A land where darkness reigns. The stronghold of demon lords and monstrous creatures. This is where Lysia is held… and where you must go."

3. The Elven Continent – "A realm of ancient magic, where secrets older than time itself are hidden among the forests. The elves guard their knowledge fiercely. If you seek power, tread carefully."

4. The Vampire Continent – "A cursed land. Once, the Vampire Lords ruled there… until they were annihilated by the Demon King 2,000 years ago. But rumors say their remnants linger, waiting to rise again."

5. The Lost Continent – The King's voice dropped to barely a whisper. "No one knows what lies beyond its shores. It is forbidden for a reason."

Rio's eyes gleamed with resolve. "To save the princess, I'll have to cross through these lands." He grinned, his confidence unwavering. "Sounds like a long trip. I'd better get moving."

Mounting Shadowfang, Rio took one last glance at the Royal Palace. The weight of the world pressed down on him, but he welcomed the challenge. With a firm tug of the reins, he rode toward Vermillion Haven, the bustling port city where the next chapter of his journey awaited.

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