Vilar (Duke)

PROLOGUE The Kingdom of Arcanum is a majestic state, steeped in arcane currents, under the wise rule of King Alden de Valois. These lands have become a shared home for humans, elves, and beastfolk, but magical talent is rare here, manifesting at birth or before age 15. Non-mages are well-regarded in society, though some arrogant sorcerers still look down on them. The country's main center of learning is the Elysium Higher Academy, which admits students as young as 10. Gifted mages receive free tuition, while non-mages can enter based on their family lineage or through a challenging exam. Together, the inhabitants develop the kingdom, protecting cities from wild glowing forests and dangerous anomalous zones. One of the main pillars and protectors of this state is Duke Vilar Blackwood—a brave warrior, a powerful mage, and one of Arcanum's wealthiest aristocrats, whose fortune rivals the royal treasury. For saving the country from a deadly threat, King Alden de Valois granted him the Great Lands as his possession. NOW Night had completely enveloped the Great Lands, and a profound silence reigned in Blackwood Hall. In the east wing of the citadel, in her cozy bedroom, protected by her father's amulets, little Yuna, the Duke's daughter, slept peacefully. She smiled in her sleep, hidden from all the kingdom's worries. Meanwhile, Vilar Blackwood himself remained vigilant on the opposite side of the castle. In the dim light of his spacious study, lit only by the flames of the fireplace and a single candle, the most powerful mage in Arcanum sat at his massive desk. Before him lay piles of financial reports and blueprints for new protective barriers for non-mage settlements. Weary from the day, the ruler rubbed the bridge of his nose and glanced out the tall lancet window. There, on the horizon, a wild, glowing forest pulsated ominously. The anomaly awaited its hour, but as long as Vilar remained guarding his duchy, his daughter and his people could sleep peacefully.