Three days later, Sofia was receiving Kara, Duke Kaster, Linn, Sylvi, and Brigir, who had requested an audience with Lusian. Brigir could hardly conceal her excitement at meeting a woman who shared her affinity for magic; in her tribe, the strongest were held in the highest regard, and learning that Sofia was the most powerful individual in the entire kingdom left her deeply impressed.

  Lusian descended into the hall and took a seat beside Sofia. He studied the faces of the visitors carefully as Kara introduced them one by one. Still uneasy, a single question echoed in his mind: How can I deliver this information without sounding insane?

  Once the meeting began, Lusian laid out his arguments and sent a servant to retrieve the materials he had been researching about ancient humanity. Shortly after, Isabella entered, carrying the requested documents with the precise efficiency that defined her service.

  In a steady voice, Lusian began:

  "According to the information obtained from members of the demonic cult and from ancient records, we can only formulate hypotheses about the events that may soon unfold."

  The subject had already been discussed privately with Sofia over dinner, and both had agreed that such a scenario was plausible. Lusian felt a measure of relief; with Sofia's support, he could help prevent future crises within the duchy, protect lives, and preserve the strength of their territory.

  "As I've said," he continued, "the world may be entering a very dark era. Soon, we will witness phenomena in the sky—colors illuminating the atmosphere in ways never before seen. This event has occurred in ages past, and it brought catastrophic consequences."

  He paused to take a sip of water as those present absorbed his words.

  "This phenomenon will trigger a global increase in mana, allowing humans to surpass their current limits of strength and ability. As you all know, the strongest person in the world is the Emperor of ítaca—a Champion-class warrior who has remained at a plateau for years. That will change once this event arrives."

  He fell silent for a moment before continuing.

  "But humans will not be the only ones affected. All living beings will grow stronger. Herbivores and carnivores alike will move beyond their natural habitats, leading to inevitable clashes with humanity. The weakest among us will not survive."

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  Finally, Lusian concluded in a grave tone:

  "Although we cannot confirm this with absolute certainty, it is better to be prepared. If we fail to act now, by the time we attempt to respond, it will already be too late. The most vulnerable will be the first to perish."

  Kaster, brow furrowed and clearly troubled, broke the silence.

  "I am still processing everything you've said, Lusian… but if this is true, our world is in grave danger. What can we do?"

  Sofia intervened firmly, her expression reflecting the urgency of the matter.

  "Within our territory, we will take swift and decisive measures. We must protect our people and strengthen ourselves for what is coming. I recommend you do the same: each noble should prepare independently, gather the villagers, and relocate them to the cities. Reinforce your defenses as well. We cannot afford to be unprepared."

  Duke Kaster nodded slowly, deep in thought.

  "This is a delicate situation. If the mana surge unfolds as you describe, chaos could shatter the kingdom's stability. We must inform the king. We cannot allow panic to consume our people."

  Linn, who had listened in silence until then, spoke decisively.

  "I agree with Duke Kaster. But, boy, I need to know how certain this information is. Are these merely your predictions? I mean no offense, but I cannot make decisions based solely on speculation without solid proof."

  Sylvi, visibly concerned, stepped in.

  "Mother… what if it truly happens and we fail to prepare? Only those strong enough to defend themselves will survive. How will we ensure our people's survival if that comes to pass?"

  Lusian took a deep breath before answering.

  "I understand your doubts. But if you do not establish safe shelters and protect the children and the weak, the result will mirror what happened in ancient times… when humanity nearly vanished."

  He paused, choosing his words carefully.

  "The good news is that there is still time. The phenomenon will last three months, and the world will need time to absorb that influx of mana. You do not need to act in blind haste—but if you ignore the signs when it begins, I assure you, you will regret it."

  When the meeting finally ended, the air remained thick with tension and uncertainty. Outside, the wind stirred the hall's banners, as though heralding the changes yet to come.

  Kara approached Lusian with a mischievous smile.

  "Hey, idiot. I heard next week is your birthday. So tell me—what do you want as a gift?"

  Lusian looked at her curiously.

  "Since you're asking… there is something. Your cousin lives in Mongrul Forest, right?"

  Kara narrowed her eyes.

  "Yes—but don't even think you have a chance with her, idiot."

  "Of course not, idiot," Lusian shot back indignantly. "I just want something from the forest."

  "Oh? And what exactly?"

  "There's a lake in that forest," he explained calmly. "One that no creature can drink from. I want some of its water. The more, the better."

  Kara sighed.

  "I'll see what I can do, but I won't be able to deliver it this month."

  "That's fine," Lusian replied. "As long as it reaches the duchy, I'll be satisfied."

  Kara smiled proudly, pointing at him.

  "In four months, I'm coming to your duchy to challenge you again. You'd better not fall behind."

  "Fine, crazy barbarian," Lusian answered, feigning irritation. "I'll be waiting to kick your ass—like always."