Prologue
In the past five centuries, two kingdoms, Macorekin and Abakiom, emerged onto the stage. Macorekin, celebrated for its lush landscapes and abundant mineral wealth, operates under the governance of a monarch and adheres faithfully to ancient customs. Its central city, ensconced behind formidable walls, serves as a bastion of safety and prosperity. Atop the icy peaks, Abakiom stands as a city of disciplined warriors organised into clans, where leadership undergoes frequent challenges by those seeking the power of its leadership. Tasked with shielding Macorekin from the dangers lurking in the forbidden lands beyond the icy mountain range, Abakiomians exchange their martial expertise and protection for food and raw ore, fostering a nuanced yet indispensable alliance.
This delicate equilibrium faced upheaval two decades ago when barbarians breached Abakiom’s defences, prompting a newfound reliance on Macorekin for sustenance. Despite Abakiom’s military might, the scarcity of arable land underscored the interdependence between the two kingdoms. In response to the incursion, Macorekin bolstered its defences with a substantial wall and bolstered its guard. Meanwhile, a mystical and ancient portal near Macorekin continues to captivate the populace every two decades, with skilled individuals being knighted and sent into uncharted realms. The mysteries surrounding the portal spark intrigue in Macorekin, while Abakiomians, steadfast in their protective role, exhibit little interest in the unexplored territories beyond.
