In time, Adano and Evea were blessed with more children. Their family grew, and from them came many descendants. Their descendants lived all over the continent and eventually established their own kingdoms. The strongest and wisest among them became the first rulers of each kingdom.

  Each one had the utmost respect for their ancestor and strictly followed the traditions and laws that originated from Bathara. In time, the kingdoms united to form a single empire that would govern and protect the entire continent.

  Thus began the Grand Holy Empire of Banalaya, led by one of their closest descendants—an individual gifted with great strength, wisdom, and deep obedience to the laws of Bathara and the traditions of their clan and forebears.

  Many generations passed, and now the empire is facing imminent destruction as the prophecy is about to be fulfilled.

  While Empress Yanara, the current ruler of the Grand Holy Empire of Banalaya, stood on one of the castle balconies gazing down from above, footsteps echoed softly behind her.

  The woman who approached was clad in ceremonial robes woven with ancient sigils—the Empire’s prophet, Gaia, the one who had foreseen the end.

  “Your Highness,” Gaia spoke, her voice trembling despite her composure.

  “The time has come. If we delay any longer, nothing can be stopped. The prophecy may unfold at any moment. We must act now.”

  The Empress closed her eyes.

  “My dear Gaia…”

  “So it is time."

  “…I understand.”

  “It seems we have no other choice.”

  Gaia lowered her head.

  She alone had witnessed the future—a future where the Empire burned, where no soul survived. Yet within that despairing vision, she had seen a single path to salvation: the summoning of a hero from another world.

  But the ritual demanded an unforgivable price.

  A life.

  And in her vision, one of the Empress’s own children stepped forward to offer it.

  “I am deeply sorry, Your Highness,” Gaia said, her voice heavy with guilt.

  “This ritual requires a tremendous amount of magical power. Once I perform it, my own strength will be lost forever. Still… my sacrifice is insignificant compared to what you must endure.”

  Silence fell between them.

  Then—

  “Mother…”

  A weak voice cut through the air, followed by a soft cough.

  Both women turned.

  Standing a short distance away was Prince Liyelo, pale yet resolute. He had heard everything.

  “I know what’s happening,” he said quietly. “I’ve known for a long time. In Lady Gaia’s vision… one of your children must take part in the ritual.”

  Empress Yanara’s eyes widened.

  “You knew…?”

  Liyelo stepped forward, his posture straight despite his frail body.

  “As your son. As the prince of this empire. And as Liyela’s older brother,” he declared, “I will do everything in my power to protect you—and our people. Especially my sister.”

  He clenched his fist.

  “When the time comes, I will be the one to take part in the ritual. I will never allow Liyela to suffer. There is no greater honor than giving my life for you and for the future of our empire.”

  “My son—Liyelo!” the Empress cried. “How could you know something like this?! No. If anyone must be sacrificed, it should be me—not you, not Liyela!”

  “It doesn’t matter how I found out, Mother,” Liyelo replied gently.

  “Besides… I am already sick.”

  His smile was faint, yet peaceful.

  “I have lived a happy life by your side. And I would be even happier knowing my life could save so many.”

  “Prince Liyelo…” Gaia whispered, her chest tightening.

  Before anyone could speak further, a brilliant circle of light appeared beside them.

  A teleportation spell.

  From it emerged an elderly woman with silver hair and dignified eyes—Elder Council Graniya, one of the Empire’s highest authorities… and Gaia’s grandmother.

  “Grandmother…?” Gaia murmured.

  Graniya bowed deeply before the Empress.

  “Your Highness, you have raised a fine prince—one with a truly noble heart.”

  She straightened, her gaze solemn.

  “Though it pains me to say this… I must agree with his decision. We no longer have time.”

  She turned toward Liyelo.

  “If this is truly your wish, then it shall be honored as the greatest act of devotion.”

  Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

  Then she placed a gentle hand on Gaia’s shoulder.

  “Gaia, my dear, I will perform the summoning ritual myself. You must continue to serve the Empress and the Empire. I am old—losing my power is a small price to pay for the salvation of our people.”

  “Grandmother…!” Gaia protested.

  “Enough,” Graniya said softly. “Help me prepare the ritual.”

  “…Yes,” Gaia replied, tears welling in her eyes.

  “Thank you, Elder Council Graniya,” Liyelo said, bowing his head.

  He then turned to his mother.

  “This is my choice,” he said warmly. “I may not be as strong or wise as you… but I believe this is why I exist. To give everything for this moment.”

  “I love you, Mother. Please take care of Liyela for me. I won’t say goodbye to her—I don’t want her to cry.”

  Tears streamed freely down Empress Yanara’s face as she embraced him.

  “My beloved son… Liyelo. You are the greatest hero to me.”

  “Forgive me… for not being able to heal you.”

  “I will never forget you. And I promise—I will protect your sister.”

  “Thank you, Mother,” Liyelo whispered.

  “I love you.”

  “I’ll be with Father soon. I’m sure he’ll be proud of me.”

  And so, Empress Yanara ordered everyone to prepare for the summoning ritual, then made her way to the site where it would be performed.

  When the Empress arrived at the ritual site, the air was already heavy with magic. The empire’s highest authorities had gathered—elder councilors, and ranking officials clad in ceremonial robes.

  One by one, flashes of light appeared as kings and guild leaders from distant kingdoms were teleported into the area.

  Once all had assembled, Prince Liyelo stepped forward without hesitation, entering the glowing summoning circle carved into the ground. Elder Councilor Graniya followed, planting her staff firmly at the circle’s edge.

  The remaining council members took their positions around them, their combined magical power forming a vast arcane network.

  Holy Knights surrounded the site, weapons drawn, their eyes sharp as they guarded the Empress and the rulers of the realm.

  Everything was ready.

  And then—

  Above the Grand Holy Empire of Banalaya, massive black clouds gathered as though the heavens themselves were enraged. Lightning split the sky, and deafening thunder echoed endlessly. A vast portion of Mount Banalaya was swallowed by darkness and thick, swirling clouds.

  This ominous phenomenon spread across the entire continent.

  Those who witnessed it were left bewildered—some trembling in fear, others falling to their knees in prayer.

  Those who held high positions in the empire and in their own kingdoms could only murmur one thing:

  “The ritual has begun…”

  Some prayed for the ritual to succeed, while others were shocked to see and feel the immense power being used.

  Within the palace, the ritual dragged on for several agonizing minutes. The council members supporting it began to falter, sweat pouring down their faces as the glowing seals beneath their feet shone brighter and brighter.

  Meanwhile, in another world…

  “Seiyaa… Seiya… wake up. Wake up, darling.”

  A familiar voice gently shook Sky from his sleep.

  “Mmm…” Sky groaned, rubbing his eyes. “Ohhh… Mom… isn’t it still too early? I’m still sleepy…”

  “Good morning, Seiyaa!” Keiko’s cheerful voice rang out. “Happy birthday!”

  Sky blinked, his foggy mind slowly catching up. “…Birthday?”

  “Yes, birthday!” she laughed. “Now get up already. And since when is fifteen minutes before noon considered too early? I know you stayed up late again watching anime.”

  “T-that new series was just too good…” Sky muttered.

  She crossed her arms, pretending to glare at him. “Even if it’s your birthday, I’ll still scold you. Just kidding. Now hurry up—your food is ready, and you have a visitor waiting.”

  “…A visitor?” Sky sat up instantly. “Who?”

  “You’ll see. Get dressed and come downstairs.”

  “O-okay! Thanks, Mom!”

  When Sky finished getting ready and headed downstairs, he barely made it halfway before—

  “?? Happy birthday to you— ??”

  “Huh?!”

  His parents stood by the table, smiling, food neatly arranged, and beside them—

  “Maya?!”

  “Why are you taking so long?” Maya said, arms crossed. “I’ve been waiting forever. Anyway—happy birthday, Sky.”

  Sky stared at the table, the food, the candles… and his friend. “Th-thank you… but how did you even know it was my birthday?”

  “Oh! We’re not friends on FB—right?” Maya laughed awkwardly. “I also ran into your mom at the market. She told me about the celebration, so I came.”

  “Yes,” Keiko said warmly. “Since she lives nearby, I invited her.”

  Levi placed a firm yet warm hand on Sky’s shoulder. “Happy thirteenth birthday, my son.”

  “Thank you, Dad… Thank you, Mom.”

  They ate together, laughter filling the house. Maya talked endlessly about Sky’s school life—sometimes embarrassing, sometimes funny—and for once, Sky didn’t mind at all.

  After the meal, Maya stood and stretched.

  “Uncle, Auntie, Sky and I are going out for a bit. We’ll be at the shore.”

  “Be careful,” Sky’s mother said. “And Sky—walk her home later.”

  “Yes, Mom!”

  The sea breeze greeted them as they reached the shore. The sunlight reflected on the water, painting the horizon in gold.

  Sky stopped and looked at Maya.

  “…Hey, Maya. Thanks. For today. And for everything.”

  She tilted her head. “That’s sudden.”

  “I know I’m weak,” he said quietly. “But someday, I’ll be strong. Strong enough so I won’t be bullied anymore. Strong enough to protect you, too.”

  Maya stared at him for a moment—then burst out laughing.

  “Wow. That was sweet. Are you sick?”

  “H-hey!”

  “But don’t worry,” she said, grinning. “You’re weak, so I’ll protect you for now. I’m the only one allowed to bully you.”

  They both laughed.

  “Let’s take pictures,” Maya said. “It’s your birthday, after all.”

  They climbed a rock near the shore, searching for the perfect angle—

  And then—

  “W-Whoa—!”

  Sky slipped.

  “Sky!!!” Maya screamed.

  Before she could reach him, Sky’s body fell backward into the sea below.

  The instant he hit the water, a blinding flash of light erupted from the spot where he landed—and in the next moment, he vanished without a trace.

  Maya never saw the light.

  Her eyes were squeezed shut as tears streamed down her face.

  “Sky! Sky!” she cried out desperately, her voice echoing along the shore.

  She searched frantically, calling his name again and again while sobbing uncontrollably. Regret crushed her heart. If only we hadn’t come here…

  But no matter how long she searched, Sky never surfaced.

  Terrified and broken, Maya ran to Sky’s parents and told them everything.

  The moment they heard her story, shock overtook them.

  Sky’s mother collapsed into tears, screaming his name as she desperately called for help. His father, pale and trembling, forced himself to stay calm and immediately told Maya to take him to the exact place where Sky had fallen.

  Back in the heart of the Grand Holy Empire of Banalaya, the summoning ritual was already underway.

  Arcane circles carved into the marble floor blazed with radiant light. The air trembled, heavy with magical power.

  Then—

  A portal tore open several feet above one of the glowing ritual circles, its edges rippling like a wound in reality.

  A figure fell through it.

  Sky emerged, his body completely drenched, crashing onto the glowing seal below.

  At once, the Holy Knights drew their weapons and formed a defensive formation around him. As their magical light slowly faded, the black clouds above dispersed, the thunder ceased, and the sky returned to calm.

  The ritual seals flickered faintly before dimming.

  Prince Liyelo—who had been kneeling on one knee, gripping his sword—collapsed face-first onto the floor.

  “Prince Liyelo!” one of the Holy Knights shouted, rushing to catch him.

  Elder Graniya, barely able to remain standing, nearly fell as well, only to be supported by her grandchild.

  Empress Yanara:

  “Liyelo! My child!”

  Prophet Gaia:

  “Grandmother!”

  Empress Yanara’s composure finally shattered. Tears streamed down her face as she realized her son was gone.

  “Carry him away,” she ordered through her sobs. “Tend to his body at once.”

  Sky slowly regained consciousness. With his eyes still closed, unfamiliar voices reached his ears. Confused, he gradually opened his eyes.

  What greeted him was a scene straight out of a fantasy.

  Holy Knights surrounded him in a defensive circle. An elegant woman—clearly royalty—stood nearby, her face streaked with tears. A lifeless body was being carried away, while an elderly woman leaned weakly against a younger girl.

  "…Where am I?"

  Sky became aware of his soaked clothes and shivered slightly. Then it came back to him. "I fell into the water."

  Pushing himself upright, Sky sat up and spoke hesitantly.

  “Uh… hello? Excuse me, but… may I ask where I am? And what happened to me? The last thing I remember is falling into the water.”

  Empress Yanara wiped her tears and steadied herself before approaching him. The Holy Knights instinctively stepped forward to protect her, but she raised a hand, signaling them to stop.

  The knights halted.

  She met the boy’s trembling gaze.

  “I know you are confused, young man,” she said. “I am Empress Yanara. You now stand within my castle—the very heart of the Grand Holy Empire of Banalaya.”

  She paused, as if choosing her words carefully.

  “We performed a summoning ritual. That is why you are here.”

  Her voice carried the weight of the entire hall.

  “You were summoned to become the hero of our empire.”

  Sky froze.

  “H–Huh!?"

  His eyes widened as he pointed to himself.

  “Summoned!? Me!? A hero!?”

  He shook his head violently.

  “No, no—this has to be a dream. I just have to wake up…”

  His voice cracked.

  “I want to go home. Please… my parents must be worried about me!”

  A thought suddenly crossed his mind, and he looked around the hall in confusion.

  “Also… if this is a different world,” Sky added, his brows knitting together, “why are you speaking the same language as me?”

  Filipino… just like back home, he thought.

  The Empress’s stern expression softened.

  “You may do whatever you need to convince yourself that this is not a dream,” she said gently. “But everything before you is real.”

  She paused, then continued,

  “I am aware that you come from another world. Yet this has always been our language.” A faint, puzzled smile appeared on her lips. “Even so, I, too, wonder why you can understand us so perfectly. Perhaps… it is the effect of the summoning ritual.”

  She inclined her head slightly.

  “Still, I am grateful. It makes communication easier.”

  Sky remained silent, his thoughts in chaos.

  None of this makes sense…

  Why does this world speak Filipino?

  What he didn’t realize—was the truth.

  It wasn’t that they were speaking his language.

  It was he who had been changed the moment he was summoned.

  The Empress placed a hand over her chest.

  “I understand how your parents must feel,” she said softly. “I am a mother as well.”

  Her eyes darkened, filled with sorrow.

  “And I know the pain… of losing a child.”

  A heavy silence fell over the hall.

  “But,” she continued, her voice steady yet regretful,

  “I am sorry.”

  Her gaze met his.

  “You can no longer return to your world.”

  Before the weight of her words could crush him completely, another figure stepped forward.

  The prophet.

  She could not bear to let the Empress shoulder everything alone.

  “Her Majesty speaks the truth,” Prophet Gaia said. “We performed an ancient summoning ritual because our world faces imminent destruction.”

  She bowed deeply.

  “Only a hero from another world can save us.”

  Her voice trembled as she raised her head.

  “That hero… is you.”