Merslin of Earth
The current Kim Young-min was no longer the twenty-something Merslin actively adventuring in Luminaria, but a man in his thirties who had already completed all his missions there and returned. He had once sent his younger self to Luminaria to stop the alien invasion, believing everything was finally over. But recently, an ominous voice echoing in his mind hinted that something else awaited him.
"It's not over yet, Merslin."
This voice was no mere hallucination. Merslin felt the vibration starting deep within his skull and immediately recalled an old companion—the Spellbook from Wonderland. It had once guided him in Luminaria and had now returned, sending him another warning.
Merslin began to realize the recurring visions of Luminaria in his dreams were not just illusions. The events unfolding in his dreams were truly happening in the present—being experienced by his past self, the Merslin of his twenties. It was all connected through the book.
"If this book is sending me such a warning, then something significant must be happening."
Merslin decided to revisit the power of language he had once studied in Luminaria—especially the magical properties of Korean. What he had discovered wasn't just a tool for communication, but a medium that amplified magic itself. He sensed that this power would once again play a vital role.
He began reviewing his old research, analyzing the link between language and magic across dimensions. As he tried to understand how Luminaria, Earth, and the timelines intertwined, Merslin came to see that his past and present were deeply entangled. And all of it, he believed, was ultimately bound to a single destiny.
"The things I uncovered... no, the powers I encountered across multiple dimensions. This isn't over yet. There's another problem we need to solve."
Through this process, Merslin came to better understand how his younger and current selves were connected—and how their intertwined paths were affecting fate itself.
Determined not to remain trapped by the past, he resolved to trace the link between himself and his younger Merslin self in Luminaria. This time, he would finish everything—once and for all. To do so, he committed to continuing his interdimensional research, using all his knowledge to strengthen the bridge between the two realities.
"I am the bridge between past, present, and future. This time, I must end it with my own hands."
Merslin knew this journey wouldn't be a mere repetition of the past. He was prepared to wield the power to traverse time and reality. That resolve would draw him once more into Luminaria—where new threats awaited him.
****
Reunion of Companions and the Count's Welcome
Merslin was resting at Count Leon's mansion. After the exhausting exploration of the ancient ruins and his experiences in Altekna, both his body and spirit were recovering as the time to reunite with his companions drew near. That day, the first to arrive were Elena and Serena.
Serena: "Merslin! We're back!"
Serena dashed toward him with her usual bright and energetic voice, a beaming smile lighting up her face. Elena followed behind with a calm, gentle smile.
Merslin: "Welcome back! Was everything okay in the Gnome Kingdom?"
Elena: "The negotiations took longer than expected, but thanks to Serena, we managed it well."
Serena: "Hehe, if I hadn't been there, we'd still be stuck! I'm so happy we're together again!"
At that moment, hearty laughter echoed from the entrance—it was Lisa and Aria. Lisa burst through the door, extending her large hand toward Merslin with a big grin.
Lisa: "Merslin! We're back too! I didn't know dwarves could be that stubborn, but Aria handled it beautifully."
Blushing slightly, Aria offered a gentle smile in response.
Aria: "No… Lisa did most of it. I only helped a little."
Merslin: "I'm just glad you all returned safely. Seeing everyone together again puts my mind at ease."
Lisa: "Now let's get back to it! I want to hear all the crazy stuff that happened while we were away!"
After everyone had gathered at the mansion, Count Leon served tea and listened closely to their stories. He was deeply impressed by the group's diverse backgrounds and exceptional skills. One particular aspect especially intrigued him.
Count Leon: "Sir Merslin, your group fascinates me—not just because of the ancient legends and magic you pursue, but the unique makeup of your party. A single man and four women—it's quite a rare composition."
Merslin: "We've assembled a team where everyone's strengths complement each other. That mutual trust is our greatest asset."
Count Leon nodded thoughtfully.
Count Leon: "And that trust is the essence of true leadership. I'm curious to see how your team grows under your guidance."
He then called in his son, Edward, to introduce him to the party.
Count Leon: "Edward, come meet these fine people. You have much to learn from their journey."
Edward entered the room, speaking politely.
Edward: "I've heard so much about you from my father. Your story is truly inspiring. I'm curious to see what kind of synergy such a unique team can create."
Serena: "Wow, what a beautiful house! Edward, I'm sure we have lots to learn from you too. Want to spar together sometime?"
Smiling at Serena's enthusiastic energy, Edward replied:
Edward: "Of course, Serena. I wouldn't miss the chance to learn from your experience."
Lisa: "You'd fit right in with our party, Edward. Whether it's swordsmanship or magic, it'll be fun to have you along."
Aria: (softly) "It's a pleasure to meet you, Edward. I'd be happy if you joined us…"
Edward smiled warmly at the party's welcome.
Edward: "I'm looking forward to training together—sharing techniques and growing stronger."
Count Leon watched his son with pride and turned to Merslin.
Count Leon: "Sir Merslin, your leadership shines through your companions. I believe Edward will grow greatly in your company."
Merslin bowed his head in gratitude, hoping Edward would soon become an integral part of their journey. As he considered the roles Count Leon and his son might play in their future adventures, new plans were already forming in his mind.
****
Alliance Amid Political Turmoil
Merslin and his companions were taking a well-earned rest at Count Leon's estate. The recent expedition into the ancient ruins and their experiences in Altekna had taken a toll on both their bodies and minds. Now, as their comrades began to regroup, a quiet sense of relief returned to Merslin's heart. When they all gathered around the dinner table, Count Leon initiated a serious discussion about the political tensions currently shaking the Kingdom of Altekna.
Count Leon: "Sir Merslin, and all of you. Your adventures are fascinating, no doubt, but today I must speak to you about the current state of the kingdom. There is deep unrest within Altekna—political tensions that grow more dangerous by the day."
Merslin leaned forward, attentive to the gravity in the Count's voice.
Merslin: "Please, tell us more. What exactly is the nature of this crisis?"
Count Leon lifted his wineglass, pausing briefly in thought before continuing.
Count Leon: "His Majesty the King, once respected for his wisdom and strength, has grown frail with age. He already had several children, and a clear line of succession was in place. But with the birth of a late prince from a new queen, everything changed."
Serena: "What kind of trouble did the young prince bring?"
The Count's face darkened with weighty concern.
Count Leon: "The former queen passed away early, and a new queen was brought into the palace. The problem lies in her ambition—she is using every possible means to push her son as the rightful heir. This has deepened the conflict between the older princes and the faction supporting the young prince."
Elena: "That sounds like a serious threat to the kingdom's stability."
The Count nodded solemnly.
Count Leon: "Indeed. And this isn't just a matter of royal succession. The Chancellor, Bellomore, and the Guildmaster of Mages, Ortai, are both heavily involved. Bellomore supports the elder princes and upholds the kingdom's traditions, while Ortai aligns with the queen and her son. Their conflict is tearing the kingdom apart."
Merslin listened carefully, recognizing the intricate web of interests and power struggles.
Merslin: "Then how should we approach this situation? What role can we play to help stabilize the kingdom?"
Count Leon thought for a moment, then spoke with firm resolve.
Count Leon: "Sir Merslin, we need your strength. We intend to support Chancellor Bellomore and the traditional line of succession. It is vital that the kingdom's order and legacy be preserved. However, Ortai is no ordinary mage—his influence is vast, and he must not be underestimated. We must proceed with caution."
Kalic: "Can both Bellomore and Ortai be trusted?"
Count Leon's voice held unwavering confidence.
Count Leon: "Chancellor Bellomore has preserved political balance in the kingdom for many years—his judgment is sound. Ortai, too, has fulfilled his duties honorably as the kingdom's arcane shield. The danger lies not in their characters, but in their diverging ambitions, which now fan the flames of division."
Lisa, sensing the weight of the moment, made her decision without hesitation.
Lisa: "Then we stand with the elder prince. Just like always, we'll follow the path we believe is right."
Aria nodded quietly in agreement.
Aria: "Yes. The kingdom's peace must come first. We'll do whatever we can to protect it."
Count Leon nodded in gratitude at their shared resolve.
Count Leon: "Thank you all. With your help, we may just overcome this crisis. For the sake of Altekna's future, we must stand together and fight."
As Merslin looked around at his companions—each one resolute in their purpose—he understood clearly: they were no longer just adventurers. They had become key players in the fate of a kingdom. And with Count Leon at their side, they would face the coming storm united—for the future of Altekna.