Chapter 1: Ghosts of the Past

Ryzen moved silently through the wreckage of the ancient city, his crimson eyes scanning for signs of movement. The wind howled through the crumbling skyscrapers, a haunting reminder of what once was. He was on the hunt—tracking the Nomads, a brutal faction that had enslaved survivors and scavenged for forbidden technology in their quest for power.

Memories of the Great Collapse flashed through his mind—the day when humanity's own creations turned against them. He had been one of the few to survive the initial onslaught, a young soldier thrust into a war unlike any other. Over time, he had become more than just a man. Enhanced with cybernetic augmentations and ancient runic tattoos, Ryzen became the last of the Sentinels, warriors tasked with protecting what was left of humanity.

The sound of footsteps echoed behind him.

With a fluid motion, Ryzen unsheathed Sundrake, the fiery blade igniting with a low hum. Out of the shadows, a group of Nomads appeared—merciless, clad in makeshift armor, their leader wielding a weapon powered by scavenged tech.

"You're a long way from home, Sentinel," the leader growled, a sneer forming on his scarred face.

"I don't have a home," Ryzen replied, his voice cold and unyielding. "But you've enslaved my people long enough."

Without warning, the Nomads charged. Ryzen's eyes flared with crimson light as he swung Sundrake, cutting through the first attacker with terrifying precision. Fire trailed behind his blade, slicing through metal and flesh alike. His movements were a blur—each strike calculated, each step precise.

The battle raged, but Ryzen remained unstoppable. In a final move, he lifted Sundrake above his head, unleashing a powerful strike into the ground. Flames erupted from the blade, consuming the remaining Nomads in a burst of fire.

As the ashes settled, Ryzen stood over the charred bodies of his enemies, breathing heavily. His mission was clear—he was going to find the source of the Nomads' new power, and he would stop them, no matter the cost.