[66 days left until Alvorna's Rite of Asecension]
[5 days left until the Odyssey's commence]
The last 3 days were more of a healing episode rather than any actual training. After Jihoon had his relapse into his worst behavior, he decided to rightfully abstain himself from doing anything intensive for a while.
Honestly, the fact that at the very beginning of this whole tale, Jihoon was in a state of apathy in which a true stoic would never have fallen into in the first place.
And instead, he and Aquarius experimented with what he can do with his newfound understanding of Intermediate-class Light Magic along with some words of insight from her own.
To the various races of Absence, the elements that they’re attuned to are chosen from birth and inseparable from them. Because of it, they are naturally drawn to the element they conjured. Like why Harpies have Wind Magic and Merfolk have Water Magic. That element isn’t just their innate power, it is no different than their life in literal sense.
That’s why when one’s Magic develops since birth, they just feel it is natural when it evolves. But to Jihoon who had nothing of sorts until his attunement to the Judgment of Light, i.e. his decayed halberd, it is a struggle to understand the concept for himself until it would just suddenly click for him as if naturally make sense after all.
But… relying on chance-based epiphany isn’t really the best way to improve his Magic proficiency and Aquarius being awfully vague with how she understands her Advanced-class Magic doesn’t make it a good learning experience either.
Back to his Light Magic… again. Jihoon diversified his Light Magic in all level of proficiency by a lot. His Novice-class Light Magic spells that he had in mind are now designed for different kinds of scenarios in mind.
For example…
Piercing Glare
The sun is particularly harsh to stare into, like a needle that digs into one’s eyes upon exposure. Because of that, it took form a throwing spear that Jihoon can throw with great force as it leaves behind trace of its own refraction. The personal meaning is… the harsh truth that power comes with responsibility that one must be prudence of. The same thing that sustains can harm oneself as easily.
Jihoon refrains himself from naming any of his Skills in too grandiose names when it is just simple things. Can’t really name a shield an Aegis when it is just Novice-class, isn’t it? He had seen enough of that in wuxia stories and its subgenres.
Then… he quickly lists the remaining Novice-class Light Magic spells that he devised in the meantime.
Mirror Reflection
A barrier of light that repels incoming Magic attack, if timed correctly, it could reflect even incoming attacks of both physical and magical back at the attackers. Can’t withstand attack greater than a Novice-class however but it fulfills the purpose of being a Novice class spell.
Its personal meaning… is how actions have consequence that often would come back toward oneself in no time. For better or for worse.
Afterimage
Jihoon commanded the Doppelganger to strike at him. Heeding his command without hesitation, it formed its Dawn’s Edge before it cut his form apart. However, the him that took the blow dispersing like aurora. The actual him is already a few feet away from the original position and it works very well to deceive an opponent.
The imagery is of the usual illusion that caused mirage to form and its personal meaning… is how someone’s surface impression can conceal the true appearance underneath. Much like how his old friend Jin hides his own corruption when they first reunited.
Refraction Array
Manifesting his Piercing Glare once more, Jihoon mentally chanted as something within the spear altered subtlety. Then with all his might that he threw, halos of light appeared around the shaft of the spear of light itself as the thrown spear now has its trajectory completely altered and randomized as it heads toward the directed target.
All of it is done in a manner similar to actual refraction of light where its trajectory alters if going through any different medium. Its personal meaning is how experience can change someone subtlety yet equally drastically the same. Its persona meaning… is obviously the First Gate Outbreak that utterly upheaval his previous life as a musician.
Plenty more Novice-class Spells are performed with different properties such as offensive, defensive, support and debilitative. But right now, the most important thing that he can perform so far is this…
‘Summon Intermediate magic rite preparation’. Jihoon thought in his mind as multiple Dawn’s Edges and Piercing Glares manifested above adjacent him in midair. As they levitate, he then mentally commands them to fall as all of them plunges into the ground around him in an organized manner.
Then, a magic circle is established underneath him and the perimeter established by his summoned incandescent weapons.
Intermediate-Class Light Magic, Golden Hour
Golden Hour on its principle is an amplification circle which makes every spell of Novice to Intermediate-class gain increased potency of its output. Using the method of synthesis and total connection of the previous building blocks that brought him to this point, he could potentially apply Advanced-class level of power using only Intermediate-class spells.
Its personal meaning…
In his contemplation of the essence of the Golden Hour, the profound significance lies in the almost magical nature that it has even in his world. The Golden Hour is essentially the time when daylight is at its brightest yet softest, occur at the first hour of dawn and the last hour of dusk.
To him. It’s the duality of a new bright beginning, and graceful descent at journey’s end. The dawn being the usual indisputable symbol of hope it simply is, the fresh start that the little goddess has given him to start his journey of assembling the greatest ensemble and his decision to embark upon Absence.
The dusk, once again, spoke of the ending. But not with despair but with any remaining shred of dignity that one still has for that is the only solace for those who reached said conclusion. A reminder of those who have nothing left to lose but to go out on their own terms.
His thought returned to Jin once again, a friend of his, in his final moment chose to be his true self.
To leave a lasting impression even if one is fading away.
There’s simply no better encapsulation of his experience so far. He had been at rock bottom, a musician discarded in a world of Hunters taking the center stage. Yet from that low point, a new beginning he inadvertently found by retracing his original steps once again.
And with conviction and solemn determination, he faces his challenge head-on.
The synthesis of Golden Hour, its established theme is ‘transformation’. The moment of change when day becomes night and night becomes day. The turning point of life, the pivotal moment that defines each and every one that must eventually undergo.
This duality - the soft yet intense light of both beginnings and endings - resonated deeply with Jihoon. It encapsulated his journey from a struggling musician to a Hunter with a unique power, from someone who felt worthless to someone who now bore the weight of promises and responsibilities.
Upon channeling this understanding into the magic circle. He felt his own Light Magic surge as his attunement to the domain of light around him strengthen. Golden Hour isn’t simply just strengthening or amplifying magic, it is about embracing the complete spectrum of experience. Both triumph or near-defeat, his utter low points or his peaks.
To acknowledge that even in darkest moments, there exist at least glimmering light no matter how faint.
Soon, time passed swiftly as night befalls them again. No such scene of Golden Hour to occur again so far but the night was peaceful as Jihoon slowly assess his own being again. People can relapse to bad habits now and then, and that obsession of his with worst-case scenario stemmed from somewhere after all.
After their short dinner, Aquarius took an early rest tonight, leaving Jihoon to his device while pondering to himself.
Now that he thought about it, where on Absence was the search team that was supposed to be finding her highness? They are certainly taking their crazily sweet time with how important Aquarius is.
As Jihoon finished his introspective thoughts, the peaceful night was suddenly interrupted by the arrival of a massive ship. Its sheer size and imposing presence immediately caught his attention, breaking the tranquil atmosphere that had settled over their makeshift camp.
The vessel was unlike anything Jihoon had ever seen before. It combined the firepower of a battleship with the sleek design of a nuclear submarine, all while maintaining the elegant lines of a luxury cruise liner. Its hull gleamed a pristine white, reminiscent of the finest pearls, standing out starkly against the dark night sky.
As the ship drew closer, Jihoon's gaze was drawn to the front deck. There, he could make out two figures - one a well-built merfolk with an air of authority about him, and beside him, to Jihoon's surprise, stood Alvorna.
The sight of the Harpy heiress alongside what appeared to be merfolk royalty triggered a sudden realization in Jihoon. He suddenly remembered the Harpy's Plume that Alvorna had given him, a talisman capable of allowing her to track his location. The fact that they had only now chosen to approach meant that this delay of theirs was likely intentional.
Using [Observant] again at the merfolk, he quickly discerns the identity of the man.
______-----{////\\\\}-----______
King of Sargasso Kingdom
Level: ???
Name: Neptune Sargasso
Class: Royalty
Job: Bodyguard
Race: Merfolk
+Physical Attributes:
-STR: ????
-END: ????
-AGI: ???
-DEX: ???
+Non-physical Attributes:
-INT: 17
-CHA: 77
-MAG: ???
-Active Skill:
+Water Magic (Master)
+Mana Attunement (Master)
+Shapeshifting (Advanced)
+Wind Magic (Advanced)
-Passive Skill:
+Everlasting Youth (Innate Racial Ability)
+Enhanced Senses (Master)
+Perspicuity (Master)
+Aura of Authority (Master)
+Stalwart (Advanced)
------_____{\\\\////}_____------
Definitely someone important that he would really better not making an enemy out of. With base attributes reaching 4-digit, Jihoon could hardly perceive himself even fighting him anywhere remotely close even with the most absurdly powerful Linked Song Magic combination that he has so far.
The timing was awfully convenient, just days before the Odyssey. Thus, it can’t be possibly chalked as coincidence in the same way. The King was clearly waiting for something specific to happen or occur.
And as a rescue boat is deployed from the massive vessel and heading toward the shore. A small sigh of relief washed over him that he can finally leave but at the same time, he felt anxious when facing such a powerful figure and the curiosity toward the true motive of this delayed rescue.
He glanced at Aquarius who is now fast asleep in her little shelter, wondering about her reaction at her father’s arrival and return. This probably felt like a long and wild dream for her, but the effect of their stay here remains abundantly clear and lasting.
Jihoon straightened his posture, ready to face whatever challenges this new development might bring. He knew that the arrival of the Merfolk King and Alvorna would undoubtedly complicate matters, potentially altering the course of events leading up to the Odyssey.
But now that things have come to this, Jihoon can only embrace the challenge ahead.
As the rescue boat approached the shore, Jihoon carefully observed the merfolk king. To his surprise, Neptune Sargasso appeared far younger than expected, looking to be in his early thirties rather than the weathered ruler Jihoon had imagined. The king's youthful appearance was undoubtedly a result of the [Everlasting Youth] ability shared by all merfolk.
King Neptune's posture exuded regal authority, yet his expression held a hint of concern as his eyes fell upon his sleeping daughter. Alvorna, standing beside him with her wings folded properly behind, offered Jihoon a reassuring smile.
"Jihoon," Alvorna called out as she seems to take the moment to stay as close to him as possible. "I hope you're well. We've come to bring you and Princess Aquarius back."
Jihoon nodded, still wary of the situation. "Your Majesty," he addressed the king, bowing slightly. "I assume you've known our location for some time?"
King Neptune stepped onto the beach, his movements graceful despite being on land. "Indeed, we have," he admitted. "Alvorna's tracking ability led us here days ago. However, I made the decision to allow Aquarius some time to process her emotions before our return."
Alvorna added, "As a Harpy Overseer and representative of the Matriarch's authority, I can assure you this is a genuine rescue mission, Jihoon. There's no need for concern."
Jihoon relaxed slightly at Alvorna's words. He turned to the still-sleeping Aquarius and gently scooped her up in his arms.
"Your Majesty," Jihoon said as he carried Aquarius towards the boat, "I believe your daughter has some valid concerns about her future and the upcoming Odyssey."
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King Neptune's expression softened. "I know," he sighed. "Aquarius made some poignant arguments before she fled. I realize now that I could have handled things better. This time away has given me the opportunity to reflect on my decisions."
As they boarded the rescue boat, Jihoon carefully placed Aquarius on a cushioned seat. The princess stirred slightly but didn't wake.
"She's been through quite an emotional journey these past few days," Jihoon explained. "I think she's found some peace, but there's still much to discuss."
The king nodded solemnly. "Indeed. And I owe her that discussion. Thank you, Maestro Jihoon, for looking after her and providing her the support she needed."
As the boat began its journey back to the grand vessel, Jihoon felt that the immediate crisis might be over, but he knew that the complexities surrounding the Odyssey and Aquarius's future were far from resolved properly.
Alvorna moved closer to Jihoon, speaking in a low voice. "I'm glad you're safe. There's much we need to talk about regarding the upcoming events. Now is not the place however, but we will talk about everything once we’re onboard of the grand vessel.
Jihoon nodded, his mind already racing with questions about the Odyssey, the political implications of recent events, and his own role in the unfolding drama.
As they approached the grand vessel, Jihoon finally made out the name emblazoned on its pristine hull: 'Ark of Naphistim'. The sheer scale of the ship became even more apparent as they drew near, its immense form dwarfing their small rescue boat.
Upon boarding, Jihoon's earlier assessment of the vessel being a fusion of battleship and cruise liner proved remarkably accurate. The interior seamlessly blended luxury with functionality, creating an environment that was both opulent and efficient. Plush carpets lined corridors that could have easily belonged on a high-end cruise ship, while state-of-the-art control panels and reinforced bulkheads hinted at the vessel's formidable capabilities.
A massive crew bustled about, their movements precise and purposeful as they manned various stations throughout the ship. Despite the clear military precision in their actions, the overall atmosphere wasn't far removed from what one might expect on a luxury liner. Elegant common areas and well-appointed cabins coexisted with what Jihoon assumed were advanced weapon systems and tactical rooms.
As Jihoon took in his surroundings, a familiar figure approached, Karim. The merchant's face, as usual, betrayed little emotion, but there was a hint of relief in his eyes as he greeted Jihoon.
"I see you've managed to stay in one piece," Karim remarked dryly, though the underlying concern in his voice was evident to Jihoon.
"Karim," Jihoon nodded, genuinely glad to see his friend and mentor. "It's good to see you too. I assume these past few days have been eventful on your end as well?"
Karim gestured for Jihoon to follow him to a quieter corner of the deck. Once there, he began recounting the events from his perspective.
"After you were dragged away by the princess, chaos ensued," Karim explained. "The royal guards were in a frenzy, and I found myself suddenly at the center of a diplomatic incident. It took some... creative negotiation to convince them that we weren't conspirators in Aquarius's escape."
He paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Of course, I had my suspicions about the true nature of the situation. The delayed response, the convenient timing… it all seemed too orchestrated."
Jihoon nodded, having come to similar conclusions himself.
Karim continued, "I was brought aboard this vessel almost immediately. They've been tracking your location for days, but as you've probably guessed, they chose to wait. I've been... advising them, in a manner of speaking."
A slight smirk played at the corner of Karim's mouth. "I must admit, it's been an interesting few days. But I only truly relaxed when I saw you board with my own eyes."
Jihoon felt a warmth in his chest at Karim's admission. Despite the merchant's often stoic demeanor, it was clear he cared deeply for Jihoon's well-being.
"Thank you, Karim," Jihoon said sincerely. "I'm glad you were here to help manage the situation. I have a feeling we're not out of the woods yet, though."
Karim's expression turned serious. "Indeed. The Odyssey is still ahead, and now we find ourselves entangled in royal politics. We'll need to tread carefully."
Soon, all of them are to gather at the command room of this vessel. All the recipients involved except for the mermaid princess who is brought to her own room.
As they gathered in the command room of the Ark of Naphistim, Jihoon found himself seated on a plush couch alongside Karim and Alvorna. Across from them sat King Neptune and the striking figure Karim had quietly identified as "The Sea Witch."
Jihoon couldn't help but study her appearance. She was indeed beautiful, with flowing dark hair and eyes of deep purple. Her lower half, comprised of octopus tentacles, moved with an otherworldly grace. Despite her appearance fitting the archetype of a storybook villainess, Jihoon sensed no malevolence from her.
“The Sea Witch”. Karim muttered lightly just enough for Jihoon to hear. “So she is his remarrying fiancée”.
Without reservation, and without any risk of detection, Jihoon used [Observant] on any new important figure he comes across.
______-----{////\\\\}-----______
The Sea Witch
Level: ???
Name: Ursula Hans Andersen
Class: Royalty
Job: Witch
Race: Scylla
+Physical Attributes:
-STR: 3??
-END: 3??
-AGI: 2??
-DEX: 3??
+Non-physical Attributes:
-INT: 22
-CHA: 134
-MAG: ????
-Active Skill:
+Water Magic (Master)
+Witchcraft (Master)
+Mana Attunement (Master)
+Metamorphosis (Advanced)
-Passive Skill:
+Intuitive Knowledge (Innate Racial Ability)
+Enhanced Senses (Master)
+Perspicuity (Master)
+Enchantment (Master)
------_____{\\\\////}_____------
After a moment of tense silence, Jihoon decided to address the elephant in the room. "Your Majesty," he began, looking at King Neptune, "I've heard Aquarius's side of the story, but I believe it's important to understand the full picture. Could you please explain the events that led to her running away?"
King Neptune nodded, his expression somber. "Of course. It's a complex situation, one that I only realize later that I didn't handle as well as I should have." He glanced at the Sea Witch before continuing. "As you may know, Aquarius's mother, my beloved wife, passed away two years ago. It was a devastating loss for both of us. Unlike Aquarius, I didn’t get the surplus of time to go on mourning for her"
The Sea Witch, Ursula, spoke up, her voice surprisingly melodious. "I was brought in as an advisor to the court shortly after. My role was to help stabilize the kingdom during this difficult time. But as you aware of how our relationship develop, I supposed that her resentment toward me was almost guaranteed"
King Neptune nodded. "Ursula's counsel proved invaluable. Over time, we grew close, and I made the decision to remarry. However, as you can see with her upbringing, I wasn’t the model father that I’m supposed to aspire to. I will not fall back to the excuse of a ruler’s responsibility. I failed to be there when she needed me, and my thoughtless action only drive a wedge between us”.
Their announcement of remarriage right at the opening of the Odyssey. In Aquarius’s view, who still grieves for her mother’s passing at the time is no doubt very inconsiderate of him to do so.
Jihoon furrowed his brow. "And the arrangement for Aquarius to marry the victor of the Odyssey?"
King Neptune sighed heavily. "I said that the champion’s reward a wish is whatever that is within the purview of the royal family. I intended to use it as a method to find someone that I can entrust her to without fear, but it seems that there’s no need for it anymore seeing that you managed to calm her down”.
“Which a lot of the time during the Odyssey’s recorded history, many merfolk nobles wished to ascent their lineage to be part of the royalty and many of the previous royal family members no doubt loved to be married to one such champion.” The Sea Witch chided in to give further context as to why the idea of the Odyssey’s champion will receive the right to marry one of the royal lineages perpetuated.
"Aquarius felt that her choices were being taken away," Jihoon observed. "The loss of her mother, a new stepmother, and an arranged marriage - it was too much change, too quickly."
Ursula nodded, her expression sympathetic. "I understand her reservations. I've tried to connect with Aquarius, but she sees me as an intruder, a replacement for her mother. That was never my intention."
“Dear Sea Witch, I’m afraid that despite your own power, you seems to have missed the most obvious thing when it comes to relationship between people. One judges themselves by intention and others by their actions. From there, a tragedy is built upon by what is left unspoken between”.
Karim, who had been silent until now, spoke up. "And what are your intentions, Lady Ursula? Surely you understand how this looks from the outside."
Ursula met Karim's gaze steadily. "I care for Neptune, and I want what's best for this kingdom. That includes Aquarius's happiness. I have no desire to replace her mother or force her into a life she doesn't want."
Painful misunderstanding and poor communication between all sides. A perfect storm that was nearly brewed if it weren’t for Jihoon’s intervention. A complex situation that doesn’t seem to have any easy solution.
Breaking the tension, Jihoon spoke up, "Your Majesty, Lady Ursula, I believe I might have a suggestion." All eyes turned to him as he continued, "Given the current state of affairs, it might be beneficial if I act as an intermediary between you and Princess Aquarius, at least until both parties are willing to talk things out on their own accord." Jihoon said as he had far more than plenty of examples in his world which only drives the poignancy of it all.
King Neptune nodded slowly, considering the proposal. "That... could work. Aquarius seems to trust you, and you have a unique perspective on the situation."
Ursula agreed, her tentacles shifting slightly as she spoke, "I think that's a wise suggestion. It's clear that direct communication between us has been challenging. Perhaps having a neutral party involved could help bridge the gap."
"It's not the best solution," Jihoon admitted, "but it's a start. Aquarius is comfortable with me, and I believe I can help facilitate understanding on both sides."
King Neptune leaned forward, his expression one of gratitude and curiosity. "We appreciate your willingness to help, Jihoon. Is there anything you would ask of us in return? Perhaps access to the Royal Treasury of Sargasso? I understand there are artifacts of interest there that might be suitable for you."
The typical protagonist would have easily used this moment to obtain the right to enter the Grand Mausoleum of Calphennis. And he would have done so in a heartbeat if it weren’t for one thing.
I promised…
He had promised Aquarius that he would declare her independence and freedom there so that no one else will take advantage of her again. For someone who is just starting to honestly live for themselves even if the path ahead is still long and arduous.
"Actually, Your Majesty, what I ask is this: allow me to participate in the Odyssey alone." Jihoon said with the same sincerity that he had when he made this promise for her.
Surprise flickered across the faces of those present. King Neptune's brow furrowed. "Alone? That's highly unusual, and potentially dangerous. May I ask why?"
"I made a promise to Aquarius," Jihoon explained, his resolve evident in his tone. "I vowed to declare her freedom during the Odyssey, and I intend to uphold that promise. If I can't remain sincere in a civilized world, then I am beyond hopeless. This request is simply my way of fulfilling that vow."
A moment of silence followed as the weight of Jihoon's words settled in the room. King Neptune exchanged a glance with Ursula before turning back to Jihoon.
"Your integrity is admirable, Jihoon," the king said finally. "While it's not traditional, given the circumstances and your role in this situation, I will grant your request. You may participate in the Odyssey alone."
Ursula nodded in agreement. "Your dedication to your word is commendable. We will ensure that the necessary arrangements are made."
Karim, who had been quietly observing, gave Jihoon a look that mixed pride with concern. Alvorna, too, seemed impressed by Jihoon's decision.
As the meeting concluded, Jihoon felt the weight of his commitment settling on his shoulders. When was the last time he lived responsibly? And so for Aquarius, and his integrity, he will confront any challenge with all he has.
Calphennis, ahead.
[65 days left until Alvorna's Rite of Asecension]
[4 days left until the Odyssey's commence]
The Ark of Naphistim moved fast. And at some point within the trip, the vessel started to submerge underwater while maintaining the same speed. Originally, even underwater transit system that connects to Calphennis’s capital would have taken at least two days or so of continuous travel.
So, the comparison of it being sleek like a nuclear submarine isn’t wrong, again. Seeing the populated seabed beneath makes the experience similar to the plane flight in his world when the sky of it isn’t plagued with sudden flying monsters.
And within the horizon distance, the capital city Sargasso is within approach. Slowly materializing like mirage made solid.
Its architecture was a breathtaking blend of organic and constructed forms, with towering spires that seemed to grow from the ocean floor itself. Bioluminescent structures pulsed with soft, ethereal light, creating a cityscape that looked both alien and inviting. Massive bubble-like domes enclosed sections of the city, allowing for both aquatic and air-breathing inhabitants to coexist.
As the destination of his slowly approach, Jihoon recounts the experience during his stay in the Ark of Nephistim. Its provided luxury and comfort far beyond what even is shown in actual cruise liner in his world. The fact that he only gets one night to stay felt disappointing.
However, he knew that if he had stayed any longer, he would no longer be able to live without this ship.
During the said time, he interacted with the crew manning the defense of the vessel. Some of them were amicable enough to speak of the details considering that their king placed enough faith in him to let him onboard.
According to one of the engineers, this vessel itself is a massive magical conduit, capable of channeling Grandmaster-class Water Magic with its built-in glyph and circuits that as long as any merfolk onboard capable of projecting their element through it. Anything at that level is no different than a natural catastrophe in the making.
But because Absence is a peaceful place right now, this unused function of the Ark is just there as a proof of the merfolk’s capability, not an actual weapon of war. But to someone who has suffered at the end of a Chekov’s gun, he just can’t help but feel like anything new he learned is about to be used against him.
Immediately casting away from that anxious thought, he focused on the immediate present. Not everything will immediately happen to him, life isn’t supposed to be like that.
Alvorna arrived by his side, seemingly noticing him being anxious of something. She did what was obvious to anyone with remotely a sense of sensibility.
“What’s wrong? It isn’t like you to suddenly be afraid of something”. Alvorna said as she noticed his uneasy twitches of his body.
“It’s nothing… Just that… I’m afraid of the unknown, you know? I’m not like some sort of time traveler to the past to redo past mistakes and know all about future to become peerless amongst prodigy”. Jihoon said as he suddenly felt envious of those terribly written protagonists with their cheats to breeze through challenges with a carefree attitude.
Comparing himself to fiction, that’s his method to keep himself from the brink because that’s just how much his life has become a terrible story of its own.
Alvorna listened intently to Jihoon's confession, her expression softening with understanding. She gently placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch carrying a comforting warmth.
"Jihoon," she began, her voice gentle yet firm, "fear of the unknown is natural. It's what makes us mortal, what makes our choices matter. You're not meant to know everything or have all the answers."
She paused, looking out at the approaching city of Sargasso. "In a way, I envy your position. The path ahead of you is uncharted, full of possibilities. It's scary, yes, but it's also exciting in its own way."
Jihoon turned to face her, surprised by her words. Alvorna continued, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. Looking out at the approaching city of Sargasso.
"You know, I understand your plight more than you might think. As the future Matriarch, my path has been laid out before me since birth. Yet, despite knowing what lies ahead, I still feel that same anxiety you're experiencing now." She said before pausing for a moment. Then with a sigh, her wings rustling slightly.
"Sometimes, I wish I could face the unknown as you do, to forge my own path."
Her confession hung in the air between them, heavy with unspoken implications. Jihoon felt a pang of sympathy for Alvorna, realizing that her seemingly privileged position came with its own set of challenges and limitations. They’ve discussed this already yet sometimes it just slipped out of his mind with all the recent events.
"But you know what?" Alvorna said, a small sincere smile forming on her lips as she looked at him. "Watching you face these challenges head-on, making your own choices despite the uncertainty - it's inspiring, Jihoon. It reminds me that even within the confines of our predetermined roles, we can still find ways to assert our will."
Jihoon turned away shyly toward the scenery in front of him. Having lost his words now that he finally realized and absorb her words.
"I... I never thought of it that way. I guess we're all just trying to do our best with what we're given, aren't we?" Jihoon said as he partially did not want her to see him acted not so calmly at all with his own disposition.
"And that's why your journey is so inspiring, Jihoon. You're not relying on some magical foresight or time-traveling advantages or similar. You're facing each obstacle head-on, with nothing but your wits, your skills, and your determination. That's true strength that no one can replicate like you do." Alvorna shares her agreeing sentiment.
She gently turned Jihoon to face her, her eyes meeting his with unwavering resolve. "Remember, you're not alone in this. You have friends, allies who believe in you. Whatever challenges lie ahead in Sargasso and beyond, we'll face them together."
Jihoon felt a weight lift from his shoulders. The anxiety didn't disappear entirely, but it no longer seemed as overwhelming. He managed a genuine smile that felt too difficult to do but not now.
"Thank you, Alvorna. I needed to hear that."
As they both turned back to watch Sargasso grow ever closer, Jihoon felt a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead might be uncharted, filled with unknown dangers and challenges, but he was ready to face them.
In a new understanding that he realized, he wasn't alone in facing the unknown - everyone, in their own way, was navigating uncharted waters with their own efforts.
"Are you ready?" Karim asked, sensing Jihoon's thoughts. Having suddenly appear beside him without a warning, likely heard the entire conversation between him and Alvorna. Nearly taken aback, Jihoon narrowly suppressed the afraid that he nearly displayed. But swiftly, he regained his composure before looking at him with a direct gaze
Jihoon took a deep breath, his eyes fixed on the shimmering city before them. "As ready as I'll ever be," he replied, his resolve strengthening with each passing moment.