CHAPTER 58: ASTRUM AETERNUM

Hermes gazed out the small window pane available to him as the sun's crimson light warmed his skin. Reflected in his eyes was the beautiful engineering of humanity's 1064 years of innovation. The helicopter-like machines flew in unison, souring amongst the clouds.

In the midst of their conversation, Hermes was able to learn from Eleanor that the current year in Earth Orbits was 1064 A.C. This year was the 100th anniversary of King Rudwell's reign. The supplies they were carrying in their caravan were supposed to be used for the celebration that would occur a few days from now.

From this information, he was able to deduce that the trial Elizabeth, and he were currently partaking in, was a historical projection of 17400 years ago. That mere fact left him dazed for a few minutes.

He continued to gaze outside the window, as the view of the city inched closer and closer. Astrum Aeternum, a city constructed after the mysterious disappearance of the Monarch of Wisdom. A city that symbolizes a beacon to this wise deity; that his people would always be there, waiting for his inevitable return.

Next to him, Eleanor smiled. "It's finally in view..."

Just as those words left her lips, a colossal obelisk, adorned with exotic symbols etched across its stone surface, swiftly glided past his window, momentarily cloaking the sun's light. He turned his gaze back to the spire, captivated and oblivious to the impending spectacle.

Hermes peered down from the window, and suddenly, his vision was engulfed by a labyrinth of stone-built skyscrapers. Spires, meticulously crafted from intricate masonry, floated in the air, adding an extra layer of verticality to the already breathtaking city. If he concentrated enough, he could discern that the floating structures relied on steel-based foundations, each seeming to conceal a meticulously crafted propulsion system.

Vehicles adorned with elaborate embroidery designs gracefully glided through the air, deftly navigating the labyrinth of stone spires in a choreographed ballet. Suddenly the helicopter he was in dove downwards. Hermes was able to notice a subtle shift in the architecture of the buildings. The closer he looked, the more evident this transformation became.

The stone masonry that once dominated the architecture of the buildings was slowly being embraced by metallic plating fitted with intricate circuitry. They were scattered across the buildings in a disjointed manner, as if marking the meeting point of two different biomes.

The technological marvels that comprised the cityscape drew Hermes into a trance. Unseen mechanisms emitted a soft, rhythmic hum, and the city's pulse resonated through the veins of the levitating spires. The sound of vehicles moving past left in speechless. It was as if he had crossed over into another world.

Eleanor noticed his reactions and giggled. "It's fascinating, isn't it? Astrum Aeternum."

Hermes continued to analyze the intricate architecture, blending unceremoniously with technology. "Truly..."

She smiled. "You haven't seen the best part yet." The craft they were in suddenly jerked to the left of a large obelisk fitted with ancient engravings. Rocket boosters were fitted to its bottom, allowing it to float freely. However, what truly amazed him what the scene behind it. Every wonder he had seen so far would pale in comparison to the grand painting at the center of it all.

A colossal pyramid encased in crimson-gold, resplendently refracting the sun's rays, came into view. A super-construct that dwarfed every other structure in scale. It alone levitated freely in the air, devoid of any technological enhancements, defying the very notion of gravity. Massive obelisks larger than any other were placed strategically at each cardinal position, as runic symbols across their stone surfaces pulsed gracefully in arcane ways. A golden aura radiated in the air, marking the abode of a deity.

Bridges and roads seamlessly extended from the grand pyramid, boasting entrances on every side. Hover vehicles zipped in and out in a rapid dance, creating a perpetual flow with no discernible end. A thriving city—that was the impression etched into Hermes' senses. In comparison to Sanctuary City, Astrum Aeternum stood as a manifestation of grandeur in every facet of imagination.

It dawned on him why Elgacia had whimsically dubbed Sanctuary City a "Small Town." The magnitude and liveliness of Astrum Aeternum were beyond what anyone could have imagined for an urban marvel.

"So this is what humanity was capable of during their golden age..."

"Hm? Did you say something?" Eleanor asked.

"Ah. Nothing, I was just admiring the view... This is truly remarkable."

Eleanor sighed. "Indeed, it is..." Hermes continued to look out the window, oblivious to her frown. Mason laughed from behind.

"Kid, you'll get used to it the more you see it! It's nothing special!"

Lance shook his head and smiled. "There you go again. I still remember the face you made when you were granted entry into Librarium Celestium."

Mason crossed his arms. "Hmph, you're remembering it wrong."

"Old man, can you not just admit you are wrong?"

"Never."

Hermes remained fixated on the view beyond the window, dismissing the ongoing, futile bickering around him. The enigmatic and mystical pyramid held an irresistible allure, capturing more of his attention with each passing moment.

"That structure is Librarium Celestium, correct?" He decided to ask. He had heard of it in his reading sessions, however, one had to see it to believe it.

John spoke up. "Correct. This is the holy relic left behind by the Monarch of Wisdom. A blessing he offered to humanity."

"I see..." Hermes muttered, his gaze unwavering on the entrance of the structure, observing the constant ebb and flow of vehicles. Despite the undeniable significance of the pyramid to humanity's survival, its purpose remained shrouded in mystery. Historical records had been obliterated, leaving scholars in Sanctuary City questioning its very existence. Yet, regardless of the uncertainty surrounding its details, every account and mention emphasized the paramount role it played in ensuring the flourishing of mankind.

His curiosity overcame him. "Is Librarium Celestium truly that importa-" Suddenly, Eleanor swiftly placed her hand across his mouth, halting the completion of his question.

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"Hermes! You cannot disrespect the holy site! The church will condemn you if you do that!"

Hermes' eyes widened at her fervent declaration. Reality struck him; he had forgotten his surroundings. This was a city steeped in religious zealotry. Speaking ill of their deity amounted to seeking death itself. He turned to face her and spoke solemnly.

"I apologize. I didn't mean it that way."

Eleanor sighed. "I understand... Just be careful next time... The inquisition is fairly strict..."

He decided to return to the main question at hand. "What I meant to ask was, what blessing does it bestow humanity with? What makes it so vital to the Marcia Empire?"

Lance spoke first. "I can answer that. It's fairly simple, really. Librarium Celestium holds the power of dimensional travel."

"What?" Hermes was shocked. He did not expect such an answer.

He nodded. "Yeah. Basically, it holds the power to send Celestials to the Spirit World. Even those of different domains can enter."

"Incredible..."

"Indeed." John intervened. "Normally, a Celestial Mystic would need to become a 3.5 dimensional being to unlock [Astral-Projection] in order to separate their Astral Projection from their body and enter the Spirit World. However, this ancient artifact holds the power to transport anyone to this ethyric realm, without even the need to separate the soul from the body."

Mason ran his fingers through his beard. "Celestial Mystics unlock [Spirit-Walk] at 9.0 dimensionality, granting them the capability to enter and traverse the Spirit World at will. However, this relic, defying all our understanding, possesses the ability to transport anyone there. This fact alone has convinced many of those scholarly folks to theorize that it wields the powers of realms even beyond the reach of Celestials. There are even a few psycho cults who pray to it, thinking it's a manifestation of the Monarch's will."

"I think what makes it truly special is what's on the other side," Eleanor spoke softly.

Hermes furrowed his brows. "What do you mean?"

She smiled. "You see, before Rudwell, the inside of the spirit world from the coordinates it transports us to was uncharted. After he mapped the area, he established a permanent residence there. The spirits don't dare wander near our defenses, risking an attack from the Guardians."

"What? A town was constructed inside the Spirit World?"

She nodded. "Indeed. Rudwell was a truly revolutionary figure. The headquarters of the Guardian regiments are situated there. He named the town he established 'Astrum Minor.' To this day, there are permanent residents, including many high-ranking officials in the Guardian Regiments, as well as deacons of the church with bishop-level and above positions."

Hermes pushed up his glasses. "Fascinating..." He continued to stare at the enigmatic structure in awe. Ever since he had learned of the Spirit World's existence from Arthur, a burning desire to visit it continued to dwell in him. If not for his current mission, he would have done everything he could to enter Librarium Celestium.

Suddenly, the craft stabilized its movement and stopped in its place. Mason stood up slowly, unbuckling the seat belt he was strapped to. "It seems we are here."

A grand, metallic door swung open, revealing the glistening city with its picturesque views in all their glory. Hermes stepped out of the aircraft at a leisurely pace, his disheveled black hair tousled by the Martian breeze. Parked on a latch attached to the side of a towering spire that pierced through the clouds, he found himself confronted by the breathtaking panorama of Librarium Celestium.

As he stood there, an unfamiliar scent wafted into his nose, captivating him. The fragrance was so delightful that every nerve in his body seemed to relax. His emotions, which had been on the brink of a mental breakdown, dissipated as if they had never been present in the first place.

He cast his gaze downward, toward the warm stone floor laced with golden tiles. He had finally found a moment to reflect on his past actions. "Trevor... Did I make a mistake killing him?..."

"No, you didn't." Mason patted his shoulder from behind. Hermes turned his head to face him.

"I heard what happened from Eleanor. That bastard deserved it." He began to pull out a cigarette from his shadowy cloak.

Hermes looked back at the floor. "But... There was a chance that he was heavily influenced by the ritual's effects..."

"Hermes, if a drunk person tried to do the same thing, how would you have reacted?"

Hermes pondered for a moment before answering. "I would have tried to beat his ass."

"Exactly. How is this any different? That bastard held no remorse even after being caught. Not once did he even try to resist his temptations. Not only that, but Eleanor has told me that moments prior to you entering, he admitted to numerous crimes against other women in the past."

Hermes closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "You're right. I must embrace what I have become and move on." He looked down at his hands as he imagined the blood they were previously soaked in. "I will need to get used to this... This probably won't be the last time I need to do something similar..."

Mason vigorously patted his shoulder. "Stop being so wishy-washy! Here, take a cigarette; it'll calm you down even more than the scented candles."

Hermes promptly declined his offer. "No thanks... By the way, this aroma... It's coming from scented candles?"

He nodded. "Yes, they are all over the city. These candles replicate the sensations of those who visit the Spirit World. The Monarch of Wisdom blessed those who lit them in their homes. Nowadays, we use them all across the city in hopes of getting his attention once more."

"Interesting.." Suddenly, Eleanor walked up to the pair slowly.

"What are you two gentlemen conversing about?"

Hermes smiled. "Nothing too important. Did the city guard you were speaking to say anything?"

She sighed. "Indeed. It seems the entire city had found out about the Mutant Rampage. The citizens are completely outraged. News reporters from across the city are racing to our destination at this moment, probably..."

Hermes glanced back at the three helicopters they had arrived in. Soldiers and civilian staff were slowly disembarking, some on stretchers, others supported by their comrades. His attention was drawn to a cadet with short blonde hair. Her grimacing expression added to the disheveled wear and tear of her armor. She scanned the survivors, searching for someone, but her quest proved futile.

Hermes squinted. "... Sam?" Eleanor turned toward his gaze, her face turning ashen white.

"Officer Sam..." She rushed over in her direction.

Officer Sam forcefully pushed away medics and civilians, desperately scouring through the survivors, searching for the one person who had made her life as colorful as it was.

"Theodore! Where are you, bastard?! Stop scaring me, you asshole! Please..." Her voice grew more saturated with grief. She couldn't believe it. Not him. Why did it have to be him...

"WHERE ARE YOU!" Her screams reverberated with sorrow. Anger welled up inside, not directed at him this time, but at herself. She continued to search the small open-air perch, while medics tried their best to restrain her.

Suddenly, a large man emerged from behind and forcefully held her shoulders. "Sam, calm down!" August tried his best, but she continued to resist.

"Where is Theodore?! Where is he?!"

The soldiers all looked at the floor, speechless. Eleanor walked up to her slowly. "Sam, Theodore... He passed away."

"You liar!"

"Stop it, Sam!" August screamed.

"Let her go." August looked up at Eleanor's stoic expression and reluctantly released his grip. "Yes, Ma'am..."

Seizing the moment, Sam rushed towards Eleanor, grabbing her by the collar of her dress. "You... It's all your fault!"

"Yes. I know."

"You!" Sweat trickled down Sam's chin as she glared menacingly at Eleanor.

"It was my fault. I was the one who didn't prepare enough for this trip. Every death that occurred today was on me." Eleanor's admission hit Sam like a freight train. Her eyes widened in shock as tears streamed down her face. Her features contorted into a frown, and her knees buckled under the weight of the realization. One of her oldest friends, gone forever. The depth of the loss finally dawned on her.

Eleanor dropped to the floor, embracing Sam tightly. "Blame me. I'll accept it. It was all my fault." She gently opened Sam's hand and placed Theodore's dog tag in it, her own hands visibly trembling. "I am... Sorry... If I were a better leader, this wouldn't have happened..."

Sam began to sob uncontrollably, cursing the heavens above, her anguished screams penetrating the very souls of those present.

Hermes stood in silence as he witnessed the scene unfold before him. With a heavy sigh, he turned away to face the grand artifact hovering majestically in the sky.

'O, Monarch of Wisdom. How much longer will you turn a blind eye? Do you even truly exist?'

End of Chapter