In the middle of the Ragnarr’s main hall, the group was surrounding a huge 5-meter-tall and wide crystal-clear sphere; it was an Affinity Orb.
“Hmm, which of you will go first? “ Locke eyed Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie.
Her gaze on Nox, Nyx opened her mouth “Master, I shall have a go. “
“Then let’s see what you got.” Nox observed her curiously. Finding out their affinities should prove to be interesting.
Strolling up to the Affinity Orb, Nyx gave Locke a glance.
“Place one or both of your hands on the Orb and infuse your mana into it. After a moment, changes will begin to appear." Locke noticed what she wanted to ask.
Moving her vision back to the Orb, Nyx leisurely placed her dainty hand onto it. Pushing a portion of mana from her body into the Orb, as Locke said, a moment later a reaction began to occur.
Two small, colored dots appeared. One was pitch black, the other was a deep red. Expanding rapidly, the black dot formed a large black spherical mass that took up nearly half of the entire Orbs interior. Next to the mass, the deep red dot expanded and took up the other half of the Orb, forming a droplet shape.
Unbeknownst to the rest, Nox noticed and focused on a curious and cold energy fading in and out of the Orb. The energy appeared familiar, but he wasn’t exactly sure at the moment. Completely fading away after a few seconds, Nox decided to save it for later as he couldn’t investigate further.
“Nyx, your affinities are Darkness and Blood, both pinnacle. The astonishing aspect is the purity of your elements, as they normally can’t be felt. Yet, their splendor is radiating from inside. “ Locke knew that she read many books with Nox in the library but informed her anyway.
Locke, including everyone else, expected her elements to have a high affinity, but the purity is what was surprising. Purity is a very special phenomena that’s usually overlooked, as it’s normally not very prominent and influential.
All elements have their own essences and are what’s manipulated by mana for use, and those essences have changed in various ways over an endless amount of time. Purity is when those essences are closer to their original form, hence becoming smaller, and the higher the purity of an essence, the more you would get out of it. If you take water as an example, would you want some that is murky or viscous with impurities, or water that is crystal clear without impurities?
When one gathers an elements essence that you’re able to manipulate, you gather what you see and feel. What you sense. The larger something is, the more visible; the smaller something is, the less visible. Therefore, how could you truly use something you can’t see or feel? Something that doesn’t ‘exist’. The reason purity is special, is because an individual could have Average Affinity, yet very high purity, which could help them more than say, an excellent affinity. Regardless, it is often overlooked and irrelevant because it’s extremely rare to have high enough purity or have a fortuitous encounter that can increase it. If you are lucky enough for that to be the case, Purity would be the true deciding factor of one’s strength.
Witnessing Nyx’s results, a subtle nervousness managed to break through her previous demeanor.
Walking back to Nox, Nyx crossed her arms, purposefully propping up her breasts, saying coquettishly “How was I, master? Are you impressed? Captivated? Happy you have such an exceptional woman? “
“Yeah, yeah, all of the above. Alright, I’ll go next. “ Nox waved off Nyx’s teasing and glanced at Locke.
“Go ahead. I’m looking forward to your affinities.“ Locke motioned.
Nodding, Nox approached the Affinity Orb and placed one hand on the surface. Infusing his mana into it, the Orb almost instantly shook violently, cracking and smashing apart the floor whilst sinking halfway into the ground. Quickly removing his hand, a flood of water flew past him, heading downwards and preventing the Orb from sinking further.
“What just happened? No element is appearing yet the Orb weighs nearly a hundred times more than before. I’ve never heard of an anything that could affect the Orb from the inside. “ Ashuen appeared above the Affinity Orb, spreading her hands out and controlling the water holding it up.
“This… this… it can’t be… But there is no other explanation. “ Locke muttered, clearly flabbergasted and unable to think properly. He was expecting great things, but not this.
“Grandpa Locke? “ Sylvie noticed that he was stunned. She had never seen him like this before. All the others felt the same.
“Oh” Locke awoke when he heard Sylvie.
“Look… into the Orb. Use not your eyes, but your mana. “ Locke said movingly. This situation was too extraordinary.
Following his suggestion, everyone sent their mana onto the surface of the orb, but they were still at a loss, even Nyx. After all, although a fast learner, she never had used such energy with a physical body before today.
“Locke, there’s nothing. Maybe it’s just Nox’s mana causing the weight.“ Valcor spoke up. If it was his mana, that would also be shocking.
“Do you honestly believe that nothing would manifest when Nox can clearly use Lightning and Conjuration? Look harder. Imagine the day when you were sensing the elements and fusing them, but look for something even smaller. Remove the normality you know and seek what lies further beyond. You will eventually see it, as this is only possible with an Affinity Orb.“ Locke advised solemnly.
Listening to Locke, everyone closed their eyes, using their utmost concentration. Minutes passing quickly, one by one they noticed the energy, starting with Nyx.
Aside from Nyx who had more experience with strong powers, confusion and apprehension was planted on everyone’s face. They finally found it, but what even was it? There are no recorded elements like it. It was incomparably small and very colorful, but also immensely condensed and heavy, it sent shivers down their spines. It was one little particle, yet what would happen if they began to gather? What would the consequences be?
“Grandpa Locke, I see it… it’s so colorful and… heavy. What element is it? It’s clearly not Gravity.“ Sylvie asked with surprise, as everyone else turned to Locke. Nyx and especially Nox also wanted to know what that particle truly was.
“You all might think mana and the elements were the origin of our world, but you would only be partially correct. What you know and what the world believes, isn’t completely correct. Buried in time, there was another finding that one of the most powerful ancient scholars had found, and what he found was the true origin.
‘Not correct? True origin?’ Everyone thought, puzzled.
"The world knows of the natural laws. They are what keep everything together. Using mana and the elements as the base, the laws formed the world around us, including us and our souls. Mana is an origin energy. We speculate that it came into existence alongside the natural laws. You all also have been taught that the elements are from origin… but that would be incorrect. “
Listening to Locke, everyone became shocked. At the beginning, the elements didn’t exist alongside mana?
“Before the elements, there was a mass of energy known as Chaos. It is what came into existence alongside mana and the natural laws. Using Mana as a catalyst, the natural laws initiated a reaction from Chaos, causing the vast majority of its mass to erupt and separate… into what we know and call the elements. Chaos… is the origin of the elements. “ Locke voiced.
“So, you’re saying…” Valcor voiced what everyone was thinking.
“That’s right. What is inside the Affinity Orb is no element, it is Chaos itself! It should normally be impossible to sense, but due to Nox using it, a particle surfaced itself. “ Locke said emotionally. He never thought such a thing would occur. To have Chaos fuse with your channels, it was supposed to be impossible. Other than having channels strong enough to withstand the immensity, ancient scholars and the one who found its existence guessed that unlike mana, Chaos has a will similar to the natural laws; that it allowed itself to be used for the creation of the elements. If such an existence had a will, how could Chaos find any being worthy enough to use it? Yet, here we had a living being using it.
“Yes, yes, only such an energy could possibly be worthy enough for master’s use. “ Nyx nodded vehemently, applauding Chaos' vision.
‘Chaos is what’s worthy?’ Locke looked incredulously at Nyx. Wasn’t it supposed to be the other way around?
‘Truly inconceivable.’ Glenn, Avera, Ilene and Mel simultaneously thought, leaving the situation to the others.
“So, that’s what it was. No wonder I couldn’t tell what elements I could use. I suppose this also means my affinity can’t be measured. But Locke, if I can use Chaos, shouldn’t that mean I can use all elements? Any idea why it’s only Lightning and Conjuration? “ Nox asked curiously.
“… Ah, I see.” Locke quickly regained himself, thinking for a moment.
“Chaos is no simple energy, it is the beginning of all elements. My hypothesis is that you already have a thorough understanding of lightning and conjuration, therefore transforming Chaos into them is second nature to you. To understand the others, perhaps you must acquire an equal level of understanding. “
Reflecting on his words, Nox thought Locke made sense, but he was still uncertain ‘Nyx, I can understand lightning, but what about conjuration? What do you think is the cause?’
‘You were also known as the Myriad Emperor, master, therefore could Intent be the cause? You had achieved perfection in many weapons, and conjuration can create many things.’ Nyx replied.
‘Intent!' Nox’s eyes shone. Yes, that was most likely the reason.
‘Intent' was a very special type of energy on Tian. It was, indeed, a bit like conjuration. If you understood the ‘Intent' of a weapon, such as a sword, you need not use one in battle against most opponents. You could use your finger as a sword, or the side of your hand, or a twig. Anything could effectively be made into a sword, except it was even more powerful and sharper than man-made ones.
‘You’re right, that must be it. The tribulations allowed me to fully understand lightning, whilst Intent allowed for Conjuration.’ Nox agreed, feeling that there could be no other explanation.
‘I wonder what I need to do for the others. If we go by that line of thought, I should have been able to use a few more. “ Nox was puzzled, thinking about his previous abilities and experiences on Tian.
“Whatever, I guess I should just get some experience. This is only the first day, after all.’ Nox didn’t feel bothered. He was perfectly fine with only Conjuration and Lightning, so learning more could either happen or not, it wasn’t a big deal.
Hearing Nox mention all the elements, the others froze in place. That’s true, he should be able to use any element. They knew Nox was exceptional, but learning about Chaos and his use of it, everyone subconsciously looked between him and Sylvie, thinking about how she was fated with such an inconceivable person. They didn’t want to devalue her at all, but that was quite a development.
“Sylvie, why don’t you come and check now? “ Nox motioned for her.
“I-I…” Sylvie became very anxious when she saw Nox and Nyx’s results. Her affinities were incomparable to them.
“Sylvie do not be nervous, you are bound with master. It is absolutely impossible to be ordinary. “ Nyx encouraged in a confident tone.
Gazing at Nyx and Nox, Sylvie removed her trepidation, regaining the confidence she once had “Okay”.
Smiling in approval, Nyx watched as Sylvie approached the Affinity Orb which was once again in full view. Ashuen managed to completely stabilize it as the Chaos particle slowly faded away.
Resolution in her eyes, Sylvie would fully accept the outcome as she placed both hands on the Orb, infusing her mana within.
Standing on the sidelines, Valcor, Ashuen, Glenn and Avera were once again in anticipation. This scene mimicked earlier today when Sylvie first used the Orb, except there were now fewer people.
“Mother… what do you feel? Her Ice and Wind were Above-Average and Spirit poor. They won’t be different, right?“ Glenn decided to ask. This was the most anxious he’d been in many years. Today had become very unusual.
“Just keep your eyes on Sylvie. “ Ashuen replied quietly.
Light beginning to illuminate her front, Nox was taken by Sylvie’s visage and demeanor. Gazing at her long, light blue hair and emerald green eyes filled with determination, he felt at ease as an energy he didn’t notice began flowing out of him.
Like a spark igniting a fire, Sylvie’s mana began leaking uncontrollably from her body, confusing the others. On her upper arm where the rune formed from summoning Nox, light also began shining from it.
Inside the Affinity Orb, a giant light blue crystal nearly the size of the whole Orb, and a light green strip that spanned its entire diameter both appeared. As the Orb was a sphere, there was still space as a grey mass the size of an adult man’s head formed, changing into many different shapes.
Gazing into the Orb, Sylvie became flabbergasted. Everyone else, besides Locke, Nox, and Nyx felt the same.
“My... my affinities…” Sylvie looked at the Orb, stunned, then changing her gaze to Nox.
“Ashuen, Sylvie’s affinities… Spirit, above-average. Ice and Wind… they became Pinnacle… but most of all, they feel so pure now, much like Nox and Nyx’s. Their Purity is as if they’re made from the truest essence of elements. “ Valcor stared unblinkingly at the Affinity Orb.
“Sylvie’s potential seems to have been unlocked. As if she used a Heart of the elements. But, how rare is that? “ Ashuen voiced a bit excitedly.
“That mana and the shining rune on her arm, it must be Nox. “ a smile surfaced as she moved her gaze to Nox. She was surprised by how large of an impact he had, but incredibly happy for Sylvie.
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‘Nyx, I didn’t mean to eavesdrop on them, but it looks like I somehow increased Sylvie’s affinities by a large margin.’ Nox glanced at Nyx.
‘No one connected to you shall be ordinary, master. Your soul is elevated. You fought against the natural laws and revived Stella, therefore of course you should be able to unlock the potential of your own lover.’ Nyx expressed proudly.
‘Hmm, I suppose that’s true. Souls are truly shrouded in mystery. Still, for you to say lover so easily about another woman… I know it’s not rare for people like us, but I think anyone would have some reservations. I would, at least.’ Nox curiously gazed into Nyx’s red eyes.
‘I feel that all souls have multiple true partners, but you might need luck to meet one. I believe such is not the case for any woman connected to you, master. You are different than before. You are boundless, invincible and your soul eclipses all others. For that reason, you would forevermore be their only partner. Mine. Sylvie’s. She doesn’t know of these matters, but she easily accepted me because you are what connects her and I. The three of us. That is why it was easy for me.’ Nyx moved her vision to Sylvie and grinned.
‘I see.’ Nox nodded, finally understanding.
‘Nyx' Nox looked at her seriously.
‘Yes, master?’ Nyx replied curiously.
‘I’m really glad I found you all those years ago.’ Nox expressed sincerely.
Throughout his life, no one has helped him more than her. Although previously unable to speak, for seven millennia Nyx was the only one he could talk to about many things. Things that he couldn’t understand and realize on his own. Now that she had a body, it seemed it would be even more prominent than before.
Tragic as it may have been with Ling, you lose something and gain another, and it is important to accept what life might throw at you. The bad can be turned into good, and vise versa; it is only up to your perception and desire. And, Nox felt that it became something good.
He reached a level that allowed him to protect what is important. Stella was alive and Nox knew she would have a better life here than on Tian, which was an incredibly ruthless and unforgiving place. He met someone irreplaceable like Nyx and helped her gain a true life, and now met Sylvie, who is connected to him in such a way, that she would also carry as much significance as them. And, this was only the beginning.
‘Master…’ Nyx actually blushed when she heard his simple yet straightforward words.
‘No, I am the one who is glad. I only helped you regain the self you had lost, but you are the one who gave me a life.’ Nyx gave Nox an incredibly pure and passionate glance.
‘Come, master, let us speak with Sylvie.’ Nyx smiled happily.
Looking intently at Nyx and then everyone, Nox felt at ease. It really has been a surprising, yet good day.
‘Alright ‘ Nox replied as they walked towards Sylvie who was still shocked.
“Hehe, Sylvie, I did tell you not to be nervous. Was I right? “ Nyx giggled as she looked at the dissipating shapes inside the Orb.
Gazing and Nyx and then intently at Nox, Sylvie was still shocked and unable to speak.
Observing her emerald green eyes, Nox smiled lightly “There was no need to ever be nervous. Even if all your affinities were poor, it wouldn’t matter to me, nor to Nyx. The individual is what matters. “
Hearing Nox, Sylvie teared up, throwing herself into his embrace.
“Thank you… This day turned into one the best days of my life. Meeting you and Nyx. Seeing Ilene again. And now… now I can really become a Grand Sorceress. “ Sylvie expressed emotionally. She didn’t have tears of sadness, but of happiness.
‘One of her best days, huh? I suppose this is one of mine, as well.’ Nox thought as he briefly closed his eyes, reflecting on this day and the past.
“This is one of mine, as well.” Nox grinned, stroking the back of her head
“Come on, stop crying now. There will be plenty of more days like this one in the future. “ Nox met Sylvie’s gaze when she looked up at him.
“Mmm” Sylvie beamed, before she felt hands on her shoulders begin pulling her back.
“I will not allow this, master! You care not of my Affinities, but once it is Sylvie’s turn, you embrace and pamper her! “ Nyx pulled Sylvie back and appeared in front of Nox while pouting.
“Don’t start pretending you actually care about them. Besides, you don’t need any more ‘pampering ‘ after forcing yourself onto me so many times today. You even knocked me down into a pool of blood. “ Nox didn’t take her seriously.
“Hmph, fine, master, but you enjoyed my lips! “ Nyx’s red eyes were glaring at Nox. She was tempted to pounce on him again but held back.
“I did. “ Nox looked her in the eyes and replied without hesitation.
“Hehe, good. I will get you later, master! You can never escape my grasp! “ Nyx giggled mischievously.
“I’m aware…” Nox shook his head in defeat.
“Hahaha” Sylvie covered her mouth and laughed because of the two.
Giving Sylvie a smile, Nox turned towards Locke, Valcor and Ashuen.
“This is abrupt, and we only arrived today, but…” Nox spoke seriously and paused.
“You want to leave soon? “ Ashuen looked at Nox, finishing his sentence. She had a feeling they would leave.
“That’s right. “ Nox nodded.
“I want to leave within the week. There is a lot to see here in Razzir and we could definitely stay longer, but I'd like to visit Divinus first. “
“So soon…” Valcor said with a warm gaze on Sylvie. If Nox was leaving, she would be as well.
“Yes, sorry. “ Nox knew it must be hard for Valcor and Ashuen to see Sylvie leave.
“Very well. There is a Transportation Array here that’s connected to one of our cities near Divinus. As it’s connected to another city, verification and a pass are required. I’ll prepare one for each of you. “ Valcor said candidly. Even Sylvie didn’t have a verified pass.
“That would be helpful, thanks. “ Nox expressed, pondering on the Transportation Array.
Archaeos is by no means a small place. It was enormous, and if you took the Earths Sun as an example, which had a circumference of 2.7 million miles, Tartarus alone would be close to that width. Depending on their strength, people could travel their entire lives and barely discover a portion of their homeland. Of course, there are those who don’t find such distances daunting or time consuming. Nevertheless, Transportation Arrays saved time and helped all people reach new lands and see new things, so being able to use one is a great boon.
“Sylvie” Nox looked at her meaningfully.
“Of course I’m coming. I said so earlier. I’m ready whenever you are. “ Sylvie said resolutely. It was finally time for her to leave.
“Then we’ll leave in five days. “ Nox nodded, looking at her and Nyx.
“Okay” Sylvie nodded in affirmation.
“By your decree, master. “ Nyx smiled.
Nearby, Ilene had long recovered from the surprises ‘So, Sylvie is going to travel with those two… Nox… Chaos and increasing Sylvie’s affinities. No one else can know about his abnormal abilities or the Gods might seriously attack him.’
Ilene knew that if NoX became wanted by them, it would put Sylvie in danger, and she couldn’t allow that.
‘Little Sylvie will finally be leaving us in a few days. She should be very safe traveling with those two.’ Avera eyed Sylvie with a gentle gaze.
‘Yes. Nox and Nyx are more remarkable than I imagined, especially Nox. To have such an energy and ability to help Sylvie, she is, indeed, in good hands. Going from disappointment to bliss, meeting her true Soul Fate and having her dream truly being attainable, although she said this is one of her best days, I wouldn’t be surprised if this was THE best day for her.’ Glenn said with a calm and warm smile. He was happy for his little sister.
As Nox looked around and observed everyone thinking or having their own conversations, he realized how exceptional they were.
You would assume that witnessing someone’s affinities increase so dramatically before your very eyes would cause jealousy and discontent, but that was not the case for those here. For Nox, he had almost never met such people on Tian, not to mention so many, therefore it really surprised him. Nyx as well, as they travelled together and experienced the same things.
*Clap*
Ashuen clapped to gain everyone’s attention.
“All is set, then. We already prepared a room for you and Nyx, and Mel can lead you there. We’ll figure out your permanent residence later. It has been a long day and I’m sure everyone would like a rest. “ Ashuen looked at Nox.
Hearing Ashuen say a single room, Sylvie looked at Nyx, somewhat anxiously.
‘Worry not, Sylvie, I am still intact. When the time comes, I promise you won’t be left out.’ Nyx’s gaze landed on Sylvie.
Her face turning scarlet, Sylvie’s eyes moved between Nox and Nyx before nodding fervently with resolve in those green eyes of hers.
'Hehe' Nyx giggled quietly, as Nox glanced at her from the side feeling helpless. So mischievous.
“Ilene, the room you always stay at will be prepared shortly. “ Ashuen said towards Ilene.
“Thank you, Aunt. “ Ilene expressed with a slight bow.
“Nox, Nyx, come see me at the library whenever you feel like it. Truly gave me quite the shock today haha. “ Locke chuckled and left the hall after saying farewell to the rest. He was quite excited as he loved knowledge, whilst many theories and questions were answered today.
“We’ll also take our leave. Glenn, Avera. “ Valcor meaningfully glanced at them.
“Yes, father. “ Both replied simultaneously.
“Nox, Nyx, Ilene, we’ll see you three in the morning. You as well, Mel. “ Ashuen said warmly, leaving with Valcor, Glenn and Avera.
Gazing at the departing group, Nox thought ‘Looks like they’re going to discuss a few matters. It has been a crazy day, after all.’
“Sylvie, why don’t you head back with Ilene, and Mel can take us to our room. You must be tired. “ Nyx spoke up.
“Okay, I do feel a bit drained.“ Sylvie replied, inwardly feeling very joyful from today's events.
“Sylvie, Ilene. “ Nox nodded towards them, but gave a meaningful glance to Ilene, of which she already understood not to mention anything.
Seeing them leave, the hall was left with just the three of them.
“Alright Mel, sorry for the trouble, but can you lead us to our room? “ Nox asked. Other than her demeanor, Mel might as well be blood family with the Ragnarr’s, so of course he’d be polite.
“Yes. Right this way. “ Mel bowed slightly and led the two out of the main hall. Shortly afterwards, guards and servants entered to clean the mess. A mess which they were shocked about. Valcor instructed his head guard to personally remove and preserve the undead skeletons corpse, while the other were cleaned up and disposed of.
Outside the hall was a clear starry night sky with a large white full moon and a smaller light blue one.
‘A beautiful sky. It’s been a while since I’ve seen two moons. The blue one looks quite nice.’ Nox thought, taking in the scenery and the air. Truly a new world. A new beginning.
A few minutes later, Mel brought Nox and Nyx inside a courtyard with a large building inside. That was their temporary residence. It was well lit and made of mostly fine stone and material.
“We have arrived. “ Mel unlocked and opened the door, revealing a large and beautiful interior.
“Here is the key. A maid will come in the morning to lead you back to the main hall for breakfast. “ Mel voiced.
“Thanks, see you tomorrow. “ Nox voiced as Mel bowed and left.
Walking inside and closing the door behind him, Nox quickly found the bedroom which had a very large bed.
“A bed and place like this. A maid to wake us. This hospitality… Family. It sure has been a while, hasn’t it? “ Nox removed his boots and sat on the bed, gazing up at the ceiling.
Hearing cloth moving and dropping, Nox looked to his side as Nyx’s naked body came into full view.
“Why did you instantly get naked? “ Nox gazed at her.
“What do you mean, master? “ Nyx asked, puzzled.
Looking at her, Nox knew she was being completely honest. She clearly wasn’t feeling anything sexual; it was as if being without clothes was natural to her.
‘Is it because she was a weapon and always effectively naked?’ Nox thought. That was probably the reason.
“Listen, you can’t just get naked out of nowhere, even if we’re alone. “ Nox looked at her seriously.
“Why not? I feel better this way. Besides, my body is only for your eyes, master, and I want to feel your warmth directly.“ Nyx still had a puzzled look on her face.
“Well, I suppose for Sylvie’s eyes, as well. “
‘Ugh… she has such a personality outwardly but is still so pure in certain ways.’ Nox felt defeated and gave up. It wasn’t like he truly cared about Nyx being nude, but he didn’t want to set a precedence. Wouldn’t it be awkward if Sylvie just walked in and saw Nyx sleeping naked next to him?
“Hehehe, anyway, maaaaasterrrrr, this is what I was waiting for! Come, treat me as your pillow! I could never feel you when I was a weapon. “ Nyx giggled and wildly pounced on Nox, knocking him down onto the bed.
“…. Fine. “ Nox decided to just let her do what she wants. Nyx was never able to experience such things, after all. Besides, he’d be kidding himself if he was truly against this.
Wrapping her body around him, Nox could completely feel her shapely figure. Turning his head a meeting her eyes, Nox had a gentle gaze, as he stroked her pitch-black hair, moving his fingers down and lifting the red ends to look at them.
“Your new body really is perfect. “ Nox expressed appreciation.
“Are you taken by my beauty? “ Nyx teased.
“Of course, but that’s only a bonus. You are what gets me. Your soul. “ Nox whispered honestly.
“Is this not bliss, master? “ Nyx grinned widely, showing her pearly white fangs and staring at Nox with those pure, red eyes.
“Heh, I guess it might be. “ Nox looked upwards again and closed his eyes, reflecting on his previously lonely life. An unknown period later, he opened them as he glanced at Nyx with her head resting against his shoulder. She had fallen asleep.
Staring at her sleeping face, Nox faintly smiled ‘Aren’t I the pillow right now?’
Closing his eyes once again, Nox shortly fell asleep, completely at ease.
—Five days later—
Gathered in front of a massive, circular platform with many engraved lines and runes, the entire group was together.
“It’s finally time. “Valcor sighed. It was hard to see your child finally leave home.
“Here are your passes and Spatial Pouches. Drip a drop of blood infused with your mana essence onto them and the pass will be verified, while the pouch will become bound to you. “ Valcor handed the three a small rectangular crystal card and a what looked like a leather money pouch.
‘Oh, a Spatial Pouch, I read that they’re rare. Like a pocket dimension held within, they’re able to contain a massive number of items. Very similar to the Spatial Rings of Tian.’ Nox thought. An item such as this wasn’t a new concept. On Tian you used Qi to manipulate it, while here it would be mana.
Recieving the two items, the three did as instructed and bound the pouch and pass.
“We also left a few provisions, necessities, and a couple thousand gold inside the pouches. You should be fine for a while. “ Ashuen voiced. It was also hard for her. 100 years together and finally parting. That feeling was something only parents could truly understand.
“Here, Sylvie, take this. “ Glenn spoke up as a magnificent, rune adorned dark brown wooden bow appeared in his hands.
“I acquired this bow from a dying elf that I came across many years ago. The bows name is Windfury and made of Razorwood which will enhance your wind magic. You practiced the bow rigorously throughout your life, so I’m sure it will suit you well. “ Glenn handed Windfury to Sylvie with a caring gaze. There were always unexpected dangers in the world, and although you didn’t need a weapon to use magic, having one would help in battle.
“This is from me. “ Avera spoke up and handed Sylvie a very small silver earing.
“It’s made from Displacement Ore and will prevent influence from most Illusions and trickery. I used it for many years and it helped me more you can imagine. “ Avera said sweetly. She couldn’t let Sylvie leave without anything.
“Mom, dad, Glenn, Avera. “ Sylvie’s eyes became wet as she hugged each of them.
“Sylvie, it’s time to finally see the world… but remember, true peace does not exist. “ Ilene also gave Sylvie a hug, advising her from experience.
“I know, don’t worry. We’ll meet again one day, so please stay safe. “ Sylvie smiled.
“We will. And I would say the same to you… but you have your future husband and Nyx. “ Ilene looked at Nox and Nyx. Two freaks.
‘I’ll make sure to visit your headquarters one day. Remember my talisman. I can’t let Sylvie lose a friend… and someone from Earth.’ Nox sent to Ilene. They had interacted more these last few days and he began appreciating the demeanor she held with everyone.
“Mel. “ Sylvie gave a hug to her.
“Be safe second young miss… Sylvie. I will keep your courtyard tidy for when you return. “ Mel was about to bow but smiled instead.
“Mmm” Sylvie nodded.
“Alright, Locke, what do you have to say? “ Nox looked at Locke.
“Haha. “ Locke chuckled from Nox's abruptness.
“The city you will arrive at is called Ulnir. It is near the southeastern border of Divinus. I can’t see very far, but I suggest heading northwest when you cross. “ Locke became serious.
‘Again with the “ir”.’ Nox thought.
“We’ll do that, then. “ he decided to listen to Locke's suggestion.
“Very well, have a safe journey. Take care of Sylvie. I’m hoping for a surprise the next time you three return. “ Locke gazed at them in anticipation.
“Valcor… mother. “ Nox upturned his palm and created 5 semi-translucent talismans. Infusing a sliver of his soul within, Nox gave one to Valcor, Ashuen, Glenn, Avera, and Mel.
“Treat these as a trump card. If something unsolvable happens, infuse your mana essence into it. “ Nox said severely.
Everyone nodding in affirmation, Valcor walked up to Nox and pat his shoulder “As my son-in-law, you must take care of Sylvie. She is my life and I’m entrusting her with you. “
“Don’t worry, nothing will happen to her. I swear on my life. “ Nox said with absolute confidence
Gratified by Nox’s response and confidence, Valcor felt that he could rest easy.
“Yes, nothing will happen with master around. “ Nyx decided to speak just for that.
“Mother” ignoring Nyx, Nox nodded, still a bit uncomfortable calling Ashuen that.
Walking up with a smile, she gave the trio of Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie a big hug.
“Stay vigilant. Although the world is interesting, Archaeos is very large and carries many unknowns. Don’t underestimate it. “ Ashuen advised with a few words, mainly for Sylvie.
“You know we love you, Sylvie. Your home will always be here. Nox and Nyx, this is your home as well. Go on, these farewells have gone on for far too long. “ Ashuen smiled warmly.
“Glenn, Avera, Mel. “ Nox nodded, giving assuring gazes towards Glenn and Avera. They understood what he wanted to convey.
Gazing at the three walking into the middle of the circle and Sylvie tearing up again, Valcor's eyes turned sharp, dropping his hesitation.
“ACTIVATE THE ARRAY” his voice boomed. Moments later, light began filling the lines and runes inside the circle, starting from the outside and moving to the very center.
Looking on at the group outside the circle giving off caring gazes, Sylvie wiped her tears and regained her resolve. This is what she always wanted to do, and now it was finally coming true.
Casually waving goodbye to the others, Nox’s vision lit up when he looked down at the complex array activating.
‘So similar to Tian's…’ Nox suddenly went into a trance as he unconciously pointed his right index finger forward and began forming a colored pattern in the air, as it too began to shine after a moment. Not getting the chance to complete it, an incredibly bright flash of light filled the circular platform as the silhouettes of the trio disappeared.
Gazing into the light, Locke muttered in slight shock ‘Rune magic…’