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The Rusty Crown
The Rusty Crown 23

The Rusty Crown 23

The shadows danced in the cavern, reflecting the swirling thoughts in my mind. The Phantom's mist pulsed around me, a constant and loyal presence, ready to answer the call of its facets not yet fully understood. I dissolved my connection with the wall-bound version of myself, the echoing voice fading through the mystical corridors of my mind, leaving me facing the challenge of crafting a plan that would shape my destiny in that enigmatic world.

"Let's set things straight." I murmured to myself, seeking clarity. "Elves have their prophecies, so it's likely that other races possess their own mysteries. The question is whether these enigmas are explored out of wisdom or are merely born out of ignorance."

Leaning against the cavern wall, absorbing the cold dampness, I delved into contemplation. "By falling from New Eden, I was ripped from my world and thrust into this land full of secrets. If others fell like me, did they follow a similar fate? Or were they entangled by wrong choices, by circumstances unknown to us? So far, I've heard of no one who returned. Either they forgot the way back, or... perhaps, they didn't get the chance to return."

A deep sigh escaped my lips, a breath of resignation in the face of the unknown. "Two approaches lay before me. The conventional approach, where I infiltrate among them, adopt their attire, gain their trust, and subtly convince them to help me ascend. A delicate task, where I must be the shadow, manipulate minds, and conceal the truth."

"On the other hand, there's the riskier option." My expression turned serious as I contemplated the second possibility. "The option where I present myself as an entity, a mystical force, using the abilities of the Phantom. Revealing my true nature, trusting the mythology I've created, and risking being seen as a supernatural being. It's a path of audacity, but it may open doors that would remain closed otherwise."

The mist around me seemed to pulse in tune with the tension building in the air. "For this second option to work, we need to create a solid mythology, something that can withstand the scrutiny of curious minds and diverse cultures. We need to build a narrative that resonates with them, that awakens beliefs and, at the same time, maintains the veil that shrouds my true origin."

I leaned back against the cold wall, closing my eyes to visualize the elements of the story taking shape in my mind. "We need a convincing myth, something rooted in their tradition. The tale of a mystical being, an emissary of the gods or perhaps an ancestral entity that awakened from a millennia-long slumber. An entity destined to guide, test, or even judge the paths of those who cross its domain."

Still against the cold cave wall, I let my mind be enveloped by the mist of thoughts. The name "Phantom" didn't seem sufficient to represent all facets of my existence. The wind's whisper echoed through the arena, providing an introspective backdrop.

"I need something that involves my smoke, my mist." I let my fingers dissolve into an ethereal dance of mist particles. "Something simple yet impactful. A name that resonates with the essence of what I am."

Contemplation brought an ironic smile to my lips. "How many names am I going to use now?" I sighed, diving into the search for something that transcended simple nomenclatures.

"If it's the name of an entity, that entity needs to exist beyond words, even before its name is spoken. An entity that embodies the unknown, preceding its own designation." I stood up, crossing my arms, immersed in thought.

"An entity that just is, always has been. A force so vast that nothing exists above it, and its influence extends to everything below. Its power is so immense that, in its movement, it creates life." The words flowed like ink on the canvas of my mind, sketching the mythology that was beginning to take shape.

"A transcendental being, without a body to contain it, beyond the comprehension of even the gods. Immortal, eternal... an Immaterial." I smiled as I coined the term that would define the creator of all things, The Nameless Immaterial. "He would be a Primordial."

In the center of the arena, my smile widened as I proclaimed the mythology I was weaving to shape my new identity. "From the first Primordial, everything is born, our universe and world. His name is as ancient as time itself, but he wasn't the first. Something existed beyond him, someone before him, lost in space-time." My eyes gleamed with the exuberance of the narrative.

"Bray... Brayfog... the First Primordial." At the apex of the arena, I opened my arms as if invoking the name itself, feeling the energy of the mythology come to life. The name echoed, reverberating through the corners of the cavern, now imbued with the presence of Brayfog.

A satisfied smile lingered on my face as I continued. "From Brayfog, two others emerge, Gor and Kaira." I pondered on the roles these beings would play in the plot. "Brothers... yes, brothers. Gor and Kaira, two pillars of the trinity. Creation, Destruction, and Hatred."

Contemplation led me to question the scope of the pantheon I was creating. "But only three? A pantheon would be richer with more entities. Five? No... Seven? Seven seems like an interesting number." The challenge of conceiving deities that would resonate in the imagination of the inhabitants of that world began to unfold before me.

"I need more entities, each representing a fundamental aspect of existence. Love, Knowledge, Luck... how many more can I add to create a complete and intricate pantheon?" My mind teemed with possibilities, a symphony of divine concepts dancing in my imagination.

"Let's expand this pantheon, shape figures that resonate with the emotions and experiences of the inhabitants of this land. May each deity have a story, a legend, something to inspire and guide them in their moments of uncertainty. Myth is a powerful tool, capable of uniting and influencing the minds of many."

In the center of the arena, my mind buzzed as I pondered my role in the mythology I was crafting. "Son? No... doesn't feel right." I let my thoughts dance between possibilities, seeking a deeper connection.

"Descendant... perhaps." I sat on the cold cave floor, delving into reflections. "But what if I go beyond? What if I am the reincarnation of the 8th Primordial..." An enigmatic smile traced my lips.

The idea of being a divine incarnation, linked to the very foundation of the universe, seemed fitting. I would be the manifestation of something beyond the bounds of understanding, a vital piece in the divine tapestry I was creating.

"Reincarnation of the 8th Primordial... sounds intriguing." I stood up, feeling the energy of the cavern vibrate in harmony with this mythological revelation. "One who carries the legacy of a primordial power lost in time. An entity that transcends the boundaries between the mist and reality."

The cave remained shrouded in a dense atmosphere, my thoughts becoming increasingly tangible as I devised intricate plans. "What's more impressive than mystical abilities? A visual display of something even more mystical, like a tribulation." My eyes remained closed as imagination unfolded.

The voice of "Wall-Face" resonated in my mind, a presence carrying the gravity of past memories. "What you desire is something complex, but it is possible, even if it doesn't align with my plans."

I raised my eyebrows with a hint of disdain. "It may not align with your plans, but it does with mine. Now tell me, what can you do?"

The response came promptly, and "Wall-Face's" words echoed clearly. "I can manifest a tribulation, a visual demonstration of the power I wield. I can create images, sounds, and sensations that transcend reality, eliciting a visceral reaction from those who witness."

Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

A cunning smile played on my lips as I imagined the impact this display could have. "Perfect. I want you to create a manifestation that impresses, something that, when revealed, instills fear and reverence."

The cave began to resonate with a subtle energy as "Wall-Face" prepared to fulfill my wish. Darkness came to life, transforming into dancing shadows that snaked through the cave, creating a supernatural atmosphere.

Then, before me, a haunting vision emerged. An ethereal projection took shape, a visual representation of power and mystery. It was as if the mist itself solidified into enigmatic figures hovering in the air, intertwining into ethereal forms.

The sound of indistinct whispers echoed, reverberating through the cave walls like ancestral murmurs. The environment became charged with an unknown presence, a force that transcended human understanding.

"Add to it the sensation of a divine presence, something beyond mortal comprehension." I whispered as I observed the supernatural spectacle unfold before me. "I want those who witness this to feel the greatness and mystery surrounding the Reincarnation of the 8th Primordial."

The spectacle continued to unfold, the dancing shadows intensifying in their complexity, enveloping the cavern in an aura of mystery. It was a vivid representation of the power I carried, a preview of what could be revealed when necessary.

"Wall-Face, this is magnificent. Now, I want you to prepare for the next step. Let's take our narrative to new heights, drawing in those destined to witness the ascent of the 8th Primordial."

My attention turned to Elara, lying unconscious on the cavern floor. A mixture of curiosity and concern echoed in my thoughts. "The horned one is still lying on the ground, what's her deal?" I questioned myself, seeking internal answers.

"You consumed her spirit; she's just an empty vessel." Wall-Face's voice echoed in my mind, explaining the nature of Elara's condition. A sense of sadness lingered in the air as I processed the idea that, in some way, I had caused the absence of life in that form.

"So, I killed her then?" I asked with a melancholic tone. "Not necessarily, she's just an empty shell, a husk without an interior." I was informed.

The possibility of reversing this situation began to take shape in my mind. "Can we do something about it?" I asked, expressing my willingness to remedy the situation. "You still possess the essence of her spirit; you can shape it and place it back inside her." The response came, bringing a spark of hope.

My hands approached Elara's face, my fingers gently touching her skin. "Well, so be it." I took a deep breath, accepting the challenge. "How do I go about this?" I inquired, seeking guidance for this delicate process.

The answer came in the form of subtle instructions in my mind. "Focus on the essence you absorbed from her. Visualize it, feel its unique presence. Now, imagine it taking shape again, as if it were reassembling. Your mist will be the vehicle, the link that will restore the connection between the spirit and the body."

I followed the guidance, concentrating my mind on Elara's essence. I felt the mist detaching from me, flowing towards her lifeless body. It was a delicate process, an ethereal dance between my will and the intrinsic nature of the mist.

Gradually, the mist began to surround Elara's body, shaping itself to her form. A subtle radiance emanated from this process, as if the energy of the mist were breathing life back into the empty vessel. The atmosphere of the cavern seemed to vibrate with the intensity of this reconnection.

After some moments that felt like an eternity, the mist stabilized. Elara remained lying down, but now a gentle radiance pulsed within her being. The process was complete, and I had recreated the bond between her spirit and her body.

"That's impressive." I murmured to myself, observing the outcome of my intervention. "I hope this works as it should."

Looking at Elara, whose eyes now displayed a reddish-gray hue, I questioned the changes that the connection between her essence and her body might have caused. "But this is kinda like Necromancy, isn't it?" I commented ironically, pondering the nature of the process I had just performed. "But damn, this has various uses; what else can I do? Hide monsters in my shadow and shout 'Arise'?" I chuckled ironically, exploring the possibilities that my ability could offer.

Curious about the changes in Elara, I decided to examine her more closely. I opened her eyes carefully, noting the alteration in the color of her irises. "Wall-Face, what changed directly in her?" I questioned, seeking to understand the implications of this intervention.

The inner voice responded calmly: "The connection you restored is more than a simple physical link. You shaped her essence to reflect the energy of the mist. Now, she shares, in a way, part of the nature of the mist you possess."

"Got it, does that mean she has some kind of affinity with the mist now?" I inquired, trying to translate these changes into something more tangible.

"Yes, her presence is more attuned to the essence of the mist. This can affect her perceptions, resilience, and eventually provide unique abilities related to the mist."

Reflecting on this information, I wondered when Elara would wake up from this state. "And when is she going to wake up?" I asked, looking at her with a mixed expression of concern and curiosity.

As my mind delved into questions, I closely observed Elara's movements. I opened her eyes slowly, seeking to analyze her reactions. I had established, in some way, a peculiar connection with another being, granting them control over the mist. A form of connection that I decided to call Genesis Incarnation. A smile formed on my lips as I continued to witness the unfolding of this unique bond.

"Horned one, you okay?" My voice broke the silence, addressing Elara, whose gaze met mine.

"What happened here?" Her voice carried a strange sensation that reverberated within me. I maintained the smile and, in a gentle gesture, placed my hand on her head, stroking her hair. "Nothing, nothing at all, horned one," I replied calmly.

A smile spread across my face as I rose from the cave floor. The time I spent confined there felt like an eternity, and the certainty that something was about to happen hung in the air. I decided it was time to leave that episode in the cave behind and venture once again into the unknown.

"Well, be that as it may, the cave episode is over, time to explore again," I declared, stretching before heading towards the exit. Each step was accompanied by a torrent of thoughts dancing in my mind.

"Should I tell her about the things?" I questioned myself, but quickly dismissed the idea. "Nah, better not." I chose to keep certain mysteries intact, at least for now.

While walking, my mind continued to resonate with inquiries. I stopped for a moment and asked my inner self about the nature of the connection between Elara and me. "Wall-Face, tell me, what exactly was linked between me and her?" I awaited his response, seeking clarification.

"You now have a patronage connection with Elara," my inner self replied, leaving me intrigued. "Wait, like, boss patronage?" I asked, confused. "Is she following my orders? Free will, where is it?" I stopped and looked at Elara, who stared at me with curiosity.

I sighed, climbing again toward the cave entrance. Elara followed my steps, and soon, we emerged at the exit. I took a deep breath of the pure, cold air outside, but hunger was beginning to manifest.

"Damn, right now?" I murmured, expressing discontent. Elara stood beside me, and I crouched in front of her, placing my hands on her shoulders. "To make things easier from now on, let's change some things, alright?" I proposed, smiling slightly.

"If anyone asks, you're my sister... and your name... well... it's going to be Mei Feng," I decided, thinking quickly. My eyes turned to her horn, and I sighed deeply.

"As for this..." I raised my hand to my forehead, using the mist to create two pairs of horns above my head. "This should do it," I declared, watching Elara's incredulous expression at the unexpected transformation. From that moment on, our destinies were intertwined, permeated by mysteries and changes that would undoubtedly shape the chapters to come. I took a deep breath, contemplating the vastness before me as I watched the cave exit. Below, the dense forest extended, and above, the winding paths of the mountain challenged the climb. An ironic smile adorned my lips, and with determination, I climbed one of the paths, finally stepping onto the snow that stretched before me.

"Things are happening in strange ways. I don't know whom to blame, or if I should blame anyone," I murmured to myself, immersed in reflections, while Mei Feng finally reached the ground. "Try using the mist to make better clothing for yourself. In fact, let me do it." I approached her, and with a flick of my fingers, shaping the mist, I created more suitable attire, capable of protecting her from the cold. I saw relief in her eyes at the change.

"This should be better," I commented, smiling, before standing up. I repeated the process, this time creating a cloak over my own clothes. The presence of the horns required some adjustment to the hair, and I soon resumed walking up the mountain.

As I ascended, I noticed that the plain below was surrounded by towering mountains, as if it were situated in a colossal natural cauldron. "Man, how bizarre is all this topography. Is there some reason for it?" I wondered, my gaze turning to Mei Feng. However, something seemed different about her. "Wall-Face, what exactly changed in her? She doesn't seem like the same person."

"She's not the same. Now, she's a complement to you," my inner self replied.

"Can I give her some kind of autonomy?" I asked, concerned about the idea of having a mere puppet as a companion.

"I can do something close to that, but it's not exactly what you want," he replied, leaving me intrigued.

"What is it, then?" I insisted, eager to understand the scope of this newly discovered connection.

"I can mimic all your memories and personalities while sending part of me inside her," he revealed, unveiling a surprising possibility.

"Like you would do with me, huh?" I hissed in response to the proposal, a slight suspicion lingering in the air.

"Not exactly, but the process is similar, Aidan," he replied, clarifying the intricate nature of this peculiar bond.

"Whatever, do it," I sighed, deciding not to get lost in speculations. I continued to walk, understanding that if I had someone by my side, it should be someone capable of assisting in the challenges that lay ahead.

The journey persisted until we reached a point that revealed the view from the other side. The disparity and abrupt change of environment left me disoriented. On the opposite side, a kind of gigantic dome seemed to encapsulate the entire region, outlining a clear distinction between the two scenarios.

"What the hell is this?" I exclaimed, perplexed. The dome separated two worlds, and curiosity turned into determination. "If I fell from up there, then this dome must be crossable." I clicked my tongue, pondering the possibilities.

"Up, down... if it keeps going like this, I might as well apply to become an athlete," I joked, but descending was not in my plans. I chose to replicate an ability that was familiar to me: jumping from elevated locations.

"Wall-Face, you now answer to me through Mei, understood?" I asserted, directing my gaze to Mei Feng, who nodded.

"Let's jump and use the mist to reach the ground faster," I instructed, launching myself into the void. My body dissolved into mist, a transformation that would ensure a swift and controlled descent. The air cut around me as I plunged through the dome, eager to unravel the secrets that awaited on the other side.