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The Rusty Crown
The Rusty Crown 28

The Rusty Crown 28

The room was immersed in a solemn atmosphere as the elders and members of the Xinjia family waited with a mix of expectation and anxiety. The gray-haired man, seemingly a prominent leader or elder, maintained a stern expression, while the woman beside him displayed a more enigmatic countenance. The two girls and Li Xinjia, the family heir, completed the group.

As I sat in one of the designated places, Shen remained nearby, his wings folding with elegance, denoting respect for the ceremony. Mei, the ethereal manifestation, flew to me, placing her head in my lap as I stroked her red hair. Her deep and penetrating eyes met mine, creating a silent connection that transcended words.

While murmurs filled the room, one of the present soldiers tried to get my attention, but I was absorbed in that tranquil moment with Mei. The gentle touch of her hair and the calm she exuded provided a relaxing contrast to the tension in the air.

However, the reverence of the moment was broken when Shen took a position to present me again to those in the room. His words echoed in the air, conveying my demand for excellence. "The 8 Primordial can only accept the best among all. He who does not triumph is unworthy of the blessing he offers."

Expectant gazes turned to Li Xinjia and the other members of the Xinjia family. The heir, previously confident, now felt the weight of divine evaluation upon him. The girls maintained an erect posture, while the gray-haired man held seriousness, and the woman beside him emanated an aura of understanding, as if already aware of the complexities involved.

Mei raised her head from my lap, her eyes fixed on Li Xinjia. "He carries the heritage of a family, but his strength is not exceptional," Mei mentally whispered to me, sharing her analysis. "Let's test him, Aidan. Let's see if he can overcome the challenges we'll present."

I nodded slightly, indicating my willingness to proceed with the evaluation. Shen, with his imposing presence, addressed the audience again. "The 8 Primordial has decided to conduct a skill test to determine who will be worthy of his tutelage. Li Xinjia, do you accept this challenge?"

Li Xinjia's eyes reflected determination, and he nodded, accepting the challenge presented by the 8 Primordial. Shen made a gesture, indicating that the challenge would take place within the sect's headquarters.

In that moment, I found myself at a unique crossroads, a position I would never occupy if not for my skill in presenting myself as a cosmic entity sent directly from the far reaches of the universe. It was a convenient truth, a skill that allowed me to envelop the minds of believers in the mist of my charade, but there lingered a disquieting doubt: would this maneuver be enough to prolong my stay on Earth before returning to the heavens? While these thoughts echoed like murmurs in my mind, my gaze lingered on the figure of the small Mei, lying casually on my legs.

My primary strategy was already meticulously outlined. I intended to explore Mei's unique capabilities, turning the followers of this community into a submissive army, thus avoiding direct confrontation. The mist that surrounded me, presented as a celestial blessing, revealed itself as a strategic ally in this purpose. It was a cunning trick, a filter to select the most loyal followers, ensuring solid support in critical moments like this.

"Mei, share with me. As a representation of my past, you must have had significant interaction with Blackwell, haven't you?" I mentally questioned the young girl, who directed her gaze at me with an intriguing expression.

"It's complex, a peculiar connection, but yes, I've experienced enough to understand the dynamics," Mei whispered as she settled beside me.

"Can you replicate the ability of any of the Black Jackets to face this Li Xinjia?" I continued, stretching my legs on the Xinjia family's sofa.

Mei's response came with a confident smile. "Now I see... I can."

It was easier for my mind to absorb Mei's existence as an independent entity, a girl with her own identity or even as Shen, rather than facing her as a version of my past. Despite being peculiar, this dynamic was preferable to a constant internal monologue with myself. Mei and Shen, sharing a consciousness, had the unique ability to mimic and separate their identities effectively. They functioned as a collective mind or a conscious collective, something that, as long as it remained under my control, provided me with a considerable strategic advantage.

As I pondered these intricate connections, Mei remained by my side, emanating an energy that transcended space and time. The atmosphere around us seemed impregnated with the mysterious aura that enveloped our joint existence.

I closed my eyes in that moment, allowing the celestial mist to envelop me completely, guiding me back to the ethereal void I frequently inhabited between the planes of existence. At that instant, once again, I witnessed Mei's unfathomable abilities. A myriad of tricks and artifices unfolded before me, a fearsome arsenal she possessed, knowing that each of these cunning tactics could be used as a potential weapon turned against me. Caution became my ally, and every move was calculated as if it were the last on an intricate cosmic chessboard.

As I surrendered to the void, the arena around me metamorphosed, transforming into a dazzling representation of the grand celestial halls of New Eden. There we were, Mei and I, witnessing the cosmic alchemy that transformed my body, while the mist, like a bridge between worlds, made me touch the sacred ground. The young figures of Evelyn Blackwell emerged before me, and the imposing presence of the Xinjia family and the sect elders lent a solemn air to the celestial atmosphere.

"Li Xinjia, the challenge of the 8 Primordial is before you. Your mission is to face directly one of the followers of the 8 Primordial," proclaimed Shen as Li Xinjia prepared for the clash.

"A convenient truth, to consider her as my follower," I replied, observing Mei by my side. On her face, a cynically genuine smile formed. It was a truth, but not my truth. The intricate game of appearances and deceptions unfolded before us, and as I positioned myself for the imminent confrontation, I knew that beyond physical maneuvers, the battle would also involve a war of narratives and perceptions.

Mei, with her smiles and tricks, was a complex card on the cosmic chessboard that I tried to balance with mastery. Every gesture of hers, every move, was a piece in the intricate puzzle of reality before us.

The celestial atmosphere pulsed with energy as the clash between Li Xinjia and Evelyn Blackwell unleashed a lethal dance of chains and spear. Each movement was a spectacle of skill, a choreography of attacks and evasions echoing through the celestial arena.

Evelyn wielded her whip made of barbed chains with sinister grace. The chains cut through the air in deadly arcs, snaking like metallic serpents in search of their prey. Each strike was an act of mastery, an exhibition of supernatural dexterity. Li Xinjia, in turn, responded with fluid movements of his spear, stopping imminent attacks with millimetric precision.

The metallic sound of chains intertwining with the sharp clang of the spear created a unique symphony, a chaotic duet accompanying the deadly dance of the combatants. The battlefield was a canvas where the lines of chains and spear thrusts intersected in an intricate game of strategy and brute force.

Evelyn, with her supernatural agility, tried to entwine Li Xinjia in the chains, seeking to restrict his movements. The whip snaked with speed and precision, but the experienced warrior dodged with impressive grace, defying the inevitable capture. It was a frenetic dance, a duel of speed and reflexes.

Evelyn's animal, Willy, hovered in the scene like a somber observer. His black raven soared over the battle, while the cat remained attentive to the unfolding events. Their presence added an additional layer of unpredictability to the confrontation, an uncertainty that hung over the arena like a mysterious shadow.

In a standout moment, Evelyn channeled her abilities, turning her chains into a gigantic dome of metal and blood. The battlefield became a supernatural prison, where Li Xinjia saw his movements gradually restricted. The choreography of the battle changed, the arena now a metallic labyrinth testing the warrior's resilience and agility.

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Li Xinjia, however, did not falter. Wielding his spear with even more intensity, he charged against the chains, each strike a concentrated attempt to break free from the improvised prison. Each calculated movement was a step toward freedom, while Evelyn's whip sought tenaciously to keep its prey.

The clash reached its climax when, with a clever move, Li Xinjia managed to deliver a precise blow to the chains, creating a breach in the impromptu prison. The explosion of celestial energy filled the space, marking the end of the choreography imposed by the dome of chains.

"He has potential," Mei murmured beside me, her little legs swinging in the air as a physical expression of her satisfaction. However, my curiosity persisted, and the brief interaction I had with Evelyn in New Eden had not revealed all the nuances of her abilities.

"How old is this version of Blackwell?" I questioned Mei, finding her intrigued gaze.

"I'd say she's around 14 or 15 years old. Her incarnation was received back in Pomodoro," Mei replied, bringing her hand to her chin in deep contemplation.

"Complicated. What are the effects of her incarnation?" I hissed thoughtfully, watching the dome of chains dismantle itself and return to Evelyn in the form of blood threads.

"Her incarnation is called Blood Threads. It relies on control and area domination," Mei explained, a proud smile adorning her face. After all, Evelyn was her disciple, and her achievements were a source of satisfaction for Mei.

"Indeed, complicated. Nevertheless, let's make things challenging for young Xinjia. Dissolve the arena," I ordered, leaping from the edge of the celestial structure back into the cosmic void. The celestial scene extended infinitely, a stage where the pieces of destiny danced in response to the unfolding events in this cosmic duel.

As I floated in the void, my mind delved into the intricacies of strategy. Evelyn, with her Blood Threads, posed a formidable challenge. Her youth was a double-edged sword, conferring agility and dexterity but also revealing inexperience that could be exploited. Mei, by my side, seemed to anticipate the next moves with silent confidence.

Back in the sumptuous hall, my eyes opened with customary elegance, revealing the scene unfolding before me. The Xinjia family, also awakening to reality, directed their attention to the center of events. The patriarch, a man with graying hair, was the first to break the silence that hung in the air. His tone was confident, his words filled with triumph, while my eyes naturally turned in his direction.

"Esteemed 8 Primordial, your follower has truly demonstrated remarkable skills. However, my son prevailed in a direct confrontation. We could consider this as a victory, couldn't we?" Confidence permeated every syllable of the man, a conviction based on the firsthand witness of Li Xinjia's triumph.

Mei, taking the lead as my emissary, decided to speak on my behalf. "Li Xinjia has indeed exhibited remarkable skills. However, in the eyes of the 8 Primordial, perhaps that is not enough. But, as a gesture of his benevolence, we will grant a blessing to Li Xinjia in exchange for his servitude to the 8 Primordial," Mei pronounced with a voice carrying the authority and the promise of something beyond human understanding. The attentive gazes of the Xinjia family captured every word, and the suggestion to serve the one who proclaimed himself from the cosmic confines was received with a mix of fascination and respect.

"Mei, proceed," I hissed in the earthly language, with a hand gesture indicating the time to execute the next phase of my plan. The atmosphere in the room became dense with expectation as I, like a cosmic maestro, conducted this peculiar orchestra of events.

Li Xinjia approached as Mei placed her hand on his head, a connection being established. I felt the mist being drained from within me, a tiring experience but necessary to create the bond with Li Xinjia. Mentally, Mei communicated with me.

"Total control or sensory manipulation?" Mei questioned, uttering words that sounded like an enigmatic melody in the room.

"Make a complete copy of his personality, but allow young Xinjia to have his freedom moderated. Allow us to control him," I replied mentally, feeling enveloped by the complexity of this interaction.

"Should he have mist abilities as well?" Mei asked again.

"Mold them to be suitable for him, but nothing beyond that," I instructed, my curiosity heightened as I began to explore the possibilities of this new connection.

While the transfer of power and influence unfolded, a deeper question echoed in my mind: to what extent could I influence their evolution system? The complexity of this thought began to emerge, but it was a consideration that would have to be left for a more opportune moment. At this moment, my focus was on creating this connection with Li Xinjia, a crucial piece on the cosmic chessboard being woven in that celestial room.

Walking through the halls of the Order of the Horizon, I found myself in the company of Shen, Mei, and the newest member, Li Xinjia. Our small group advanced through the corridors while other elders observed from a distance. My curiosity about the sect drove me to explore further. Steps guided through the corridors, and I felt eyes accompanying us, something I considered natural given the circumstances I placed myself in.

Soon, we reached a more inner area where I glimpsed several students of the Order of the Horizon, all dressed in distinct and pompous mantles. Something immediately caught my attention: all of them shared the same race, which I mentally named Elves, with their pointed ears, including the newcomer Li Xinjia.

"Young Xinjia, please share what is your current relationship with humans," I inquired, leaning on one of the parapets, providing a view of a flowery field.

"Could this be a test?" Xinjia replied, staring at me with a mix of caution and curiosity.

"At this moment, we have a treaty with the Luminescents and the Serpentines. Since the great centurial war, our continent has fragmented, and humans live in constant conflict with our triad and also with the Sylphs and Infernars," Li Xinjia explained, outlining the complexity of relationships in that world. My thoughts began to sketch a more detailed picture.

"All right, and what is your opinion about them?" I inquired, seeking to understand his perspective.

"Humans? Well... as far as I can remember, I've never liked them. In fact, even the Noctiros are superior to them. Their policy of treating everyone as sub-races arouses my disgust, especially due to the incessant war they live in. That's why we dedicate ourselves to preparing to fight and die for our race," Li Xinjia replied, his pride in his race evident in his words.

The scenario unfolded more complex than I had initially conceived. Placing my hand on Mei's head, I mentally inquired, "What is their race, Mei?" and her response arrived, anticipating my question. "Silents," echoed Mei's voice in my mind. I arched both eyebrows at this revelation, preparing to continue our journey.

As I traversed the corridors, my perception caught the presence of an elder following my steps from a distance. There was something in his expression that indicated a message about to be delivered, although the courage to do so seemed to waver. I decided to interrupt my walk, directing my gaze to the elder. Shen, by my side, made a subtle gesture, indicating that the elder could approach.

"Esteemed Primordial, our Founder wishes to exchange a few words with you," communicated the elder, emanating deep respect in his words. A brief pause enveloped the surroundings as I pondered on the proposition. It was evident that something significant would unfold from this interaction, and I was ready to face whatever it might be, aware that this time would be different compared to my past in the clan of the exiled.

"Let's," I hissed, agreeing with his suggestion. I followed the elder toward the Founder, my group following me on this journey. As we walked through the corridors imbued with mysteries, anticipation hung in the air, for I foresaw that the next words could shape the destiny of the Order of the Horizon and, by extension, the universe I was now exploring.

The Founder's chamber was a manifestation of the grandeur of the Order of the Horizon. Its walls displayed ancient ornaments and tapestries that told stories of bygone eras. The floor, carved with cosmic symbols, reflected the Order's intrinsic connection to forces beyond human understanding. Upon entering, an atmosphere charged with veneration and respect enveloped every step.

The Founder stood in the center of the room, an imposing figure adorned with robes that seemed woven from the stars themselves. His eyes, carriers of millennia-old wisdom, met mine, and a mutual reverence was established, marking the beginning of this transcendental encounter.

"Esteemed Primordial, it is an honor to welcome you to our abode. Please, make yourself at home," greeted the Founder, gestures of respect and hospitality permeating his words.

I accepted the invitation, settling into a seat that exuded an aura of antiquity and power. My group positioned themselves around, Shen and Mei expressing cautious curiosity. Silence hung in the room, and I patiently awaited the unfolding of this conversation that could shape the fate of the Order of the Horizon and influence the cosmic webs I was beginning to unravel.

The Founder, with a majestic nod, initiated the exchange of words that transcended the barriers of time and space. "Primordial, we are aware of your unique nature, your connection to the higher planes. It is with humility that we seek your guidance and blessing for the future of our Order."

The Founder's words resonated in the room, and I understood the gravity of the situation. This was not just an exchange of pleasantries but a sincere request for guidance.

A satisfied smile drew on my lips. The opportunity to guide and shape the future of the Order of the Horizon was a gift offered directly to me. I maintained a serene expression, but my eyes reflected inner joy as I began to speak.

"My purpose on this earthly plane is to prepare the chosen ones to ascend with me to the heavens. However, due to the complexity of this task, I can only rely on the best," I uttered naturally, crossing my legs with elegance.

"I possess the ability to grant blessings to those I deem worthy, but these blessings come with a significant cost. They completely alter the evolution scale of the blessed, elevating them to something new, something closer to my own race: a Luminar," I explained with a smile, directing my attention to Li Xinjia and gesturing for him to approach.

"As you may already know, young Xinjia has received part of my blessing. I believe he can show you better the meaning of evolutionary modification," I said, waving my hand as I established a mental connection with Mei.

"Perform your spectacle, Mei," I communicated mentally to Mei. Li Xinjia allowed the mist to envelop his body, revealing his essence and showcasing his power before the Founder.

"This... young Xinjia was only at rank 5 at the beginning of the liquid stage," I could hear the surprise in the Founder's voice.

"This blessing... is it capable of evolving our ranks...?" the Founder anticipated.

"This blessing is capable of unlocking the heritage of the 8 Primordial," Mei declared with a smile on her face, revealing the transcendental impact of this cosmic gift.

Mei, with her usual sagacity, threw a provocative comment, anticipating practically the Founder's request.

"If the Founder can secure the best, the Primordial will not hesitate to grant you a blessing," Mei said in an instigating tone, setting the stage for the proposal hanging in the air.

"Exactly. I see no harm in offering a blessing that will allow you to surpass your own limits," I affirmed, extending my arms and smiling. Control over the Founder represented more than simply expanding my influence; it was an opportunity to consolidate my dominion over this region and strengthen my role in this intricate cosmic chessboard. The smile forming on my face denoted not only the acceptance of the proposal but also the broader vision of how it would contribute to my larger objectives.