Chapter 27 : Present

Cronar, the sun of the Cryptic System, rose gracefully over the horizon, casting a warm orange glow on the morning streets of Kon Guardio. Aytrex and Lincoln strolled leisurely, the fatigue from yesterday's events now a distant memory. The city had an air of tranquillity, with residents going about their daily routines, their energy orbs guiding their way.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Lincoln turned to Aytrex and asked, "You know, back at the inn, I couldn't help but feel that the receptionist had some sort of unique ability. Her voice had this calming effect, and I felt a surge of energy when she spoke. She could also control the keys and the books, what kind of ability does she have?"

Aytrex chuckled, shaking his head. "No, Lincoln, not every Alvanian is a wielder. Abilities aren't as common as you might think."

Lincoln furrowed his brows, processing Aytrex's words. "What do you mean?"

Aytrex smiled, eager to explain. "In Alvanian, there are different types of people when it comes to charge. First, there are wielders – those are individuals like me and you, who possess supernatural abilities. They use charge as an input, a power source to channel and manifest their extraordinary skills."

Lincoln listened attentively, his mind delving into the complexities of Alvanian's magical system. "So you're saying people like us aren't very common?"

Aytrex nodded. "Exactly. Wielders are actually the rarest, and now there are only very few wielders in the whole of Alvanian. The era of the moderators, who were known to be creators of the wielders, has passed. Now, only in rare occasions is a potential wielder born."

Lincoln continued to ponder, intrigued by the distinct roles individuals played in Alvanian society. "And then there are witches and wizards," Aytrex continued. "They are skilled in using charge just like magic, casting spells and manipulating the mystical energies to perform various feats."

Lincoln remained absorbed in his thoughts, his contemplative nature evident. "So, they're like traditional magic users, but with charge magic instead?"

"Exactly," Aytrex confirmed. "Their knowledge of charge magic allows them to perform incredible feats, just like the stories you might have heard about wizards and witches back on Earth."

Lincoln pondered Aytrex's words, his mind grappling with the intricacies of Alvanian's magical practices.

"Then there are conjurers," Aytrex continued. "They are the most common types of Alvanians who use charge as an output. They can channel charge into their bodies, granting them enhanced strength, speed, and various other physical abilities. They can also create charge magic tools and objects that are immensely useful in everyday life. Conjurers sometimes end up being Wielders later on in their lives."

Lincoln found this diversity of abilities fascinating, his fascination evident in his deep contemplation. "So that woman was a witch?"

Aytrex nodded. "That's correct. While Charge is a part of almost every Alvan, not everyone can harness it in such extraordinary ways. Some are simply 'normals,' they are very rare, and they don't have any special abilities. They are just like humans on Earth, with only their life energy within their bodies."

Lincoln continued to process the information, his calm demeanour reflecting his composed nature. "Just when I thought I knew everything..." he said with a sense of awe in his voice. Aytrex couldn't help but interject, sensing Lincoln's wonder at the complexity of Alvanian society.

"Indeed, Alvanian is a realm of its own, with its blend of charge magic and technological marvels," Aytrex began, "but let me tell you something, my friend. As special as Alvanian may be, it doesn't hold a candle to the beauty and diversity of Earth."

Lincoln raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Aytrex's assertion. "You think Earth is more unique than Alvanian?"

Aytrex smiled warmly. "Absolutely. Earth is a treasure trove of miracles, and its uniqueness lies in its diversity. Unlike Alvanian, Earth is teeming with an array of species, each with its unique characteristics and adaptations. Earth's biodiversity is unparalleled, from the tiniest organisms to the grandest creatures."

"While the magic may have been natural, and arguably as natural as Earth's evolution, Alvanian's inhabitants, including the Alvans themselves and the Titans that lived before them, were all created by the planet's magic," Aytrex continued. "While this is fascinating in its own right, it can't compare to the natural evolution and diversity that has shaped Earth's life over millions of years."

Lincoln nodded, absorbing Aytrex's perspective with his usual calm demeanour. "I guess you're right."

"Exactly," Aytrex affirmed. "And it's not just about the living creatures. Earth's geology and natural formations are awe-inspiring. The grandeur of its mountains, the vastness of its oceans, the intricacy of its cave systems – all created through the forces of nature without any magic involved."

"The resources found on Earth, too, are a testament to its unique nature," Aytrex added. "From precious minerals to abundant energy sources, Earth has provided humans with the means to create and innovate through science and ingenuity. It's such a perfect planet that one could argue it's even more magical than Alvanian itself."

"How so?" Lincoln asked, intrigued by Aytrex's perspective.

"Magic is imperfect," Aytrex explained. "It has so many loopholes, lacks proper rules, and poses many threats to the universe. On the other hand, Earth was created based on the foundation of science, and everything evolved naturally from there. It's like the universe experimented with planets like Alvanian and perfected the art with the creation of Earth. Nature is perfect, while Supernature is not."

Lincoln's contemplative expression deepened as he absorbed Aytrex's insights. "I guess we often take Earth for granted," he admitted. "We get so caught up in our everyday lives that we forget to appreciate the wonders around us."

Aytrex smiled warmly. "It's only natural. Sometimes, we need a change of perspective to truly understand the magnificence of our world. Alvanian and Earth each have their unique beauty, and experiencing both can enrich your understanding of the universe. Just like it did for me."

As they walked, Lincoln couldn't help but be captivated by the architecture that adorned the streets. Wooden structures blended seamlessly with charge-infused materials, creating a unique harmony between the traditional and the futuristic. The soft hum of charge magic in the air seemed to underscore the city's unity with the mystical energy that sustained it.

"Isn't it fascinating how charge magic is woven into every aspect of life here?" Lincoln remarked, gesturing towards a floating streetlamp that illuminated their path.

Aytrex nodded, "Indeed. Kon Guardio may not boast the towering skyscrapers and advanced technology of Guardio Seno, but it has its charm. The residents here take great pride in their charge lineage. Some use their abilities while others manipulate charge in innovative ways to enhance their daily lives."

As they strolled down the street, they passed charming shops and cafes where some folks were enjoying their breakfast. The alluring scent of freshly brewed coffee and delectable pastries hung in the air, tempting those passing by to stop and indulge in the morning's delights. "The food is just as tempting here as it is on Earth," Lincoln murmured, and Aytrex laughed. "We just ate," he said, still chuckling.

Lincoln laughed with Aytrex and noticed a group of children playing in a nearby park, their magical toys dancing around them as they laughed and chased each other. "Even the children here seem to be naturally attuned to charge magic," he observed with a serene smile.

Aytrex nodded, "Indeed, charge magic is integral to their upbringing. From a young age, they learn to harness and control their own energy orbs, which becomes second nature to them as they grow older."

As they continued their stroll, they passed by a group of musicians performing on the street corner. The melodious tunes of charge-infused instruments filled the air, attracting a small crowd of spectators who clapped along to the rhythm.

"It's amazing how charge magic has become such an integral part of their artistic expression," Lincoln mused tranquilly.

Aytrex nodded, "Charge magic isn't just a source of power here; it's also a form of art and creativity. Many Alvans channel their abilities into various artistic pursuits, from music to visual arts, infusing their creations with the essence of charge."

As they walked further, taking in the sights and sounds of Kon Guardio, Lincoln couldn't help but reflect on Aytrex's earlier remarks about Earth's uniqueness. "You know, man," he began, "you're right about Earth being incredibly diverse and awe-inspiring. But I still think Alvanian is beautiful in its own way, even if it's mostly based on its people rather than the planet itself. The harmony between charge magic and technology, the culture, and the history – they all come together to create something truly special."

Aytrex smiled, appreciating Lincoln's serene perspective. "You might have a point there," he said, shrugging playfully. "Perhaps I've been too harsh in my comparison. After all, beauty is subjective."

Lincoln grinned, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Aytrex. "Each world has its own wonders to explore, and I'm grateful to have experienced both."

Aytrex smiled in harmony with Lincoln as they came to a halt, "Me too."

They stopped at what looked like a shrine, and Lincoln's contemplative expression deepened as he recognized the place. "Oh?" he voiced, curiosity piqued. "Did you just visit the shrines of each island or something?" Aytrex questioned in dismay.

"I didn't have much time, I just visited each island's heart, for like a few seconds," Lincoln admitted.

Aytrex shook his head in amusement as they walked up the stairs of the shrine. The structure was an architectural marvel, adorned with intricate carvings and embellishments that seemed to radiate with charge magic, giving it an otherworldly glow. The morning sun cast a soft, orange hue on the shrine, making it even more breathtaking.

On the top of the shrine stood an awe-inspiring statue of a titan. The titan's figure looked similar to that of a human or an Alvan, but on an enormous scale, standing almost 50 meters high. It was no wonder Lincoln had only visited the shrines briefly; the sheer size of the statues was enough to leave anyone feeling small and insignificant.

As they approached the titan's statue, Lincoln noticed a glowing label on its pedestal. "Obsune?" he read aloud, his memory sparking with recognition. "That's the fourth titan king's name," Aytrex explained.

Suddenly, Lincoln's composure shattered, and his eyes widened in shock. "It can't be..."