Chapter 19: Experiments of the Nexus Stone on Humanity

Entry #1

The year is 363 of the Hrofth Calendar. I have been summoned by the Archon for a most interesting endeavor. I owe my life to the Archon. They saved me, gave me a purpose. I can only offer my everything, my complete consciousness and every fiber of my being. I traveled across the entire continent to meet with them, in their entire glory. I am the Veilmaster, the Azure Specter, the Phantom Warden. These titles are not mine to bear but were given by the Archon. They gave me a mission. One from long ago. One from before our time, before the time of the Order. The Shadowed Covenant was their name. A dark order that terrorized Einrich. Traces of the Covenant date back to before the Great Calamity, in the unwritten times. The times when Gordon of Legend was captured for two millennia. This 'mission' as the Archon called it, or as I refer to it, an experiment, is to find a way to replicate the miracles of the Nexus Stone.

Extended life, heightened senses, and a strength unparalleled is what they sought, and now what I seek. I have my severe doubts about the success of the experiment, knowing what it did in the past when the Covenant performed it. I've read up on every record available to the Order upon which these experiments are mentioned. Several instances of children being more successful than their adult counterparts. No complete success, yet a foundation I'd be willing to build upon. I believe the goal for this experiment is to create a force that rivals and exceeds the strength of the Nightblades, an extension of the Order. The Archon does not believe in them. Rightfully so, the Archon is always correct.

There is much work to be done, and so I've enlisted the help of several Acolytes. Number ten and number four fought against the notion, stating they had business with the Mistress, yet I enlisted the help of number one to retrieve them. They have been instructed kindly to find any suitable candidates for which the experiment can be performed. This will take a long time. I expect no immediate results, yet everything will be as the Archon had envisioned. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

The Archon's vision extends beyond mere physical enhancement. They foresee a new era where the Order's influence reaches every corner of Alcrest, where the shadows we command will reshape the world's destiny. The Nexus Stone is but a means to an end, a catalyst for a grander design. The Covenant's experiments were crude, their understanding limited. We stand on the precipice of greatness, ready to surpass their primitive attempts and unlock the true potential of the Nexus Stone.

I have dispatched scouts to the farthest reaches of the continent, seeking any remnants of the Covenant's work. They return with fragments, pieces of a puzzle that I must painstakingly assemble. The Archon's guidance is my beacon, their wisdom a light in the darkness. They have entrusted me with this mission because they see the potential within me, the unwavering dedication to their cause.

To stand at the forefront of the Order's evolution, to be the architect of a new era, is an honor I do not take lightly. Every success, every failure, will be a testament to our devotion to the Archon. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #18

The year is 380 of the Hrofth Calendar, and the experiment is running smoothly. Number one has since departed, being replaced by number eleven for the same cause. The Mistress, in her infinite naivety, has spoken with the Archon about these experiments. Understandable, as the Archon's wisdom will render her Nightblades useless. Completely irrelevant.

I've moved to the empire for further experimentation. The children here. They seem enhanced in some way. As if the Nexus Stone has some connection to this land. Reinbose had its fair share of excellent candidates, yet Einrich is beaming with them. Practically every other child we've found has been a rightful candidate for experimentation. I hope to foster a good relationship with the citizens here. I hope to continue experimentation here. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

The children here in Einrich exhibit qualities that are almost uncanny. Some possess natural talents in agility and strength, others in intellect and perception. It's as if the Nexus Stone has a dormant influence in this region, awakening latent abilities in the young. This has led me to theorize that there may be undiscovered veins of the Nexus Stone buried beneath the land, subtly enhancing the populace over generations. The Archon, in their boundless wisdom, suggested that I investigate this possibility further, and so I have instructed number eleven to begin geological surveys in conjunction with our ongoing experiments.

I have also started to delve into the cultural practices of Einrich, searching for historical accounts or folklore that might hint at the presence of the Nexus Stone. Ancient songs and stories speak of stones that grant wishes or bestow strength upon the worthy. While these accounts are shrouded in myth, I believe there is a kernel of truth to be found. Every legend has its roots in reality, and I am determined to uncover it.

The Mistress's Nightblades continue to be a thorn in my side, their watchful eyes ever-present. They are loyal to her, and she is wary of my intentions. However, I take solace in the Archon's unwavering support. Their vision is clear, and their trust in me unshakeable. I must not falter in my duties, for the stakes are too high.

As we push forward with our experiments, the scope of our work expands. We are not just enhancing individuals; we are laying the groundwork for a new society, one built on the principles and power of the Nexus Stone. Each successful candidate brings us closer to this vision, each failure a lesson learned. The path is fraught with challenges, but the potential rewards are beyond measure. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #19

The year is 380 of the Hrofth Calendar. I've spoken with several individuals since my last writings. It seems work keeps me busy every waking day, and I have no time to write my findings within this folder. The government of Einrich is very interested in this experimentation. Saying nothing of the Order, myself, number four, number ten, and number eleven (Nyx rest his soul), we've all explained the experimentation has always been for the sake of the empire.

There seems to be rising tensions between the empire and the republic. I am naïve and sought the Archon for wisdom. They have seen the rising tensions for some time, as they should, and expect a war in the coming years. Not immediate, yet close enough to the point of wanting to take a side. The Order takes no sides, and the Archon is right, as always, to remain neutral through the years.

Number eleven has passed. They sought a single soul for too long and died to the father. The father is of great interest, yet we have no need for adults. The children are what we need. No less than ten. No more than fifteen. This is as the Archon has described. I've read more about the acts of the Covenant. They seem to believe that extended life is closer than ever before. I hardly believe it, yet what do I know. Only the Archon knows, I am an idiot for questioning them.

My time here in the empire has been very fruitful. I've come across a small town by the name of Clerud. I've begun visiting the town frequently, making my name known there. Under an alias, of course. They know me well, as I know them well. The children here are riper than in most other places. Rather than investing in these children, I've begun to research why this town has the makings of a paradise for our experimentation. I've brought on the help of the newest Acolyte, number eighteen, to assist me with the investigation of this strange town.

My frequent visits to Clerud have revealed more than I anticipated. The town's history is rich with peculiar incidents—children with extraordinary abilities, sudden bursts of unprecedented crop yields, and unexplainable phenomena that the locals have come to accept as part of their daily lives. It's as if the very air in Clerud is charged with a latent power, perhaps remnants of ancient rituals or undiscovered sources of the Nexus Stone. The more I uncover, the more I am convinced that this town holds a significant key to our experiments.

Number eighteen has proven to be an invaluable asset. Their keen observational skills and dedication to the Archon's cause have accelerated our research. Together, we have begun mapping the town's ley lines, searching for any natural alignments that could explain the enhanced abilities of its inhabitants. Our findings are promising, and I believe we are on the verge of a breakthrough.

Meanwhile, tensions within the Order continue to simmer. The Mistress's Nightblades grow increasingly suspicious of our activities. Their loyalty to her is unyielding, and they see our experiments as a threat to their power. This internal strife is a distraction we cannot afford, yet it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance we must maintain.

As the political climate between the empire and the republic intensifies, our work becomes even more critical. The Archon's foresight in remaining neutral allows us the freedom to maneuver without the burden of allegiance. We are the unseen hand guiding the course of history, shaping the future in ways only the Archon can fully comprehend.

Acolytes have begun to be recruited left and right. Perhaps it is because number eleven has met their end, though I do not know. The Archon works in ways I could never imagine. Let us hope we continue to experiment smoothly. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #46

The year is 403 of the Hrofth Calendar. I am pleased to report that a great success has arisen from the town of Clerud. We call him Ixion, the founder and creator of the new force of the Order. He was found in Clerud by number eighteen and is everything we'd hoped he'd be.

His aging has slowed, and he has the unique ability of persuasion. I am still unsure how it works, yet it was how the Covenant described. When he wishes something so deeply he cannot help but have it his way, his words cut into the listener's brain and hardwire it to oblige with the specified action. It's a miracle. The Covenant is good, and the Archon had perceived it as such. We followed their instructions, and as if we were blind mice in a cornfield, we found our way.

I've left the empire since Ixion's birth, hoping to find candidates in the new country of Rivercrest. I've enlisted the help of number five, number twelve, and number thirteen for this experiment, hoping the Covenant will lead me to even higher heights. Our relationship continues to grow with the empire. They seem to be very pleased with the creation of Ixion and require several more children like him. They seem to wish to create a force of their own. I hardly know what they wish to call it, but I imagine it will be to crush the republic.

The birth of Ixion marks a turning point in our endeavors. His abilities are beyond anything we have ever witnessed, suggesting that we are on the right path. His existence confirms that the secrets of the Nexus Stone can indeed be harnessed, and perhaps even perfected. Ixion's talent for persuasion, though subtle, is profoundly powerful. It has reshaped our understanding of the Nexus Stone's potential, opening new avenues for exploration and experimentation.

Our move to Rivercrest is strategic. This new land holds untapped potential, its people untouched by the conflicts that plague the rest of the continent. The children here may offer a fresh perspective, untainted by the political machinations of Einrich and Reinbose.

Meanwhile, I must remain vigilant of the growing interest from the empire. Their desire to harness the power of children like Ixion is palpable. They see the potential for a formidable force, a tool to tip the balance in their favor. We must tread carefully, ensuring that our loyalty to the Archon remains unquestioned. The empire's ambitions are short-sighted, focused solely on the immediate conflict with the republic. They do not see the broader vision, the ultimate goal of the Order.

Our neutrality is our greatest asset. It allows us to operate with a degree of freedom and flexibility that would be impossible if we were tied to the empire or the republic. The Archon's wisdom in maintaining this stance is evident, guiding us through these turbulent times. We let the two dogs obliterate each other, then step in and finish the job. I hope Rivercrest holds some prosperity. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #70

The year is 410 of the Hrofth Calendar. I've traveled throughout the continent since my last writing three years ago. Twenty-four successful candidates for the empire, including Ixion. They have their names, yet I can hardly remember any of them. The Order has begun to take precautions regarding both aging and the war, as it seems war can begin any year now.

I've spoken with the Emperor about numerous things as an ambassador of the Archon. The force they wish to create needs at least fifty men. The Men of Gordon, as they call it. Why they dare use Gordon of Legend's name for such a purpose is beyond me, yet it seems fitting given the qualities the men possess. Gordon was one such holder of the Nexus Stone, and so too are the Men of Gordon in a similar regard.

Three more children have come from Clerud. As expected, they perform the best of the best when it comes to their aptitude with the Nexus Stone's abilities. Why, it seems, still eludes number eighteen. Perhaps I should have gotten someone more able, yet number eighteen was recommended by the Archon, so I cannot disagree with the judgment. The Mistress has been out for my head due to these experiments. Her Nightblades watch me in my sleep. Such internal conflict isn't right for the Order. We should all listen to the Archon. They know the best, they know what's right for us, they will lead us to the future we all seek. I hope to reach fifty men before it is too late. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

The preparation of the Men of Gordon has been an intricate process, involving not only physical and mental conditioning but also the integration of the Nexus Stone's essence. Each candidate undergoes rigorous training, designed to unlock and amplify their latent abilities. The transformation is remarkable. Their strength, agility, and cognitive functions surpass those of ordinary humans. They are becoming the perfect warriors, a testament to the Archon's vision and the Covenant's forgotten knowledge.

The political climate grows increasingly volatile. The empire and the republic inch closer to war with each passing day. The Archon's foresight in remaining neutral allows us to operate without the constraints of allegiance. Yet, the empire's demands grow insistent. They see the Men of Gordon as their secret weapon, a means to decisively end the conflict in their favor. I must tread carefully, ensuring our independence while placating their expectations.

Within the Order, the Mistress's discontent festers. Her Nightblades, though formidable, are becoming obsolete in the face of our new creations. This internal strife is a distraction we cannot afford. The Archon's vision is clear, and our loyalty must remain unwavering. The Mistress's paranoia must be managed delicately, ensuring her cooperation without compromising our objectives.

As I continue my work, the burden of responsibility weighs heavily. The stakes are immense, the potential rewards unprecedented. The creation of the Men of Gordon is but a step toward a greater goal, the dawn of a new era guided by the Archon's hand. Every experiment, every candidate, brings us closer to realizing this vision. For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #99

The year is 430 of the Hrofth Calendar. Clerud has been destroyed. The actions of the empire upon itself make no logical sense. They shoot themselves in the foot for the sake of achieving the continent? I do not understand. This situation has ruined any future prospects of experimentation. Fortunately, we have two survivors of the accident. One boy is just above the age we request, while the other is right where we want him. Regardless of age, we will accept them into the Men of Gordon in hopes of allowing them the freedom to act and to take revenge for themselves.

The Order has watched on and will provide no support to either side in this conflict. The Men of Gordon are not yet complete, not until the two Clerud survivors are well equipped for the future. The older of the two will age slightly faster and be slightly weaker, but he will still carry the weight of several army's worth.

The destruction of Clerud has not only cost us a vital source of candidates but has also dealt a significant blow to our research. The empire's reckless actions are puzzling and detrimental to our long-term goals. Their short-sightedness could unravel much of the progress we have made. The Archon, in their infinite wisdom, has advised patience and resilience. We must adapt to these changing circumstances and find new avenues to continue our work.

The two survivors from Clerud show great promise. The older boy, despite being slightly above the ideal age, exhibits remarkable resilience and potential. The younger one, however, is precisely what we need. Their integration into the Men of Gordon will be crucial for the continuation of our experiments and the realization of the Archon's vision. We have begun their training and conditioning, ensuring they are prepared for the role they are destined to play.

The Mistress's Nightblades grow increasingly restless, their loyalty to her at odds with our evolving goals. Their presence is a constant reminder of the internal strife that threatens to undermine our efforts. I must ensure that their interference does not derail our progress. The Archon's vision is paramount, and any dissent must be managed with precision and tact.

As we approach the completion of the Men of Gordon, the full scope of our ambitions becomes clearer. They are not just a fighting force; they are the harbingers of a new era. Each one is a testament to the power of the Nexus Stone and the wisdom of the Archon. Their deployment will mark the beginning of the end for the old world order, paving the way for the Order's ascendancy.

For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding.

* * *

Entry #100

The year is 435 of the Hrofth Calendar. Today, we unleash the Men of Gordon onto the battlefield. Fifty-seven men will join the empire's forces in crushing the republic, though they will eventually turn on the empire, as we've always planned. The Order chooses no sides. The empire will fall. The republic will fall. In their ashes, the Order will rise, and the Archon will take its rightful place at the helm of Alcrest.

We've kept three men behind, Ixion included. They've been enlisted as the final three Acolytes. Emyr has become number thirty-nine. Melitta has become number forty. Ixion, he's number zero. I believe even Arion, number one, will fall at the hands of Ixion. He is the greatest warrior the continent of Alcrest has ever seen, and he will lead the Order as the Archon's most prized possession. I will move on from these experiments, though I will continue to create and to experiment with life. The Covenant's writings are limited, and so I will do my due diligence to continue what they began. All, in the name of the Archon.

The deployment of the Men of Gordon marks a pivotal moment in our history. Years of tireless work and unwavering dedication have culminated in this day. Each of the fifty-seven men embodies the pinnacle of our research, a living testament to the power of the Nexus Stone and the Archon's vision. Their strength, agility, and unwavering loyalty are unparalleled. As they march to war, they carry with them the hopes and ambitions of the Order.

As the Men of Gordon integrate into the empire's forces, they will operate under strict orders to ensure the downfall of both the empire and the republic. Their mission is twofold: to assist the empire in its immediate objectives and to subtly destabilize it from within. When the time is right, they will turn against their so-called allies, paving the way for the Order's ascension. This grand strategy has been meticulously crafted under the Archon's guidance, and I have no doubt in its success.

My role now transitions from direct experimentation to broader strategic planning. The groundwork laid by the Covenant provides a foundation, but our vision extends far beyond their initial scope. The secrets of the Nexus Stone are vast and largely untapped. My continued research will delve deeper into its mysteries, seeking new ways to harness its power for the Order's benefit.

The Archon's wisdom remains our guiding light. Their foresight has navigated us through treacherous waters, and their plan for Alcrest is nearing fruition. The Men of Gordon are the vanguard of a new age, but they are only the beginning. The Order's ultimate goal is to reshape the world, bringing about a reign of order and enlightenment under the Archon's rule.

As I pen this final entry in the 'Experiments of the Nexus Stone on Humanity,' I reflect on the journey we have undertaken. The ethical dilemmas, the sacrifices, the profound discoveries—all have been steps toward a greater purpose. This chronicle stands as a testament to our dedication and the legacy of our work.

For the sake of the Archon, I do their bidding. Our path is clear, our resolve unshakable. The future of Alcrest belongs to the Order, and we will stop at nothing to achieve our destiny.

Signing,

The Azure Specter