The ancient gate's voice, shifting to the side, still echoed in the sky as Fitran and Rinoa stepped into the inner realm of Great Gate. The sacred light that once flowed from the carved crevices began to fade away, replaced by the elongated shadows cast by hundreds of stone pillars that formed the pathway leading to the horizon.
Before them lay the hidden world of Gamma.
Behind them was an unavoidable history.
However, only a few steps after their feet touched the stony floor, the ground began to tremble. Initially subtle, the vibrations soon grew into a rhythmic thumping, reminiscent of the heartbeat of a world that had just been forced to awaken after thousands of years of slumber.
In the calm before the storm, the atmosphere around them began to vibrate, as if sensing the arrival of two souls at the earth's core. A gentle breeze brushed by, carrying the aroma of ancient spices and the faint sounds of a commotion that ordinary ears could not perceive. The whispering wind seemed to warn them of an impending event. The daylight above gradually transformed as gray clouds gathered, obscuring the sun and enveloping the area around the Great Gate in an air of mystery.
Fitran immediately halted his steps. Excalibur was now back at his side, yet a slight tremor pulsated through its blade—an instinctive response to the unseen danger that was drawing nearer.
From the corners of the stone pillars, a heavy scraping sound emerged. It was not the sound of magic or living creatures, but rather the sound of metal and stone moving with ancient certainty. In the crevice between the grand pillars, heavy rocks began to shift, a reaction to the power that had been trapped for centuries—reclaiming their identities.
Rinoa turned quickly. "Fitran… look."
The panorama before them changed dramatically. The dim light began to vibrate in a wave of rainbow colors, flowing through the pillars like blood coursing through veins. Rinoa felt her heart racing, not only from tension but perhaps also from a sense of awe that seeped through her bloodstream. Every second felt profound, and the rumble from deep within the earth transformed into a mysterious melody that seemed to call to them.
And from the light mist rising from the ground, large silhouettes began to emerge… becoming clearer with each passing moment.
The Golems.
Dust whirled around them, as if recounting tales from ancient times, once revered as statues, now guardians of the gate and relics of history.
Now they stood. They moved. They lived.
As the Golems moved, Rinoa noticed the deep green crystals in their chests pulsing in rhythm with the vibrations of the earth. Light traveled from their feet to the pillars, as if merging in an ancient ritual. Each golem seemed to narrate the passage of time, walking slowly with a graceful elegance that was mesmerizing as the clash of metal and stone resonated. Rinoa couldn't help but observe every detail, from the intricate glyph carvings to the dozens of clear eyes glistening under the dim sunlight. Her heart raced—not only from excitement but also from the peaceful aura surrounding these formidable beings.
Each of them stood over three meters tall, their bodies composed of bronze metal, ancient stones, and deep green crystals pulsating in their chests like cores of life. Glyphs and ancient scripts adorned their surfaces, emitting a faint light that wove a web of magical energy, enveloping the surroundings in an aura of tranquility, as if the place had long been abandoned only to speak once more to them.
During these tense moments, the magical aura enveloping the Golem began to interact with the power within Fitran and Rinoa. This unseen energy crept into their souls, permeating every inch of their bodies, as if urging them to recognize their origins and the destinies they were meant to fulfill. Despite the flow of energy brushing against his palms, Fitran remained calm, employing his adept tactics while receiving signals of the fate that awaited.
"We are the guardians, we have risen to protect what remains," the heavy whisper flowed from the Golem's mouth, guiding them into silence within their awareness. Rinoa felt each word penetrate her soul, invoking a hope they may not even realize they carried.
As if responding to that call, the light in the Golem's chest grew stronger, and the rumbling sound from within the earth transformed into a mystical cry, inviting them along the path to the hidden world within the great gate.
"They are not just guardians. They are our bridge to what has been lost," Rinoa whispered to Fitran, her eyes shining with a desire to understand.
With steps filled with both fear and certainty, they moved closer to the Golems, observing every detail of life etched into their unusual forms. The hidden world of Gamma, which they had been searching for, now lay before them, with a window of opportunity wide open as these ancient beings emerged.
With a cool breeze and fading shadows, the past and future seemed to blend in the eternal response of the Golems, guarding the secrets of a long-gone world. A whisper of respect and a feeling of insignificance arose in Rinoa's mind as she stepped forward, both fascinated and apprehensive. What kind of adventure awaited them in this world—the world that had just begun to unveil its presence with the power of the long-sleeping tumult?
Each one stands over three meters tall. Their bodies are composed of bronze metal, ancient stones, and deep green crystals that pulse in their chests like the heart of life. Glyph carvings and ancient scripts adorn their entire surfaces, emitting a faint light that traces rune-like patterns across their joints and metal bones.
Around the Great Gate, the atmosphere is thick with tension and mystique. A thin mist gently weaves between the shadows of towering eternal trees, as if witnessing a moment that will determine the fate of this world. A light breeze carries the scent of damp earth and dust from ancient ruins. In the distance, the whispers of nature tease a story long buried.
They numbered in the dozens... perhaps even hundreds. And all of them turned to face Fitran and Rinoa, who stood calm yet felt the tension hanging in the air between them. Rinoa could feel her heart racing, as if it was battling the rhythm of the magical energy being emanated by the Golems. Fitran, in silence, straightened his back. In that moment, they shared a confident glance—a signal of determination and certainty, even as uncertainty enveloped them.
One of the Golems—the largest, with two right arms and a face shield resembling a dragon's shield—stepped forward. The sound of its footfall thudded, shaking the air. Each of its steps created vibrations that could stir the soul. Then, without warning:
"Identity unverified. Presence not blessed by the Archetype of the Owner."
A hissing sound emerged from the crevices of the Ancient Ruins, reminiscent of a bygone world responding to the present. The runes on the Golem's body glowed fiercely, radiating waves of magical energy that intertwined with the atmosphere, creating ribbons of green and blue light swirling around them.
Fitran adjusted his position once more, creating just the right distance to protect Rinoa beside him, as if turning himself into a shield. He understood the importance of focus and calmness, even as the world around them seemed to be crumbling. He could sense the proximity of magical energy surrounding the Golems, vibrating, shifting, and swirling—this energy urged the Golems to remember their purpose. Rinoa grasped Fitran's arm, her eyes ignited with determination. They could not retreat now.
Then, a rumbling voice followed:
"Activate Interdictum Protocol: Border Guardian Gamma."
Suddenly, all the Golems lowered their shoulders, their arms shifting and transforming—from hands into weapons. Some bore magitek blades, while others sported arms that transformed into ancient energy cannons. As the Golems moved, the air around the Great Gate trembled, reacting to their formidable presence. The sound of clinking metal blended with the whispering wind, creating a symphony that shook the atmosphere, while the gentle light from the massive portal behind them reflected on their surfaces, gleaming like iron.
They did not hesitate.
They were not living beings.
They were walking code.
Behind them, the shadows of the majestic Great Gate created a dramatic contrast with the firm steps of the Golems. The massive stone pillars, carved with ancient symbols that narrate the tales of long-lost hero festivals, stood tall like guardians. The air felt cold, and the sweep of the night wind carried the scent of damp earth and foliage washed away by the rain. Dim light bathed the scene, illuminated by the awe-inspiring flashes of thunder in the distance, blurring the lines between reality and magic.
"Fitran," Rinoa whispered, grasping his arm. "They will crush us without asking why. This isn't a test… it's an ancient command that has not been revoked."
Rinoa could feel the pulse in Fitran's wrist, her heart oscillating between anxiety and determination. She tightened her grip on his arm, as if trying to impart strength through her gentle touch. She became a shield for her trembling heart, piercing through the terrifying external noise.
Fitran squinted, staring ahead.
With a slight movement of his wrist, he observed the intricate movements of the Golems, how magical energy swirled around their arms, creating flashes that made the skin tingle. In that moment, awareness awakened; fear slipped into him, cloaked in the growing courage. He understood that they were not merely objects, but embodiments of technology bound to an ancient mission. They were not just obstacles, but guardians of a hidden truth.
"No... this is a filter. Gamma does not accept just any travelers. We must provide them with answers. But not with our voices." He took a deep breath. "But with memories."
His words echoed, a clash of hope and fear filled the air. He stood tall, then reopened the magic of Voidwright—not to attack, but to touch the logical structure of the Golems. Red and blue energies melded in an etheric vibration, creating a harmony brimming with wonder, stardust caught in radiant light, depicting a magnificent dance around his body.
His hands lifted, and he whispered:
"Memorare Initium: Sequence Nullum."
(Remember the Beginning: Sequence Empty)
The Voidwright magic circle emerged, this time taking the form of a flat spiral beneath his feet. In that moment, when light radiated from him and twirled beautifully, it created a bridge between two worlds—the visible and the hidden. The Void runes glowed, connecting Fitran's memories and the traces of his soul into a magical pattern that radiated towards the Golems, linking them to an even deeper power.
Passive Magic: Memoria Vector — Resonance of Existence
(Voidwright Passive Art)
From the center of the circle, beams of light erupted, splitting the space like lightning striking the earth. The Golems seemed to sense the flow of energy, directing their attention to Fitran's presence—perhaps for them, he was the spirit awakening ancient knowledge. They paused momentarily, their weapon arms raised, trembling in an unexpected balance as if grappling with long-buried memories.
Even in the oppressive silence, Rinoa could see the changes in the Golem. Amidst the explosions of magical energy, she caught glimpses of a fiery red light within their metallic eyes, casting an eerie shadow. Ancient souls might be awakening, and in that remarkable moment, they witnessed a struggle between memory and duty, between human and machine.
The entire battlefield was filled with an astonishing blend of aromas, a mixture of dust and sweat, as if trapped in a rush of adrenaline. Rinoa directed her gaze towards Fitran, her heart trembling at the determination reflected in his face, staring tirelessly, committed to the mission that was about to unfold.
Fitran knew this was a pivotal moment; his raised hand trembled, feeling heavy as if the world was holding its breath. His touch on the Voidwright magic had a greater impact than mere spells or elements; it was a bridge between two worlds—the realm shaped by memories and the world ensnared in functional mechanisms. He felt his soul communicating with the guardians, an unspoken dialogue of eternity enveloping them amidst the roaring wind, as if time itself participated in this performance.
With every heartbeat, the flow of energy around them danced, swirling in a mesmerizing circle and creating a luminous halo in the dark sky. Some Golems appeared more tranquil, seemingly entranced by the energy flowing in and out of Fitran's body. He could sense their consciousness vibrating, questions and curiosities infiltrating their programmed logical minds; this moment became a bridge, with his knowledge serving as a means to breach the dimensions constrained by their mechanical arrogance.
Rinoa held her breath, feeling every vein in her body harmonizing with the profound energy. Her gaze remained fixed on Fitran, who seemed to be the core of this storm. She hoped that the gentle night breeze could protect them, even as the past tried to tear apart their peace. This moment stood as a silent witness to a deeper interaction, a quest for evidence of the potential pieces that lay dormant beneath the ruins of time.
The Voidwright not only dismantles reality; at the level of Voidwright Overseer, it becomes a bridge between memory and existence.
The Memoria Vector that awakened Fitran's recollection at the outer gate has now reactivated, projecting the truth of his existence before the guardians. In the silence, the great gate in front of them trembled gently, as if responding to the vibrations of magical energy flowing through the air.
It is not an illusion. It is not an argument.
But who he is within the continuum of history.
One by one, the crystal eyes of the Golems ignite in violet. The lights shine as if illuminating long-buried memories deep within their souls, awakening dormant emotions. The atmosphere around the Great Gate becomes tense, like the slow breath of a creature birthing a new dawn.
They see:
— Fitran's sacrifice in the Labyrinth. His stern face was clear to see. His skin, darkened by battle dust and sweat, bore a gaze full of hope and conviction. Each moment etched itself into the memories of those who remained awake.
— The Void used not for destruction, but for reshaping the fractured world. The vibrating purple energy around them felt like invisible fingers, touching each Golem and granting them a vision of the potential of humanity to bravely confront the darkness.
— Rinoa standing beside him, not as the Avatar of Destruction, but as the Avatar of Harmony. Her movements were gentle, as if she could dance between the dimensions of time and space. Her smile was soothing, wrapping every soul in warmth that defied sorrow.
— Their loyalty against the fatalistic will that had consumed the world. Amidst the silence, there was a rumble of the spirit of resurrection that seemed to ignite the fighting spirit of the Golems. They felt the weight seeping into their collective memory, bringing new hope into the stillness.
Some Golems began to waver. A few slowly lowered their weapons. Their crystal eyes sparkled brighter, wrapped in an unexpected aura of hope. Where once the burden of uncertainty weighed heavily upon them, they now began to feel the bitter taste of independence. In the midst of what we perceive as absolute power, a conviction arose from a truth that had long been hidden.
Yet the main Golem—Arch-Golem Varnax—remained standing tall. His twin-arm weapon still blazed with energy. A thick black aura enveloped him, exuding an air of dominance and fear. In the stillness of the awakened night, Varnax appeared even more terrifying, as if reminding all present of the immense power he possessed and would not hesitate to wield.
"Voidwright detected. The risk of fate exceeds tolerance. Activation: Reality Reinforcement Rite." The cold metallic voice echoed, breaking the silence and heightening the tension in the air. The vibration of his voice emanated strength, creating ripples of energy around its master, as if hinting at the chaos that could unfold.
Rinoa took a sharp breath. "He will test us." Her body language signaled the rising tension. The tension in her shoulders underscored her concern, even though her words were spoken with courage. In her eyes, there flickered a flame that refused to be extinguished, challenging and igniting a roaring spirit.
"It's not through strength, but through consistency of who we are," Fitran replied. His voice was calm, yet there was an undertone of assertion. He wanted Rinoa and Golem to understand that his spirit would not yield to the rigidity of fate. Every movement, every glance, demonstrated that he was ready to face whatever lay ahead, united with those who believed in him.
Arch-Golem raised its hand.
From its back, a large circle of mechanical runes emerged, beginning to glow. Its energy was unlike any ordinary magic. It resembled a contract of reality—where anyone standing before it must reveal their true essence, or be obliterated.
Surrounding the Great Gate, the air was thick with a chilling tension. The cacophony of the wind caressing the ancient walls mixed with the metallic creaking generated by the Golem. The pulsating beams of light not only radiated grandeur but also evoked a profound sense of dread. Every heartbeat seemed to resonate in sync with the pulse of energy emanating from the spinning rune circle.
Rinoa stood beside Fitran, grasping his hand once more.
"Hold on to your fears," Rinoa whispered, her eyes intensely focused on the Golem. Her voice was soft yet firm, like a gentle breeze offering hope amid the storm. In the interplay of light and shadow, her expression reflected an unwavering fighting spirit.
"Whatever form this trial takes… we will face it together."
Fitran felt Rinoa's grip tighten, offering the strength that radiated from their connected hearts. His breath grew shallow, a lump of anxiety settling in his chest. Yet, he strove to maintain composure, moving in harmony with each passing second as they empowered one another.
Fitran nodded, his gaze fixed ahead. Unfazed. Unwavering.
The void within him was no longer empty.
He now carried memories, choices, and promises.
Together with Rinoa.
In the dimness surrounding them, the light from the Golem seemed to interact with the environment. Magical energy swirled in mesmerizing waves, creating a shining canopy, as if forming a bridge between the real world and a higher realm. Rinoa watched the golden sparks gliding from the Golem's fingertips, dancing gracefully and crafting magnificent patterns in the air.
The sky above them was dull and overcast, signaling that a storm was not far off. However, within this emotional vortex, light began to replace the encroaching darkness, seeping into the corners of their hearts. A sense of optimism started to spread, as if challenging the ancient historic site to yield. And as the Golem moved, each drop of light that fell painted even more hope.
And the Stones test began.