Giant footsteps shook the ground, each thud echoing in the depths of the earth.
From behind the ruins of the Wind Shrine, a figure emerged, not merely an ordinary golem but an ancient legacy—the Inheritor—long buried in darkness, representing the convergence of forgotten knowledge and elemental power.
Standing over twenty meters tall, the figure loomed majestically; its body was not entirely metal or stone but rather a composition of transparent crystals that reflected the light of will. Each movement created a stunning visual effect, as if light were trapped within its shimmering surface. On its chest, the sigil of Stones, dormant since the first era, glowed with a purplish hue, a symbol of power concealed for centuries, signaling untapped potential.
Varnax, weighed down by the burden of his knowledge, bowed his head in despair, feeling the weight of untold histories press upon his shoulders.
"The power of judgment has shifted. I... am no longer authorized."
Spell I: Light of the Evaluator
The first moment that occurs when this spell is activated is a wave of energy that makes the air feel heavy; the light emitted vibrates gently, reminiscent of a heartbeat, radiating an aura of honor and justice that reverberates with the very essence of truth.
Spell II: Wave of Power
This spell generates shockwaves that disrupt the positions of enemies, pushing them back within a twenty-meter radius. The waves create a booming sound that echoes, trembling the ground and raising clouds of dust like an invisible curtain, obscuring the enemies' vision.
Spell III: Tentacles of Darkness—an embodiment of shadow's wrath and cunning.
This spell summons shadowy tentacles from the ground that ensnare opponents, immobilizing their physical movements. Resembling dark mist, these tentacles swirl and creep tightly around their targets, emitting a chilling whisper as they make contact with the earth.
In battle, each spell interacts with the others: the first spell establishes a clear understanding of the opponents' strengths, while the second one disrupts them before they can react, and the third cleverly locks their movements, allowing the user to dominate the arena strategically with calculated precision. Each spell serves not merely as a weapon but as a reflection of the sorcerer's character and power, rendering them unique in every encounter, hinting at their individual journeys and growth.
"He is not an ordinary golem; he is the ultimate tester of the Stones, capable of assessing not only our physical strength but also the integrity of our intentions, transforming the very fabric of our aspirations. This spell emanates a dazzling blue light, creating a mystical aura around him, as if each heartbeat resonates in tune with his judgment, tapping into the core of our beings. Each revealed intention paints a clear picture of our motivations and desires, interacting with the surrounding light to depict the hidden layers within our souls, offering insights into our deepest selves. The effect lasts for ten seconds, providing ample time for each individual to absorb this magical gaze and reflect on their true selves."
"It's not just about our strength... but the reasons we wish to step into the Center."
Rinoa felt the dimensional pressure shift, trembling her spirit with unease.
The spell "Dimensional Wave" awakened vibrations that permeated the entire space around her, creating an illusion of shimmering waves of light and producing a visual effect akin to starlight reflected in the ocean, illustrating the interconnectedness of all things. The aura of the Stones rolled with the might of colossal sea waves, slicing through the resonance of harmonic and astral magic with a striking sharpness that felt almost sentient, creating a vibrating sound that echoed among them and rippling through their spirits. This effect lasted for five seconds, enough to impact all existing magical bonds, creating complexities in the flow of energy and challenging their very understanding of reality.
Ashravel, Calytheris, Veylara, and Eryndros were illuminated by a gentle light that radiated an aura of power. Each of them uttered a strengthening incantation for one another: "Synergy of Aura," allowing them to absorb each other's strength and manifest it in dynamic waves of colored light. This synergy not only amplified their individual power but also created a visual rhythm that depicted their collaboration, generating a vibrant, swirling effect among their bodies. The effect would last indefinitely as long as they remained united, with each component of the synergy producing a greater impact when they stood together.
Ashravel whispered softly and melancholically:
"This mantra creates a delicate purple fabric, enveloping each individual and providing a magical visibility of the destiny that has been woven together, like a tapestry of fate painted with their shared history. Its effect lasts for a century, leaving a magical trace that will guide them forever, serving as a reminder of their intertwined paths and the unity forged through adversity."
Calytheris continued in a firm tone:
"The storm surrounding us must calm for peace to restore balance. With the spell 'Call Serenity,' the dark ambiance will be illuminated by a golden light that pierces through the clouds, breaking every wave of pressure. The duration of this spell is fifteen seconds, enough to bring deep tranquility and silence the existing uncertainties."
Veylara added, with profound doubt:
"Our roots cannot penetrate the laws of the Center, trapped in the inescapable bonds of reality. The effects of this magic radiate a pressuring aura that envelops the surrounding space, making bodies feel heavy and powerless, as if ensnared by an invisible web. In battle, this protection can slow the opponent's movements, although it can weaken one's own strength."
Eryndros, with majestic authority and vision, proclaimed:
"We are the spirits of possibility, representing various alternatives. This magic effect can broaden the horizon, revealing alternative visions of possible futures, with light emanating from his hands. This visual effect makes all choices visible, creating a sense of confusion for unprepared foes. What you need now is the spirit of decision, which will pave a clear path toward the future, as if grasping hope within reach."
The duration of this effect lasts for five breaths, allowing the vision to deeply impact the decisions that must be made.
One by one, they began to fade, vanishing into shimmering fragments of light amidst the darkness, each piece a testament to their shared journey and the legacy of their choices.
Rinoa expressed her gratitude. Her tears nearly fell, yet she stood firm, gathering strength within her soul.
"If this choice is a new path, I will not tread forward with old strength but with a renewed spirit, rejuvenated by the lessons learned and the bonds formed. The magic of renewal flows like a waterfall of light, refreshing every fiber of my being and granting new strength that expands potential and rejuvenates hope. In battle, this effect fosters resilience, enabling me to rise from despair and face the next challenge with renewed vigor. The duration of this effect lasts for one minute, providing the opportunity to regain courage and energy, allowing me to harness the collective strength of those who stand with me."
Rinoa took a deep breath, feeling the magical vibrations coursing through her.
...this effect not only enhances power but also symbolizes a deep recognition and understanding of existence, closely interacting with other spells, creating a harmonious blend of magic that resonated throughout the battlefield. The duration of this Resonance lasts for two minutes, binding all involved in a network of strong acknowledgment and shared purpose.
"I call forth a spirit not born from possibility, but from determination that has been proven through the tests of time."
"Come forth, Myrrial, the Sentinel of Unyielding Roots."
The first spirit appeared before him: a towering female figure made of obsidian wood, shimmering in soft light and exuding a calming, powerful aura. Her arms curved like tree branches, lovingly supporting the world and creating a safe zone that reflected resilience and stability. Her emerald eyes glowed as if piercing through his soul, touching the core of his existence and providing a comforting, protective influence. The effect made the surrounding earth fertile and lush, producing abundant plants whose influence lasted indefinitely.
"I am a force that does not bow even as the ages change, unyielding against the wear of time."
"Come forth, Solgrane, the Winged Resolute."
The second spirit emerged: a bronze eagle with wings of white fire, soaring gracefully through the air with unwavering strength. As its wings beat against the air, sparks flew, creating a shimmering trail that burned through the chill of the night, igniting the fighting spirit around it. Its aura radiated courage, uplifting the hearts of those nearby, making it a symbol of unshakable resolve. Its social effect inspired a fighting spirit among allies around it and provided a surge of energy that lasted for one hour.
"I am courage that does not ask for permission."
Fitran nodded in awe, visibly captivated by the impressive manifestation of power.
"You do not seek old strength. You choose the power that grows from a new will."
Rinoa answered softly, contemplating the meaning of her words:
"Because I have learned from our journey that strength tested over the test of time is often greater than strength that is inherited without struggle."
The Inheritor stepped forward with assured strides, an ancient aura enveloping him. From his chest emanated a voice of old, resonating not in the air, but within their minds:
"Declaration of Stones: With this call, the Balancer has been summoned, ready to evaluate and determine the course of the future."
The Balancer has been summoned.
Entities Fitran Fate and Rinoa Alfrenzo, prove your right to bring will to the Center.
Prove your right to bring will to the Center."
The shimmering crystals on their shoulders opened up, radiating pillars of energy in the form of laws that stood tall like support beams, anchoring the ground with a force that caused cracks to appear on the surface, creating a powerful anti-magic field. This field, appearing like waves of bluish-green light, blocked all forms of possibility magic, while the aura of energy spread around them, creating a paralyzing discomfort.
Fitran shouted with burning passion, his voice echoing through the silence:
"He will not allow us to use possibility magic or change our fate. This will be a duel of pure decisions!"
Rinoa stood firm beside Myrrial and Solgrane, their eyes shining with determination.
"Then, we will fight not to change the future, but to uphold the choices we have made that have led us to this pivotal moment. We will struggle for the decisions we have taken."
Rinoa's magic and the New Spirit:
Verdant Bastion: Roots of Unbroken Resolve
(Myrrial conjured a sturdy wall of roots that soared high, glowing green as it emerged, penetrating the air with an impenetrable protective aura against the laws of Stones. This wall not only withstood physical attacks but also reflected magical energy, creating waves of light that surrounded the warriors.)
Solflare Aria: Wings of the Chosen Path
(With a graceful motion, Solgrane unleashes shimmering white flames, forming fiery wings that protect and empower his allies. These flames resemble stars twinkling in the night sky, resisting any attempts to manipulate the binding laws and creating a protective field that enhances the abilities of all under its shelter.)
Magic of The Inheritor:
"Axiom Apex: Judgment of Center Law, which will uphold fair laws for every existing choice."
(Majestic pillars of law emerge as radiant structures that soar high, forcing each choice back to a neutral state, creating balance in the midst of battle. Each pillar provides a surge of strength to the fighters adhering to its laws and grants a temporary effect that brings them closer to their objectives.)
Oblivion Mandate: Severance of Subjective Will
(Attempting to separate the wills of Fitran and Rinoa so they no longer synchronize. The dark energy swirling around them creates uncertainty, revealing a riptide sweeping through the environment and producing a vibrational effect that can influence the movements of various spells nearby.)
Fitran drew Excalibur with full force, embodying the spirit of a warrior not just with skill, but with the weight of purpose clear in his gaze. He focused his steps not on possibilities, but on direct observation—as if following the flowing waves in his astral theory. His magical eyes read the rhythm of The Inheritor's movements not as an enemy, but as a question to be answered, a challenge that demanded deep contemplation, thereby enhancing the intensity of the battle with nuances of reflection and profound understanding, like a dance of fate unfolding before their very eyes.
"Tatsuryū no Nagare: Seijitsu no Kōsen."
(Eastern Dragon Current: Light of Truth)
A bright blue aura emanates honesty and revival, serving to dismantle illusions and malevolence surrounding them. The duration effect of this spell lasts for several seconds, enough to reveal hidden truths and empower allies. The potency of this spell resides in the middle hierarchy, proving effective in strategic combat situations to alter the course of the battle.
The first swing of Excalibur cleaved one of the pillars of law with a flash of brilliant light.
The wave of light from Excalibur surged towards its target, creating an explosion of energy that permeated the structure of law, causing vibrations that shook everything around it, establishing Excalibur as a powerful instrument of transformation on the battlefield—a sword that not only cut through the fabric of reality but revived hope and possibility among the fighters.
The wave of energy collided with a thunderous roar.
The Stones crystals vibrated intensely, bearing the weight of a conflict that rocked the world around them.
This confrontation evolved into not just a physical battle but a struggle of magical forces, with impacts triggering a chain reaction among various magical components, adding complexity to the dynamics of the fight.
Myrrial fights to hold the pillar of Oblivion Mandate with all her strength and resolve.
Solgrane strikes the air with a split of white flames, creating a boundary of an anti-magic field that vibrates with energy, radiating a resonance felt not only in the ground and air but also in the hearts of his allies, instilling a calming effect while simultaneously instilling fear in approaching enemies. The spell known as 'Defender's Light,' lasting for five minutes, creates a barrier that withstands attacks and absorbs magical ones, embodying their unyielding resolve in the face of adversity.
The Inheritor begins to shift his formation with tightening power, summoning the core mechanism of the Stones—the light tower that has slumbered in darkness for thousands of years. Now awakened, it was ready to confront its destined fate, its presence resonating with the ancient energies of the land. The tower emits a cold blue light that pierces through the darkness, offering visibility to all allies on the battlefield while its magical power can turn the tide by absorbing energy from enemy attacks, acting as a bulwark for their cause. Its effects can last up to an hour, establishing the tower as a center of strength amidst the chaos of battle, a beacon of hope and resilience.
Fitran whispers, his voice full of resolve:
"This fight is not over."
Rinoa replied firmly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm:
But our choice has already been made.
No matter what comes our way, we will face it together."
The Inheritor's eyes shone brightly, ignited by a power that was almost intimidating. This was a manifestation of the 'Soul Bond' spell. When activated, this spell creates an effect that connects the energy of all allies, significantly enhancing their attack power and instilling a sense of unity. The spell lasts until one enemy is defeated, ensuring their strength remains focused and coordinated.