Chapter 26

"Every being, from humans to monsters, is endowed with a unique form of energy known as Arcane. This mystical force grants its blessings to each individual, providing them with an identity encapsulated in what is known as a 'Log.'

These Logs serve as a repository of information, unveiling the person's strengths, weaknesses, and, on occasion.... even glimpses of a potential future.

As individuals mature, reaching the age of 15, they undergo a transformative baptism process aimed at awakening the Log granted by Arcane Energy.

The awakening marks the point at which the Log establishes a profound connection with Mother Root, metamorphosing into a tangible entity called an 'Arcane Card'.

Thus, This card serves as a new proof of identity, universally acknowledged by the omnipresent force of Arcane Energy.

So, when you witness the transition from Log to Arcane Card, it symbolizes a fusion of individual identity within a larger network..... a connection shared by all awakened beings."

"I see...." Aether nodded in understanding, realizing that, in layman's terms, it's like a solo game console suddenly turning into multiple online game consoles connected by the same server.

'But damn, man, did I just simplify it to the context of games?' Aether couldn't help but ponder the analogy he had drawn to understand the complex phenomenon.

"So, who are you?" Aether turned his head, a visible question mark in his eyes as he saw a wavy black-haired rugged man leaning on Aether with an interesting look.

"Oh? Me? I am just a passing guy," the man answered, and with a smirk, he added, "By the way, my name is Sparrow... J--"

"Jack Sparrow?" Aether finished the man's sentence.

"OH? Do you know me, little boy?" Sparrow asked, his interest piqued.

"..." Aether was taken aback. He had intended to deliver some sarcastic words, but he never anticipated that the man's name was Jack Sparrow.

Aether stammered, "N-No, I just remembered a friend of mine who was an idiot, but at the same time very, very dangerous."

"Oh? Really?" Sparrow frowned, studying Aether intently.

Aether simply turned his focus back to the events unfolding inside the temple.

Kai held the rainbow card with trembling hands, his eyes then shifted toward his father.

Velc nodded with a smile as he glanced at the Empress, who stared at the rainbow card before saying, "We shall have the engagement this month's end."

Hearing that Confirmation, Kai and Velc turned even happier. They were so elated that they wanted to shout, but, mindful of the Empress's presence, they maintained their composure.

Having seen what she wanted, the Empress decided to leave. However, when her eyes landed on the entrance, a small smirk appeared on her lips before she quietly sat down.

'Let's see what he can do...' She thought.

Observing her actions, Velc began to sweat.

He truly wished the Empress would leave, as he wanted to test Ether, but not in front of her.

Ever since Alfred had suggested the possibility that Ether might be under someone's control, Velc decided to investigate during the baptism, as it revealed only the truth. If Ether were genuinely manipulated, they hoped to uncover the true puppet master.

Yet, seeing the Empress stay, Velc couldn't help but feel a little hesitant, 'M-Maybe I will check later...' he thought.

But to Alfred, it was a golden chance to showcase his son's talent in front of the Empress, turning it into a moment of pride for his son.

"Go on, Lucius," the Empress gracefully commanded, her watchful eyes fixed on the intricate display of arcane awakening.

"Understood, Your Majesty. Next, Selene Frostblade, come forward," Lucius announced with a tone of anticipation.

"Hmm.." Selene nodded at her brother's display of newfound abilities. With a beaming smile, she confidently walked towards the altar, following the same sacred process as her brother.

"Log In!"

Request: Logging In

Affirmative

Name: Selene Frostblade

Sex: Female

Race: Human

Level: 1

Title: Daughter of Velc Frostblade, Brainy, Pities Ether.

Attributes:

Strength: 5

Agility: 6

Intelligence: 10

Magic Affinity: 7

Charm: 9

Her face turned slightly blush when she read her title.

Her brother and her father caught up in the moment, and couldn't help but share a hearty laugh. They knew she was the brainy one in the household compared to others. And as for the pity, Well She was a soft person... so she was the only person who genuinely pitied Ether, recognizing the challenges of his miserable life.

"...." Aether just blankly looked at the text, pondering, 'So, mine is totally different, huh?'.

She then intertwined her fingers on the root hands and muttered,

"By sacred words and fervent plea, heed my words and grace with your touch, Summon forth.....

The Arcane card"

"Sssssshhhh!"

A soft glow enveloped Selene, casting a warm light on her face.

This time, a golden-coloured card appeared, adorned with the same number of stars hovered.

"Hmm? Why different now?" Aether inquired, curiosity etched on his face, directed at the stranger called Sparrow.

"Well, not everyone is born equal, right?" Sparrow responded, casting a wise gaze upon Aether.

"Even though everyone is blessed by the same Arcane energy?" Aether countered, ignoring his playful indication.

"Rain pours everywhere, do..." Sparrow began, attempting to provide a philosophical insight, but Aether halted him.

"I understand," Aether shook his head, having anticipated the cliché response. Instead, he urged Sparrow to continue with more relevant information,

"Arcane Cards are classified into four types,

Golden Arcane: High-Level Aptitude

Sliver Arcane: Mid-Level Aptitude

Copper Arcane: Low-Level Aptitude

Blank Arcane: No Aptitude

Each individual's card describes their comprehension of the Arcane energy.

If one possesses a Golden Arcane card, they have a natural ability to excel in various domains, learn new skills quickly, and understand the mysterious Arcane energy faster and more easily..... They are often referred to as prodigies

Similarly, the other cards indicate varying levels of aptitude, with Silver representing good, Copper indicating moderate, and Blank suggesting a lack of aptitude."

Hearing this explanation, Aether nodded in understanding. However, one question lingered in his mind, prompting him to ask, "What about the Rainbow card I saw earlier? Is it above all?"

Sparrow studied Aether for a moment before responding, "Well, it's exceptional."

Aether nodded attentively, observing as Selene pulled the root, manifesting an Old Book before it disappeared.

"Hmm? What are those?" Aether inquired, pointing at the Old Book.

"They are the wishes and desires granted by the Arcane. Just like before, where he got a sword while she got a book, those were the wishes they desired. These wishes, regardless of your aptitude, provide you with a chance to excel and manifest your deepest desire" Sparrow elaborated as his eyes lingered on the old book.

"OHH?" Aether expressed understanding, forming an 'O' shape with his mouth, processing the abundance of new information.