Back on the train, tensions were rising. Mystical energy grew dense and a suffocating aura enveloped the entire train; this energy created a domain of pure destruction.
The bespectacled young man moved his fist like the deep abyss.
The spiky-haired boy moved in his aura, transforming into a terrifying dragon, but before the two could clash, a ring of pure energy flew over. It enlarged and suppressed the two.
"All passengers, please return to your designated seating area."
The clouds above rolled, and soon the train reached a grand city. Above it, a castle could be seen floating upside down.
The students got off the train, their eyes glued to the sky.
Within the soul realm, Tristan stood still. That transparent figure before him, the being, stared at him for a while, then spoke.
"You are now ready to know." As the being said that, it held out its hand and Tristan floated up.
The air vibrated and, in the next instant, they disappeared.
Before them was a vast plain. The wind blew gently, shaking the tall orange grass of the grassland to the left; in the middle was a large river, its body winding like a massive snake.
To the right of the river were tall mountains that stretched into the sky. Suddenly, the being grabbed Tristan.
"This world isn't real."
Tristan was scared shitless. The transparent figure walked off and, as he did so, he said, "My name is Azaasel; I am the keeper of the sanctuary. Come."
His voice was gentle, but Tristan's body moved without command, startling him greatly.
The being spoke, his tone urgent. "We don't have much time."
The two walked down the hill and came close to the river. Tristan looked over at the mountain range. He then looked to his left and saw a massive stone door in the hill.
"The first reincarnation built this place to store valuable knowledge that not even the gods themselves could gain access to."
Tristan was startled by this. He wondered out loud, "How powerful was the first?" The being stopped, then said, "Not strong enough."
He continued.
"The second came to these archives, went out, then came back and left key instructions for you, the last hope, to follow. This place will never be opened again."
As they walked, a heavy atmosphere settled. "You made an alliance with three people," he said, but didn't elaborate further.
Suddenly, the figure stopped, turned, and then said, "I know you remember."
Tristan took a step back, confused.
"Remember what, exactly?"
"The simulations and enhancements... they were preparing you for something."