Chapter 27 – This Is Not Normal
The scene opens from above, over a vast forest shrouded in a light mist. In the midst of the greenery rises a mysterious pyramid, enveloped in layers of magic and illusion, hiding its presence from any curious eyes.
The focus shifts to Rojin… fear is etched across her face, yet her eyes gleam with determination and stubborn resolve. She tightens her fists, making a reckless decision: she will explore the ruins.
Her first step forward brings a cold bead of sweat sliding down her forehead, a testament to her tension.
The closer she gets to the pyramid's entrance, the more imposing and awe-inspiring it becomes, a dark, ominous aura leaking out as if swallowing the air around it.
At the entrance, there is no door or barrier… only a black void that chills the soul. She pauses, peering inside, seeing nothing but absolute darkness and a biting cold that lashes her face.
By chance, her gaze falls on ancient carvings etched into the entrance walls… most worn away by time, yet holding secrets buried for centuries.
She whispers, fear threading her voice:
"If only Iyas or Selin were here… they would know what these texts mean…"
Suddenly, she remembers the translation feature in her Tower system and quickly activates it. She opens the interface, points the camera at the wall, and the translation begins to appear:
"The unknown is fear."
"Fear is truth."
"Truth is the path to maturity."
"Maturity unlocks unlimited potential."
She freezes in place… her heart pounding, her body trembling at the weight of these cryptic words. She doesn't fully understand them, yet an inexplicable fear coils around her.
Still, curiosity and stubbornness drive her forward. She activates the recording feature to capture everything for later review.
She steps inside the pyramid… and the moment her foot touches the floor, darkness swallows her—and the camera along with her. The scene closes into a black void stretching endlessly.
---
The scene shifts… from the darkness emerges a wider space: a massive 3D map of the Sage Nation, crafted with intricate illusions by Leila.
Diaco, Rashad, and Asia sit focused before the map, while Leila stands as the expert guide.
Rashad activates sound isolation in the room, then speaks seriously:
"You may speak now, Leila… no one will hear us."
Leila nods, takes a deep breath, and begins:
"First… we must understand the broader picture of the Sage Nation before taking any step…"
Rashad and Asia listen intently, while Diaco simply nods in agreement.
Leila raises her hand, and the map expands, revealing intricate details:
"The nation's history spans over a hundred Tower years.
It was built with three overlapping, towering walls.
Inside, a massive X-shaped wall divides it into twelve cities across four directions… each with its own independent governance."
She pauses briefly, then continues:
"I won't go into the rulers' details… you know them well, two of whom are seated here with me."
She points at the map:
"We are currently in the West, known for its massive factories and high-quality production. It is under your governance, Diaco."
Diaco smiles, pride faintly shadowed.
She continues:
"The East is the heart of culture, literature, and poetry. Its landscapes are enchanting, its residences luxurious…"
She pauses, a sigh betraying the weight in her heart:
"And it is under my husband… Prince Elf Faris."
A heavy silence falls. Asia's gaze hardens as he remarks:
"If you want… I can continue for you."
But she shakes her head firmly:
"No… I'll finish myself."
She points to the North:
"This is where we live. The North is the core of commerce, brimming with rare goods and resources scarce outside. It is under your governance, Rashad."
Rashad merely offers a composed, confident smile… a small gesture that eases the tension and brings a subtle smile to everyone's face.
Leila's voice hardens again:
"The South… is the heart of destruction. Weapons factories, war research, combat robots… all originate from there.
Officially, it is governed by Secretary Reem, but in reality, she answers to someone we all know… Shahoo."
The map dims, and tension rises in the room.
"The reason for today's meeting… our intelligence reports confirm that the main headquarters of the Night Wolves Gang is located in the South."
Shock and silent seriousness are evident on everyone's faces.
---
The scene shifts to Iyas preparing to leave. After bidding Selin and Saman farewell, Saman exhales with a small smile:
"I guess I should leave as well…"
Selin looks surprised:
"And why is that?"
He responds nervously:
"Iyas has left… and Asia and Rashad are gone… and… you're alone here at home."
Selin smirks mischievously:
"So what? Even if you try something… do you think you can challenge me? Don't forget we've known each other since childhood… you're family."
Her words warm Saman's heart, and he smiles quietly to himself.
Selin speaks lightly:
"Then we won't leave you standing here. Come on… I don't want to linger at the door any longer."
She steps in, and Saman hesitates briefly before following.
She removes her shoes and asks:
"What do you want for dinner?"
Saman rushes inside:
"Let me help you!"
Selin laughs:
"No, no… you'll ruin the food. You can wash the dishes, dishwasher."
He chuckles softly:
"No problem… I'm not terrified after today."
Saman sits and opens the book Iyas gave him:
"I think I'll read the Spirit Guide… I want to see what he collected to boast about."
Shortly after, while Selin is busy in the kitchen, Saman suddenly calls out, voice trembling:
"Selin!!! Come quickly!"
She rushes over, fearful:
"What happened?!"
He looks at her, face pale, voice shaking with astonishment:
"It can't be… Iyas didn't compile this book…!
This isn't an ordinary book, Selin… this guide can change the very understanding of Spirit Masters…!"
---
End of Chapter 27