Ahead lay a town crafted entirely from stone, its structures standing tall and proud but devoid of any signs of life. Despite the absence of people, the air was filled with a cacophony of sound that resonated through the streets. The source of this noise becomes immediately apparent as the ground trembles under the weight of the colossal red giant ones.
The town's stone buildings, once homes and gathering places, now stand as silent witnesses to the presence of these monstrous beings. The footsteps of the ones reverberate through the streets, creating a deafening symphony of rumbling and thudding that echoes in every corner.
Each step of the red giants sends shockwaves through the ground, causing loose stones and debris to rattle and collide, adding to the chaotic orchestra of sound. The sheer power and weight of these colossal creatures make the very foundation of the town quiver with each stride they take.
"I will make quick work of them," Aion said since he was in a hurry.
"Wait, that city was one of those that was abandoned as well… there were no signs of the fight there; if you fight now, it will become clear that you are back and that you are looking for others to help," Henri said. "Once Vangel confirms that, it will be only a matter of time before he does something really troublesome to lure you in."
"... I am aware of it, but I don't want to waste time," Aion said. "Who knows what that piece of shit might be doing to our friends and family right now…"
Henri took a deep breath, he didn't want to think about that either, but he knew a bit of Vangel after being fooled by him. Aion also could imagine what could happen.
Firstly, Vangel would likely exploit his knowledge of Aion's emotional attachments and use them as leverage. He might send Aion a chilling message, revealing that he has captured those dear to him and describing the dire consequences they would face if Aion did not comply with his demands.
Next, Vangel would meticulously plan the trap, strategically selecting a location where he could have the upper hand. This could be a secluded hideout, a fortified structure, or a place with numerous hidden traps and obstacles. The setting would be designed to minimize the chances of Aion's success while maximizing Vangel's control over the situation.
To further manipulate Aion's emotions and lure him closer, Vangel might leave behind subtle clues or hints about the whereabouts of his captive family and friends. These breadcrumbs would tempt Aion, compelling him to follow the trail, believing that rescue is within reach.
Additionally, Vangel might use intermediaries or messengers to taunt Aion, delivering cryptic messages that offer glimpses of hope but also increase the emotional strain. These messengers could relay Vangel's twisted sense of power and superiority, playing mind games with Aion to weaken his resolve and provoke him into taking reckless actions.
"I understand that the stakes are high now, but we can't waste time; the enemy has almost absolute control over it; believe me, it is worse than you think," Aion said. "While I was unconscious, I saw the memories of my ancestors, way beyond our magical bloodline. The person who gave birth to us fought a being that had much more power than Vangel; he must be seeking that. The power to defy time and space and create a new reality for himself."
"... Do you know why that being and Vangel want to do that?" Henri asked.
That was a tough question. Vangel and Tenebres, driven by their knowledge of the impending doom of the world, harbored a deep desire to control time and space. They understood that the world faced an inevitable catastrophe, and they believed that by attaining godlike powers and dominion over these fundamental forces, they could ensure the survival and continuation of life.
Their motivation stemmed from a sense of responsibility and a conviction that they held the key to altering the course of fate. They recognized the limitations of mortal existence and saw the potential for immense power in manipulating the fabric of reality itself.
With control over time, Vangel and Tenebres envisioned the ability to rewind or fast-forward events, manipulating the sequence of cause and effect to their advantage. This power would grant them the ability to correct past mistakes, prevent disasters, and ultimately reshape the future. They believed that by altering the flow of time, they could create a new path for humanity and preserve the world from its impending demise, but they would be the center of the new world.
Just like Tenebres, Vangel had some delusions of grandeur. Just because you can use some space and time magic, that doesn't give you the right to own the world and use everything in it to guarantee your own survival.
"We need another approach; just give us some time, Aion," Henri said.
"No… you will give me some time," Aion replied. "I have an idea in mind, and that will make things easier for us. Just keep an eye on the town while I think and plan that."
Henri tilted his head slightly, his expression a mix of curiosity and confusion. As he listened to Aion's plans, his brows furrowed, indicating his lack of complete understanding. He was unsure of what Aion had in mind and how their actions would unfold. It was a moment of uncertainty for Henri as he grappled with the unknown.
However, despite his confusion, there was a flicker of trust in Henri's eyes. He recognized the bond they shared as brothers, a connection forged through years of shared experiences and mutual support. This bond was strong enough to override his uncertainty and instill a sense of faith in Aion's intentions.
With a silent nod, Henri conveyed his willingness to stand by Aion's side, to trust in his brother's judgment and decisions. It was a leap of faith, an act of placing his trust in the one person who had always been there for him.
Aion moved to a nearby grove and then sat down to think, he took a deep breath since he had to do that as fast as possible, and he couldn't mess up. He didn't have time to waste, and he had to get Vangel by surprise.
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