Mystic Tales: Crimson Mage (Ongoing)

9: Connection

(Corleone Bedroom, House Karasu)
Wednesday - January 5, 550
12:20 AM

Resting in a guest bedroom thoughtfully provided by Raven, Aria and Armon find themselves in contemplative states. Aria, grappling with the mysteries of her magical powers, and Armon, bearing a profound concern for his sister's well-being.

Seeking solace and a moment of respite, Aria decides to depart the bedroom, opting to explore the vast expanse of House Karasu. As she traverses the intricate hallways, she stumbles upon numerous bedrooms, each distinguished by its unique appearance. Some rooms are adorned with detective and investigatory paraphernalia, while others showcase an array of military objects and weaponry. Amidst this diversity, Aria's curiosity is piqued by a particularly distinctive room.

This room, in stark contrast to the others, appears empty. However, a peculiar encounter awaits Aria within its confines. Despite its apparent vacancy, she finds herself repeatedly colliding with invisible objects, each collision accompanied by an electrifying sensation, adding an enigmatic layer to her exploration.

In an unexpected turn of events, Raven Karasu appears out of nowhere, offering Aria an explanation for the peculiar encounters in the room. Aria enveloped in confusion, listens attentively as Raven discloses the necessity of a special device to navigate this enigmatic space.

To resolve Aria's bewilderment, Raven presents her with a pair of special goggles. Aria complies, donning the goggles, and is immediately immersed in a transformative experience. The room undergoes a profound metamorphosis, unveiling an entirely new dimension.

Within this altered space, Aria discovers a fusion of advanced technologies and arcane relics. Certain objects exhibit glitchy and buggy characteristics, stirring a sense of familiarity within Aria. Raven, sensing Aria's curiosity, expounds on the room's history, revealing that its former inhabitant wielded a unique magical prowess known as "Technology Magic."

Aria, marveling at the wonders of Technology Magic, is captivated by the revelation that it can manifest invisible objects, discernable only through a special device. While immersing herself in the exploration of the room, her attention is drawn to a picture. As she gazes upon it, a wave of recognition washes over her.

The image portrays familiar faces, instantly identified by Aria. Positioned on the left side is a man named "William Carter," and on the right side stands "Arbulet Lancaster." The visual connection to these individuals adds another layer of intrigue to the mysterious room imbued with Technology Magic.

With a sudden realization, Aria swiftly inquired about the previous occupant of the room from Raven. Though initially perplexed by the unexpected question, Raven obligingly provided the information. She revealed that a man named "William Carter" had once resided in the room, infusing it with his adept use of technology magic. Raven added that William's stay in House Karasu lasted only five months before he returned to Wind Island to pursue further studies.

Aria, upon hearing the name, experienced a sense of relief. Recollections of her friendship with William flooded her thoughts. She remembered his passion for crafting gadgets, seamlessly blending them with elemental magic. The familiarity of the magic emanating from the room became clear—it was the distinct touch of William Carter, Aria's friend enamored with the intersection of technology and ancient magic.

Upon the mention of William Carter, Raven's mind sparked with a realization that could potentially aid Aria in her predicament. Intrigued by the prospect, Aria eagerly inquired about Raven's revelation.

Raven shared that William had a profound affinity for delving into ancient magic alongside his expertise in technology. This prompted the idea that William might possess insights into Aria's Crimson Chaos magic. Filled with determination, Aria expressed her willingness to pursue any avenue that could bring progress to her blood curse. She then turned to Raven, seeking information on William's whereabouts.

Raven informed Aria that William likely remained in his homeland, Wind Island, as per her recollection. Specifically, his former school was situated in Calanary City on Wind Island. Fueled with newfound hope, Aria declared her intent to locate William. Raven, acknowledging Aria's decision, wished her good luck on her journey.

(Grand Staircase, House Karasu)
Wednesday - January 5, 550
2:10 AM

In the dimly lit room, Aria's slender fingers danced gracefully through the air, weaving intricate patterns as she harnessed her crimson chaos magic. Her belongings began to shrink and compress, forming a miniature crimson orb that held the essence of the objects within. The air tingled with the mystical energy of her manipulation.

From one of the shadowy hallways emerged Armon, his presence detected by the observant Aria. Sensing his approach, she paused her magical endeavor.

Armon, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern, closed the distance. "Aria? What are you doing?"

Aria, still engrossed in her magical task, responded, "I'm heading to Wind Island."

Armon, caught off guard, exclaimed, "What? Out of the blue? I haven't even packed my things!"

Aria asserted with determination, "I am going alone."

Armon, slightly flustered, protested, "Alone? Absolutely not! It's my duty to keep you safe, and I haven't made preparations."

Aria, unyielding, stated, "I can take care of myself. You've shielded me for five years. I've grown and need to embark on my own journey."

Armon, his frustration evident, retorted, "No. Whether you like it or not, I won't let you go alone." The air around Armon stirred as he summoned a powerful breeze, a clear sign of his reluctance to allow Aria to leave.

Offended by Armon's resistance, Aria effortlessly seized control of the swirling wind. The tables turned, and now Aria directed the forceful gusts, gradually restricting Armon's breath. Crimson radiance enveloped her, and her eyes gleamed with a fiery rage. "You know who holds the greater power between us. I don't want your interference in my choices."

The atmosphere thickened with a palpable intensity, swirling with the unrestrained power of Aria's crimson chaos magic. In the midst of this magical tempest, Raven Karasu materialized, her presence commanding attention. With composed authority, she urged them to refrain from unleashing havoc within her abode. Aria, influenced by Raven's calm demeanor, gradually pacified the turbulent energies, dispelling the crimson chaos that had filled the space.

In response to this display of control, Raven nodded in approval. "I concur, Aria. Your mastery over your magic is evident. Independence suits you well."

Aria, now composed, acknowledged Raven's words with a grateful smile. However, a shadow of disappointment lingered on Armon's face. The realization struck him that his sister was entering a phase of self-sufficiency, and the closeness they once shared was shifting.

As the echoes of their conversation lingered, Aria made the decision to depart. Like crimson ashes carried away by an unseen breeze, she faded from view, leaving behind the contemplative Armon and the composed Raven in the aftermath of magical turbulence.