The Ignition

Chapter 10: Unveiling the Scintilla Crystal

After the council meeting, Arik, Hairika, and John entered an equipped lab filled with essential equipment. John was amazed by its decoration. Hairika smiled, expecting his reaction. "You like it?"

Awestruck, John mustered, "It's beautiful."

Arik drew a board closer. "Today, we'll reveal the secrets of the Scintilla crystal."

As he spoke, John's eyes gleamed with an inner light. He placed his hands on the floor, and his wired suit began to transform, enveloping his body. A brilliant green crystal sparkled in his chest.

John's hands instinctively rose, and he removed the crystal from his chest. The siblings' eyes widened in astonishment.

"By the realms..." Arik whispered.

Hairika's voice trembled. "So that's where it fit in."

John turned to place the crystal on an experimental table.

"And that's the legendary Swords of Echo," John said, gesturing to the swords on his back.

Hairika's eyes widened. "Yes, why are they called the Swords of Echo?"

"Because they were forged in the realm of Echo, Aethoria," Arik replied, his eyes filled with reverence.

Arik's curiosity got the better of him. "How did you get hold of the crystal?"

"The friend I told you about from a realm placed it under a rock, and I picked it up," John explained. "Then I transformed, but was knocked off, only to wake up and find him. He said he's from the Aethoria realm, and the crystal chose me to wield its powers."

Hairika's eyes widened. "I get it now. After Aethoria's destruction, he escaped with the crystal to Earth. Smart move."

Hairika's voice was laced with determination as she started. "The Scintilla crystal was created by Dr. Erebus, a renowned scientist who discovered a rare element called Scintillium while exploring the cosmos."

Arik continued, "Scintillium, atomic number 123, atomic mass 456.21, is the key to maintaining balance across the realms. It's an energy source that flows through the realms, stabilizing each one."

Hairika wrote on the board:

The Seven Realms:

1. Aethoria (Realm of Echo)
2. Kyrios (Realm of Technology)
3. Elyria (Realm of Magic)
4. Potenia (Realm of Divine Beings)
5. Aurora (Realm of Dawn)
6. Terraverde (Realm of Nature)
7. Nexar (Realm of Shadows)

Arik explained, "Each realm's connection to the Scintilla crystal influences its stability. The crystal maintains equilibrium by distributing Scintillium energy."

Hairika added, "The seven realms were brought together by the great convergence, creating interconnected pathways. However, dark entities from Nexar connected with Kyrios, corrupting its technology and shattering the balance."

Arik's face turned solemn. "Dr. Erebus envisioned using Scintillium to restore unity to the universe. He traveled across the realms, gathering unique tokens and chemical elements to enhance Scintillium's properties."

Hairika listed the components:

- Echo crystal (Aethoria)
- Divine Relics (Potenia)
- Nature Orbs (Terraverde)
- Kyrios's module (Kyrios)
- Kyrios's metals (Kyrios)
- Magical Herbs (Elyria)
- Shadowstones (Nexar Realm)
- Earthly components: Uranium salt, Fluorine, Krypton, Tungsten, Osmium, Titanium, Neon, and Akua's Breath extract

"These diverse elements and tokens," Hairika elaborated, "unite to form the Scintilla Crystal, maintaining equilibrium and serving as an instrument of peace across the realms."

John's overwhelming voice exclaimed, "You guys seem to know a lot about these realms."

Hairka Smiled.

John's gaze shifted to Arik, "So, why does Carnifex want the crystal if there's peace and balance already?"

Arik's expression turned grave. "Carnifex, the scourge of the realms, seeks to exploit the Scintilla crystal's power. He's ruthless, having defeated the god of wisdom without lifting a finger."

Hairika added, "Carnifex absorbed the energy of a supernova, growing stronger. He's annihilated realms and planets, leaving only cryptic messages etched into the void."

John shook his head. "So, we can't hold him down if he comes with a full attack."

Arik replied, "We must try. The world won't be safe if he claims the crystal."

An uncomfortable silence filled the lab until Hairika spoke up. "So, tell us about this dude who attacked you. He wasn't alone, right?"

John's words came out with precision. "He melted a tree with his eyesight. He said the police would be busy with something else, and then an armored lady chased me through the woods."

Hairika's expression turned grave. "So, he's got an army, then. We'll be ready."

Arik's voice tightened, his jaw clenched. "We need to know more about his powers and his armies."

As they concluded, a guard entered, knelt before the prince and princess. "The Moirakoi training has begun."

John stood up, excitement and nervousness coursing through his veins. Arik nodded. "Let's get started. We have a lot to cover."

Hairika smiled mischievously. "Don't worry, John. You'll be a pro in no time."
___

Author's Note:

As we delve deeper into the realms, the stakes grow higher. John's transformation and his connection to the Scintilla crystal set the stage for an epic battle. The Moirakoi training marks the beginning of John's journey, forging alliances and uncovering secrets.

Stay tuned for the next chapter, where John's training unfolds.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure!

~Story Weaver