Akira leaned back in the warm bathwater, letting the heat soak into his sore muscles. The dim lighting of his small apartment cast a soft glow over the tiled walls, and the faint sound of running water provided a soothing backdrop. After an exhausting day of intense training, this was the moment of peace he desperately needed.
In just one day, he had made remarkable progress. Atlas's teaching method was unparalleled—precise, patient, and effective. The old sage had a knack for breaking down even the most complex magical concepts into manageable pieces. Under his guidance, Akira had started to understand not just the fundamentals of runes but the philosophy behind their power.
Ekon, on the other hand, brought an entirely different energy to his lessons. The seasoned warrior's hands-on approach made physical combat feel intuitive. His corrections were swift and practical, pushing Akira to adapt and perfect his movements. With teachers like Atlas and Ekon, I'm growing stronger by the day, Akira thought with a hint of satisfaction.
But that satisfaction was fleeting. A deeper thought nagged at him: What about my team? Voltis, Electra, and his other partners were relying on him, yet he felt inadequate to guide them. Their abilities often surpassed his own. Without Atlas and Ekon, Akira knew he wouldn't have a clue how to train them in magical or physical arts.
---
As he stared at the ceiling, letting the water lap against his skin, an idea struck him. What if I had an AI to help me? The thought was tempting. A highly advanced intelligence could provide him with the knowledge and strategies he needed to lead his partners more effectively.
Akira's mind drifted to the Machine Empire—a faction known for its mastery over technology and the fusion of magic with machinery. Amongst their creations were beings of pure data, digital entities that evolved far beyond the limits of mechanical shells. Surely, such beings would have the intelligence I need, he mused.
Reaching for his Tamer Phone, Akira decided to experiment. The basic AI embedded in the device was rudimentary, functioning only to provide limited information and answer simple queries. But just like creatures in this world, couldn't an AI evolve?
He tapped into his Tamer abilities, analyzing the AI within his phone. Sure enough, requirements for evolution appeared:
A stronger processor.
A sustainable energy source.
Access to a vast repository of data and knowledge.
Magical runes for integration and stability.
Meeting these requirements would allow the AI to transcend its current limitations. It could become an entity capable of learning, strategizing, and even manifesting in physical form by manipulating light and data. In the Machine Empire, these beings were known as Syntharions—entities of pure data with the potential to exist in both digital and material realms.
The thought of creating such an AI filled Akira with determination. But for now, he pushed the idea aside. His body was too tired, and his mind needed rest.
---
Closing his eyes, Akira's thoughts drifted to his family. If I weren't here, what would life be like?
He pictured a warm morning at home, waking up to the soft sunlight streaming through the curtains. He would have risen at 8 a.m., freshened up, and enjoyed a light breakfast of fruit and yogurt.
Next, he'd gently wake his wife, Ai, who likely would have already been stirred awake by their playful daughter, Sakura. Akira smiled at the thought of their morning routine: his daily exercises, where Ai would join him with her playful energy, and Sakura giggling as she mimicked their movements.
Afterward, they'd all take a refreshing shower before sitting down to a hearty breakfast prepared by their kind-hearted maid. By mid-morning, they'd head to the park—a family picnic, complete with laughter and cherished memories.
He could see Sakura running through the playground, her laughter ringing out as she played on swings and slides, making new friends among the other children. Akira and Ai would follow closely, ensuring her safety while enjoying their own conversation. They'd talk about work, tease each other, and make plans for upcoming trips or visits to their families in Japan.
Lunch would be at a cozy restaurant, where they'd savor good food and even better company. The image was so vivid, so warm, it made Akira's chest tighten. That's how life should be. That's where I belong.
But here he was, alone in a strange world. His new companions—friends, even—gave him purpose, but they couldn't replace the hole left by his family. I have to hold it together, he reminded himself. For Ai. For Sakura. For the life I promised to return to.
He knew Ai was strong, stronger than most. She would be holding on, keeping everything together for their daughter. That thought gave him comfort—and a renewed sense of resolve.
---
The water had gone lukewarm by the time Akira pulled himself out of the bath. He dried off, wrapping himself in a towel as he glanced at his reflection in the bathroom mirror. His eyes, though tired, held a spark of determination.
I'll get stronger. I'll find a way to master this world and return home. No matter how long it takes.
With that thought, Akira slipped into bed. The exhaustion of the day weighed heavily on him, and sleep claimed him quickly. But even in dreams, his resolve remained firm: he would reunite with his family, no matter the challenges ahead.
By 7 a.m., Akira woke up feeling refreshed after a good night's sleep. Stretching lightly, he got ready for the day ahead. His partners—Sangrelis, Voltis, and Lilia—also expressed a desire to clean up and relax, prompting Akira to consider visiting the public bathhouse for monsters.
The bathhouse was a grand facility, designed to accommodate creatures of all sizes and types. From towering beasts to delicate pixie-like creatures, the space buzzed with activity. Akira decided to release all his partners to enjoy the water, except for Asura, who was composed of flames and would find little use for a bath.
Inside, the bathhouse was a marvel. The vast central pool shimmered under enchanted lights, surrounded by smaller sections catered to specific species. Plant-type creatures lounged in a lush, greenhouse-like area, their leaves soaking up the steam. Lilia eagerly joined them, her floral aura blending harmoniously with the other plants. Nearby, bat-like monsters flitted around, playing in the air before diving into secluded pools, and Sangrelis seemed to find camaraderie among them.
Elythia, however, remained distant. Despite the presence of several bug-type creatures, she isolated herself in a quiet corner, uninterested in socializing. Akira respected her space, understanding her reserved nature.
Voltis, on the other hand, was in his element. The draconic section was filled with creatures of mixed dragon blood, each boasting unique traits and powers. Though none were pure dragons, their strength and pride were evident. Voltis wasted no time in engaging with them, eager to test his mettle and learn from his peers.
While his partners enjoyed themselves, Akira found a seat in the reception area. Like many tamers there, he observed the bustling scene, with Nyx and Asura standing guard beside him.
---
As Akira relaxed, a familiar figure approached him—Elias, the young noble he had met previously. His refined demeanor and polite smile made him stand out among the crowd.
"Hello, Mister Akira. How are you doing?" Elias greeted warmly, his tone friendly and respectful.
Akira straightened up, slightly surprised. "I'm doing well. How about you? I hope you didn't mind my decision back then."
Elias chuckled softly. "I was a little sad, but I understand why you chose them. At this moment, you're not exactly a frontline fighter—you lean more toward research and strategy, from what I've seen. Still, I'd be happy if we could be friends."
Akira blinked, taken aback by Elias's humility. People as status-conscious as Elias rarely sought genuine friendships, especially with someone like him. "If you don't mind, then I don't mind either."
Elias's face lit up. "That's great!" It was clear he valued this opportunity, given how few genuine connections he likely had. Many of those around him were followers, drawn by his status rather than his personality.
---
Elias sat across from Akira, their conversation flowing naturally. "I didn't expect to see you here," Akira remarked, tilting his head curiously.
"Why not? Did you think I enjoyed sitting alone in my castle all day?" Elias replied with a teasing grin.
"Well… yes," Akira admitted with a small shrug. "That's probably what I would've done. I'm not a fan of crowded places."
Elias laughed. "You really fit the Silver Horizon Guild's profile with those habits."
"Not everyone enjoys bathing with others," Akira said, glancing around the bustling bathhouse. "The only crowded places I tolerate are parks or malls."
"Fair enough. So, what's your plan for today? Want to hang out with me?" Elias asked casually.
"What are you planning?"
"Training, mostly. And maybe relaxing with some friends afterward."
"I've already got training with Atlas and Ekon," Akira replied.
"Ekon's place, huh? I can join you there if you don't mind. Maybe we could spar a bit, and I could help you out."
"If you're offering, I'd be happy to accept," Akira said sincerely.
"Perfect. Then how about hanging out after training? We could get to know each other better and have some fun," Elias suggested.
Akira considered his packed schedule. "I can probably make time between 6 and 8 p.m. How about we meet up at 6:30?"
Elias nodded enthusiastically. "Deal. I'll give you a call."
The two exchanged numbers and shared a bit more conversation before parting ways. Akira left the bathhouse, a faint smile on his face as he headed off for breakfast. Despite the challenges of this new world, the connections he was forming made it feel a little less daunting.