As the gate swings open and we enter the land, a lush, green landscape appears. Though not as majestic as the celestial realm. The amalgamation of medieval architecture and subtle modern elements adorned the land. Most travel methods were grounded, lacking the floating devices of the celestial domain. A sense of familiarity swept over me, reminiscent of home, yet I knew this wasn't where I truly belonged.
As the platform gently descended just above the ground, I observed the populace. Humans and other species moved with an air of anticipation, their expressions revealing an ominous blend of sorrow and apprehension.
"What is this mortal realm, and why do the people seem so troubled?" I inquired, observing the unsettling demeanor of the inhabitants.
Adair's response was concise. "This is where we mortals dwell, a state called esclave, governed by the Divine Justice Union. The inhabitants are humans and intermediate heritage-level species."
Adair's response was concise. "This is where we mortals dwell, a state called Esclave, governed by the Divine Justice Union. The inhabitants are humans and intermediate heritage-level species."
"A forthcoming conflict, a war, is the cause of their distress," he continued, his voice heavy with remorse.
"Conflict?" I questioned, a chill running down my spine.
"Yes, the inevitable fate of our inferior human race," Adair replied, his voice tinged with sorrow.
His contemplative silence enveloped me in a whirlwind of thoughts.
War—a ghastly concept! Fear twisted my stomach, unprepared as I was for such a conflict. Damn it! The last thing I desired was entanglement in such dire circumstances.
Adair's solemn demeanor heightened my anxiety. His previous hint about the hatred for outsiders raised a red flag in my mind.
The notion of war was alien to me, and yet, its gravity was suffocating. The sheer thought of participating in an unknown conflict added to my unease. A cascade of questions flooded my mind, each answer more elusive than the last.
"What kind of war is this?" I asked, my voice edged with concern.
Adair's response intensified the growing unease. "It's a relentless battle for territorial supremacy, stretching across these lands and beyond. Your vulnerability worries me, but Lady Elsa's favor might hold the promise of a better path for you." A faint flicker of frustration shaded Adair's voice.
His abrupt shift in behavior left me struggling to comprehend. Anxiety and frustration swirled within me as I navigated the confusion. "One shock after another! For God's sake, what the hell is wrong with this world?" The inexplicable tension and Adair's contradictory conduct intensified my emotional storm.
With no immediate answers and only mounting uncertainties, I felt lost, unaware of the next steps. The weight of the impending conflict pressed heavily upon me, revealing the complexity and dire circumstances of the mortal realm.
Adair sighed. "I allowed my frustration to cloud my judgment. I apologize."
Acknowledging Adair's words, I responded, "No worries. I'm aware of my limitations but remain determined to adapt and survive."
Adair, offering reassurance, added, "Remember, if Lady Elsa has favored you, I believe you will survive, so don't worry. Also, don't disappoint her; your last stop is about to arrive, so be ready,"
I thought, 'Haha, he is indeed a devoted follower of Elsa.'
Alright! A sense of determination welled within me. It was time to focus on solutions, to survive. I vowed not to succumb but instead to weather the storm, reclaim my memories, and unravel the intricate puzzles before me. With that resolve, I closed my eyes, choosing to relax and prepare for the journey ahead.