Refusing My God’s Advances

After a long pause, Aria spoke up. "She is pretty cute, but most demons aren't like her. Many are stronger than me, and if she is as old as she claims, she should have an adult form but now with multiple transformations. Something is blocking her from evolving, and I suspect it has something to do with the cursed mark. I am sure Shelli could tell you more about it than I could."

"Woah? Really?" I asked, and Aria nodded.

"All demon races go through existential evolution. That's how they get to Mary's level, but she isn't even fully evolved. She still has to reach Avatar Stage from her current Spirit Stage," She explained, and I listened with both ears.

This was very interesting, and it made me look down at Lyra. I know how I broke the curse mark with Shelli, but it would be perfect if Lyra could evolve a few times before we did anything like that. The problem was that the mark was the suspected cause of her inability to evolve! What a complicated situation. I decided to focus on one issue at a time, starting with understanding more about the floating islands.

Aria began to paint a vivid picture of the floating islands, describing each one's distinct features and challenges. There were islands with lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, treacherous mountainous terrains, and even islands shrouded in perpetual darkness. Some were inhabited by various creatures, while others remained untouched by civilization.

As she spoke, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and excitement about exploring these fantastical landscapes. Aria's detailed explanations allowed me to envision potential locations for our base, considering factors like accessibility, resources, and potential threats.

She mentioned an island called Celestial Haven, known for its serene beauty and abundant resources. However, it was also rumored to be a haven for mythical creatures that could pose a threat to adventurers. Another island, Thunderpeak Ridge, had floating islands with rare minerals but was plagued by thunderstorms that made it a challenging place to settle.

Eventually, my eyes settled on an island named Emberfall, a place with a mix of open plains and dense forests. It was less populated, with fewer known threats and a more temperate climate. Aria nodded in approval when I mentioned my interest in Emberfall.

"That sounds like a good choice, Leon. Emberfall has a balance of resources, and its terrain isn't too harsh. It should provide a suitable environment for building a base and training," Aria commented.

"Why is it called Ember Fall? You have made it out to seem like a pretty good place, but I feel like there is a catch I am missing here," I laughed, scratching the back of my head.

Aria nodded, but put her hand out flat and wiggled it. "It is not too much of a problem. The reason the island is called Emberfall is because it is the resting place of the legendary dragon, Ember."

I stared at her for a second and then blinked three times. "Did you just say that a dragon lives there?"

"No, that is where his remains are, but his essence still lingers, infusing the island with a unique energy. The legends say that Ember was a wise and benevolent dragon who played a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the floating islands. When he passed away, his body turned into a magnificent crystal, and his spirit became part of the island," Aria explained.

I couldn't help but be intrigued by the idea of a legendary dragon's essence influencing the very land. "So, is it like a dragon graveyard or something? Are there any dangers associated with it?"

Aria nodded, her expression serious. "Yes, it's considered a sacred place, and many adventurers have sought Ember's crystal for its rumored magical properties. However, the lingering energy has also attracted creatures and entities drawn to its power. It's not as dangerous as some other islands, but we should still be cautious."

I leaned back, absorbing the information. The idea of a dragon's essence infusing the island added a layer of mystique to Emberfall. It could potentially offer unique opportunities and challenges for us. "Well, that sounds like an adventure waiting to happen. I think Emberfall's sounds like the perfect island to make our home, provided we stay clear of the dragon Graveyard. For now."

Both Aria and I laughed, but then I remembered a question that had bugged me since coming to this world. "How do these islands float? Is it magic, or some kind of gravity anomaly?"

Aria smiled, appreciating my curiosity. "It's a combination of magic and the properties of the floating crystals that make up the islands. Each island has a core crystal, a massive gemstone that possesses anti-gravitational properties. This crystal is usually located at the center of the island, and it counteracts the pull of gravity, allowing the landmass to float in the sky."

She continued to explain, "The core crystal is surrounded by smaller floating crystals dispersed throughout the island. These crystals maintain the balance and stability of the floating landmass. The magic inherent in these crystals also influences the flora and fauna, resulting in the unique environments we find on each island."

I nodded, fascinated by the blend of magic and natural elements that made these floating islands possible. "It's incredible how everything in this world is interconnected. So, Emberfall has its own set of these crystals?"

"Yes, exactly. The presence of Ember's crystal enhances the magical properties of the floating crystals on Emberfall. It's part of what gives the island its unique energy," Aria confirmed, and I rubbed my hands together, making sure not to disturb Lyra.

"Can we harness the crystal's power? I mean, is there a way to move the island?" I asked, hoping that I didn't have to try and design something. After hearing how it all worked, I wasn't even sure if I could come up with something, even with a connection to the internet.

Aria's expression turned thoughtful as she considered my question. "Moving an entire island is a complex task, and it's not something commonly attempted. The core crystal is integral to the stability and balance of the island. Tampering with it could have unpredictable consequences. However, some certain magical rituals and artifacts might allow controlled movements on a smaller scale."

She paused, choosing her words carefully. "It's a delicate balance, Leon. Trying to manipulate the magic that sustains these islands can lead to unintended consequences. If you want to be able to do something like that, you are going to have to find someone to train you in magic. I can show you the basics, but to learn more, you are going to have to find someone more talented."

It was hard to think that Aria was considering herself not talented when she could heal back missing limbs. Maybe that wasn't so uncommon in this world, but that really made me wonder what I truly powerful mage could do... Wait a minute...

"Did you just say that I can learn magic?" I said, and Aria nodded.

"Of course. Anyone in this world can if you practice!" Aria laughed but then looked at me funny.

I suddenly felt dizzy, and I slumped over Lyra, my world going black.