Chapter 51 Arkanum Veritas (12)
The Gaia communication system utilizes magical towers known as Obelisk Vitae, which play a crucial role in its magical infrastructure. Each Obelisk is connected to a central crystal called the Nervium Core, housed in the central plaza of Thirtos. This is the heart of information for Gaia—where all diplomatic messages, military orders, and legal records circulate in the form of energy glyphs, creating a complex and vital information network for the sustainability of political and social governance in Gaia.
This action, referred to as the "Third Crack" by Arkanum Veritas, is a pivotal step in their strategy. The two previous cracks involved infiltrating royal staff data and leaking Lord Ludwig's dark correspondence. However, the Third Crack represents a full symphony that demonstrates a significant enhancement in the bold and strategic tactics they employ to achieve their greater goals.
Rinn stealthily slipped into the guard tower, causing the entire visual surveillance to be delayed by 30 seconds—just enough time to enter and exit without a trace. Before executing this maneuver, Rinn meticulously planned each step, leveraging his skills in reconnaissance. He spent days studying the guard's patrol patterns and gathering information from fellow recruits, which included names and habits of the guards that might slow down their responses. His struggle was not only with enemies outside but also with the uncertainty and guilt that often haunted him, creating profound emotional tension. Rinn frequently recalled his past, when he acted as a savior before the decision to join Arkanum Veritas, which added depth to his internal conflict. While he believed that this action was the only way to free Gaia from tyranny, he felt the heavy burden of sacrificing his own principles.
Orvin plants the glyph "Zalakar"—an ancient glyph capable of turning the tide of information into chaotic noise and false images. Before he can execute this task, Orvin grapples with a profound inner battle regarding his decision to wield such immense power. His background as a former member of the Council of Sorcery adds a sharp conflict to his struggle; he is acutely aware that while this glyph can create extraordinary chaos, it may also spell doom for countless innocent lives caught in the turmoil, creating a moral dilemma that ensnares him in emotional turmoil.
Kael Juno infiltrates from within, pretending to be an Earth technician who is "stabilizing Nervium synchronization." He possesses remarkable skills in magical techniques, yet the guilt of harming his innocent colleagues constantly haunts him. Kael understands that if he is recognized, the risks extend beyond himself to encompass the entire team. Simultaneously, he struggles with guilt towards his family, who remain loyal to the rulers of Gaia. Since childhood, Kael has found himself caught between loyalty to his family and his calling to seek justice for the oppressed.
The political system in Gaia is deeply structured and complex. It consists of multiple layers of power, ranging from a supreme ruler with absolute authority to nobles who control smaller districts, each with their own ambitions. Nobles often lobby one another for influence, creating tensions that provide opportunities for Arkanum Veritas to exploit these conflicts. Social life in Gaia is also harsh, with the lower classes frequently betrayed by the empty promises of the elite in power. The gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, prompting many to join underground movements in search of justice.
The security and defense system of Gaia is intricate, protected by magical rituals that serve as strong barriers and cloaking mechanisms. Each Obelisk tower functions not only as a communication hub but also as a defense point against infiltration. A layer of magic surrounding the Nervium Core ensures the confidentiality and integrity of the information circulating within it, yet vulnerabilities in its physical control always exist, waiting to be exploited by those bold enough.
The three cracks—first, the infiltration of royal employee data; second, the leak of Lord Ludwig's dark letters; and now, the Third Crack—are intertwined in a highly complex network of conspiracy. Each preceding action has created a strategic footprint that allows Arkanum Veritas to solidify its presence amid the ever-changing political turmoil. Rinn, Orvin, and Kael realize that their actions are not merely about sabotage; they are also about altering the course of Gaia's history, where every step they take could trigger a wave of change far greater than they had previously anticipated.
"Mirror Null: Lux Inversa," Elena uttered.
The magic she wielded is high sorcery drawn from ancient manuscripts that are not even taught at the Atlantis Academy, making Lux Inversa a highly valuable and mysterious spell. Lux Inversa operates by creating a false echo of every message sent, and for a full 8 hours, all communications between the palace and the troops transform into the sound of children's songs in reverse language that is unintelligible.
All messages sent between the palace and the troops turn into children's songs in reverse language.