Chapter 13 - 13: 1,000-year-old baby
"I see..." Erik commented thoughtfully, making a mental note not to talk to himself in front of his master. He then continued, "But I'd like to know what the alliances are based on and why they hate each other."
Sigrún nodded, satisfied with her disciple's question, pleased that he could focus on what truly mattered. She responded in a soft and pleased voice.
"That's another great question. I was just about to mention it, but to keep it short, we humans have three different magical systems: one known as Sacred Geometry, which is mainly based on magical circles; the Aegis system, which I practice and is based on runes; and the Zazen Discipline, which is primarily based on meditation and energy control with the mind and body.
The three alliances are the main representatives of these systems: the Meridian Federation with Sacred Geometry, the Boreal League with the Aegis system, and the Jade Lotus Union with the Zazen Discipline. They hate each other precisely because of that, though they occasionally have other excuses to hate each other. But that's the main reason.
They swear their respective system is the best and that the others are just cheap imitations or inferior versions, which has led to several wars. According to them, it's to prove they have the most powerful magical system, though usually, it's just a cheap excuse to steal from each other. The truth is, the three systems are simply different ways of doing the same thing, each with its advantages and disadvantages."
"So, you're part of the Boreal League, master?" Erik asked thoughtfully, looking at his master, who smiled casually and replied.
"Not at all. Although they are known as the three great factions, they aren't the only ones. For example, there's the faction I belong to, the Arcane Order, which is a neutral faction composed mainly of scholars, researchers, and merchants."
"And the others don't try to attack you?"
Erik asked, a bit surprised by the response, to which Sigrún laughed joyfully and then replied with a bit of arrogance in her tone.
"Hahaha, they don't have the guts to do it. Although we are neutral, we are not weak and possess enough power to make them regret attacking us. Besides, we are the main supplier of weapons, medicines, magical artifacts, and knowledge in the galaxy, so it's better to have us as friends than to start a foolish fight they can't win."
"Basically, you became necessary and are filthy rich," Erik commented casually, resisting the urge to roll his eyes, causing Sigrún to respond with a mischievous smile on her delicate face.