Chapter 48: Transcendence
As we crested the crystalline dock, I got my first proper look at the academy.
The floating citadel was even more impossible up close – massive structures of ice and crystal suspended in mid-air, connected by bridges that seemed made of pure light. The red sun's rays caught every surface, creating an array of crimson reflections that made the whole complex look like it was bleeding.
"Impressed?" Vayara asked, noting my expression.
"It's... not what I expected," I admitted. The architecture defied everything I knew about physics, even by cultivation world standards.
"The founders built it to be closer to the red sun's power," she explained, leading me toward what appeared to be the main entrance – a towering arch of crystalline ice carved with countless runic patterns. "Though I suspect they also enjoyed reminding the masses below of their transcendence."
As we approached, I noticed two robed figures floating on either side of the arch, their hoods were pulled low, hiding their features.
"Vayara," one of them called out, his voice carrying that same aristocratic tone I was starting to associate with the Order. "This is unexpected. Your patrol wasn't due back for another week. I didn’t expect you to be back with a stray."
"Circumstances changed, Brother Chen," she replied smoothly. "We have a natural awakening."
Both guardians went very still. Then the second one laughed – a sharp, disbelieving sound. "A natural? Here? The odds of that are—"