Chapter 21: Chapter 21: The primordial Laws, and Demonic punishment
When Henry and Alvo awakened, it sent shockwaves across both the Wizard and Titan realms. Headlines blazed in magical newspapers: "Child of the Will Awakens", "Heroes Return", and similar proclamations filled every corner of the planes.
Jennifer, overjoyed by Alvo's recovery, clung to him like a lifeline, refusing to leave his side even for a moment. She was, in Alvo's words, "a koala who refused to let go." She followed him everywhere, ensuring he had everything he needed. Alvo, for his part, could only sigh, though he secretly appreciated her unwavering devotion.
One day, as Jennifer nestled close to him, she paused and looked into his eyes.
"Sorry," Alvo murmured, his voice soft and sincere.
Jennifer blinked, her lips forming a slight pout. "If you're this honest, how am I supposed to stay mad at you?" she murmured, her fingers tracing gentle patterns on his chest.
Taking a deep breath, she confessed, "I really missed you. Before we met, I only knew you from the papers—this untouchable hero, a model for all the youth to admire. And then, somehow, fate played its hand, and here I am… your little wife." She smiled, her cheeks warming as she rested against him.
Alvo, however, was distracted. Memories of their ordeal in the demon-infested battlefield began to resurface, vivid and unrelenting. He remembered the countless demons surrounding him and his companions. He didn't feel fear or hatred—only disdain.
Jennifer, sensing the sudden shift in his aura, quickly activated a nearby alarm.
Hybrym, who had been studying intelligence reports in his quarters, vanished instantly, appearing in Alvo's room. His eyes immediately scanned the situation. Jennifer was encased in a protective cocoon, and Alvo lay motionless, his eyes staring blankly at the ceiling.
Hybrym clenched his fists, rage flickering in his golden eyes. The demons. He feared they had left a scar on Alvo's psyche.
He stepped closer, prepared to intervene, but then Alvo's gaze shifted. Their eyes locked, and in that unspoken moment, Hybrym understood. This was no mere trauma. This was a declaration. Either Alvo would fall, or the demon plane itself would be annihilated.
Suddenly, a surge of primordial power erupted from Alvo, the very fabric of reality bending under the weight of his Will. Hybrym, for all his vast experience, could only marvel at the sight. This was a force he had only read about in ancient Titanic scriptures—a phenomenon reserved for beings at the pinnacle of existence, Level 10 entities.
In a flash, Alvo vanished, appearing above the infinite void of the cosmos. His presence was unmistakable—a beacon of power, incomprehensible yet undeniable. Hybrym, along with every Autarch of both the Titan and Wizard races, appeared in the void, drawn by the sudden upheaval.
Before anyone could speak, Hybrym raised a hand, commanding silence.
They stood in reverence—elders, warriors, sages, and scholars—all Autarchs of unimaginable power. Yet, in the presence of Alvo Dumbledore, they waited. His gaze remained fixed on the horizon, distant and all-encompassing.
Then, his voice echoed—not as sound, but as the very essence of reality itself. It was as if the cosmos had become his instrument, resonating with every syllable.
"The waves that ebb and flow renew the old, bringing forth the new. They inspire peace, they sow despair, they evoke vigilance. To those of pure heart and noble intent, the light will guide you. To those who seek strength through growth, your path will be illuminated. To those who dwell in darkness, who corrupt and destroy... your existence will end, and the cycle will deny your return."
The universe trembled as waves of primordial energy rippled outward, cascading across the planes.
For the wounded, the waves brought healing and restoration.
For the weak of will, they ignited the indomitable strength of the Wizard's Will.
For the strong of body, they imbued the Titan's Resolve.
But for those aligned with the shadows, the waves erased their presence, casting them into eternal oblivion.
Across distant planar conflicts, where light and darkness clashed, armies of light cheered as their enemies vanished in an instant. Cries of joy echoed in realms untouched by hope for eons.
The gathered Autarchs watched in awe. The magnitude of this act—the deliberate rewriting of planar balance—was unprecedented.
A Titan Autarch finally stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Young Master Alvo, are these… primordial laws you wield?"
Alvo nodded, his expression calm. "The Wills of the Wizard and Titan planes evolved my Laws of Light and Waves. They are now primordial in nature."
The assembly murmured in astonishment. Such blessings were the stuff of legend.
A Wizard Autarch spoke next, his tone respectful yet curious. "Lord Alvo, does this mean your waves will continue to eradicate the forces of darkness?"
"Yes," Alvo confirmed, "though not without resistance. Higher planes of darkness will shield themselves, but those who dare invade realms of light will face the consequences of their arrogance."
Another Titan Autarch stepped forward, his voice heavy with emotion. "Young Master, may I ask… why such decisive action?"
Alvo did not answer immediately. Instead, he raised his hand, conjuring an image of the past. The room filled with the harrowing scene of demons torturing witches, a moment burned into Alvo's memory.
Turning to a Titan Autarch, Alvo posed a question: "What would you feel if it were young Titans in their place instead of us?"
The Autarch's face darkened. "Rage. Hatred. An irreconcilable fury."
Alvo's eyes swept across the assembly, his voice steady yet filled with conviction. "Then you understand why this had to happen."
His aura surged, and with it, a wave of unimaginable scale erupted, stretching millions of kilometers toward the demonic plane.
The Autarchs watched in silence as the wave tore through the void. When it reached the demon plane, a great blue demon emerged, his face a mask of fury and disbelief as he felt the wave's devastating impact.
Within the demon plane, billions were reduced to ash. The demonic Will itself trembled, its rage palpable as it retaliated by obliterating nearby lesser planes, projecting its avatar into the void.
Back among the Autarchs, Alvo suddenly stopped speaking, his gaze fixed on the projection. A beautiful young woman and an elegant young man appeared at his side, unnoticed by all but him.
The demonic avatar, a towering blue figure, spoke coldly, its voice booming. "Young one, has your rage been sated? After destroying billions in my domain, are you satisfied? Will you continue this slaughter?"
Before Alvo could respond, the young woman stepped forward. Her voice rang with authority. "Humble planar being, kneel before your Majesties."
The demon was forced to his knees, his voice trembling. "Impossible… the Incarnation of the Titan Will… and the Wizard Will…"
The Wizard Will's voice resounded, shaking the void. "How does our champion taste, humble demon Will? And if he is not satisfied, what will you do? Wail and vanish with your projection? Know your place."
The projection disintegrated into violet energy, and the wills vanished.
Alvo turned back to the Autarchs, his expression serene yet resolute. "These waves will continue for eternity. This cosmos will no longer tolerate the presence of darkness."
The Autarchs bowed in unison, acknowledging the truth of his words.
Finally, Alvo addressed them. "I am a humble Wizard, Level 5. I respect my elders and value their wisdom. But I understand the importance of primordial laws. From this moment, I will deliver teachings on their nature once a month. For those interested, I welcome you to listen. For those wary, seek counsel from your own Will. The path of the laws is perilous, but its rewards are boundless."
With that, Alvo disappeared alongside the Wills.
Hybrym stepped forward, his voice carrying a note of finality. "You heard him. Construct an auditorium here, open to the universe. These teachings are a gift. Use them wisely. And next month, when the lecture concludes, I will reveal important intelligence. Until then, farewell."
In a small, serene house, Jennifer sat across from Alvo, recounting the events of the past years with a soft smile on her face. Her eyes gleamed with warmth as she spoke of their friends and family.
Alvo, his voice steady but curious, asked, "And Pina? How is she doing?"
Jennifer's smile broadened as she responded, "Pina has done remarkably well. She and my sister have become inseparable, and later Tina joined them. The three are like peas in a pod now. Your mother, Fernanda, made sure they had nothing but the best. Pina and Tina are both thriving and attending school."
Alvo nodded, but his brows furrowed slightly. "And Pina's past? Has anyone dared to interfere because of her history as a slave?" His tone carried a mix of concern and protectiveness.
Jennifer chuckled lightly and shook her head. "Impossible. Who would dare? Pina is well-loved, and everyone understands her worth. Those who might have questioned it wouldn't even get the chance to speak. She's family now, Alvo."
Her smile turned playful as she leaned closer, her fingers brushing against his. "Now, about me… Don't you think it's time you helped me cultivate? I'm far behind you, as you can clearly see." Her tone was teasing, but there was an earnestness in her eyes.
Alvo smirked knowingly, already anticipating her next move. With a wave of his hand, he sealed the property, a shimmering barrier forming as a protective measure. A small plaque appeared outside the entrance, inscribed with glowing words: "Do not disturb for one week."
Jennifer laughed softly at his foresight, drawing closer, her presence warm and comforting.
Meanwhile, deep within an ancient forest, Henry stood amidst towering trees, the air thick with magic and the scent of earth. His gaze was steady, his mind focused as he reached out with his senses, searching for the remnants of a seed of wood he had planted long ago in the demonic plane.
Henry's expression was calm but determined. The memory of what had transpired, the humiliation and rage of those moments, had been dulled during his unconsciousness. Yet, now, fully aware and in control, he sought to ensure that the seed bore fruit. If successful, the chaos it could cause within the demonic realm was something he could only smirk at—an unfortunate reckoning for their enemies.
Once satisfied with his progress, Henry withdrew a piece of parchment, carefully penning a letter to Alvo.
Letter from Henry to Alvo:
Alvo,
I trust this finds you well. Recent events have stirred many things, and like you, I've found myself growing in ways unexpected. During my slumber, I missed the weight of our shared fury, but I am not idle. You'll be pleased to know I've taken measures of my own—remnants of my influence linger in the demonic plane. A seed of wood lies planted there, growing slowly but steadily. The inescapable misfortune it will bring them is, I think, poetic justice.
On another note, I hear you're working on heirs. My congratulations. Though I wonder if your new endeavors have anything to do with the quiet over on your end. Don't let Jennifer wear you out too much, my friend.
Yours,
Henry
As the ink dried on the parchment, Henry summoned a magical bird to deliver his message, watching it take flight into the boundless sky. His lips curved into a small smile. He had much to prepare for, but the thought of his friend forging his legacy brought him a rare moment of peace.
Calm returned to the planes of the Wizards and Titans, a serene respite from the chaos that had shaken their existence. However, the same could not be said for the rest of the planes across the cosmos. Endless wars ground to a halt as factions scrambled to understand and adapt to the perpetual waves Alvo had unleashed.
In the midst of an intense battle between the Plane of Faith and the Abyssal Plane, a high-ranking Abyssal Autarch convened an emergency council. Standing before his peers, he laid out his analysis in a cold, calculated tone:
"First, these waves are permanent. Second, they eradicate anything aligned with the path of darkness or those whose hearts lean toward defiance of the Light. Third, it takes four years for a single wave to reach us. Therefore, to continue this war, we must adapt. We fight for four years, then retreat into the safety of our plane, let the wave pass, and resume our campaign. There is no alternative. Outside our borders, even Autarchs are at risk of annihilation. Within, we are safe—for now."
Across the chamber, murmurs of agreement rippled through the Abyssal council. While grim, the strategy offered a path forward. Meanwhile, their enemies in the Plane of Faith seized the opportunity, advancing their lines with renewed vigor during the lull between waves. Both sides knew this cyclical battle rhythm would define the wars of the future.
Similar high-level meetings echoed across countless planes. Leaders scrambled to decipher the waves and how best to exploit or evade them. They quickly noted that the further a plane was from the source, the longer it took for the waves to arrive. This bought them time—precious years to enact their plans before the cleansing light washed over their realms. But arrogance proved fatal to some; a few unfortunates underestimated the waves or believed themselves strong enough to resist their judgment. These overconfident fools vanished without a trace, their existence erased.
For planes aligned with the Light and Order, the waves were a miraculous reprieve. After countless eons of relentless pressure, this blessing brought profound relief. Across their domains, prayers of gratitude rose to the heavens, their faith reaffirmed by the tangible salvation of the waves.
Unbeknownst to both the planes and even Alvo himself, a new power began to stir deep within him. It was neither harmful nor benevolent—simply present, like a dormant flame awaiting kindling. While its nature remained a mystery, Alvo felt no immediate danger. Still, the question lingered in his mind: What was this energy, and why had it appeared? He resolved to consult the Will of the World when the time was right, hoping to unravel the enigma.
For now, however, his focus lay elsewhere—namely, with Jennifer. Her warm smile and unwavering presence, in his bed, Jenni tought was in i want a girl and a boy, she murmur, Alvo nodded, yes my lady, prepare yourself.
A week later, Alvo and Jennifer were selecting various items for their home—practical necessities for everyday life. Meanwhile, Pina, now twelve years old, was a lively presence in the yard. She flitted about like an energetic little bird, her joyfulness and boundless energy filling the space. Pina was blossoming into a beautiful young girl, though she remained lovingly spoiled by Alvo and his family.
After finishing their shopping, they returned home, where Alvo reviewed their cultivation progress. Pina, as expected, needed to focus on increasing her spiritual energy. At the same time, Alvo was carefully planning Jennifer's advancement to Wizard Level 4.
In the office, Jennifer was seated near Alvo, reading some documents aloud for him while he listened attentively. Their peaceful moment was interrupted by a summons. A Titan Autarch had arrived, carrying an air of formality and purpose. Alvo gestured for the Autarch to speak, who wasted no time in making his request.
"Young Master," the Autarch began, "would you consider spending a few months in the Titan Realm? It would serve as a form of representation for us—almost like a cultural exchange or a promotional visit. After all, you are, in a way, one of us by birthright. The younger generation could benefit greatly from your presence. There would also be interviews, though the rest could simply be a chance for you to explore and enjoy. I've already consulted with Hybrym, and he left the decision entirely to you. Naturally, we wouldn't leave you empty-handed. Here is—"
Before the Autarch could finish, Alvo interrupted with a raised hand. "I don't need anything. I agree to your request. I'll go with my wife. Once she reaches Wizard Level 4, I'll send a message through the planar tablet so you can finalize the arrangements. Are we clear?"
The Autarch nodded with reverence. "Yes, of course, Young Master. And... thank you. Truly. This means a great deal to us." His gaze briefly flickered to the familiar case in his hand, as though weighing the significance of the moment.
Alvo chuckled softly. "Don't mention it, Elder. And remember what I've said—I am still young. You elders should be the ones teaching me."
The Autarch let out a hearty laugh. "True, true. When time allows, I'd be happy to show you two or three of our best techniques."
With that, their meeting concluded. Jennifer, having overheard the conversation, approached Alvo with a bright sparkle in her eyes. "Darling, the Titan Realm? What are they like? Can we shop there? Oh, I wonder if their food is different! Maybe we could..."
Alvo sighed with a mixture of affection and exasperation. "Yes, yes, my dear. We'll do everything you wish." He wrapped his arms around her warmly, drawing her close.
This simple gesture of affection had become a rarity for Alvo but one he'd embraced more fully since the events of recent years. He had come to understand that every day could hold the last embrace, the last moment of closeness, in a universe as unpredictable as theirs. Strength was vital to ensure stability, and his waves of power would continue to reign supreme.
Jennifer nestled into his arms, her head resting comfortably against his neck. She basked in the warmth of his affection, savoring the moment with a contented smile. "I love this," she murmured softly.
So did Alvo. In this ever-changing universe, these small, quiet moments of connection were becoming his greatest treasures.
A few months later, Jennifer successfully advanced to Level 4 as a witch. Her domain now centered around the profound mastery of illusions. With her preparations complete, as agreed with the Titan Autarch, she and Alvo embarked on their journey to the Titan Realm. The couple marveled at the culture and innovations they encountered, making lasting memories along the way.
Now, Alvo sat cross-legged on a raised platform in a grand hall. Beside him was Jennifer, poised and regal, while several Level 8 Titans conversed with him amiably, discussing the intricacies of life and the universe. Below them, dozens of younger Titans were enjoying what could only be described as a luxurious banquet. Yet, whispers began to ripple through the hall.
"Who is he? Why is he permitted to sit among the exalted?" one murmured.
"Don't you read the news?" another replied. "He's the one who saved the Titan race. He's here because the Will itself asked him, with respect."
The murmurs swelled until a young Level 6 Titan could no longer contain himself. "I don't believe it! He's just a Level 5 wizard, how could he possibly—"
Before he could finish, a calm voice, resonant yet subtle like waves brushing against the shore, interrupted him. Alvo's voice seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. "Would you like to spar? It might calm your restless heart."
The sudden proposition silenced the room, drawing the attention of even those lost in their own thoughts. The Level 8 Titans beside Alvo spoke quickly, their tones conciliatory.
"Young Master, please forgive him," one said. "Our children are spirited and often lack an understanding of the universe's greater heights."
Another chimed in, "Indeed, they're hot-blooded. Please overlook this incident."
But Alvo simply smiled. "Even so, that won't ease his troubled heart. Look at him—he's sweating, desperate for battle."
The reality, however, was far graver. The young Titan felt surrounded by unseen blades, their edges formed by Alvo's waves. Though invisible, their presence was undeniable. He couldn't move, and when he glanced around, he noticed the waves passed harmlessly through others but stopped just before reaching him, as if signaling his impending doom.
Alvo's voice came again, steady and composed. "Young Titan, I recognize that you are ranked higher than me in terms of raw power and spiritual comprehension. However," his gaze swept the hall, "in this primordial circle, under the laws I command, I am unmatched in strength."
The Level 8 Titans adjusted their posture, realizing the weight of Alvo's words. This was a lesson they too would have to absorb as they progressed.
"Let us begin with the basics," Alvo continued. "As most of you know, intentions are a universal principle across many planes." He raised his hand, conjuring a glowing orb of light that spun like a pendulum. "This represents my intention. Observe how it persists until I change it."
Alvo casually sipped a glass of wine, and the orb dissipated. "As you saw, my intention was bound to my desire. When I shifted focus, it lost its purpose."
The younger Titans, Levels 2 to 6, nodded earnestly. Some, under capable teachers, were already familiar with this concept, while others took this as an eye-opening lesson.
"Next, we have true intention," Alvo said, his tone deepening. He gestured toward an Autarch seated nearby. "Elder Gagmar, could you demonstrate a basic intention with light?"
The Autarch obliged, conjuring a similar orb of light that moved in a steady pendulum. Alvo then infused the orb with true intention, causing the first to be consumed instantly.
"This is the difference," Alvo explained. "True intention surpasses basic intention in quality and clarity."
The hall buzzed with murmurs as young Titans absorbed the lesson, some taking notes, while a few bashful young women exchanged shy glances. Jennifer, ever perceptive, crossed her arms with a huff, clearly unimpressed by their attention toward her husband.
Alvo continued, "After intention comes law, and true law. Much like the previous example, true law supersedes ordinary law." He repeated the demonstration with Gagmar, solidifying the distinction.
Turning to the room, he asked, "Now, can anyone explain the key difference between intention and law?"
Silence fell. The young Titans contemplated deeply, but no one dared to answer.
Alvo smiled reassuringly. "It's alright. Even a personal understanding is a step forward. Don't fear making mistakes."
A Level 4 Titan hesitantly raised his hand. "Sir Wizard, I believe it's about quality or... something like that?"
"Yes, you're on the right track," Alvo said, nodding. "But there's more to it."
He demonstrated again, conjuring one pendulum with intention and another with law. While the first dissipated when he paused to write something down, the second remained.
A Level 5 Titan suddenly exclaimed, "I understand now! Intentions require constant focus, but laws persist as long as they're given structure. Is that correct?"
"Exactly," Alvo confirmed. "I hope this clarifies the differences."
He then turned back to the young Level 6 Titan who had questioned him earlier. "Now, may I know your name?"
The young Titan, still sweating, stammered, "My name is Gangblumar, sir."
"Well, Blumar, which law do you comprehend?"
"The Law of the Sword," he replied nervously.
Alvo nodded. "Very well. Use your full power and attack me with your law and spiritual energy."
The hall grew tense. Whispers spread as the young Titans below worried for their safety. Alvo waved off their concerns. "Don't worry. No harm will come to anyone."
Reluctantly, Gangblumar launched a majestic attack, his energy crackling with intensity. Yet, as it approached within twenty meters of Alvo, it stopped dead.
Alvo asked calmly, "Now, can you explain what you feel?"
Gangblumar's voice was shaky. "Sir... it feels as though my law and spiritual energy are being denied existence. I can't move them past this point."
Excited murmurs broke out among the younger Titans. They whispered about how much they were learning and silently hoped Alvo would visit more often.
Alvo explained, "This happens because I have comprehended something greater. Your Law of the Sword is still in its infancy and cannot advance through a rule so much stronger than itself. It's not about raw power anymore; it's about understanding."
A Level 6 Titan woman raised her hand. "Young Master, may I ask—does this mean spiritual energy becomes irrelevant at higher levels of cultivation?"
Alvo shook his head. "No, it remains crucial. Allow me to demonstrate." He conjured a light orb and asked Gagmar to do the same. When the two clashed, the Autarch's superior spiritual energy overwhelmed Alvo's orb.
He turned to the young woman. "Do you see now? When spiritual energy is equal, comprehension determines the victor. But if one has more energy while maintaining the same understanding of laws, they will prevail."
A Level 8 Titan elaborated further, allowing Alvo to take a moment to drink some water and enjoy a brief respite.
After the session concluded, Alvo delivered a few parting words of wisdom, and the Titans dispersed. As he and Jennifer returned to their quarters, she couldn't help but grumble. "Those Titan women don't know their place, daring to eye my husband in front of me. Hmph!"
Alvo chuckled and pulled her close, gently soothing her frustrations with his affection. In moments like these, Jennifer was reminded of how deeply she loved him, and they ended the evening wrapped in each other's arms, their bond only growing stronger.