Reborn as a DRAGON

Over the course of the following months, our journey took us through the expansive southern region of the continent, seeking out the anomalies that disrupted the balance of mana. With each discovery, we unraveled the common thread: the fusion of two, and sometimes even more, elements. It became evident that this merging of powers was the root cause of the disturbances we encountered.

Fortunately, our earlier successes had provided me with valuable insights. Armed with the knowledge and the vast expanse of my soul space, the process of untangling the merged elements became more streamlined. I called upon the power of the cosmic and darkness pillars, utilizing them to exert control and facilitate the separation of the entangled forces. It was a process that grew easier with each subsequent instance, as familiarity and experience became my allies.

The water and earth elements proved to be cooperative, willingly accepting their separation and finding solace within the confines of my soul space. Their presence contributed to the expansion of my realm, causing it to grow in size with seemingly no bounds. The harmonious fusion of water and earth mana within my domain brought about a sense of stability and tranquility.

However, the wind element posed a unique challenge. Despite my best efforts to integrate it within the existing flow of mana, it resisted, as if it yearned for a freedom that could only be found beyond the confines of my realm. For now, It was an untamable force, restless and eager to roam the open skies. Recognizing the potential danger it posed to my soul space, I reluctantly made the decision to release the wind element back into the world.

As we continued to journey onward, encountering one mana disturbance after another, my soul space continued to expand and evolve. Its growth seemed boundless, expanding both in physical size and the intricacy of its composition. It became a realm teeming with the harmonious dance of water and earth mana.

During our journey, we occasionally crossed paths with mortals, their lives unfolding before us. Serenia's enchantment skillfully veiled our presence, allowing us to pass by unnoticed. However, the abnormal weather phenomena we left in our wake stirred intrigue and curiosity among the mortal population, with most of the Auris, interpreting such events as celestial messages.

To my surprise, rumors of my existence began to circulate rapidly, spreading like wildfire through the mortal realm. No doubt from the first group that saw us. Some regarded me as a divine savior, a clandestine guardian sent to protect them. Others, however, saw me as a harbinger of divine retribution, an omen of impending doom. It amused me to observe the myriad reactions and interpretations that flourished among mortals. Yet, in truth, their speculations held little relevance to my purpose. I remained focused on my task, undeterred by their perceptions.

My presence, shrouded in mystery, became a subject of fascination and speculation. Tales of a mysterious entity traversing the land to rectify disturbances in the natural order echoed throughout mortal gatherings. Whispers carried my name and purpose, spreading further with each retelling. It was a testament to the mortal penchant for weaving narratives around the unknown, searching for meaning in the enigmatic.

And as word of my enigmatic nature continued to spread among the mortals, fueling their imagination and curiosity. With each retelling, the stories grew more embellished, and eventually, I found myself adorned with a grandiose title "The Great One." I must admit, a certain sense of pride welled within me, acknowledging the impact I had made on their collective consciousness.

However, as is often the case with mortals, interpretations veered into unexpected territories. Some among the Auris, misguided by their fervor and a misinterpretation of my presence, saw me as a sign to wage war against the alliance of humans and Mindweavers. The swiftness with which things escalated left me bewildered, for the mortal inclination to perceive hidden messages and leap to drastic conclusions never ceased to amaze me.

In their haste to ascribe meaning and purpose to my existence, some Auris became entangled in their own perceptions, blinded to the true nature of my purpose. It was baffeling to witness the consequences of their misunderstanding, as a peaceful coexistence teetered on the edge of chaos.

The human-Mindweaver alliance, caught in the crosshairs of Auris aggression, faced the brunt of the misguided fervor. The delicate balance they had forged was threatened by this newfound belief in a divine mandate for conflict. Mortal minds, so easily swayed by interpretations and biases became enmeshed in a maelstrom of distrust and animosity.

"Aren't you guys going to do anything about all of this?" I posed the question to the minor deities, my confusion evident in my tone.

Serenia, ever calm and composed, took the lead in responding. "We do not hold the authority to directly intervene in mortal affairs," she explained. "Our role is to support and assist you on your journey."

I nodded at her words. It seemed that the minor deities were bound by their own limitations. Their influence extended only so far, and the intricacies of mortal conflicts were beyond their jurisdiction. It became clear that the responsibility for resolving this situation fell upon higher powers.

As the realization sank in, a sense of perplexity overcame me. Why did the greater Gods choose not to intervene? Did they simply not care? Or did also adopt a 'Not intervening' policy when it came to the mortals?

An internal dialogue sparked within me;

'Well, they say people thrive with conflict, so who knows? Perhaps this is a good thing,' I inwardly wondered.

And so, despite the ever-expanding war that engulfed the continent, our mission remained steadfast. The conflict that raged among mortals seemed inconsequential in the grand scheme of our task. With unwavering resolution, I pressed forward, scanning the vast expanse of the southern region, leaving no stone unturned.

Day after day, I traversed through villages, cities, and landscapes, my senses attuned to any hint of disturbance in the mana flow. The chaos of war was a constant backdrop, but I remained unconcerned, and undeterred by the battles that raged around me. My purpose was clear, and I could care less for anything else.

'Sidus should be close to wrapping up his side,' I thought as we drew closer to the northern borders each day.

"I know you like to call yourself, chosen ones and whatnot, but an entire continental war just cause they caught a glimpse of you? That's ridiculous,"

Breta's playful mockery echoed through the air, as we made our way toward our next destination, causing a smirk to tug at the corner of my mouth. "Ah, yes, the 'chosen ones' title does have its drawbacks," I admitted with a wry chuckle. "But let's not forget, my dear Breta, that you too were caught in their gaze. If anything, it was your radiant presence that fueled their fervor."

She crossed her arms, feigning annoyance, but a mischievous glint danced in her eyes. "Well, I suppose I can't deny my captivating charm," she replied with an emotionless face. "But really, a whole war? I forgot how irrational mortals can be."