NOVEL NEXT Chapter 2: Change
Jack's vision was immediately created by a myriad of colours, with space seemignly stretching to infinity with no clear sense of direction; the Spirit World.
He became entranced, mesmerized as this was something he could never hope to interact with in his previous life. Due to his somewhat overwhelmed senses and mind, he decided to change his initial course and instead, let fate guide his steps through this mysterious realm.
Jack eventually exited the Spirit World, and appeared within a snowy plane, instantly recognizing it to be the peak of a mountain range.
My actions are still uncoordinated… I'm not fully accostumed yet with this body yet, making me incapable of exercising my full capabilities. Jack cursed inwardly. The moment I lose my focus, I mistakes occur; mistakes that could be fully exploited by someone of an even lower level... Tsk, I'll need to absorb the my still somewhat disjointed worms and psyche; maybe only a Discerner can help with that... Hermes? The problem is, I don't trust anyone to that level, let alone an ancient angel of the mind domain…
Jack inwardly felt numerous of his worms of spirit, feeling foreign to him, which was certainly not good news. Whilst the chilling wind and his slight headache, this Miracle Invoker closed his eyes and began to cogitate, imagining an ever shifting incandescent ball. With time, Jack felt his raging godhood, or the will of the Celestial Worthy get further suppressed as his sense of self strengthened.
Phew, although I've lost my marionettes the moment I died, harming a great deal of my anchors, its not fatal. My anchors constitute my marionettes and those of Secret Order who are loyal to me, as well as those afraid of me. Of course, it's not the best, but I can still use their corruption to balance with the Celestial Worthy's will, further stabilizing myself. Though in the long run, I'll need better anchors. Jack lampooned further, his disorientation receding to an extent.
From his vantage point, he could perceive various settlements, some more urban than the others, with greenery and a serene river permeating the landscape, creating a picturesque image. This all brought a simle to Jack's face.
Some things are wonderful, despite the darkness hidden underneath. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the little aspects of life I ignored before.
Jack—once Wesley Santana—remembered his former life. He had been a carefree man with a love for pop culture and relaxing hobbies. But living in a country riddled with corruption and plagued by economic hardship had forced him to abandon his passions and focus on survival. His work in public relations and police enforcement had been a necessary grind, stripping away much of what he cherished.
One man's garbage is another man's treasure, Jack thought, the familiar expression strengthening his sense of humanity. Slowly but surely, he felt a part of his lost self returning.
He turned his attention to his gloved hand, which gripped a bluish-black cane topped with a starlight-glimmering gem. The bottom of the cane was a darker blue, and its properties were as unique as its appearance.
The "Sightseeing Guide," an artifact corresponding to Traveler, allowed its user to traverse vast distances and store three abilities: one at a Demigod level and two others from lower sequences. It required the user to visualize the destination and expend spirituality. However, each use impaired the user's sense of direction, with the disorientation worsening and lasting longer with subsequent uses. The artifact currently held a Wraith's Shriek at Demigod level, a Witch's Charm, and a Vampire's Abyss Shackles.
I'll have to use this in the meantime. For me, its negative effects are inconsequential, so no need to apply a seal on while i possess it, but i will do so in the future... Jack remarked.
Pointing the cane in a specific direction, Jack visualized his destination and vanished from the snowy peak. This time, his journey through the Spirit World was smooth, and he emerged unscathed in a luxurious bedroom.
The king-sized bed was neatly made, the furniture opulent, and a fireplace crackled with charred wood. This was his suite within his mansion, located in Torres, the provincial capital of the Gaia Province in the Feynapotter Kingdom.
Jack took a moment to appreciate the familiar surroundings before heading to his wardrobe. Inside, he found delicate suits, polished shoes, and other finely tailored clothing. He retrieved a hidden trunk, storing artifacts and Beyonder Characteristics inside. Then, he moved to the bathroom for a quick shower, seeking clarity.
Stripping down, Jack examined his reflection. He stood over 1.80 meters tall, with a lean, athletic build. His neatly combed black hair was streaked with occasional gray patches, and his dark brown eyes carried a piercing intensity. Despite his late-thirties appearance, he retained a youthful handsomeness.
Not bad, he mused. Charming enough for certain identities, though vanity's never been my style.
Jack's demeanor was calm and collected, yet cold and ruthless when needed. As the leader of the Secret Order and a Scholar of Yore, he had earned both fear and respect. Given my way of doing things, I'll probably live up to that reputation, for better or worse, he thought with a wry smile.
After his shower, Jack dressed in a dark gray suit with a darker vest, carefully combed his hair, and retrieved the Sightseeing Guide and his black lustrous brooch.
Before leaving his room, he morphed his appearance. His height shrank to 1.60 meters, wrinkles appeared on his face, and his hair turned stark white. He now resembled Aldrich Veinswon, a seasoned banker—one of his many identities.
Concealed by illusions, Jack strolled through the mansion, bypassing staff unnoticed.
When he entered the kitchen, he dispelled the illusion, startling the on-duty maid and head cook.
"Greetings, Master Veinswon!" they exclaimed, bowing low.
"No need for formalities," Jack said with a chuckle. "I returned earlier than expected and didn't want to make a fuss."
He sat at the table, savoring a sweet pie prepared by the cook, William. The warmth and flavor brought a rare moment of genuine satisfaction.
"I shall go and bring the Head Steward to assist you, Lord Veinswon", The maid, Janet informed her employer, striding out of the kitchen courteously.
Soon, the head steward, Richard Braun, arrived, accompanied by the maid, apologizing profusely.
"My sincere apologies for not predicting and arranging for your return, milord", Richard brandished as he bowed down in shame.
Jack waved him off. "It was my choice to return unannounced."
Jack carefully stood up and addressed his servants. "Thank you William, Janet, for the deliciously sweet pie and the warm tea.
Richard, lets go to my office, shall we?" And so, both Richard and Jack left the kitchen, moving towards his office.
Sitting in his own highback leather chair, Jack asked "Richard, kindly inform me of the household and business updates in my absence".
Richard reported that the household remained unchanged, while Jack's banking enterprise had seen increased transactions from the Royal Family and nobility.
Great, it means there are no repercussions around from my death. Got to hand it to the guy, he doesn't leave things unnoticed. Jack lampooned.
A Magician never performs unprepared!
"Wonderful, Richard. My travels to Intis bore profiting results, so the Company should be gaining great returns in the following days" he answered.
"Unfortunately, i cannot remain for much time. I will be travelling once again, this time, for my own personal matters. Richard, call for the carriages and arrange my things swiftly, time is of essence".
As he witnesses Richard leaving and closing the doors, Jack sighed silently to himself.
Afterwards, he opened the cabinet, grabbing a ink pen and a brand new sheet of paper, readying to write a letter.
As he finished, he calmly summoned his messenger.
"The Esoteric Spirit than wanders the unfounded, the Multi-faceted Spider that witnesses everything, the Contracted Messenger loyally subordinated to Jack Layne"
At once, the surroundings seemed to dampen and flicker between light and darkness, subtly, as strange furry legs appeared from the void, quickly lining the image of a big spider, with multiple layered faces and even more eyes upon them.
All its eyes moved, analyzing the place, quickly recognizing it, before hounding its eyes to its contractor.
"Hello there" Jack said before calmly handing his messenger the letter. "Send this to Marceline, please"
The messenger quickly caught the letter with its own legs and web intertwined, before vanishing from Jack's sight.
Posteriorly, Jack streched his hands outwards to summon the projection of Hvis Rambis once again. After succeeding, bringing his form from the Void, he stretched his hands once again, pinching his fingers in attempt to summon another projection.
After numerous failed attempts, Jack finally felt another pinch at the tips of his fingers, bringing out a black cane embedded with various bright gems.
...
The prestigious Eclipse Theatre stands as a beacon of art and culture, its opulent façade drawing nobles, merchants, and commoners alike to its nightly performances in the city of Trier, Intis. Beneath the gilded balconies and velvet-draped curtains, however, lies a secret known only to the elite members of the Secret Order. A VIP room, reserved for the wealthiest patrons, conceals a hidden chamber used for the organization's most urgent discussions and reunions.
The theatre is managed by the Demigods of the Diamonds division, who are responsible for the information trade and shaping public perception for the Secret Order. At its helm is Calder Veyne, known as the Velvet Marquis.
The Secret Order's high-ranking members are distinguished by the denominations of card suits and ranks. Its leader is the Ace of Spades, with the two Saints designated as the King and Queen. The Demigods are divided into four divisions: Diamonds, Clubs, Hearts, and Spades.
Within this bustling theatre, a special meeting was underway, convened by the Ace of Spades, Jack Layne. Marceline D'Artois, the Obsidian Regent, had arranged the gathering under orders from her lord. As she awaited his arrival alongside the other members, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Some wore expressions of irritation, others were patient, and a few betrayed their natural fear.
"Tsk. Why has this meeting been invoked? Unless something drastic has occurred, there is no need for such a waste of time," cursed one of the Saints, Alaric Thorn, the King of Clubs, responsible for overseeing covert operations.
"Heh. Be patient, King of Clubs. There has never been a needless meeting before, and today will not be the first. How about enjoying some bourbon while you wait?" teased Selene Duskwood, the Queen of Diamonds, the reamining Saint, sipping her glass of red Aurmir wine as she lounged on a plush sofa.
The other members remained silent, carefully awaiting their convener's arrival.
Without warning, the sound of the theatre's ongoing performance below shifted—a haunting melody intertwined with the faint echo of footsteps approaching the grand door. As it opened, an inconspicuous figure stepped inside, draped in a dark-red suit adorned with dark gold cufflinks and a lustrous brooch pinned to his upper-right pocket. Jack's presence demanded silence and attention from all present.
The room's lights dimmed slightly, a shadow washing over the chamber as Jack's piercing gaze surveyed the attendees.
One demigod at the far end of the table kept their eyes fixed downward, their hands clasped tightly to mask their trembling.
Another subtly adjusted their posture, trying to appear composed under his scrutiny.
A third member, visibly sweating despite the cool room, fidgeted nervously with their signet ring, casting fleeting glances toward Jack and then quickly looking away.
Even Alaric and Selene froze, their actions halted as they sensed the shift in Jack's presence. It was undeniable that his status had changed, elevating him beyond their understanding and filling their minds with questions.
Marceline, ever poised, rose gracefully from her seat. Her movements were deliberate yet fluid, and though she showed no outward fear, her respect was evident in how she met Jack's gaze. A subtle smile curled her lips—elegant and calculated.
"I see everyone is present. Wonderful," Jack said, striding casually to an ornate sofa and settling into it.
"As always, your presence eclipses all else." Said Marceline, as she tilted her head slightly, her eyes scanning him with a blend of respect and curiosity, ever mindful of her standing.
Jack smiled briefly at her before addressing the room. "The purpose of this meeting is urgent. I bring both news and changes."
He paused, letting the tension build before continuing. "First, Zaratul is dead."
Shock rippled through the room, manifesting in wide eyes and hushed murmurs.
"How can that be? How can you be so sure of this information?" Alaric demanded incredulously.
"And what about your newfound status as an Angel? How do you explain that?" Selene asked, her tone sharp but measured.
The revelation of Jack's ascension to Angelhood elicited mixed reactions—a blend of awe and fear. Some whispered praises, while others recoiled inwardly, their apprehension growing.
Unperturbed, Jack replied, "Zaratul was already in a dire state. The arrangements for his return were incomplete, which explains his absence these past six years and the distant nature of his orders. I continued to lead in his stead, enforcing his desires."
He continued, "While attempting to finalize his resurrection, I was interrupted by forces from that wretched Tarot Club. They disrupted and destroyed the process. In the chaos, I managed to retrieve his Angel Characteristic. Rather than allow it to fall into their hands and weaken us further, I used it to advance myself after escaping."
Alaric and Selene exchanged troubled glances, their expressions darkening.
"Damn it all," Alaric cursed. "Despite our precautions, to suffer such a blow..." He took a deep breath, calming himself. "At least it wasn't a total loss."
"Indeed," Selene added, her expression inscrutable. "But the fact that the Tarot Club could uncover 'His' arrangements is deeply concerning."
Jack nodded. "Which brings us to the second matter. We must change our operations immediately. Raven, what is the situation in the Southern Continent?"
Lucian Crowe, the Raven of Spades, responded promptly, "The continent remains in chaos. Wars, death, and destruction persist, fueled by the Rose School of Thought. The Churches and even the Tarot Club are fighting fiercely to counter them. Despite the turmoil, there are opportunities for us to act."
Jack nodded in agreement. "Precisely. The actions of these organizations, both established and new, are growing increasingly unpredictable. After ascending to Angelhood, I received revelations—visions of indistinct but concerning events that leave me no choice but to alter our strategies."
He continued, "From now on, every Suit will operate with two others, never alone. Every move must be coordinated and reported to their team to ensure backup is always available."
Turning back to Raven, Jack instructed, "I want you and two others to continue your mission on the Southern Continent. Infiltrate the forces and gather intelligence on the Rose School of Thought."
"How outrageous," Alaric interjected, astonished. "Why should we change our methods so drastically? We have operated successfully since the Fourth Epoch."
Jack's gaze turned icy, silencing Alaric with an oppressive aura. The King of Clubs' breath hitched, his body growing heavier under the weight of Jack's presence.
"Don't be foolish," Jack admonished. "The threat of the Apocalypse looms, and new, unknown organizations are emerging. We cannot sit idly by. The secrets I hold compel me to enforce these changes. Some knowledge is best left unsaid, for the more one knows, the easier it is to lose control."
As the pressure lifted, Alaric steadied himself, muttering, "I understand."
Jack resumed, issuing orders to the other nine Suit demigods.
Finally, he turned to adress the remaining Saint. "Queen of Diamonds, I want you to monitor a boy named Lumian Lee from Cordu in the Dariége Region. He's the sole survivor of an incident involving multiple organizations, including an Angel suspectedly sealed within him. He is now under the protection of the Tarot Club and their Angel of Stars. Keep me informed of his every move."
Marceline handed Selene a detailed portrait of Lumian. Selene's interest was piqued, her curiosity tempered by wariness as she nodded in agreement.
Finally, Jack addressed the room. "For emergencies or requests, you may call upon my Honorific Name, beginning with a wish. It is as follows: 'The Undying Miracle of Ancient Times, The Sorcerer of Endless Reflections, The Bizarre Invoker of Hidden Acts, The Faceless Jack Layne.'"
With all matters addressed, Jack concluded, "This meeting is adjourned. We will reconvene in one month. Only the Obsidian Regent and Midnight Duke will remain."
As the other members departed, leaving only Marceline D'Artois and Dorian Varek, Jack turned to them. "Marceline, Dorian, as my most trusted subordinates, I want you both to accompany me and assist with my errands."
"Your wish is our command, milord," they replied in unison.
Satisfied, Jack rose, a smirk playing on his lips. Great, now to go meet some figures to lay the groundwork, he lampooned as he strode out of the chamber, followed closely by his loyal cohorts.