NOVEL NEXT Chapter 54: The Starshadow Spire and the Rescue of the Leader
The Gods’ Adventure and the Leader’s Rescue
Preparation for the Journey
After completing their exploration of Aerial’s market, Loki (Satoshi Koizumi), Minerva (Tomomi Koizumi), Asclepius (Masato Matsuda), Prometheus (Akira Ginga), Apollo (Kira Moroboshi), Helios (Takumi Takagi), and Elias, the son of the village chief from Elysion, made their final preparations to head toward the Starshadow Spire.
“Alright, everyone. Are we ready to head to the Starshadow Spire?” Loki asked.
“Yes, Loki-sama. We’ve gathered all the necessary items,” Noah, the spirit, replied while checking the map.
“I’ve got my magical books ready too,” Minerva confirmed, looking at Ellis, who nodded in agreement.
“I’m fully prepared as well,” Elias said, showing his determination.
The Journey to the Spire
The group set out toward the towering Starshadow Spire in the center of Aerial. The city around them was a blend of magic and advanced technology, creating a stunning landscape.
“It’s amazing to see nature and technology in such harmony,” Gaia (Misa Morino) remarked, clearly impressed.
“We’ll need to conquer that spire if we want to rescue the city’s leader,” Uranus (Sora Morino) said calmly.
Arrival at the Spire
Eventually, the group arrived at the base of the towering Starshadow Spire, which disappeared into the clouds, its height overwhelming. They were greeted by Archmage Arthur, who awaited their arrival.
“Welcome to the Starshadow Spire. Ancient powers lie dormant here. Aerial’s leader has gone missing and is trapped within this tower. Only your divine power can rescue him,” Arthur explained, his face serious.
“A trial, huh? Sounds like fun,” Prometheus said, eager for the challenge.
The Trials Begin
Entering the tower, the group quickly encountered their first trial. The interior of the spire was constantly shifting, revealing new landscapes as they progressed.
“It’s as if this tower is alive,” Minerva said, her voice filled with awe.
“Let’s proceed carefully. We have no idea what lies ahead,” Ellis cautioned.
Uranus’ Power
In the maze-like corridors of the spire, the group found themselves stuck. However, Uranus used his ability to manipulate space and time to open a new path.
“Leave this to me,” Uranus said, slicing through the space to create a new route. His power allowed the group to continue their journey, overcoming the challenges ahead.
Gaia’s Peril and Peeko’s Awakening
Along their path, they encountered a powerful enemy. Gaia found herself under heavy attack, struggling to defend herself.
“Ugh…!” Gaia tried to shield herself, but the enemy’s onslaught was overwhelming.
Just then, Peeko, Gaia’s companion, suddenly began to glow with intense light. The radiant energy from Peeko illuminated the entire tower, and in an instant, it pierced through the enemy, vanquishing them completely.
“Peeko!” the little creature cried out, and once the light faded, their foe had been completely obliterated.
The group was left in stunned silence before Loki finally spoke. “Peeko… was that you? Incredible.”
But Peeko seemed unaware of what had just transpired, blinking in confusion.
“What just happened…?” Gaia asked, bewildered.
“I… don’t know,” Peeko answered, tilting her head in uncertainty.
“Whatever it was, you saved us. Thank you, Peeko,” Minerva said, expressing her gratitude.
The Role of the Companions
Throughout the spire, the companions played crucial roles. Noah guided Loki with calm precision. “This path is safe, Loki-sama,” Noah said as she led them forward. Mira assisted Asclepius. “Asclepius-sama, these herbs will be useful,” she advised as she supported their journey. The companions were instrumental in ensuring the group steadily advanced through the trials.
Overcoming the Trials
Loki and his team continued to pass one trial after another, getting closer to the top of the spire. They braved the heat of the fire trial and withstood the gale-force winds of the air trial. Each trial tested the divine powers they possessed.
“So, this is what a real trial feels like,” Minerva said, wiping sweat from her brow.
“That’s the whole point of a trial,” Loki replied with a light chuckle.
The Leader’s Rescue
Upon reaching the summit of the spire, they finally discovered the missing leader of Aerial, Sage Lydia.
“Lydia, I’m glad you’re safe,” Loki said, addressing the sage.
“Thank you, gods of this world. It’s because of you that I’ve been saved,” Lydia expressed his gratitude, bowing deeply.
Lydia was a wise leader who had contributed to Aerial’s development through the fusion of magic and technology. He had been imprisoned by beings from another dimension, disrupting the city’s order, but thanks to Loki and his group, he was freed.
A New Ally and Aerial’s Restoration
Grateful for his rescue, Lydia vowed to protect Aerial once again. “As Aerial’s leader, I will continue to defend this city. I also wish to join you in your future adventures.”
“We’d be honored. Let’s continue to journey together,” Loki replied with a smile.
With Lydia’s rescue, Aerial regained its peace and order, and the city returned to its former vitality. The citizens resumed their daily lives, and the energy of the city was restored.
Welcoming Lydia as a new ally, the group renewed their determination for the adventures ahead, preparing to face even greater challenges.