My eyes widened as I stared into the mirror, gazing at the reflection of my back, a triangular shape with a circle going around the three sides reflected into my eyes.
Wh-what is this? I wondered curiously.
The symbol resembled the one I saw in my dream; it was obviously unfamiliar to me, yet strangely enough, it was familiar to me at the same time.
(I have no idea what's going on. Why was this symbol here in the first place? What meaning does it hold? And what connection did it have to that person, the 'God of Creation'? I'm certain it has some kind of connection to him, considering there is a painting of this symbol in his castle)
"Sigh, I didn't want to have to probe into the details regarding the 'God of Creation' since she didn't want to tell us yet, but, in this situation, I guess I really have no other choice."
I muttered to myself; I slowly closed my eyes and focused on the soul contract between me, strengthening that connection.
Once I felt the link between our souls grow stronger, I promptly used telepathy to communicate with Alya.
(Alya, are you there? Can you hear me?)
-Hmm... Haruto, is there something wrong?
The surprised voice of Alya responded. Seeing that my voice was able to reach her, a gentle smile formed on my lips.
(Yes, there is something I'd like to ask you)
-Something you'd like to ask, you say. W-Wait, don't tell me you need my help in the shower. I thought it would take us months to cross that line!
She exclaimed. Hearing her thoughts, although she sounded very cheerful. I couldn't help but sigh. Honestly, she is normally cute and graceful; if only she would keep her mouth shut, then her charm would be unstoppable.
-Hey, did you just think about something rude just now?
She inquired in a sulking tone. Ahh, right, our mind and soul are connected, even if I'm not too conscious about it, she can still hear my thoughts.
(No, it was just your imagination... I actually want you to come over here, there is something I'd like to show you)
I said eloquently while skilfully diverting the topic from the troublesome course the conversation was heading.
That seems to have worked as her voice sounded happier now.
-I see... you're right, it probably was just my imagination, but since you called me cute and graceful, I'll let it slide in any case, whatever you want to show me sounds really important, I'll be there in a sec.
-But, before that, you said you were going to take a shower, right? Please tell me you're wearing clothes, right? I don't think it's time for us to see each other in that way yet.
Alya said, sounding quite embarrassed. Hearing her question, the corner of my mouth twitches a few times as I didn't know whether to laugh or cry at her sudden question.
This girl, does she really think I would appear before anyone looking like that?
Though I was slightly surprised, she sounded like a really embarrassed maiden a moment ago; if only she would remain like this all the time.
I quickly shook my head before I decided to ignore her question and continue.
(Will you just get here already!)
-Okay, wait a sec.
The telepathy link between us was instantly cut at the same time a gentle breeze gathered, and the magnificent figure of Alya instantly materialised inside the bathroom.
Her green hair fluttered gently down her back as her light gown stuck tightly to her body, showing off an impressive curve hidden beneath her gown.
Her emerald eyes shone like the most expensive jewellery.
However, when Alya first appeared, the marking on my skin instantly caught her attention, causing her emerald eyes to widen in a show of surprise.
"Th-That's the symbol of creation, why, why did it show itself? It wasn't supposed to appear at this time!"
She exclaimed in confusion. Symbol of creation? Ah, I see so; it isn't the first time she had seen this mark, as I suspected.
"It seems you're familiar with these markings. Could you elaborate on what they mean?"
I asked.
"W-Well... the symbol of creation is a mark worn similarly to a tattoo that has always adorned the body of the god of creation. Though it's more than just a mere accessory. With the symbol of creation, it is possible to have complete access to the temple of creation."
She explained in full seriousness.
"That temple had existed for billions of years, way back from the era of the gods. The god of creation left behind all his artefacts and other belongings there. Haruto, we should definitely go there at some point in the future. I'm sure you will find many valuable artefacts there that will help you grow stronger."
She continued, her beautiful face contorting into a stern expression.
My heart pounded loudly in my chest from excitement at the thought of gaining powerful artefacts.
If I'm going to face the 'God of destruction' in the not-so-distant future, then I'm going to need more power; my current level isn't good enough.
Perhaps there is a weapon there I could use in the distant future? If so, then I must obtain it no matter what.
I clenched my fist as a burning sense of determination filled me.
"I see... could you tell me where exactly that temple is located?"
I asked, tilting my head curiously. Alya's expression remained serious as she softly exhaled a deep breath before speaking.
"It's located in the eastern parts of the world on a deserted island far from this continent."
".... I see, well, I guess we can always go there whenever we have the chance."
I uttered while ruffling my silky hair. Even though it is frustrating not being able to go there now, being too hasty would cause many unforeseen problems for us in the long run. It's best to be fully prepared for that fateful day. I secretly thought to myself, I couldn't help but notice that Alya had a listless look on her face as though she was greatly worried about something.
"Sigh, those markings.... could it be that they appeared now because of the sudden awaking of the god core that time?"
She was mumbling something to herself, though I couldn't make out what she was saying, so I tilted my head with a questionable look on my face.
Once we made eye contact, the troubled expression she had seconds ago abruptly disappeared as though it was all a lie.
Instead, it was replaced with her usual carefree smile.
(Alya, just what were you thinking about for you to make such a face?)
I was really curious, but before I could speak up, for some reason, I hesitated to ask, it's like somewhere deep down.
I knew the reason why she appeared sad moments ago.
"What an odd feeling."
".... Huh?"
Alya looked at me in confusion when she overheard my mutter.
"No, it's nothing. In any case, could you tell me what purpose the 'Temple of Creation' holds?"
"Oh, right, the temple of creation was constructed by the god of creation to keep many of his secrets hidden. There is only a handful of people who are aware of his secrets."
"Let me guess, that would be you and the other spirits as well as the elemental goddesses, right?"
I asked.
"Well... yes, there are actually two more that you didn't mention."
She explained eloquently. For a brief moment, a look of contemplation fell over her face. However, I quickly brought her back from the sea of thoughts.
"Two more, you say. Do you mind telling me who they are?"
"The queen of light and the goddess of ice."
Alya explained. Those names don't ring any bells.
For them to have learned about the temple of creation, they must have been really close to the 'God of Creation', but when Alya had mentioned the title goddess of ice, a bitter expression graced her elegant face.
(Did something happen between her and the goddess of ice?)
I wondered, while my face contorted into puzzlement.
"Sigh, anyway, the island where the temple is located is surrounded by a powerful barrier that a normal human wouldn't be able to cross; the barrier's effect completely conceals the entire island. Making it impossible for anyone without the requirement to visually see the temple."
She explained.
"It's a precaution taken for anyone who learns about its existence and would try to get to the temple. So far, only the god of creation was able to get to it. Considering that you're the God of Creation, reincarnation and you also now have the symbol of creation placed on you, you should be able to get there."
Alya said, finishing her explanation with a slightly conflicted smile.
(I see... well, I guess it's no problem as long as I can get there safely. If the God of Creation had a temple of creation, does that mean the god of destruction also had one? And the same for the other gods as well? Sigh, no one could answer that question, according to the void, the God of Destruction died before the spirits were created, so Alya shouldn't know the answer)
"I see... We'll definitely find that temple. Before that, I'd like to finally start my training in spirit arts. How does that sound?"
"That sounds great, with both magic and the ability to tap into your elemental cores and manipulate mana and spirit arts an ability to manipulate spiritual energy to control the phenomenon of the world, you will definitely become much stronger."
Alya replied, smiling happily. I see... hearing that, I smiled wryly at her. I then turned my back before looking at my right arm once more with a complicated face.
(Mom's definitely going to scream at me, isn't she?)
I sighed, imagining just that.
"Oh, I'm going to take a shower. You can go back now."
I said, noticing Alya's presence behind me. Hearing my words, she pouted her lips cutely.
"Hmph, is this how you treat your future fiancée? At least let me wash your back for you~!"
".... You."
My brow twitches slightly from her teasing remark. If I had a fiancée with a bad personality like this, I'd rather be single forever, I wanted to say, but I didn't dare to say those words out loud.
"You know, one of these days I'm definitely going to give you a good spank."
I uttered menacingly.
"Hehe he... you're welcome to try whenever you like, just know if you do, I'll file a case against you."
She said mischievously while playing with the front locks of her hair.
Soon her body dispersed into the wind, and her presence disappeared from the bathroom.
I then hop into the shower and allow the cool water to pour down onto my body.
I couldn't stop observing the strange writing on my arm; it looked like it was written in ancient letters, not ones that I know of. I couldn't help but be curious about what they say; those were all questions that were going to be answered eventually. For now, I need to focus on becoming stronger.
"The first step is to learn how to manipulate spiritual energy."
I mumbled to myself.