In the ancient reality of Orynx, the genesis of life is not a singular event, but a complex tapestry of energy and essence. Each species—Demon, Angel, Beast, and Spiritual Being—is woven into existence through different laws of creation.
Demons are brought forth in two distinct ways: **Artificial Birth** and **Essence Birth**.
Artificial Birth is a monumental undertaking of will and power. It occurs when two high-tier demons channel their corrupted energy to forge a Core—the first and most vital stage of life. The second stage requires the meticulous construction of a physical vessel from raw demonic energy. The final and most grueling stage involves providing a constant stream of energy to sustain the body's functions. The Core acts as a critical regulator; without it, the very energy that gives the demon life would tear its physical form apart.
In contrast, Essence Birth is a natural, albeit terrifying, phenomenon. It occurs in regions where demonic energy is concentrated to an extreme degree, such as the Crimson Citadel or the Demon Realm. Over eons, this energy evolves, folding in on itself until a sentient being manifests—like the Cursed Lord himself. These demons are born without parents, their strength determined by the density of the energy that birthed them. Their Cores are legendary for their durability, often impossible to locate or penetrate.
Spiritual Beings follow a tragic cycle of rebirth. They are born from the explosive death of their predecessors. When an Origin's energy becomes too vast or unstable, it shatters, and from the shimmering remnants, new life is formed. However, lower-rank spirits, like wisps or phantoms, lack the necessary energy to continue this cycle, their essence simply fading into the void upon death.
Angels are birthed through the **Wellspring of Grace**. These sacred fonts exist across the nations, and every Angel within the realm gathers to witness the emergence of a new kin, welcoming them into the collective light.
Beasts follow the most traditional path of reproduction, yet they remain tethered to the spiritual laws of Orynx. While they reproduce biologically, they require spiritual energy to thrive. They are allergic to the dark pollutants of demonic energy, much like a human would struggle to breathe in a poisoned atmosphere. However, hybrids like Xyne are the exception. Born from a beast's womb but infused with demonic energy, she is a rare anomaly capable of consuming both spiritual and demonic forces without ill effect, granting her abilities that defy the natural order.
Rin Citadel and her brothers, Zarek and Ryvex, were all products of Artificial Birth—the pride of a powerful demonic lineage.
***
**[Crimson Citadel - The Living Room]**
The heavy atmosphere of the Citadel softened momentarily as the mother of the household entered the room. Elara and Rhyzok stood as she approached, handing the infant Rin to Ryvex. Elara didn't hesitate, running to her mother and wrapping her arms around her. "I missed you, Mom," she whispered.
Her mother returned the hug, her voice a gentle murmur. "I missed you too, little one."
Elara pulled back, her attention immediately shifting to the bundle in Ryvex's arms. She reached out, tickling Rin's tiny cheek. The infant squirmed, her small hands and legs kicking in a rhythmic dance as she let out a soft, bubbling laugh.
"Listen, everyone," their mother said, her expression turning serious as she took Rin back into her arms. "We will be holding a family meeting soon. I will summon you to the dining hall when it is time."
She turned and disappeared down the hallway, the weight of her presence lingering in the room. Elara and Rhyzok followed her out, leaving the others to their thoughts.
Ryvex turned his gaze toward Elarion, his eyes sharp. "You know, it isn't a requirement that you kill your friend to gain power. I hope you realize that."
Elarion stared at him, his translucent form flickering with uncertainty.
"I only suggested Rhyzok because he has a high energy density," Ryvex continued. "But if you value your friend that much, you can consume others. There are plenty of spirits in the lower districts who won't be missed."
Elarion let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. "Thank you. For a moment... I didn't know what to do. So, when should we start?"
"Whenever you feel ready," Ryvex replied. "But I won't be able to accompany you. You heard my mother—the meeting is mandatory."
Elarion nodded, then looked at Xyne. She stood up, her expression unreadable. "Come on. Let's go." She glanced back at Ryvex. "I'll be back later."
Xyne led the way to the door. As she pulled it open, she found Zarek already standing on the doorstep. The 2nd Harbinger stepped inside without a word, casting a cold, dismissive scoff at Elarion and Xyne as he passed them.
Xyne didn't look back. She stepped out into the dark air of the Citadel, with Elarion following closely behind, his mind already set on the grim path ahead.
To be continued...