Endless Evolution: Last Star Chapter 1495: Azure Island (Part 2)

Adam clearly recalled his initial journey to Heaven Island. Back then, he was oblivious to the fact that something existed above the Citadel, beyond the Lower Ring nestled beneath it.

That revelation had stunned Adam, yet his encounter with Queen Elisa truly shattered his understanding of the world.

He now recognized that Queen Elisa’s presence was far from unusual; rather, it was a necessity for humanity to endure the repetitive cycles of the World Wipe. Without her, neither Adam, Silvana, nor the millions currently living would have ever drawn breath.

While the majority of the population perished from natural causes during the 250-year spans of peace between each World Wipe, many Phantoms and their Operators utilized that time to cultivate enough power to persist. They were shielded by Queen Elisa’s barrier through every cycle.

During his previous visit, Adam had accompanied Douglas, utilizing a concealed platform situated in the heart of the First Ring. This transport was designed for both Phantoms and members of the Gamma Division.

However, such intricate measures were unnecessary for someone of Damien’s caliber or those of similar strength.

Like other high-level Phantoms, he possessed the ability to fly to this location by manifesting his own energy.

Technically, reaching this altitude was now within the reach of Adam and Alexia as well. Though ascending to such heights would be grueling, they could achieve it with sufficient practice and time.

The massive tree and Queen Elisa herself—trapped within a radiant crystal—remained obscured from sight even for those standing upon Heaven Island. A monolithic tower enveloped her, acting as the protective walls of a royal sanctuary.

Accessing Queen Elisa required one to ascend the white stone steps and breach the tower's massive gates.

“This…” Adam swallowed hard, mesmerized by the pale blue radiance spilling from the tower’s peak. “Even with everything we’ve faced lately, it’s still hard to wrap my head around the fact that a place like this exists.”

Alexia was also struck dumb, unable to do anything but marvel at the vista unfolding before them.

Suspended above the clouds by Damien’s currents of wind and energy, their focus remained locked on the distant island.

Suddenly, Adam’s gaze shifted upward, and a look of confusion crossed his face.

In the depths of the night sky, he could just barely distinguish the silhouette of another mass. It resembled an island, though it was notably smaller than Heaven Island, possessing the scale of a massive aerial base or a giant vessel.

“Hey, what on earth is that?” Adam asked, frowning as he pointed toward the sky.

He had come to terms with Heaven Island floating above the Citadel—this was his second visit, after all—but finding another island positioned above Queen Elisa was unexpected.

Adam was caught off guard, wondering how he could have possibly missed this sight during his first trip.

“What the hell!?” Alexia’s eyes went wide. She rubbed them in disbelief, yet the distinct outlines remained visible.

Silvana and Louis looked at one another in surprise. Despite being Operators, they were equally uninformed about this discovery.

“Ah, that’s right, this is your first time seeing it,” Damien said with a chuckle. “It isn’t where we’re headed, and it’s off-limits to you, but there’s no harm in explaining it, I suppose.”

Beth gave a faint nod. “Go ahead. They have already had some level of interaction with that place anyway.”

Damien gestured toward the object looming above.

“That is Azure Island. Unlike Heaven Island, it is a completely man-made construct. It stays airborne through its design, powerful engines, and energy. The soil and scenery are merely for show.”

Silvana looked puzzled, her hand drifting to her lips.

“Azure Island? Wait… Does it have a connection to the Azure Lotus?”

Damien gave a firm nod.

“Exactly. Azure Island is the domain of the Azure Lotus, specifically their leader, Frida. I don’t believe any of you have met her in person, but her reputation precedes her. Furthermore…”

He narrowed his eyes, shifting his finger between Adam and Alexia.

“She has saved Adam’s life twice and Alexia’s four times.” He fixed a stern look on Alexia. “Frida is a real piece of work. If you keep throwing yourself into deadly situations, she might eventually decide to ‘forget’ to save you.”

Louis shuddered. He realized the gravity of those words; if Alexia’s luck ran out, she would die. He knew Frida had intervened for Alexia before, but he hadn't realized it happened here.

“Pfffft!” Alexia snorted dismissively. “I never asked for her help! I can handle my own enemies!”

“Ahem,” Louis interrupted with a cough. “The last two times, her spear intervened just in time to save you.”

“That’s a lie!” she shouted, waving her fists aggressively.

Damien simply shrugged.

“Essentially, while the Phantoms battle in the Dead Lands, they are constantly under Frida’s watch, even if most are unaware of it. On Azure Island, other Phantoms follow her lead as her disciples, but Frida is undoubtedly the one in charge.”

Silvana raised her hand, her expression filled with curiosity.

“But… Frida must have her limits, right?”

Damien dismissed the thought with a wave. “Naturally. If you are deep in the Dark Shore, the Tarnished Lands, or far underground, don't expect a rescue. Frida’s reach and her subordinates only cover the surface of the Dead Lands.”

Adam let out a small laugh, finding the situation somewhat ironic.

“So, the stronger you get, the less safe you actually are.”

“Hah, that’s one way to put it. But remember, Frida can’t intervene in every minor skirmish. Her spears possess too much power for that.”

Damien was about to continue when a brilliant blue flash erupted from the top of the island.

In an instant, a colossal azure spear, as large as an island itself, shot into the night sky. It vibrated with power before streaking toward the Tarnished Lands like a falling star at incredible speed.

A grin appeared on Damien’s face.

“And there she goes. Unlike me, she’s always on the clock. Hah, poor soul.”