The third quarter—’Season of Enlightenment’, corresponding to comprehension and heritage."
The last statue is a blurred figure holding a scythe and dressed in a black robe, its face indistinct, yet it exudes an endless sense of solemnity.
"’End of Death’, the end of the cycle, and also the beginning of rebirth. It governs the end of all things, while nurturing new possibilities.
The fourth quarter—’Season of End’, corresponding to stillness and transformation."
Of course, these statues only capture the remnants of the Great Ones during the human era.
Their hollow forms and even higher transcendent stances are naturally beyond what the sculptors can restore.
Franka gently brushed the crystal decorations on the fountain’s edge, a fervent look appeared in her eyes:
"These four ’Great Ones’ have already surpassed the boundaries of the Witch King, their existence has virtually become a symbol, an idea. Other Witch Kings, no matter how powerful, can only be named after their specialties or achievements, like ’King of Absurdity’, ’King of Illusions’, ’King of Blood’, etc."
Ron listened quietly, his mind swirling with thoughts.
This way of linking the four most powerful Great Ones with the cyclical concept of time not only reflects reverence towards strength but also hints at a particular understanding of universal laws by wizard civilization.
Origin, construction, enlightenment, end, an eternal cycle akin to the breathing of the universe itself.
"Speaking of which, why does the Central Lands distinguish time in this manner, rather than the conventional spring, summer, autumn, winter, or wet and dry seasons?"
Ron asked, a thoughtful look in his eyes.
Franka pointed to the distance, where the lights of magic power flowed through the air like rivers:
"You’ve probably already noticed, Central Lands almost has no traditional seasonal changes due to the exceptionally active magic power.
Temperature, humidity, and illumination remain relatively constant, making it difficult for us to perceive the passage of time through natural changes."
Her voice carried a hint of barely concealed pride:
"So the ancestors created this system based on sages and the ’Great Ones’, not only to commemorate those great beings but also to provide people with a way to sense the flow of time."
Ron nodded slightly, a flash of appreciation in his eyes:
"Combining respect with practicality perfectly indeed is a clever solution."
The two continued forward, passing through several elegantly decorated streets.
Ron kept seeing various displays and celebration activities related to Lance.
There were temporary experiment display stations allowing ordinary citizens to closely observe some basic alchemy reactions;
Performers dressed as Lance narrating various anecdotes of this ancient sage;
More were foods and decorations themed on Autophagic Slime Monsters.
Especially eye-catching were those intricately designed "Autophagic Slime Cakes."
These pastries not only resemble Autophagic Slime Monsters in appearance but amazingly change colors with temperature and surrounding environment.
From light green to deep purple, they vary endlessly.
"Those pastries are truly interesting." Ron pointed at colorful confections at a stall:
"Reminds me of the actual Autophagic Slime Monsters from my experiments."
"It’s also a way to honor Lance."
Franka explained:
"After all, one of Lance Alchemist’s greatest inventions is the Autophagic Slime Monster. Its invention greatly advanced the development of bloodline studies, it could even be said that without the Autophagic Slime Monster, modern bloodline studies might lag at least an era."
Ron pondered for a moment and asked: "How long will the formal festival celebration last?"
"Three days." Franka replied:
"The most important is the triennial ’Rainbow Ring’ competition, where bloodline modifiers from various places showcase their abilities in bloodline modulation. According to tradition, tutors from the Crystal Tower and some outstanding advanced apprentices are eligible to participate."
"Sounds interesting."
Ron was quite intrigued: "What’s the format of the competition?"
"Participants receive the same basic materials and a specific modulation goal, then complete bloodline modulation within a set time. The judgment criteria are based on the success extent determined by the color change of the Autophagic Slime Monster."
Franka explained, then added meaningfully:
"Her Highness thinks you should participate, she says it’s a great opportunity to showcase your talents."
Ron smiled slightly, not responding immediately.
As they spoke, the two had reached the Jadeite Pavilion.
Unlike usual, today the pavilion adorned some decorations for the festival.
Delicate crystal wind chimes were hung at the entrance, ringing gently in the breeze;
The courtyard planted a few rare alchemy flowers, currently blooming with various strange lights;
Even the guard golems wore festive garlands, adding a bit of cheer to this usually solemn building.
Eve was already waiting in the parlor, today she wore a light blue long dress.
Her black hair cascaded like a waterfall on her shoulders, and those amethyst-like eyes seemed brighter than usual.
"Ralph Master!"
Upon seeing Ron enter, Eve immediately stood up, her face beaming with undisguisable joy:
"You look quite spirited today."
Ron nodded slightly, sensitively capturing Eve’s state today.
Indeed she seemed much better than usual, with a rosy complexion, light movements, and even a slightly stronger voice.
"Her Highness seems quite happy, is it because of the festival?"
Ron asked, his voice gentle.
"Yes, but not only that, please allow me to keep it a secret for now."